NCT Smart Industrial Park
PETALING JAYA: NCT Group of Companies is setting its sights on expanding its property developments in Sabah as part of a broader strategy to grow beyond its “burgeoning market presence” in Peninsular Malaysia.
Group project director Yap Chun Theng said the move aligns with the state’s rising real estate demand, spurred by economic growth and infrastructure upgrades.
“Our expansion into Sabah will enable us to tap the region’s growing real estate market, which has been heightened due to the state’s enhanced economic growth and infrastructure development,” he noted in an e-mail interview with StarBiz.
He stated the federal government’s RM442.3mil plan to upgrade Kota Kinabalu International Airport (KKIA) that will expand its Terminal 1’s capacity to 12 million passengers per annum by mid-2028 from nine million now would further boost connectivity and attract more investors.
As part of its Sabah expansion, Yap said NCT Group will launch a new residential development this year, featuring 75 units of three-storey terrace homes located 10km to 15km from Kota Kinabalu.
Meanwhile, Yap noted the company has evolved from being a white knight developer to pioneering new projects, with a continued focus on housing affordability and community-building while broadening its footprint nationwide.
Among its latest residential projects is phase two of Ion Belian Garden in Batang Kali, Selangor, offering a mix of single and two-storey terrace homes and two-storey shop offices, after phase one sold out.
The company is also introducing Ion Estuary Park in Ayer Keroh, Melaka, with phase one featuring a condotel comprising 375 units that blend hospitality and residential elements.
Beyond residential projects, NCT Group is advancing in the industrial sector by integrating environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles and advanced technology into its developments.
Yap highlighted that NCT Smart Industrial Park (NSIP) has emerged as a frontrunner in ESG-driven industrial developments, earning accolades for innovation and sustainability as Malaysia’s first Managed Industrial Park (MIP).
For 2025, Yap said key initiatives within its industrial portfolio include the expected completion of phase one of NSIP in the final quarter (4Q25) and the commencement of NCT Innosphere – “another forward-thinking industrial park designed to lead in sustainability and innovation” in Bukit Kayu Hitam, Kedah.
Meanwhile, Yap highlighted that NCT Group’s hospitality segment is also gaining momentum, with major projects set to boost Malaysia’s tourism appeal.
Yap said the grand launch of Grand Ion Majestic (GIM) in Genting Highlands in 2Q25 will position it as a premier lifestyle destination, housing the Wyndham Ion Majestic Hotel and the 1001 Nights Hotel.
Additionally, he said the first Hard Rock Café in Asia-Pacific’s highest-altitude location is slated to debut in 1Q25, bringing a unique mix of music, dining and entertainment to the region.
“Our hospitality ambitions remain strong as well. We aim to create more world-class destinations that combine luxury with sustainability, enhancing Malaysia’s appeal as a global tourism hub,” he added.
Reflecting on NCT Group’s journey from a tiling company in 1985 to a diversified property developer today, Yap said the company’s 40th anniversary marks a milestone in its growth.
“Managing operational costs effectively while continuing to grow and deliver high-quality, well-priced products has been an important focus throughout these years. Striking this balance has been key to sustaining a competitive edge,” he said.
Yap attributed NCT Group’s success to its diversification strategy, which allows the company to thrive across multiple sectors and remain resilient in a dynamic market.
“By balancing residential, industrial and hospitality developments, we create opportunities for growth and remain resilient, while adeptly adapting to changing demands and speed to market,” he said.
“As a result of diversification, we can mitigate risks while maximising opportunities across sectors. Our ability to address diverse market needs has been vital, where our flexibility and foresight have consistently set us apart in a highly competitive industry.”
He added this approach enables NCT Group to navigate market challenges while maintaining a strong growth trajectory as it expands into new ventures.
“For NCT, we are geared up for the future with a clear goal to remain at the forefront of innovation, sustainability and impact, by creating spaces that inspire and empower the generations of today and to come.
“As we celebrate 40 years of success, our focus is on building for the future – Creating World Class Masterpiece.”
Looking ahead, Yap said digitalisation is reshaping the property sector, with artificial intelligence (AI), big data and smart systems driving efficiency and sustainability.
“These advancements are particularly relevant in industrial developments, where ESG-compliant managed industrial parks, such as our NSIP, are setting benchmarks for operational efficiency and sustainability,” he said.
He added that industrial properties continue to lead growth, given the rising demand for logistics hubs, data centres and high-tech manufacturing facilities.
“Mixed-use developments are gaining traction as they provide integrated communities that balance residential, commercial and recreational needs,” he said.
Yap said NCT Group remains bullish on the 2025 market outlook, citing rising income levels, sound government initiatives and improving economic conditions.
“While challenges such as oversupply persist, our sharp focus on sustainable, innovative and well-planned developments, coupled with a strong pipeline of projects, will reinforce our resilience and drive continued growth.”
As NCT Group commemorates 40 years of excellence, the company is offering exclusive promotions and rewards in appreciation of its valued customers, investors, and stakeholders. “This year, we are rolling out deals across a selection of our developments, making it the ideal time to invest in an NCT property,” he concluded.
