Few names resonate in Malaysia’s property landscape quite like IJM Land. As a subsidiary of IJM Corporation, a heavyweight spanning industries from construction to infrastructure, IJM Land has been a formidable presence in the property sector since its inception in 1989. Today, its reach extends across and beyond Malaysia’s borders, with developments in the UK and an impressive total landbank of 3,699 acres, boasting a GDV of RM40.9 billion in 2023.
IJM Land’s portfolio includes some of Malaysia’s largest township developments. Seremban 2 is a prime example of its expertise, but equally notable is Bandar Utama Sandakan, a 410-acre integrated township in Sabah’s second-largest city. Designed as an integrated township, this long-term project seeks to consolidate every amenity a resident could desire within a single locale, from shopping and dining to learning and leisure. This ambitious undertaking was recently recognised with the Township Masterplan and Development Excellence Award at the SHAREDA Excellence Awards 2024.
“This award represents the hard work and dedication of the entire team behind the project,” says Soh Wai Fong, Senior General Manager of IJM Land Sandakan.
The concept of a holistic township isn’t new, but today’s residents expect more. Sandakan, with its burgeoning middle- to upper-class communities, is looking for developments that not only meet their current needs, but also anticipate future growth and demands.
Adaptability is key. “We build spaces where people can live, work, shop and relax, all within the same environment,” Soh says. “Our goal is to create townships that grow with their communities.” This approach taps into a modern desire for convenience and connection, a far cry from the days when a roof over your head was enough.
Over the years, the definition of a desirable living environment has evolved. What was once considered a luxury—gated communities, lifestyle amenities—is now an expectation. Today’s developments are about much more than shelter. They’re ecosystems, where commerce, leisure and sustainability meet, forming a comprehensive lifestyle. Think of it as a township’s version of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs—we’ve moved from basic shelter to a focus on wellness, community and connection.
Reflecting on the changes in consumer expectations, Soh explains: “Property development is an ever-evolving industry. People’s needs change over time. Thirty to 40 years ago, buyers were satisfied with just a roof over their heads. Today, those needs are much more complex.” With that in mind, Bandar Utama Sandakan offers a diverse range of housing options, from condominiums to terrace houses and bungalows. It also features medical centres and other everyday essential services, while planned amenities include a retail mall, golf courses, parks and even pickleball courts.
“It’s all about staying ahead of the curve,” Soh says. “We’re always looking for ways to do things better—faster, more efficiently and more sustainably.”
Sustainability is another core pillar of IJM Land’s ethos. For Soh and his team, it’s not just about ticking a box—it’s about leaving a legacy. “We build with sustainability in mind from the start,” he says. “For our semi-detached homes and bungalows, we include green roofing and solar panels. And for smaller homes, we ensure the infrastructure is there for homeowners to install their solar panels when they’re ready.” The parks in Bandar Utama Sandakan will also feature 100 per cent solar-powered lighting, an example of how sustainability is woven into every aspect of the development.
“When we talk about legacy, we have to talk about sustainability,” Soh adds. “We’re not the true owners of this land; we’re merely stewards. Our parents passed it to us, and we will pass it to the next generation. The best thing we can do is to build in a way that ensures future generations can enjoy it, too. That’s the legacy we want to leave behind.”
Soh Wai Fong is the Senior General Manager at IJM Land, Sandakan. The group’s latest project, Bandar Utama Sandakan, won the Gold Award for Township Masterplan and Development Excellence at the SHAREDA Excellence Awards 2024.
Stay tuned to read more stories about other SHAREDA members: Datuk Chua Soon Ping, Datuk Susan Wong, Datuk Matthew Tan, Gilbert Ee, Wilson Loke, Datuk Quek Siew Hau, Tan King Hong, Datuk Seri Panglima Tang.
Photographed by Xerxes/Awesome Image
Make up and hair by Celin Chin
Art Direction by Penn Ey, Chee
