Arden by Astaka and Kimlun: Johor Bahru’s New Skyline Icon Breaks Ground
Astaka Holdings Ltd and Kimlun Corp Bhd (KL:KIMLUN) have officially begun construction on Arden, a 68-storey luxury serviced residence in One Bukit Senyum, Johor Bahru. The landmark project, with a gross development value (GDV) of RM800 million, marks the first component of Phase 3 of the developer’s flagship master plan and is poised to become Johor Bahru’s second tallest residential building upon its completion in 2030.
The ground-breaking ceremony, officiated by Johor Bahru City Council mayor Datuk Mohd Haffiz Ahmad, represents a major milestone for both developers and the Johor property market.
Project Overview: Arden at One Bukit Senyum
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Height | 68 storeys / 260 metres |
| GDV | RM800 million |
| Location | One Bukit Senyum, Johor Bahru |
| Land Size | 1.73 acres |
| No. of Units | 618 serviced residences |
| Built-Up Sizes | 797 – 1,700 sq ft |
| Price Range | RM1,300 – RM1,500 per sq ft |
| Target Completion | 2030 |
Premium Facilities and Investor Appeal
Arden is positioned as a high-end residential offering with hotel-grade amenities and short-term rental flexibility—catering to both owner-occupiers and global investors.
Key Features and Amenities:
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Sky dining pavilion
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KTV lounge
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Indoor golf simulator
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Co-working and meeting spaces
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Concierge and hotel-style services
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Over 50 curated lifestyle and wellness facilities
The development also introduces an integrated hotel-stay management model, allowing owners to opt into professional short-term rental services, a growing demand especially among foreign investors looking for flexible passive income options.
Strategic Location within the Johor-Singapore Economic Corridor
Arden’s location within the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) adds significant investment appeal. The project sits near:
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Johor CIQ Complex
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Upcoming RTS Link to Singapore
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Existing Causeway transport links
This proximity ensures high connectivity, making Arden attractive to cross-border professionals, frequent commuters, and international investors.
“Arden is set to be a remarkable addition to Johor Bahru’s skyline — not just a skyscraper, but a symbol of our rapid growth,” said Johor Bahru mayor Datuk Mohd Haffiz Ahmad.
Developer Commentary: Vision for Johor Bahru’s Urban Growth
Astaka CEO Allen Khong stated,
“We are proud to collaborate again with Kimlun for Arden, our flagship Phase 3 launch. Together, we are creating world-class developments that bring long-term value to residents and investors.”
This partnership follows successful joint projects such as Menara MBJB and Aliva Mount Austin.
Kimlun CEO Pang Khang Hau added,
“We’re excited to deliver another transformative project that redefines the Johor Bahru skyline.”
One Bukit Senyum: A Master-Planned Mixed Development
Launched in 2014, One Bukit Senyum is an integrated urban precinct spanning 11.85 acres. It includes:
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Phase 1: The Astaka — a luxury twin-tower residential development
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Phase 2: Menara MBJB — the Johor Bahru City Council’s new headquarters
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Phase 3: Arden (just launched), future shopping mall & 5-star hotel
With Arden serving as the anchor for Phase 3, the precinct is positioned to become a live-work-play hub and key growth node within the Johor Bahru CBD.
Market Outlook and Buyer Appeal
At RM1,300 to RM1,500 psf, Arden is positioned at the upper tier of Johor Bahru’s residential market, reflecting growing demand for luxury urban living within well-connected, master-planned environments.
Who Will Arden Appeal To?
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High-net-worth locals and expats
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Singaporean investors seeking better yields
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Global buyers attracted by short-stay management
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Young professionals working in the JS-SEZ corridor
Johor Market Momentum
With developers rushing to launch or acquire land in Johor Bahru amid booming demand near the RTS Link, Arden arrives at a prime moment.
Final Thoughts: A Defining Landmark for Johor Bahru
Arden at One Bukit Senyum is more than just a luxury high-rise—it’s a symbol of Johor Bahru’s transformation into a world-class urban and investment destination. Backed by strong local developers, world-class design, and a strategic location within the JS-SEZ, Arden is poised to set a new benchmark for serviced residences in southern Malaysia.
With construction underway and sales expected to launch in phases, investors and homebuyers should act early to secure a stake in this landmark development reshaping Johor Bahru’s skyline.
