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Balancing Technology & StoryTelling In An Immersive Experience Design!

Post author By Johanna
Post date November 24, 2023
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Hauntu (Superdough's Tech Team) Johnny & Jin

Balancing Technology & Story Telling In An Immersive Experience Design!

Entering immersive experiences or any experience for that matter, customers always have an expectation of what awaits them inside. Whether it’s being blown away by the use of technology or getting thoroughly immersed into the storytelling, there is always a fine line in an experience between the two. How does a team determine that the technology of an experience balances itself well with the storytelling and world building? That’s what the Superdough Tech Team, consisting of Johnny and Jin, set themselves out to do.

Implementing Technology Into Immersive Experiences

The first question the tech team must ask themselves when implementing technology during the design process is where do we start?

“In implementing the technology for any new experience, we decided to look back at our older technology that was used for prior experiences.” said Jin.

They knew they had to look back and go through the “history” of their past work, to determine what sort of technology could be used for their future project. That doesn’t necessarily mean they will completely use every single piece of technology moving forward.

“We won’t always reuse the same technology from before. If it hasn’t worked smoothly previously, then we know it has to either not be used this time or be upgraded for later projects.” said Jin.

Not only is implementing older technology a way for the Tech Team to evolve their use of prior technology, it is also a way for them to evolve as a team.

“It’s not always easy, as there are times where the technology just refuses to work or cooperate. But, we don’t give up easily. Technology that refuses to work is just another challenge for us to overcome.” said Johnny.

But the tech team must always remember their goal, which is to give a fun experience to customers! The team always dreamed of designing an experience that goes all out with fancy and mind-blowing special effects and technology, so that customers can leave being excited or immersed. But things don’t always work that way as technology can be hard to implement or customers may end up not appreciating the fancy technology, but it’s a goal to always work towards this dream!

Things Can’t Go Wrong, Right?

Of course, with more and more technology being implemented, the chances of things going wrong also becomes higher. Not everything that is installed will go the way it should, as glitches, errors and wrong setups always cause more work for the tech team.

“Whenever we get the new technology, we test it to the best of our abilities before implementation, as we do numerous rounds of testing and retesting in the hopes that it will work well once installed,“ said Jin.

Even with many, many rounds of testing, sometimes the initial setup or trial runs highlight issues that weren’t obvious before. An example issue that the tech team faced was a speaker system that worked wonderfully during testing but faced issues when installed at the outlet.

How do the tech team tackle these unforeseen problems? They work together and try to solve it to the best of their skills and abilities.

“We operate on a timeline, so items must be fixed as soon as we can. If it cannot be fixed in time, the team must then determine if the technology should be removed or kept.“ said Johnny.

But to the tech team, the first choice would always be to keep the item and try their best to repair it. No satisfaction comes close to that of finally fixing the issue that has been plaguing the particular technological item!

Testing & Feedback!

Once the tech has been implemented and tested well, the next step is to do numerous trial runs to determine how well received it is by the audience. Unfortunately, not everything that is implemented gets a warm reception.

“In theory, everything that is implemented would work well and be loved by everyone, but we know that’s not the case. Not everything we plan to implement into Hauntu would work as we dream.” said Johnny.

That is why the Tech team must be fluid, learning to adapt to the situation and tweak as necessary. Rounds and rounds of testing during closed off trial sessions are done to determine whether a particular piece of technology can stay or should be removed. For example, there were a few trial runs of Hauntu The Curve with friends and family members, to determine what parts of the experience should be maintained and which should be removed.

How does the tech team feel about the use of technology for Hauntu The Curve?

“It’s a mixed bag for me. There are elements that are exactly how we planned it to be during the development phase, such as the use of projection mapping and the briefing room but there are some parts of the Hauntu experience that didn’t really end up being what we want, such as the use of the brain system.” said Jin.

That said, it’s always about improving from the last project and doing better and the tech team’s experience with implementing better and more advanced technology with each new project allows their skills and ideas to evolve further.

As Johnny said to close off during the sharing., “If you aim for the Moon and miss, you’ll still land among the stars!”.

