JPO attracting large crowds of Singaporeans

KULAIJAYA: Rows of brand-name retailers among arches, miniature fountains, palm trees and small garden patches greet shoppers as they enter Johor Premium Outlets (JPO). JPO, located along the highway in Kulaijaya, is only in its soft launch phase but this has not stopped large crowds of Singaporeans from streaming in to “shop till they drop” when it opened yesterday.

Legal secretary Suzana Sadip, 43, who was awestruck by the outlets, said she found it a delight to spend time roaming around the area. “The branded outlets are a major attraction but I also love the general outlook of the place. The architecture and the landscaping are very different from conventional shopping malls. “The only problem I faced was trying to get here and I hope the authorities will place more signboards along the highway to make it easier to locate the place,” she said, promising to bring along her friends from Singapore on her next trip.

JPO, a joint venture between Genting Bhd and Simon Property Group, is scheduled to be officially launched by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak on Dec 11. The stores include those selling top brands like Salvatore Ferragamo, Zegna, Charles & Keith, Armani Exchange, Burberry, DKNY and Oroton.

Another Singaporean, Rosnah Aziz, 41, said she was excited to be one of the first to visit the outlets. “It’s wonderful to have labels such as Michael Kors and Coach next to each other,” said the nurse, adding that she took a taxi from Singapore with her friends at 10am just for the occasion.

Housewife Chen Pow Chee said she was impressed with the outlets. “The place is very pleasant, clean and attractive to shoppers like me,” she said, but called for more signboards to be put up.

JPO general manager Jean Marie Pin Harry said the outlets were expected to attract thousands of shoppers even before the official opening. “We would like to urge shoppers to bear with our minor hiccups during the soft launch and just enjoy shopping for the different brands which are going for 25% to 65% discount,” he said. He said there were also special buses available for shoppers from Johor Baru Central, Kota Raya and the Second Link.

-thestar online.