KUCHING: La Promenade by Hock Seng Lee (HSL) has positioned landscaping as a long-term value driver, integrating green design into every aspect of its 200-acre township.
Planned nearly two decades ago as a ‘township within a park’, the gated community was built around tree-lined boulevards, landscaped walkways and a natural stream that serves as both a water feature and a security boundary.
HSL said in a statement that it has planted more than 1,200 Norfolk pines and 30,000 tealeaf shrubs, along with hopea, gum and other native trees.
It added that more than seven kilometres of landscaped pedestrian paths are now in place, while new playgrounds and shaded canopies continue to be added as the township grows.
“To sustain the greenery, we set up our own landscaping department before the first homes were completed.
“The unit employs more than 30 full-time gardeners, including 11 stationed at La Promenade and two managing the on-site nursery,” the statement said.
Its landscaping department head Leslie Lim said the large-scale gardens require careful coordination and consistency.
He described landscaping as both a science and an art, one that takes time to mature.
“It is a long-term process that requires patience. The results reveal themselves over years,” he said.
Furthermore, he said that the team has also begun composting trials by mulching green waste to improve soil quality, part of HSL’s wider sustainability efforts.
He added the goal was to reduce reliance on chemicals while producing their own compost through recycling.
Landscaping and in-house security have become two of La Promenade’s strongest attractions for homebuyers.
Assistant property sales manager Angie Joan said many visitors are convinced once they experience the environment in person.
“We bring potential buyers into La Promenade and let them see the landscaping for themselves. After that, much of our work is done,” she said.
The 160-acre residential area covers three precincts, namely Première, Luxe and Grande, each spanning around 20 acres with fewer than 100 homes.
The low-density layout, she said, was designed to preserve privacy and a sense of exclusivity.
La Promenade has also received recognition from the Malaysian Institute of Architects, the Institute of Landscape Architects Malaysia and the Sarawak Housing and Real Estate Developers’ Association, making it the only development in East Malaysia to have earned all three awards.
Senior property general manager Tay Chiok Kee said such recognition affirms HSL’s planning approach and commitment to long-term quality.
He added that the company intends to maintain its landed-only policy for the residential zone.
“We are not introducing high-density projects. Over the next five years, we will focus on more duplexes, bungalows and some townhouses.
“Apartments will remain within the 40-acre commercial zone next to our office fronting the Kuching-Samarahan Expressway,” he said.
Upcoming additions include a sheltered playscape along the boulevard and a clubhouse for Precinct Grande.