Author: Aznir

Contributor : Johnny Ong, Co-Founder, Head of Operations and Experience Design

Contributor : Jin Lee, Electrician Technician

Date: 24th November 2023

Blogs

Exploring Fear and Heritage: Crafting Hauntu’s Seri Panggung Academy

Post author By Cheah Ka Wai
Post date September 26, 2023

Exploring Fear and Heritage: Crafting Hauntu’s Seri Panggung Academy

In the realm of immersive, interactive, theatrical horror experiences, a journey of creation and innovation is seldom unveiled. As a senior producer for Hauntu, I’ve had the privilege of co-creating, writing, and directing six enigmatic Hauntu immersive & interactive productions. In this article, I invite you to delve into the creative odyssey behind my latest endeavor, the creation of Hauntu Curve’s Seri Panggung Academy, a fusion of fear and tradition.

Picture a grand dance academy atop the mystical Mount Cintawangsa in Kelantan, adorned with echoes of Malay traditional performing arts – Mak Yong, Kuda Kepang, and Wayang Kulit. Only the finest dancers from Nusantara earn the privilege of joining this elite institution, where the mystical artistry of dance masters holds dominion. Here, dance masters wield power through their movements, and the academy’s leader, the Seri Panggung, holds the mightiest sway. This Academy isn’t just about dance; it’s a supernatural sanctum where gurus’ dance prowess transmutes into power.

My odyssey in crafting this tale emanated with enthusiasm. Hauntu’s maiden branch, a 1950s colonial hotel, was our first step; now, with Seri Panggung Academy, I aimed for a radical departure. Drawing from my love for ancient Malay stories, like Hikayat Hang Tuah, Hikayat Gul Bakawali, and others, I envisioned a setting that bridges the gap between horror and heritage.

Growing up in a theater-centric family infused me with a deep connection to traditional performances like Mek Mulung and Mak Yong. I felt a responsibility to preserve these traditions while engaging modern audiences. Hauntu’s platform, embraced by 1 million visitors in three years, proved an ideal platform to showcase Malaysia’s rich heritage. Thus, Hauntu Curve’s “Seri Panggung Academy ” emerged, introducing Mak Yong, Kuda Kepang, and Wayang Kulit to the immersive horror tapestry, unlocking uncharted potential, it aimed to redefine immersive horror by unveiling the splendor of Malaysia’s past.

Yet, innovation dances hand in hand with caution, especially when heritage is the muse. To respect and honor these traditions, I delved into their roots and partnered with experts from PUSAKA and practitioners of these disciplinaries. Our association with PUSAKA came to fruition, validating our endeavor to honor traditions. Inclusion of Mak Yong, Kuda Kepang, and Wayang Kulit demanded delicacy. These heritage forms, sadly demonized by extremist groups, required authenticity, not sensationalism. PUSAKA’s oversight aligned us, ensuring that the spirit of heritage endured, intertwined with the pulsating heartbeat of fear that defines Hauntu.

Horror is our essence, capturing the thrill-seeking Malaysian spirit that drew 1 million to us before. Horror’s allure is timeless; Malaysians relish the thrill. Yet, Seri Panggung Academy is more than horror; It extends beyond mere fear, beckoning audiences to step beyond the realm of spectators. Here, they traverse dimensions, escaping reality to embrace new personas. This is storytelling that unearths raw human emotions, ignites conversations, and leaves indelible marks on receptive hearts.

In unveiling Hauntu Curve’s “Seri Panggung Academy,” we aim to reshape perceptions. Our art transcends the realms, whisking audiences away from the mundane into a world where they become part of a larger tapestry. Emotions unravel, and fear intertwines with heritage, crafting an experience that challenges preconceptions and weaves an unforgettable narrative. The Seri Panggung Academy is more than a branch; it’s a revelation of the power of transformation. An embodiment of a fusion of heritage and horror, a testament to reimagining tradition. From the initial spark of an idea to the crescendo of an immersive experience, Hauntu Curve’s “Seri Panggung Academy” resonates as a paragon of innovation. An ode to tradition, an embrace of fear, and an invitation to transcend reality.

