New Mall Poise To Lead The Market
By Khairunnisa Ibrahim

Bandar Seri Begawan - The latest mall to hit the scene plans to give its competitors a run for their money by offering lower rentals and targeting a broad spectrum of the public with a diverse range of establishments and events.

The Seri Q-Lap Mall, which was officially opened on Monday by the Minister of Home Affairs, offers its occupants a rent fee that is half those at The Mall in Gadong, said the complex's managing director, Lim Kim Peck.

Seri Q-Lap is designed to be medium-sized because of Brunei's relatively small market - the population is less than 400,000 and only a portion of that figure holds purchasing power. This results in lower cost of maintenance and smaller, more compact layout and floor space.

Despite the difference in size, the Kiulap mall offers the same facilities as The Mall in Gadong. "We have the same mechanisms that the (Gadong Mall) has," Lim asserted.

Competitive pricing for the new mall's store spaces has led to an overwhelming response, with 99 per cent of the lots already occupied. Several establishments are already operating in the building, while others are still undergoing renovation.

Seri Q-Lap Mall also has the edge in terms of its ample surroundings, with more than 700 parking spaces available around the building, said Lim. As such, congestion is not a problem. Parking is free too, adding to the appeal of the new commercial centre.

In addition, the new mall employs a group of young, local workers in the supermarket, also known as Seri Q-Lap, who give value for money. "These young people are very willing to learn and to work hard," the manager said. "They are also very energetic and motivated. They cheerfully work from morning until late night."

Speaking to The Brunei Times, Lim pointed out that the decision to build a shopping centre was reached with his partner, Dato Paduka Lim Beng Thai, whose land adjoined his to form an area of over two acres.

"If we'd built shophouses, there is already an oversupply of those in the country," he said.

They opted for a complex that would offer "everything under one roof" - a supermarket, fast food outlets, both halal and nonhalal eating establishments, boutiques and cinemas, among others.

Another reason was the change in consumer preferences among locals, Lim noted. They are becoming more exposed to the shopping environments overseas, due to greater mobility and cheaper travelling costs.

As such, more people are drawn to shopping malls that emulate those found in other countries.

Providing a recreational place for youths was another factor.

. "This mall can give them an alternative place to go to," the manager said.

Thus, the concept of Seri Q-Lap took into consideration youthful preferences of mall goers. In addition to the shops and the cineplex to cater to the young, the management is also organising regular events to attract visitors. -- Courtesy of The Brunei Times

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