The finest developers and projects in 8 countries collected the Best of the Best honours in real estate. And Realestate.com.kh was extremely proud to be an official media sponsor for the event, alongside the official broadcaster CNN! Malaysia’s Sime Darby Property won the coveted Best Developer (South East Asia) titleThailand collected the most number of regional titles, followed by Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam and SingaporeAround 400 VIPs and senior industry figures attended the exclusive, black-tie gala dinner  SINGAPORE – 24 November 2016Southeast Asia’s best developers and achievers brought honours and prestige to their respective countries as they competed for the regional titles at the 6th annual South East Asia Property Awards 2016 grand finale event of the prestigious Asia Property Awards series, presented by Hansgrohe and organised by PropertyGuru, Asia’s leading online property group.According to the judges, the Best Developer (South East Asia) winner is an all-rounder with a long-term commitment in the Malaysian real estate industry. “Inheriting its legacy of excellence in plantation, one of the Sime Darby Group’s core businesses, Sime Darby Property is a prominent developer with a 40-year track record of developing sustainable communities and with expertise in property development, property investment and asset management.“Given its significance and constant reinvention, Sime Darby Property is certainly an integral part of developing Malaysia’s history, and now Asia Property Awards history as the 2016 Best Developer (South East Asia).”Accepting the region’s highest honour in real estate, Sime Darby Property’s managing director Dato’ Ir. Jauhari Hamidi commented: “The recognition of Sime Darby Property as the Best Developer not only in Malaysia, but in South East Asia by such esteemed industry experts is further testament of our commitment as a trusted developer. We are honoured to receive this award and our heartfelt appreciation goes to the organisers.”Indonesia, which led the grand final nominations tally with 15 nods, ended up with two regional design awards for Sinar Mas Land and Intiland Development, the Best Developer (Indonesia) winners in 2015 and 2016, respectively.MQDC Magnolia Quality Development Corporation, the Best Developer (Thailand) 2016, led the country’s regional winners, with one design award going to thecompany’s multi-billion riverfront project – The Residences at Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok. PACE Development’s acclaimed MahaSamutr country club and villas project in Hua Hin also took home a South East Asia design award, while Siam Piwat Co Ltd’s Siam Discovery was voted the region’s Best Commercial Development.Two regional winners emerged from the Philippines, including a Special Recognition in Sustainable Design (South East Asia) for renowned green developer ArthaLand for its Bonifacio Global City-based ArthaLand Century Pacific Tower development.Continuing its winning streak, Vietnam’s Deutsches Haus Ho Chi Minh City by Deutsches Haus Ho Chi Minh Stadt Ltd followed up their triple victory at the Vietnam Property Awards with the Best Green Development (South East Asia) title.Singapore’s Chiu Teng Group received another accolade as it was declared the regional winner in the new category for Best Boutique Developer (South East Asia). Singapore collected a total of two regional gongs.Attended by 400 VIPs and senior industry figures from Phnom Penh to Jakarta, the South East Asia Property Awards celebrated the successes of all the country winners following more than a year’s journey that began with the launch of the inaugural Cambodia Property Awards in late 2015, when the 2016 South East AsiaMalaysia’s Sime Darby Property collected its first regional Best Developer (South East Asia) gong, besting other national winners from Cambodia, the Philippines, Myanmar, Thailand, Indonesia and Singapore.Property Awards edition began at the entry stage, until the Indonesia Property Awards 2016 held in Jakarta in October.To date, nearly 190 awards have been presented to the region’s finest real estate developers and developments in 2016. The exclusive gala dinner ceremonies have welcomed about 3,000 guests that included top government officials, global experts, senior industry figures and even royalty, and members of the press.Presented by title sponsor Hansgrohe, the South East Asia Property Awards grand finale was part of the two-day event on 23-24 November at the prestigious Shangri-La Hotel Singapore. The entire event was preceded by the two-day Property Report Congress Singapore, the high-level conference series of Asia’s industry leading Property Report magazine that featured insights from around 30 speakers including Winners and Judges of the Asia Property Awards; the South East Asia Property Awards (Singapore) ceremony in the early evening on the 24th.The much-awaited grand finale event immediately followed the South East Asia Property Awards (Singapore) 2016 ceremony, which saw City Developments Ltd (CDL) crowned the Best Developer (Singapore).