Contribute Author: Roshafiq Roslee, Senior Producer of Hauntu

Date: 26th Sept 2023

Role: Script writing, screenwriting, actors training

Blogs

What is immersive experience

Post author By Cheah Ka Wai
Post date September 12, 2023

Why Every Experience Calls Itself ‘Immersive Experience’? Understand in a 5-Min Read

Immersive experiences! They’re taking the world by storm. There are many offerings out there that claim themselves as being an “immersive experience”. But how can an experience be “immersive”? In this article, we’ll give you some important information to help you understand what immersive experiences are.

What Makes An Experience “Immersive”?

An Immersive Experience can be described as an experience that brings you into a captivating world. An immersive experience helps to create an environment that is either virtual or real and surrounds you so that you feel you are inside that reality, feel REAL and you are part of it. There are two popular types of immersive experiences in the market that you can try.

1.Immersive Experience Utilizing Projection Mapping Technology

It’s a form of technology that overlaps videos or graphics onto any surface such as a building or a wall. There are a few experiences in the market today.

Credit: https://www.cloudjoi.com/shows/van-gogh-alive

a) Van Gogh Alive Exhibition

This experience brings Van Gogh’s art to life by using projection mapping to overlap his artwork onto the wall and in the surrounding room. It creates a sensory feeling that you are looking and walking through the world of Van Gogh.cs onto any surface such as a building or a wall.

Credit: https://www.teamlab.art/e/borderless_odaiba/

b) TeamLab, Japan

TeamLab is available in Japan and makes use of projection mapping to create a sensory overload in their digital museum. By projecting visuals of flowers and moving fish onto walls and rooms, they create a 3D environment where you can sit in and fully immerse yourself.

Photo Credit: https://eatdrinkhilton.com/banquet-of-hoshena/#gallery

c) Banquet Of Hoshena

2. Storytelling or Performance-Based Immersive Experience

Storytelling or Performance-Based Immersive Experiences are immersive experiences that incorporate actors and performers to tell a story. They share similarities with theatrical performances, where the audience can witness a story unfold. Sometimes the audience becomes a part of the story, while other times they remain a witness of the story. Some escape games these days have even started integrating actors and storytelling into their rooms. Storytelling and performance based immersive experiences make use of space and acting to bring people into this world. With space, there is use of realistic props and set design to truly give off the vibe that it is an actual location and not just a set. Even the actor’s performance is different to conventional acting as there is improvisation where the actors respond to your questions during the experience.

Photo Credit: https://mckittrickhotel.com/sleep-no-more/#/

a) Sleep No More

This theatrical immersive experience is based on the story of Macbeth. In Sleep No More, you can take on the role of a third-person observer, exploring a hotel where actors perform at various levels of the building. The entire building is designed from the first floor to the last floor with hotel decorations, making it just like the real thing. While not directly involved in the story, you, as the audience, can become part of the immersive set design. You must wear a mask and remain silent throughout the 3 hours experience. This creates a mysterious atmosphere and makes the experience more engaging for you.

Photo Credit: https://www.klook.com/en-MY/activity/3583-london-dungeon-tickets-london/

b) London Dungeon

This is an immersive experience available in London that you can try and serves as a haunted attraction. It recreates all of the various gory and dark history of London in a more humorous style. Expect to see sets designed to mimic catacombs and dark halls as it combines a few elements such as special effects, rides and of course, live actors. It is also made up of different experiences one can choose and each has an actor or several that you can interact with.

c) Hauntu Malaysia

Hauntu offers an immersive experience that lasts one hour, combining live theater performance and a haunted house. However, unlike typical haunted houses that rely solely on jump scares and ghost chasing, Hauntu instead focuses on storytelling, actor-guided interactions and decision – making to deliver a horror story with you in it. There are two outlets at The Linc KL, based on a haunted hotel and The Curve, Damansara based on a mystical dance academy.

In conclusion, to be considered immersive, an experience must successfully transport the audience into the carefully created world, whether it’s delivered through technology or storytelling. If you’re fascinated by the idea of exploring immersive experiences in Malaysia, make sure to stay updated on upcoming pop-up events in the country. While many immersive experiences are temporary or pop-up in nature, Hauntu stands out as a rare gem, offering year-round availability as the first storytelling and performance-based immersive experience in Malaysia.

Don’t miss the opportunity to embark on a journey into the world of immersive experiences with Hauntu.

