New Straits Times, 14 Nov 2006
JOHOR BARU: Mystery surrounds a religious group which wants to build a multi-billion ringgit "spiritual tourism centre" in Kota Tinggi.
However, state authorities are completely in the dark about the project, which has become a major talking point among the Chinese community here.
In full-colour advertisements placed in several newspapers on Saturday, the project developer — Yong Aun Holdings Sdn Bhd — said the project, called "Ao Mi Shan" (Enchanting Resort), would be built on a 113ha site next year.
Its centrepiece will be a towering statue of the Chinese deity, Kuan Yin.
The company has appointed Tokong Nam Hai in Pulai and the Tokong Ban Sin in Selangor as its southern and northern region co-ordinators.
According to the advertisements, the development will showcase the cultures of religions such as Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, Hinduism, Sikhism and Christianity.
The plan includes the construction of resort bungalows and cultural villages.
But checks with the Kota Tinggi district council, the Kota Tinggi land office and various other government departments and agencies about the project drew a blank.
Apparently, no building plans have been submitted by the developer.
