Salute To The Colonel

Is it a momentous occasion for Taman Desa or just one of resigned cynicism? It really depends on your age but the call for review is simply due to KFC's impending arrival to our suburb. It's a sign of things to come. Taman Desa has blossomed so fast that it really was a case of fait accompli.

Ironically, the corner where KFC is appearing has had a checkered history. When it first opened, a rip-off chain called KLG actually had the nerve to open there. Apparently KLG has over 30 outlets in Northern Malaysia and wasn't really meant as homage to the Colonel more than it was to capitalize on his popularity. KLG served similar items but with a notably slack food presentation, lousy overall branding and over-salty taste. Surprisingly, it drew a large crowd in its first month, then (unsurprisingly) petered out as fast as a hurricane over a mountain range. To use Aussie slang, KLG 'gave up the ghost' six months later and was hardly mourned by Taman Desans (except Mike C who loved their Chicken Burgers).

Extensive renovations ensued and a Japanese restaurant took over. It was relatively cheap and welcome but it was hardly authentic. The response, though, was energetic (Taman Desans are opportunistic kia su people who will give things a try) and business flourished for about three months. Somehow, the novelty factor wore off and the owners then realized that there were half a dozen similar restaurants in the suburb run even more authentically. This, potential patrons were aware of too. Ten months later and the restaurant also sank into oblivion.

Mike C and I had joked that KFC would do well to copy KLG and make a move to Taman Desa. Maybe in the same spot. And whadya know, they apparently surveyed the empty lot in the past five months and thought the same thing.

It was just a few days ago that the signage finally went up and Nim told me. So the answer to the early question? Well, I think most of us will appreciate KFC coming here. They'll be a lot cleaner than the previous tenants, who also attracted riff-raff to the area. And, if you're gonna have fast food at least the quality is now available (just stay away from the dangerous fries and whipped potato, that's all). Mike C will also enjoy better Chicken Burgers now while I'll be happily eating away at Hot N Spicy Chicken and peeling off two-thirds of the skin.

Mike C and I have joked about opening up our own Coffee Bean outlet to really exploit the opportunities in Taman Desa. That may well come. In the meantime, we're going to KFC when it first opens and salute the Colonel for coming to town.

The Great Taman Desa Hope Part 2

One last condo property to mention is Papillon. Now this high-end condo is secluded behind Faber Heights. Coming from Old Klang Road you'll have to turn left into Jalan Morib and get past the guardhouse that guards the current access road. Show units are pretty posh, but that's because of the interior decoration. Papillon comes with limited fittings and aircon but still commands around RM400 and upwards per sq ft. Many people will find it pricey but I think the price you're paying for is privacy and security AND the true value of Taman Desa's location. I've little doubt that the place will live up to it's promise.

Okay, let's talk landed property in Taman Desa. The place may be a little old but homes here are relatively undervalued. Again, think location and think of the fact that Taman Desa lies smack bang in the middle of several highways and right between KL's inner city centre and major areas like Bangsar and PJ.

The double-storey terrace houses along Jalan Desa Utama are selling for RM700,000 upwards, depending on size, condition and exact location). If agents' reports are anything to go by, prices escalate 5-10% a year.

Even cheaper but just as good are the single-storey terrace houses in Taman Bukit Desa, just parallel to Jalan Desa Utama. They are suitable secluded and also offer direct access to Old Klang Road.

There are plenty of huge bungalows around Taman Desa, especially around the Jalan Desa Bakti area but forget about opportunities. Most owners are here for the long term and few are selling.

One of the other selling items that landed property owners have going for their properties is the private security that patrols the place. If you're a member of Taman Desa's Residents Association security watch and have the requisite sticker on your front gate you get the benefit of extra attentiveness from the guards.

For anyone, thinking of Taman Desa, go for the terrace property and think of it as a suitable long-term investment or a great place to retire.