Blogs

Hauntu the Linc vs Hauntu the Curve Which is Scarier? 5 mins read

Post author By Cheah Ka Wai
Post date August 15, 2023

Hauntu The LINC vs Hauntu The Curve: Which is scarier!?

By now, some of you may already be aware that Hauntu has a brand new outlet at The Curve! Rather than giving you a new episode, we decided it’s better to give you a brand new theme and storyline! Of course, some of you will ask common questions! Will there be ghosts chasing you? Is it scarier than The Linc? The list goes on…

In this 5 minute read, we’ll help you to understand the differences between the two, so you can determine which is scarier! Let’s start!

1) Paranormal Horror vs Dark Fantasy Horror

Hauntu The Linc

As the story takes place inside a haunted hotel, you will be immersed into a spine-tingling paranormal and ghostly horror experience. Inside, you will encounter ghosts, demons and possessions as you dive deeper into this mysterious location. Expect to encounter the classic horror tropes such as strange noises, objects mysteriously moving about, ghostly apparitions and perhaps even a chilling possession or two.

Hauntu The Curve

The story unfolds inside the dance academy, providing a blend of dark fantasy and mystical horror as you immerse yourself in this world of traditional performance and ancient culture. A unique set of horror tropes that lean more towards the mystical side such as dark magic and mysterious creatures awaits inside, giving a spine-chilling adventure like no other.

2) A Haunted Hotel vs A Traditional Dance Academy Set

Hauntu The Linc

You will embark in an experience set in an eerie haunted hotel. The story takes place in a unique Western and post – colonial hotel called the Colle Eastern Hotel, a relic of the late 1930s and 1940s Malaysia.. You will step into a British colonial-style hotel, complete with a “lobby” area, a dining lounge and suite rooms.

Hauntu The Curve

You will embark in a story that takes place in a dance academy, called the Seri Panggung Academy which teaches Malay traditional art such as Kuda Kepang & Wayang Kulit. The setting will take you back to the ancient Sultanate and Nusantara era as you wander in stylized kampung houses and a dance studio complete with items such as gamelans and rottan.

3) Post Colonial Malaysia vs Ancient Time Malaya

Colonial hotel front vs Seri Panggung dance studio

Hauntu The Linc

Each episode is set in a different modern time! Episode 1 is in the 1980s as the hotel hosts a Saloma concert where you’ll see iconic items and characters from that era. In Episode 2, you’ll visit the hotel on Merdeka day in 1957, complete with photos of Tunku Abdul Rahman for added patriotism! Episode 3 is in the 1990s with cassette players and classic vintage cameras used to hunt spirits! As you step inside, prepare to meet characters such as bell boys, hotel staff and maybe even an infamous spirit as you wander the halls of the hotel.

Hauntu The Curve

Here, it is more towards ancient times which is set in the academy in the Nusantara era. Your experience will bring you to a world rich with cultural tradition. Expect to see not only the traditional Malay art of Kuda Kepang or Wayang Kulit but even traditional uniforms such as “la” which are worn by the performers of this sacred art. Here, you will interact with characters of the ancient era such as promising students and strict teachers, who may be hiding sinister goals to receive the prestigious title.

In conclusion, which is scarier? Hauntu The Curve or Hauntu The LINC? The answer is up to you! If the atmosphere of an old and run-down hotel terrifies you, with its maze like corridors and flickering warm lights barely illuminating the dark hallways, then Hauntu The Linc is perfect for you.

However, if the thought of an eerie kampung house, located in the middle of nowhere, surrounded by a jungle that is home to mystical creatures and mysterious weather conditions scares you, then Hauntu The Curve is perfect for you! Or better yet, how about trying out both and letting us know which is scarier! Book right here.

Blogs Uncategorized

Wait, is the Hauntu experience considered halal activities or haram?!

Post author By Cheah Ka Wai
Post date March 6, 2023

Hauntu Blog, Is Hauntu Experience Consider Halal activites?

Is the Immersive experience like Hauntu considered halal activities or haram? Let us explain.