“2016 has been a momentous year for the Asia Property Awards. Since starting 11 years ago the Awards have always endeavoured to reward the best in local real estate and produce credible winners with a transparent entry and judging system. We have achieved this goal by developing the most detailed and comprehensive entry system of any property awards in the world,” says Terry Blackburn, founder and managing director of the Asia Property Awards.“Southeast Asia’s property sector has come a long way in the last decade and we are proud to have been a part of that growth,” he added. “It’s been our privilege to work with all the developers who participated in each country over the years and we can’t wait to know who will win at the grand finals this year.”The South East Asia Property Awards 2016 Gala Dinner was supported by co-sponsor Mitsubishi Electric, influential media partners including CNN International, the official broadcaster of the awards, and official property portal PropertyGuru.com.sg, Singapore’s No. 1 property website.For more information, contact info@asiapropertyawards.com or visit the official website: AsiaPropertyAwards.com/singapore/The complete list of Regional and Country Winners in the South East Asia Property Awards 2016:DEVELOPERBest Developer (South East Asia)Borey Peng Huoth Group – CambodiaMegaworld Corporation – PhilippinesShwe Taung Development Co., Ltd. – MyanmarSime Darby Property Berhad – Malaysia – WINNER, South East AsiaMQDC Magnolia Quality Development Corporation – ThailandPT Intiland Development Tbk – IndonesiaCity Developments Limited (CDL) – Singapore Best Boutique Developer (South East Asia)AppleOne Properties, Inc. – PhilippinesGreen Vision Construction Company Limited – MyanmarMitraland Group– MalaysiaSiamese Asset Co., Ltd. – ThailandAsiana Group – IndonesiaChiu Teng Group – Singapore – WINNER, South East Asia DEVELOPMENTBest Villa/Housing Development (South East Asia)Grand Star Platinum by Borey Peng Huoth Group – CambodiaThe Dàlat at 1200 Country Club & Private Estate by Acteam International Co Ltd, a company of the Centurion Global Group Singapore – VietnamMahaSamutr by PACE Development Corporation PLC – Thailand – WINNER, South East AsiaSerenia Hills by PT Intiland Development Tbk – IndonesiaGoodwood Grand by Feature (Balmoral) Pte Ltd (Tong Eng Group) – Singapore Best Condo Development (South East Asia)Acqua Private Residences by Century Properties Group, Inc. – Philippines\The Nassim by SonKim Land & HongKong Land – VietnamThe Gems Garden Condominiums by Capital Development Ltd – MyanmarSerai, Bukit Bandaraya, KL by BRDB Developments Sdn Bhd – MalaysiaThe Residences at Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok by MQDC Magnolia Quality Development Corporation – ThailandThe Mansion at Le Parc by PT Putragaya Wahana – IndonesiaGramercy Park by City Development Limited – Singapore – WINNER, South East Asia Best Commercial Development (South East Asia)SM Seaside City Mall Cebu by SM Prime Holdings, Inc. – PhilippinesDeutsches Haus Ho Chi Minh City by Deutsches Haus Ho Chi Minh Stadt Ltd – VietnamSedona Hotel Yangon (Inya Wing) by Keppel Land – MyanmarMedini 10 by Medini Iskandar Malaysia Sdn Bhd – MalaysiaSiam Discovery by Siam Piwat Co., Ltd. – Thailand – WINNER, South East AsiaSouth Quarter by PT Intiland Development Tbk – IndonesiaMarina One by M+S Pte Ltd – Singapore Best Green Development (South East Asia)ArthaLand Century Pacific Tower by ArthaLand – PhilippinesMenarco Tower by Menarco Development Corp. – PhilippinesDeutsches Haus Ho Chi Minh City by Deutsches Haus Ho Chi Minh Stadt Ltd – Vietnam – WINNER, South East AsiaSerai, Bukit Bandaraya, KL by BRDB Developments Sdn Bhd – MalaysiaWhizdom Avenue Ratchada – Ladprao by MQDC Magnolia Quality Development Corporation – ThailandThamrin Nine Tower 1 by PT Putragaya Wahana – IndonesiaM Social Singapore by Novel Developments Pte Ltd – Singapore Special Recognition in Sustainable Design (South East Asia)ArthaLand Century Pacific Tower by ArthaLand – Philippines – WINNER, South East Asia DESIGNBest Residential Architectural Design (South East Asia)Grand Star Platinum by Borey Peng Huoth Group – CambodiaEmbassy Central by Urbanland Central BKK Co., Ltd – CambodiaUptown Ritz by Megaworld Corporation – PhilippinesThe Dàlat at 1200 Country Club & Private Estate by Acteam International Co Ltd, a company of the Centurion Global Group Singapore – VietnamRosehill Residences by Rose Hill Soilbuild Co., Ltd – MyanmarThe Crystal by Genting Property – MalaysiaMahaSamutr by PACE Development Corporation PLC – Thailand – WINNER, South East AsiaCasa Domaine by PT Griyaceria Nusamekar – IndonesiaThe Mansion at Le Parc by PT Putragaya Wahana – IndonesiaSelong Selo Residences by The Selong Selo Group – Indonesia Best Residential Interior Design (South East Asia)Admiral Grandsuites by Anchor Land Holdings, Inc. – PhilippinesThe Dàlat at 1200 Country Club & Private Estate by Acteam International Co Ltd, a company of the Centurion Global Group Singapore – VietnamThe Gems Garden Condominiums by Capital Development Ltd – MyanmarPuteri Cove Residences by Pacific Star Development Pte Ltd – MalaysiaThe Residences at Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok by MQDC Magnolia Quality Development Corporation – Thailand – WINNER, South East AsiaThe Mansion at Le Parc by PT Putragaya Wahana – IndonesiaBellewoods by Qingjian Realty (Woodlands) Pte Ltd – Singapore Best Retail Architectural Design (South East Asia)SM Seaside City Mall Cebu by SM Prime Holdings, Inc. – PhilippinesJunction City Shopping Centre by City Square Commercial Co., Ltd (a member of Shwe Taung Development Co., Ltd) – MyanmartheCOMMONS by The Commons Co., Ltd – ThailandThe Breeze Lifestyle Center by Sinar Mas Land – Indonesia – WINNER, South East Asia Best Office Architectural Design (South East Asia)ArthaLand Century Pacific Tower by ArthaLand – PhilippinesJunction City Tower by City Square Office Co., Ltd (a member of Shwe Taung Development Co., Ltd) – MyanmarSouth Quarter by PT Intiland Development Tbk – Indonesia – WINNER, South East Asia Best Hotel Architectural Design (South East Asia)Conrad Manila by SM Prime Holdings, Inc. – Philippines – WINNER, South East AsiaSedona Hotel Yangon (Inya Wing) by Keppel Land – MyanmarAVANI Riverside Bangkok Hotel by Minor Hotels – ThailandSix Senses Resort Uluwatu Bali by PT Cahaya Warna Prima – IndonesiaM Social Singapore by Novel Developments Pte Ltd – Singapore Best Hotel Interior Design (South East Asia)Conrad Manila by SM Prime Holdings, Inc. – PhilippinesMelia Ho Tram at The Hamptons by Tanzanite International – VietnamSedona Hotel Yangon (Inya Wing) by Keppel Land – Myanmar – WINNER, South East AsiaAVANI Riverside Bangkok Hotel by Minor Hotels – ThailandSix Senses Resort Uluwatu Bali by PT Cahaya Warna Prima – IndonesiaM Social Singapore by Novel Developments Pte Ltd – Singapore Best Landscape Architectural Design (South East Asia)Melia Ho Tram at The Hamptons by Tanzanite International – Vietnam – WINNER, South East AsiaCeladon City by Gamuda Land – VietnamD'Lagoon by the Lake at Seri Austin by United Malayan Land Bhd (UMLand) – MalaysiaAVANI Riverside Bangkok Hotel by Minor Hotels – ThailandThe New Australian Embassy, Jakarta – IndonesiaSol Acres by MCL Land Limited – SingaporeFind more  real estate news on Realestate.com.kh

The Cambodia Construction Industry Expo and Summit 2016 is less than a month away and Realestate.com.kh is proud to be official media partner for the event.  Industry professionals from all over the world will gather to plan, discuss, learn, and connect with each other. The event will be joined by construction, financial, architectural, and insurance firms who wish to showcase evolving technologies and services in the field.They said event is strongly supported by different institutions such as the Ministry of Land Management Urban Planning and Construction, Ministry of Labor and Vocational Training, Ministry of Commerce, Board of Engineers Cambodia, Board of Architects Cambodia, the ASEAN Constructors Federation, the International Federation of Asian & Western Pacific Constructors’ Association, and the China-ASEAN Building Material Industry Cooperation.Activities:The Cambodia Construction Industry Summit will feature reports and speeches from esteemed guests such as CCA Chairman Neak Oknha Pung Kheav Se; Chairman of the ASEAN Constructors Federation, Mr. Nattaphorn Bhromsuthi; President OF China-asean Business council, Mr. Xu Ningning, Representative of Neak Oknha Mong Reththy, Phd. Tan Monivann; Vice President of the International Federation of Asian & Western Pacific Constructors’ Association, Mr. Datuk Matthew Tee; Governor of the Phnom Penh Municipality, His Excellency Pa Socheatevong; and the Senior Minister of the ministry of Land Management Urban Planning and Construction, His Excellency Chea Sophara.The Summit will also accommodate reviews and suggestions from delegates that may be passed on to government to improve the industry.The Expo will feature presentations by representatives from companies like the Overseas Cambodian Investment Corporation, Tem Trading M & E Product Co. Ltd., UC Design Build Co. Ltd., KHI Brand, Meng Leng Eav Co. Ltd., Smart Dragons Group Co. Ltd., Camcona Trading (Cambodia) Co. Ltd., CCW Co. Ltd., and Omura Concrete Co. Ltd.And of course, Realestate.com.kh will have a prime booth at this years Cambodia Construction Industry Expo and Summit event! We will be giving away our latest magazine and showing off our latest Virtual Reality Tour products, perfect for making your property listings stand out from the rest!Who’s Invited to the Cambodia Construction Industry Expo and Summit?Cambodia Construction Industry Expo and Summit 2016 will include participants such as property developers, investors, contractors, designers, managers, purchasers, engineers, architects, distributors, and students. The organizers also encourage construction material, water, and plumbing suppliers to exhibit their products and services at the expo. Property Developers, real estate agents, brokers, banks, financial institutions, architects, interior designers, insurance companies, and engineers may also exhibit at the event.The event will take place at Diamond Island in Phnom Penh on December 1 to December 3.Find out more and sign up today!

