For many people, the idea of a sea change has become hugely appealing in recent times. If you’re one of them, then read on to find out about Southern Marina Residences, a new waterfront living opportunity in Johor, Malaysia, just a short drive from Singapore.
About Southern Marina Residences
Southern Marina Residences (SMR) is a freehold haven that’s sure to appeal to any ocean enthusiast or boat lover. Surrounded by three marinas, it’s made up of two apartment towers that rise above a peaceful cove near the Puteri Harbour, in Malaysia’s master-planned township of Iskandar Puteri.
The range of one- to three-bedroom apartments are luxuriously furnished and appointed, and there are facilities for the whole family – all within lush landscaped grounds, and with non-stop marina views and sea breezes.
For an insight into life at Southern Marina Residences, we spoke with apartment owners BRIAN and NILA BEAVER, British and Singaporean respectively.
Where were you living before you made the move to Southern Marina Residences?
The US, UK and Singapore. We’ve been travelling frequently and widely in Malaysia for a number of years; in our view, Iskandar has an excellent future as a bridge between Singapore and Johor, giving us easy access to the rest of mainland Malaysia.
How did you come to know about it?
By travelling through the larger Iskandar region to scout for potential suitable residences. It was during one of these exploratory trips that we came across the Sales Office of SMR.
What appealed to you most about living here in Malaysia? What led to the decision to purchase?
Simply put, it occupies a prime location between three marinas, overlooking the Johor Strait, and close to the town centre. Additionally, for people associated with Singapore, it’s only a 15-minute drive from the Tuas Link, via a new spur road. This is essentially the resort-style living you typically find in beachside communities in the US, such as in Miami, Florida; there’s an extensive, well-designed swimming pool, with excellent shopping and restaurants in the vicinity, as well as great walks.
What did the move involve? Any particular challenges?
While buying property is always an emotional challenge, the developers of SMR made the process simple. They were always available to us, and no questions went unanswered.
If you work in Singapore or go there regularly, what does the commute involve?
Our best time in crossing from SMR to downtown Singapore is one hour, with a median time of 1.5 hours. The determining factor is the volume of traffic on the Johor side leading to the Tuas Link. Sadly, because of pandemic lockdowns and border closures, we’ve not been able to return to our apartment for the past 15 months; we’re eager to return to SMR as soon as possible.
Is SMR a good place for families?
There are many excellent international schools and tertiary institutions near SMR, so parents can reside here to be near their children.
Why would you recommend it to expats in Hong Kong or elsewhere, either as a place to move, or for buying a holiday home?
Malaysia is a growing economy, and Iskandar offers a view of the future. There’s excellent accommodation available in SMR, together with easily accessible educational facilities, medical facilities, entertainment venues, F&B outlets and shopping centres, all of which combine to make for a pleasant life.
Keen to find out more about Southern Marina Residences? Call +6012 969 8099 or +65 8313 6941, email southernmarina@ppb.com.my, or visit the website at southernmarina.com.my.
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