When most Muslims go looking for what to eat, most will focus not only on whether the food is tasty or the ratings but also for halal restaurants to know if the food is “halal” or safe and clean to eat for Muslims. However, did you also know there is such a thing as a “halal activity” or “game halal”? Halal activities are outings that don’t contain alcohol drinking, partying or other activities that can be considered unclean or non educational. The question then, what about theme parks, game that is halal or more specifically, what about immersive experience like Hauntu? Can a experience with ghosts, rituals and demons be considered “halal”? Don’t worry, our article will explain why so you don’t have to worry!

Lady dress up as hotel receptionist smirking

Hauntu Immersive experience is only a fictional activity

Understandably, when you go through Hauntu, you may bluff at even thinking this haunted house attraction can be called “halal”. With ghosts, a massacre, a ritual and a cult, how is this even close to being “halal”? Do not worry, however, as you should know that all our rituals, cults and spirits are only fictional. All the elements of Hauntu have been taken from the works of fiction and stories and do not bear any resemblance to living creatures, deities or items. If you are worried that the rituals conducted in Hauntu may be linked to “syirik”, you can trust us as this is not true and that the ritual itself is made without any connection to any real life rituals. Just like halal restaurants, there’s nothing here that you should worry about!

The experience does not contain any drinking or partying

If the fictional story and zero connection to real life occurrences isn’t enough, how about the fact that Hauntu as an immersive experience doesn’t contain any elements of drinking or partying? Unlike activities that take place in illicit nightclubs that involve numerous activities that can be considered unethical such as alcohol drinking, over partying and maybe even illegal drug use, you can rest easy as Hauntu allows you to have fun without any of these elements. In fact, we’ve stated very clearly in our clause that those who are under the influence of alcohol, for example, are not allowed to enter the experience. Thus, Hauntu is a very solid option that allows people to have fun without potentially injuring themselves. Well, except when you’re running from one ghostly character name “Sarimah”, that is…

Two performing art actors dress up in hotel lobby boy

Hauntu is halal activities because we helps to support the performing arts industry

Here’s something you may not realize.. While most people think of haunted house attractions such as this, they think of jumpscares such as ghosts popping out and scaring you. However, with Hauntu, this isn’t the case as Hauntu at The LINC KL is more than just a haunted house. It’s an immersive experience that also contains elements of the theatrical and performance arts industry. With 2 years of lockdowns, many of the arts theaters were closed down and because of this, actors and actresses struggled to get shows and income coming. With Hauntu, we assisted them in helping to find their income and to help rebound post pandemic. Thus, when you visit us, you’re not only having fun being scared, you’re also helping many people in the arts industry who were affected to rebound and make their live performances again.

So, that’s all you need to know on why Hauntu can be considered a halal activity! Next time, while you’re looking for halal restaurants, you can also think of halal activities. You will not have to worry about whether doing Hauntu during the Ramadan period or any other time is considered a good idea or not as the above pointers should already give you the answers! So, what are you waiting for? Grab a few of your friends and make your booking with us now for an exciting immersive experience!

Blogs

Think Your House Is Haunted? Here’s How To Find Out If It Is

Post author By Cheah Ka Wai
Post date February 23, 2023

Is your house haunted? Let’s look at the possibilities of finding out if your house is haunted!

The lights are flickering in the kitchen. Doors are opening and closing on their own. There is an unusual scent in the bathrooms and many, many giggling noises echoing around the house. You’re a little sceptical, but overall spooked out! Your local ghostbusters are fully booked and you’re very curious, just wishing to get an answer now.

But how? Will it be the typical calling out a “Hello, who’s in here” situation, or a mini investigation here in the supposedly haunted house? Let’s look at the possibilities of finding out if your house is haunted!

Be Prepared

Always be on the lookout! When looking at properties, you’d need to be prepared physically and mentally that the place will come along with ‘extra guests’, as it was mentioned that the house or property may be haunted. Keep your mind open and positive in these situations, as your ‘guests’ can sense your nervousness!

Once the coast is clear, maintenance is needed for the place to make sure there aren’t any ‘new guests’ moving in when you do.

Do Your Research

Doing a little digging on the house’s history could potentially give you an answer to the hauntings that are happening in your home. In the USA, Americans would usually head to the county or public library to look up the property’s history. In Malaysia, asking the neighbours (not a wrong time to be a little nosy too) or the real estate agent to search up on the house’s history is the most common way.