In a program with local media news, BTV, Mr. Chheang Sophanna – international sales manager of Pallas Group – said that the company plans to launch its $23.2 billion development project in March of 2017.  It will be located in the coastal area of Kampot and Kep.The government issued a license of development for to the project on October 12, 2016.Mr. Sophanna added that the Kampot and Kep project will be developed for residential holiday homes, business, and tourism and holiday homes. This is the first large-scale international project. It will be a great way to welcome foreign visitors from all around the world, he claimed.  Pallas Group is an international real estate company which is expected to occupy a total land area of 4,158 hectares in Kampot and 144 hectares of land area in Kep. Meanwhile, the company is also looking to do a similar project in Thailand and Vietnam. Kampot is situated 148 kilometres away, while Kep is located 170 kilometers away from City of Phnom Penh. Ms. Siriluck Choochart, the President of Pallas Group, mentioned that the project in the two provinces will be called the “French Riviera Marina”.The French Riviera Marina is set to become an international destination for purposes like residential, business, tourism, and film production. Siriluck cited that the company's Kampot and Kep project will create over 50,000 jobs after the construction begins and thousands more after the development is completed. And each project will be environment-friendly. It will also make use of modern construction materials and the most advanced construction methods. This project will be made with quality in mind and is slated to become the best of its kind in Cambodia.The French Riviera Marina will also offer a safe sea park that includes villas, hotels, apartments, a swimming pool, artificial beach, a private coast, a golf course, a port, boutique shops, leisure area, and many more.Enjoy more of the latest real estate news!Click here to download your free copy!

A state visit between the  Cambodian government and the Government of the People's Republic of China last 13th and 14th of October 2016 was participated by both Prime Minister of Cambodia and President of China.This visit in Cambodia brought about an agreement and a memorandum of understanding of 31 points related to various fields, including the strengthening of international cooperation, economy and finance (business), taxation, law enforcement, industry and handicrafts, water resource management and  irrigation, environment, and infrastructural construction.Meanwhile, in the afternoon of October 14, 2016, Sun Chanthol – Minister of Public Works and Transport – signed an agreement for 3 major construction projects with China that are expected to begin construction in 2017. The three new projects include the National Highway projects from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville, National Road project No. 11 from Neak Loeung to Tnal Toteung, and a project for a bridge across the Mekong river, in the area of Kroch Chmar to Steung Trang.National highway Project from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville:This project will be built and managed by a private company before transferring to the Royal Government. It will be developed by the China Road & Bridge Corporation (CRBC).The whole project will cost a total of about $1,900 million. According to minister Sun Chan Thol, this new project will be serving as a significant, convenient, and fast transportation means for both locals and international visitors moving between the two areas.  National Road Project No. 11 Between Neak Loeung and Tnal Toteung:   This infrastructure project aims to restore the existing National Road No.11 from Neak Loeung to Tnal Toteung that’s developed and managed by the Kwangchow Van An Construction Management Company. The project will cost approximately $98 million and will measure 96,481 kilometers in length and a road width of 11 meters. The Bridge Construction Project Across the Mekong River Kroch Chmar – Steung Trang:This infrastructure project will build a bridge across the Mekong River in Kroch Chmar district, Tbong Khmum province all the way to the Stueng Trang district in the Kampong Cham Province. This project will cost a total of $57 million. It will have a length of 1,131 meters and a width of 13,50 meters.It’s important to note that along with the construction of the bridge, there is also another project being planned as a technical control project over a the bridge in order to control other technical aspects that will be done in cooperation with the Kwangchow Van An Construction Management Company.Among the 31 points in the agreement and the memorandum of understanding between Cambodia and China, there will also be more agreements for other real estate and infrastructure developments that will be done successively in the future such as: Exchange of Note on the Construction Project for Medical Center Cambodia - China Chinese Yuan Loan Agreement for the construction of Road No. 51 Concession Agreement for the development of the Siem Reap - Angkor International Airport Chinese Yuan Loan Agreement for the construction of Second Ring Road City Protocol Agreement for power plants, operating by coal, 450MV power in Sihanoukville Keep up with the latest infrastructure news on Realestate.com.khClick here to download your free copy!

Sihanoukville International Airport (formerly Kang Keng Airport) was established in the 1960s. After the Khmer Rouge period, services in the airport stopped until it started operating again in early 2007. But it wasn’t until 2011 that a scheduled service was formally done.A tri-weekly trip from Siem Reap’s Angkor International Airport began in December of 2011, where it was further adjusted in 2013 to accommodate trips from and across Sihanoukville, Siem Reap, and Phnom Penh.Mr. Sin Chansereyvutha, the Director of the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation said that Sihanoukville Airport is the largest airport in the country, which may be the case for the next 10 to 15 years.He explains that the economy of Sihanoukville had increasingly grown stronger, thanks to the economic contributions of the business sector, industry sector, transportation, imports and exports, and tourism. Sihanoukville is becoming a region of great potential as well for the real estate sector as the region was transformed into a special economic zone. Another important factor is the Sihanoukville Autonomous Port, an international port. This is key for economic growth.In addition, Sihanoukville is also a tourist destination for both local and international tourists, with the Sihanoukville International Airport offering convenience and comfort to travelers.There are also domestic and international flights going to Ho Chi Minh City, Phnom Penh, and Siem Reap, along with options to take private aircrafts and helicopters.The Sihanoukville International Airport also has the same geographical environment as the airports in Japan, Hong Kong, and Singapore, where they are near the ports and the sea.Find out more about new development on Realestate.com.kh !Click here to download your free copy!

