20-05-2025
- Business
- New Straits Times
Astaka and Kimlun break ground on Arden, Johor's newest landmark within JS-SEZ
KUALA LUMPUR: Johor-based developer Astaka Holdings Ltd, in partnership with Kimlun Corporation Bhd, has officially begun construction of Arden — a premium serviced residence that marks the first component of Phase 3 of its flagship integrated development, One Bukit Senyum.
Strategically located within the newly established Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), Arden is set to become a defining feature of Johor Bahru's skyline. The 68-storey tower will soar to 260 metres, making it the second tallest building in Johor Bahru, after The Astaka, also developed by Astaka Holdings.
With a gross development value (GDV) of RM800 million, Arden is a freehold project comprising 618 upscale serviced residences with built-ups ranging from 797 to 1,700 square feet. Units are priced between RM1,300 and RM1,500 per square foot, and completion is targeted for 2030.
Astaka has appointed GDP Architects Sdn Bhd — the firm behind landmark developments such as Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, TRX Residence, EQ Hotel Kuala Lumpur, and The Astaka — to lead the architectural design of Arden.
Designed for modern, urban living, Arden will feature more than 50 thoughtfully curated facilities, including sky dining, a KTV lounge, family-oriented amenities, co-working spaces, and an indoor golf simulator. A key highlight is its Hotel Stay Management model, offering property owners a fully integrated solution for short-term leasing. This includes professional unit management, housekeeping services, and dedicated guest lobbies — a concept that has already attracted strong interest from overseas buyers seeking both lifestyle flexibility and investment returns.
A groundbreaking ceremony was held on May 19, officiated by Johor Bahru City Council (MBJB) Mayor Datuk Mohd Haffiz Ahmad, to commemorate the start of construction.
"Arden is set to be a remarkable addition to Johor Bahru's skyline. It will not just be a skyscraper, but also a symbol of our rapid growth and commitment to becoming a world-class city," said Mohd Haffiz.
"As one of the major projects in Johor Bahru since the formation of the JS-SEZ, Arden stands as a testament to the confidence investors have in our city's potential. We look forward to witnessing this landmark project accelerate Johor Bahru's transformation into a vibrant and prosperous city."
Astaka Holdings executive director and chief executive officer (CEO), Allen Khong described Arden as a milestone collaboration with Kimlun, following successful joint ventures such as Menara MBJB and Aliva Mount Austin.
"I am proud to highlight that this project brings together two renowned, Johor-based real estate players dedicated to world-class developments that deliver exceptional value to residents and investors."
Khong extend his appreciation to the Johor State Government and MBJB for their continued support.
Kimlun CEO Pang Khang Hau added that the company is proud to partner with Astaka once again as a JV partner and the main contractor on another transformative project that will redefine Johor Bahru's skyline.
Launched in 2014, One Bukit Senyum is an ambitious 11.85-acre freehold integrated development, envisioned as Johor Bahru's future Central Business District (CBD). Its location — just 800 metres from the CIQ complex and 600 metres from the future Johor Bahru–Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link — makes it a prime beneficiary of cross-border infrastructure enhancements and deepening Johor-Singapore economic ties.
The development's momentum is further supported by the JS-SEZ agreement, signed in early 2024, and progress on the RTS Link, both of which are expected to significantly boost trade, connectivity, and investment flows between the two regions.
Phase 1, The Astaka, was completed in 2018, comprising two towers standing 65 and 70 storeys high. At 1,020 feet above sea level, it remains the tallest residential building in Southeast Asia, with buyers hailing from over 15 countries, including Singapore, Indonesia, China, Germany, Japan, and Finland.
Phase 2, the 15-storey Grade A Menara MBJB, was completed a year ahead of schedule in January 2020 and now houses the Johor Bahru City Council's headquarters.
Phase 3, currently in progress, will be developed in stages starting with Arden, followed by a lifestyle shopping mall and a five-star hotel, reinforcing One Bukit Senyum's role as a transformative anchor of Johor Bahru's urban and economic evolution.