Never Investigate Alone

When investigating a property or your own house, always have a companion or two with you. They can assist if anything goes wrong, and provide another set of eyes and ears to confirm the suspected hauntings. You never know that you may be the one investigated by the spirits!

Always Ask For Permission

Basic courtesy and manners is necessary, as the spirits you are investigating were once people too. In most Asian cultures, the most common way to signal these spirits is by knocking or ringing the doorbell, letting them know you will be coming in. Furthermore, you may want to follow up with phrases like “I am here to look at the house with no harm intended”, letting the spirits know you mean no harm to them. Maybe, they will leave you alone!

Be Safe & Cautious

Say a prayer whenever you feel chills running down your spine, or if you simply have a strong feeling ‘someone’ is watching you. A little protection and guidance never hurts. Being respectful is also necessary as they were once living people. Do not move or remove items which are in the location, you never know if you may anger them; and be sure to bring a housemate!

Use The AI Manga Filter

News that an AI Manga filter can detect spirits has been abuzz on Tiktok, taking over the app and has been the hottest trend. Just as the filter turns pictures and your home into animated versions, the new spirit detector incorporates animated ghosts in one’s house. None of the animated spirits discovered with this filter appear to be extremely eerie, scary, or horrific. So if you are daring enough, why not try it out!

Conclusion

Whether you are hunting ghosts for fun, or want to be a part of Ghostbusters, you’d surely still need a house or a property to do so! But how to know which one will give you the best history and ghostly experience? With IQI Global’s property agents of course!

Blogs

Chinese people love money? What do they have to do with Cai Shen – The God of wealth?

Post author By Cheah Ka Wai
Post date January 20, 2023

Chinese people love money? What do they have to do with Cai Shen Ye – The God of Wealth?

As Chinese New Year approaches near the end of January, the Chinese community will be super busy with preparations for the month and most importantly, making sure that their prayers are heard. During Chinese New Year, one of the gods that would be prayed to very often is known as Cai Shen, or the Chinese god of wealth. The Chinese would hope that praying to the god of wealth would provide ample good fortune. Here’s what you need to know about the God of Wealth!

Who is Cai Shen Ye? The God of Wealth

The name Cai Shen came along as it is a combination of two different characters which are Cái (財) which stands for money or wealth and also the word Shén (神) which stands for the word god or deity. Thus, put the two together and you get “Cai Shen” or the god of wealth. He has control over wealth and money and is particularly honored in Taoism and also Chinese folklore. In art, Cai Shen is usually accompanied with a wide array of attendants who will carry treasures that symbolize wealth such as gold ingots, fruits, etc. He is also very often depicted as having and riding a black tiger and would carry a tool that has the ability to turn ordinary stone and iron into gold.

A Little History on Cai Shen

Even though Cai Shen can be considered a god, in mythology, he was believed to have been incarnated into a few historical figures throughout the centuries. He was mostly seen taking the form of key political figures and also military figures, as with his extended knowledge and tremendous wealth, he was able to assist or provide advanced political moves. While there have been many figures that are believed to be in the incarnation of Cai Shen, some of the most popular figures are such as the stories of Bi Gan and Zhao Gong Ming.

In legends, Bi Gan was a wise sage who advised the king on governing a country. He was married and had a wife and son. He was, unfortunately, put to death by his own nephew, Di Xin, King Zhou Of Shang as he didn’t want to hear Bi Gan’s good advice. Bi Gan’s wife and son were able to escape and survived. However, it didn’t take long after Bi Gan’s death for the Shang dynasty to collapse.The Emperor of Heaven pitied Bi Gan for his loyalty, and he was named the “God Of Wealth ” because he was not selfish and unintentional. Bi Gan was also a civil servant, thus why he was also given the title of God Of Wealth.

The Fengshen Yanyi novel tells the legend of Zhao Gong Ming who used magic to support the failing Shang dynasty. A person named Jiang Ziya opposed this as he supported the opposing Zhou dynasty. He made a straw effigy of Zhao where he spent 20 days to tell incantations to it and shot an arrow through its heart. Zhao Gong Ming would later pass away. When Jiang visited the temple of Yuan Shi, he was scolded for the killing and was made to carry the corpse into the temple and apologize for his mistake. Zhao was later canonized as an incarnation of Cai Shen.