Infrastructural projects like railway completions, airport expansions, and road widening have been fast-tracking growth in Cambodia. As a result, the tourism sector is experiencing a sudden surge.  According to the Ministry of Tourism, around 2.7 million international visitors traveled to Cambodia. Leading the herd of visitors are the neighboring Vietnamese, Thai, Chinese, and South Koreans.  So, this is being utilized as a resource towards a better tourism strategy.Anticipation Builds:Though declining to communicate project cost and timeline, Chinese-owned development company Tianjin Union Development Group (UDG) announced last week that a plan to construct a coastal airport has already been finalized and that “a geological survey and initial design work has been concluded for this high-grade international airport.” This is according to a representative from UDG. The representative adds, “The construction is ready to go.”The Union Development Group signed a 99-year lease with the government and has been developing projects in its 45,000-hectare of land concession in the districts of Kiri Sakor and Botum Sakor since 2008. Along with this is the government’s commitment to deny any application to construct new airports in the area, making UDG’s development the main airport of the province.The Bigger Picture:Most of the arrivals into Cambodia go through Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, accounting to around 90 percent of visitor arrivals. In comparison, coastal areas only received 8.8 percent of visitors who mostly arrive either by sea or by land. The developers are hopeful that this move will bring that number up. This airport will be a part of a bigger plan that includes the Dara Sakor Seashore Resort and a free trade zone with ports. And much like the expansion project of the Sihanoukville airport, the construction of the new airport in Koh Kong is expected to address any possible congestion.The airport development will be a part of the UDG’s $3.8 billion dollar plan to turn Koh Kong province into one of Cambodia’s main tourist destinations. Once completed, this airport is expected to bring in planes as big as an Airbus 380 and around 10 million travelers.So, will the construction of the Koh Kong airport allow the province to soar high or struggle to fly? We just have to wait for more details about the project to see.Find out new development in Cambodia on Realestate.com.kh

One of the sectors that have been booming in Cambodia right now is tourism. TTR Weekly reports an increase in tourist arrivals by roughly 3.4% from January to July of this year. In addition to that, 2,756,693 travelers from all over the world visited the country. This not only leaves an impression, but it also provides opportunities for businesses – especially for Phnom Penh, where 24.7 percent of the travelers enter through. This increases demand for better accommodations, especially for travelers looking to stay comfortably while in the country.Grabbing the Chance:One of many big international names clenching onto this tourism growth is the Hyatt Hotels Corporation. Already garnering international praise through 30 countries and 168 locations worldwide, reports have been swirling that – through an affiliate of the company – a management agreement has been entered into with leading Cambodian conglomerate Chip Mong Group to build Cambodia’s first Hyatt Regency Hotel in Phnom Penh.The Chip Mong Group has worked on large-scale projects like The Park Land Sen Sok, and will utilize their expertise on construction materials and real estate for the Hyatt Regency development and construction.Integrating the Familiar:Though internationally acclaimed, Hyatt Hotels Corporation still wishes to incorporate the familiar quality it has brought worldwide into the culture of the Cambodian people and environment. The Hyatt Hotels Corporation Asia Pacific president explains, “As Phnom Penh continues to become known as a destination for art, culture, tourism and business, we are confident that the globally recognized Hyatt Regency brand will resonate with business and leisure travelers visiting the country. Furthermore, we believe the hotel will play a vital role in the city’s development and will become a landmark in the city and a dynamic member of the local community.”In lieu with this, the development will stand among popular attractions such as art galleries, cafés, restaurants, the Royal Palace, and the National Museum.Capturing the NicheEstimated to open on 2020, this 250-room hotel will join existing hotels such as Arunreas Hotel, Raffles Hotel, and Sofitel to provide a complete hospitality experience in Phnom Penh. Plans for the hotel include setting up facilities like a rooftop swimming pool, a bar, a spa, a fitness center, and an amazing view of both the Mekong River and the Royal Palace. It will also cater to the needs of tourists and locals who are in need of services and a venue for exhibits, weddings, meetings, conferences, and social banquets.Find serviced apartments in Phnom Penh!

Phnom Penh has undergone surprising changes in the last decade. Commercial buildings and skyscrapers have been and are being built, turning this once haunting ghost city to one of the newest civilized and modern cities in the world.But the changes aren’t quite done yet. A 78-storey commercial building will rise from the ashes for the first time in Phnom Penh where construction will begin in early 2017. This will add to the estimated 600 existing tall buildings – living up to the Asian Development Bank’s designation of Cambodia as "Asia’s New Tiger Economy.”A staff of the Yung Chung Company who does not wish to be named said that “the building design has been completed, and the construction is scheduled to begin in early 2017. The development will reach total completion by 2021, but its showroom will be launched in November this year.” He added that “this building will be a mixed-use development and will include shopping malls, condominiums, hotels, as well as a swimming pool and a rotated restaurant on the 78th floor.”He continues, “The detailed plans of using this building was completed, but details are still confidential at the moment. This project has already been approved by the Ministry of Land Management, Urban Planning and Construction.”Seng Lot, the spokesman for the Ministry of Land Management, Urban Planning and Construction confirms, “The ministry has already agreed to provide a license for Yung Chung Real Estate to construct a building of 78 floors.”Ann Sothida, director of CBRE Cambodia, said that as far as she’s gathered, this mixed-use business center will be built in the future. But the market is not doing good, and that could cause a delay in the construction of the project. She added that with the company’s innovative approach of the building though, this project should not have any problems in the Cambodian market once it is completed. According to her, the project will be located behind “The Bridge” building, which is near Diamond Island (Koh Pich). However, she did not show the feature details of the plan.President of CVEA, Kim Heang, said that “Investors of the skyscraper project will be through a developer from China. The project will also  occupy a total area of 4,500 square meters and will cost lower than $20 million.” He adds that “if the project owner has enough money to complete this huge building project, it will not be a problem for this market.”Once completed, it will become the 2nd tallest building in Phnom Penh, next to the 133 floor Thai Boon Roong twin trade center which is 500 meters high.Dr. Van Vat, Planning Specialist, explains that Cambodia already has a regulation to limit tall buildings. So, if our law enforcement is good, it will not only protect the heritage in the city, but it will maintain the beautiful sceneries and will minimize the environmental impact as well. He continues to say that normally the construction of  such a high building requires the company to have studied all the technical standards, and the specialist from the ministry has to inspect and go over the construction standards to make sure that the company’s complying with the request or not.He adds that "Having these tall commercial buildings, it is a national pride because it is not only improving the economy, but it also provides employment and income for the people as well."Check out the hottest new development homes and offices!This story was featured in the September 2016 print edition of PROPERTY VIEW magazine, produced by the CVEA.Realestate.com.kh is very proud to support the CVEA’s Property View publication. For more information about joining the Cambodian Valuers and Estate Agents Association (CVEA) please click here. And, if you are interested in advertising placement or advertorial in the next edition of Property View Magazine, please contact Mr. Virith via email: virith007@yahoo.com Or call: 078 959 567  or 098 66 26 68

Prakas No. 965 (MEF) on the Management of Residence Development Business was dated August 24, 2016 and aims to get developers to obtain a license from the Finance Ministry.The Director of the Finance Ministry, Mr. Noung Piseth, said that only around 167 housing developments, 104 gated communities, and 63 condominiums that are currently underway are actually authorized by the Finance Ministry. He estimates that around 10 to 20 percent of current developments have no licenses. And this is causing concern from buyers who have already purchased units from these developers.This prakas (law) affects real estate developments that either have more than 4 apartments, 3 villas, or 4 units. Developers who fit the criteria are considered to be a residence development business company and are now required to have a license through the Ministry of Economy and Finance, for several reasons.Why should developers obtain a license?Other than avoiding a fine for owners of unlicensed housing projects that can reach up to $25,000, getting a license actually has a well rounded advantage for everyone involved in a development. It benefits the customers, the developers, and the industry as a whole.The Head of the Office of Business Management Housing Development at the Department of Industry and Finance, Ms. Chan Socheata, said that “generally, before the issuance of the license for any project development, the ministry evaluates through its checklist to find out whether the development has a clear and strong source of income, capital, collateral, land title, and other assets that support their project.”She continues, “The ministry will check whether it’s a good business, and if it can be successful in the future or not. In some cases, there’s a need to research on the sales strategy of the project, because sometimes a project’s owner does not do an in-depth market analysis with the surrounding market. And another reason is to find whether this project causes a bubble market. So, if this case happens, the ministry can take measure immediately,”And since a residence development business company is also required to deposit 2 percent of their capital, there is an assurance for both the ministry and the customer that there is enough resource for the project to successfully move forward and reach completion. Additionally, once a company is licensed, the ministry can serve as a mediator of sorts for any disputes that may arise between the developer and its customer.What are the types of licenses?Besides the 2 percent secured deposit, there is still a separate fee for each type of license that must paid by the company.There are currently two types of licenses.The first license is for companies which has either loaned from financial institutions or have their own capital that they can use for the development and sale of the property once construction is over.The other license is for companies who have their own capital or loan from a number of financial institutions or capital that comes from installation payments by the buyer, where construction is still not over.What are the Developer licensing requirements?For the first type of license, the development company must already have finished construction with the cost already determined.While the second type of license calls for the same requirement, it also calls for the development company to open a trust account where they will be placing payments from the customer.Socheata also mentions that “project owners need to make a business plan to present to the ministry” before they are issued a license. There are also requirements that should be submitted after the project is finished. This is called a reporting requirement where the Ministry of Economy and Finance needs to be updated after a month of the project’s completion regarding financial soundness and the project ending.With the release of this Prakas on developer licensing, we can expect to see positive changes in the aspects of construction and financing; and more transparency for end buyers - bringing much needed protections to the off-plan real estate market.Learn more about Investing in Cambodia, with your real estate information leader: Realestate. com.kh!

Whether you are looking for your dream home or buying a property for investment, the place to be is at the CAMBODIA PROPERTY & INVESTMENT EXPO ’16. It is where the latest commercial, industrial and residential properties from top developers are showcased. What’s more, you can get the best deals as there will be special discounts and free gifts offered only at the Expo. Make sure you drop by at the Diamond Island Exhibition & Convention Centre, Koh Pich, from 8-10 September 2016 for the Biggest Property Show of the Year! When you are at the Expo, you can also visit CAMBUILD’16 – Cambodia’s Biggest International Building, Construction and Interior Décor Show for the latest building and interior design products. See the full list of property developments on show at this year's expo and find out how you can join this years event!