A Prayer Heard

During Chinese New Year, a ritual is done as it is the most auspicious time to receive Cai Shen and invite the god of wealth into their home so as to bring in wealth and prosperity. There are numerous preparations that one must do to invite the god of prosperity into their home. Days before, the house must be cleaned, with windows and doors repaired and the main door should be well lit. One must also dress for the occasion and to prepare the ritual itself to invite the god of wealth in. Some people also prepare a feast to share with the god of wealth on New Year’s Eve. Cai Shen is also used in feng shui applications, as you can use an image of the god of wealth to attract money, good fortune and prosperity.

So, that’s a brief history and knowledge of what Cai Shen Ye, the god of wealth is to the Chinese. With Chinese New Year approaching around the corner, many followers would soon start making offerings to bring in more wealth and fortune 2023. Unsurprisingly, that may also include Hauntu, who are surely making sure that 2023 is a year of a better immersive interactive experience for all! We are open as usual on CNY, visit us to make us huat too!!

Blogs Uncategorized

Why purchasing a haunted property is not a bad idea?

Post author By Cheah Ka Wai
Post date September 14, 2022

Why purchasing a haunted property is not a bad idea?

We’ve been watching many horror stories created in the cinemas and even in our own homes. Usually, their storylines have a distinct similarity:

A beautiful home: a little run down but an impeccable one for a family. Perfect! The family moves in, all happy and excited. And then an impending doom looms over…

The property is actually haunted

In reality, property buyers will manoeuvre away from homes with “an extra tenant” or one rumoured to be, regardless of the news or stories being old or new.

So, it’s not uncommon for them to reject these properties as many will feel uncomfortable living there, or even have a hard time selling it in the future!

It is also known that in many cultures, these properties with unnatural death will lose much of their appeal to investors or buyers. So, prices will naturally be lower.

Although their prices have been significantly reduced, there is still a niche market for it where some investors have found it lucrative to buy up these properties. Why so, though?

Well…

Usually it is to generate a profit. In other words, to buy at a low price, and sell it high.

But is it worth the investment into these properties? How do I know the property I’m viewing is haunted? Top 5 Scariest Haunted Properties? How Did Haunted Properties Become A Popular Property Investment? What Strategies are used in buying A Haunted House?

In this article, we will look into the answers and important points that are necessary when an investor is looking into purchasing a haunted property.

What Is A Haunted Property?

A haunted property is a place, building or house that is often inhabited by supernatural beings or spirits. Generally, it is associated with unfortunate events happening, from normal issues like natural death or some extreme ones, like murder cases, homicides, suicide, etc.

So you’re getting curious. What kind of haunted properties are we talking about?

Let’s dive into a few popular places.

1) Mona Fendi

Mona Fendi, also known as Mona Fandey is a Malaysian singer turned witch, a.k.a. bomoh. She had murdered a politician, Mazlan Idris, after convincing him she could make him invincible in her own home after a land deal had gone south.

When reprimanded and sentenced to hang in 2001, she claimed she would never die, a haunting response for many.

In today’s time, her house has been abandoned, and no one dares to purchase the property after numerous stories reported by visitors. Even the most daring ghostbusters and supernatural investigators have stated that the abandoned house contains unbelievably dark energy.

Hence, no ordinary people should visit the property. Let’s leave it to the ghost hunters, shall we?

We believe the title of being one of the most haunted properties in Malaysia will remain on Mona Fendi’s property, so it is expected that little to no investors would dare purchase the place.

2) First World Hotel

A hotel located in Genting Highlands, the First World Hotel is one of the biggest in the world, with over 6000 rooms available for guests. However, there are certain floors which patrons are not allowed on, like the 7th and 21st floor, as it is rumoured the lift does not stop on these floors.

The smell of burning incense is evident as well throughout the whole hotel, which is no surprise as the hotel has one of the highest number of suicide rates. With casino-goers as their main customer base, many had lost out at the Genting casino, in which they end up committing suicide.

Guests have reported seeing spirits jumping out the windows and disappearing mid-air, hearing cries in the corridor as well as those who ended up dying in landslides and car accidents also haunt these structures.