According to Phat Sok, Head of the Land Department from Ministry of Land Management, Urban Planning and Construction, and Ms. Chan Socheata, Head of the Office of Business Management of Housing Development at the Department of Industry and Finance, “Cambodia currently does not have law or regulation in the management of plot land, however the government with relevant ministries are currently working on the drafting a law on “Business Management of Real Estate Development.” ARE YOU LOOKING TO BUY PLOT LAND? Read our ultimate guide to buying land in a plot land development now! Regarding the draft of this new law, Oknha Cheng Kheng, ceo of Huttons CPL said that, “making a law to have legal control over the company selling subdivided plot land is highly significant and timely.” He explained, “we have to think about the positive impact and negative side with the long term health of the market in mind. If this law is applied, it will be able to defend any conflict which is arising after the purchasing of that land. For instance, in the past there have been some companies that have promised to build the road and sewage system for customers within the plot land development, but ultimately they are not keeping their promise. If we have this law, we can make sure that they are legally obliged to fulfill their promises to the buyer." Oknha Kheng also directly questioned the government’s criticism of plot land developers given the current void of legislation. Oknha Kheng notes that “having been a service provider of plot land, I have observed notable progress in the sector. But I have also seen a lack of involvement from the authorities in regards to people’s education surrounding construction quality - some of which directly affects the municipal infrastructure, and the issues this causes when residential properties are under construction. At this early point of the construction progress there are no outright bans or instructions from the authorities guiding the developer. Then, suddenly after the construction is complete it is announced by the authority that the building is illegal. This state of affairs should also be taken into account by the relevant ministry.” Lina Thav, Executive Chairman of POD development in the project of Surin Phom Green Community, said that he supported a law governing the plot land subdivision companies: “Obviously our company wishes to fulfill its legal obligations and all safeguards required by law - such as responding to requests to display the master plan of the project to the government and customers, and the infrastructure plans to the Ministry of Land.” Suy Kokthean, Executive Director of the Vision to Social Advancement Organization, said that “since we do not have legal control over the plot land subdivision currently occurring, this creates problems for customers trying to purchase plot land now and in the future.” Suy notes that “plot land subdivisions have the potential to become areas of anarchy, where people build homes in any way they see fit. This will mean messy and poor-quality construction, building with no respect to borders easements. Furthermore, who will control zoning? What is stopping people from building factories and renting to workers, in the same area other buyers wanted to build a home?” He added “ This is an unpleasant thought for those who will buy plot land thinking it a good place to build a family home in the future.” He finally said, “if plot land management law is applied well, we could avoid these type of issues.” This discussion was held at the recent Cambodian Valuers and Estate Agents Association (CVEA) public forum entitled "Today’s Real  Estate Industry in Cambodia" at the Sofitel Hotel, Phnom Penh. This public forum event was designed to benefit key stakeholders in the Cambodian real estate sector such as developers, construction companies, real estate sellers and buyers, financial institutions and estate agents. Kim Heang, the president of the CVEA, also mentioned about the need for legal control over property sales and urged the government to establish the law relating to the subdivision plot land management law as soon as possible in order to facilitate the industry and to protect the interest of customers wishing to purchase plot land. Heang said that now is the ideal time to define what are the current issues in the real estate sector and find appropriate solutions to fix these problems. If these changes are not made quickly, the consumers will suffer in the longer-term. In particular, regulation is needed regarding plot land subdivision guidelines, condominium sales and development, boreys and correct licensing procedures for the Ministry of Economy and Finance and the Ministry of Land Management, Urban Planning and Construction.  BE A SMART PLOT LAND INVESTOR: Read our ultimate guide to buying land in a plot land development now!

The Province of Preah Sihanouk (aka Sihanoukville) is one of the three major economic poles in Cambodia. Sihanoukville is recognized for its numerous valuable resources, including offshore oil reserves, and its strong economic development in the commercial, industrial and agricultural sectors. It is also showing huge potential as a coastal tourism destination: According to Chhit Sengnguon, vice governor of Sihanouk province, there were over 1.3 million tourists who visited Sihanoukville during 2016’s first five months, an increase of around 16 percent compared to 2015. Read full article: “Sihanoukville Property Development Rising Alongside Tourism Boom” According to a recent BayonTV report, in the presentation of the new investment project to the provincial government on 25th July, Mr. Christoph Forsinetti, CEO of KC JSM Services Ltd. said that, “Having seen the potential tourism market in Sihanoukville, the international investment company, KC JSM Services Ltd, has decided to invest in a multi-development project resort along the beach of SES SAR (known in english as White Horse Beach), nearby the Sihanoukville Autonomous Port. And the project will start construction in October of this year.” According to IBC Cambodia, KC JSM Services is a property development company focusing on property development at all stages, from concept design and master planning to property management. Since 2012, the company has worked closely with the Royal Government of Cambodia in relation to policy for the development of the coastal areas of Cambodia, in accordance with the “Industrial Development Policy 2015 – 2025”. “This multi-development project is located in village 3, sangkat 3, of Sihanoukville City; and the new development will occupy almost 60,000 square meters of land area, with a total investment cost of around 119 million dollars,” Forsinetti confirmed. He stated that his company has spent 4 years accessing the environment impact and other potential problems of the planned project before confirming their investment in Sihanoukville, and has provided suitable solutions for all circumstances moving forward. In total, the development will require approximately 2 years to complete all necessary infrastructure. KC JSM Services will offer not only tourism services, says Forsinetti, but also employment opportunities for around 3000 local workers, paying a minimum salary of $200 per month. In regards to this new investment in Sihanoukville, Mr. Van Chanthorn, the CEO TownCity Real Estate, said that there are many big projects underway in Sihanoukville currently, such as the Camhomes project, D’Seaview, and maybe a new airport project underway soon. “This ongoing investment in Sihanoukville will naturally bring more people to live there,” says Chanthorn, “and the price of real estate will also increase in the coming years.” He added that, “This new project, white horse resort, is a very good investment in Sihanoukville because it will bring multiple benefits; One benefit is a direct advantage and another is an indirect advantage.” He explains that this new tourism venture will provide direct benefits to the people of Sihanoukville province in terms of employment and income opportunities. Meanwhile, its will benefit the province indirectly, as the flow-on-effect shall be more investment in Sihanoukville as the tourism industry continues to increase. Chanthorn says, “More visitors are coming to visit Sihanoukville to stay at resorts like this, and these visitors may also consider investment in Sihanoukville real estate in the future.” But Mr. Den Sakal, CEO of Universal Real Estate, a realtor based in the province, stated that this is a very high-end project, and hence it will not benefit the local people because of the very high price of admission. “The purpose of this project is for high-class families and foreigners only,” says Sakal. “The announcements of projects like this focus on the positive benefits of investment in Sihanoukville and dreamy ideals; but the reality in Sihanoukville does not equate to these grand proclamations. Some major development projects in Sihanoukville have become ghost town’s already, and there is a risk that others will too.”   Sakal added that, “in 2015 there was huge investment in Sihanoukville in terms of condo projects, villas and hotels. And at this time, there was still a large demand in the market. However, while investment continues in 2016, many projects now remain empty because of an oversupply in the market after the 2015 boom, and now there is low demand amid buyers.” Despite his pessimism regarding demand for very high-end projects such as the White Horse Beach development, Den mentions that the demand in the real estate market in Sihanoukville does seem to be picking up again generally in the second half of 2016. Images sourced from: www.thekingstrip.com Learn more about Sihanoukville as a real estate destination, and other great insights in our comprehensive investor guides NOW!

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia – 6 July 2016: After a record-­breaking year in real estate and construction, the Cambodia Property Awards returns for a second year to reward the best developers, projects and designs in the Kingdom. According to the latest research by consultancy CBRE, the capital Phnom Penh’s condominium supply is projected to rise by a staggering 794 percent or 19,018 units within the next two years, supported by sustained gross domestic product growth, attractive returns and rapid urbanisation. In another fast ­growing segment, Cambodia’s retail market is set to get a substantial boost with new retail supply coming in from foreign investors hailing from ASEAN Economic Community and East Asia. Those impressive developments will be highlighted at the second annual Cambodia Property Awards 2017, the biggest and most exclusive awards programme in the country that forms part of the regional Asia Property Awards series organised by PropertyGuru, Asia’s leading online property group. The annual real estate event was formally launched to the media on 6 July 2016 at the Empress Room of Raffles Hotel Le Royal, be to followed by an evening launch party at the historic Chinese House on Preah Sisowath Quay in Phnom Penh. With much fanfare and media coverage, the inaugural ceremony that took place on 25 February 2016 at the prestigious Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra was attended by more than 300 high ­profile guests and VIPs, including His Excellency Dr Pen Sophal, representative of His Excellency Senior Minister Im Chhun Lim, who gave the inspiring keynote address. Broadcast live on CTN’s Cambodia News Channel, the 2016 Gala Dinner saw Borey Penghouth Group collect five awards including Best Developer (Cambodia), while Mr Rithy Sear, chairman of WorldBridge Land, was named Real Estate Personality of the Year by the editors of Property Report, Asia’s leading luxury real estate, architecture and design magazine. Other big winners were The Olympia City Development Co Ltd and Urbanland Asia Investment Co Ltd. “Cambodia joins the other leading economies of ASEAN in hosting its own awards programme,” Terry Blackburn, founder and managing director of the Asia Property Awards, said. “It is a testament to the strength and quality of the local industry that we have so many fine developments join our launch year in 2016.” The 2017 event aims to surpass last year’s guest list and the total number of eligible entries for categories covering the condominium, housing/villa, office and serviced apartment segments. New categories to join the programme include Special Recognition in Sustainable Development and the expanded Best Hotel Development category for Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville, and Siem Reap. Nominations are already open and will close on 4 November. Entry is free.Sign Up NowAll entrants for the Cambodia Property Awards can be nominated by a third party, including peers, professionals and consumers, and, if eligible, are rigorously and fairly judged by an independent panel of industry experts, who conduct site visits to long­listed developments in order to determine the official shortlist of nominees comprising one Winner and up to four Highly Commended in each category. BDO, one of the world’s largest accounting and auditing firms, returns as the trusted awards supervisor of the Asia Property Awards, which, in its 12th year, is widely recognised for its fairness and transparency. The official list of nominees will be revealed in mid­January 2017, along with the announcement by the editors of Property Report of Cambodia’s Real Estate Personality of Year, whose influence and achievements resonate across the kingdom.