Certain rooms were also made unavailable as guests have reported falling sick, and guests walking downstairs would see spirits walking around the rooms, although it is pitch-black and knew the floor is blocked off.

With all these reports and news being made, would you still dare to stay in these hotel rooms?

3) Shih Chung Branch School

Before it became a school, it was a home and hotel, owned by a few owners before being leased out to the Government English School. It was then named Shih Chung Branch School.

However, it was not long before the Japanese occupancy took over during WWII, which led the school to be relocated and the property be turned into an administration building. During their reign, some horrifyingly dark events had taken place within the old school building.

Many have stated that prisoners of war were interrogated, tormented, and executed, with their spirits of those murdered and a couple of Japanese soldiers still lingering today. A writer from mypenangstories also stated that her father-in-law was a headmaster of the school. He explained that the school had returned to the building in the 1950s, before relocating again in the 90’s.

Alleged stories of the basement being used to house prisoners were also made, but the authenticity remains unknown.

There have been protests of Penangites to transform the property into a condominium or hotel without affecting the school building by the Asia Green Group, which led the Penang Municipal Council to deny the project.

The building is left abandoned until today and can still be seen when visiting Penang.

4) Villa Nabila

Located in Johor Bahru, Villa Nabila has a history that no one could imagine. Once owned and lived by the wealthy, it went through a series of unfortunate events which had led to its current state of abandonment. Today, it is but a sore sight, with a dilapidated house surrounded by overgrown vegetation.

There are several versions of the story, but they all lead back to the murders of the people living there. Some believe that the family was murdered by jealous relatives, with hitmen involved. Another tale was a maid wanting all the inheritance to herself after Nabila’s parents had passed away, leaving their fortune to their only daughter. With greed on her mind, she killed Nabila and buried her in the walls of the villa before fleeing.

Whichever version of the story you believe, it all pinpoints back to the family having a daughter named Nabila, which the villa gets its famous name from.

5) Kellie’s Castle

Located in Batu Gajah, Perak, the castle was built by William-Kellie Smith for his family as an extension of their current home. The place was built to show his love to his family.

However when a series of unfateful events happened, from his failed business to his passing away in Lisbon at age 56 due to pneumonia, it led to the castle being incomplete.

Distraught with the situation, his family had packed up and moved, selling the property off, but the new owners had also left it in that state.

During the war, Japanese soldiers used the castle as a torture chamber for their prisoners, in which they were then murdered.

As of today, the castle is an attraction site for many, especially ghost hunters seeking for thrilling spiritual events, as it is believed that William’s spirit remains at the castle, roaming its corridors when the sun sets. There were also reports of spirits belonging to the Tamil workers who had died from the Spanish flu lingering around.

How Do I Know The Property Is Haunted?

There are two ways to find out if the property you’re looking into is haunted

1) Research In News Outlets / History Of the House

Heading over to news articles has been a great resource for many investors whenever buying a place, as it provides ample information especially if the property you’re looking into is well-known, especially when some unfortunate events happened as the media are eager to capture news on it and make it public for their readers.

2) Ask the Agent / Surrounding Neighbours

It may sound astonishing, but asking your potential neighbours or the property agents themselves is another way of gaining information about the property. So be it an office building, a house or even shoplots, it would be wise to ask in order to make a wise purchase. It would be best to start off with open-ended, general questions like “Do you think this property is desirable?” or “Can you tell me if there’s any history behind this property?”

But why are these seemingly spooky properties still in popular demand?

Whenever someone hears that the property is haunted, their natural reaction is to back out of the property, and just ‘ghost’ the agent.

Just kidding. But they do head the opposite direction, though.

Apart from running away, certain investors would see potential in these properties, as it appears to have a very lucrative market. Not to mention, some of these properties are located in very prominent, densely populated cities with a high market value and little land.

These areas are expensive; however, the people willing to live or work in them would rather be haunted than to be on the streets!

Property owner Ng Goon-lau, dubbed Hong Kong’s ‘King of Haunted Flats’, mentions that the benefits of these places are that the prices are between 30% – 50% below market value.

In Malaysia, haunted properties were valued to be 40% lower than the market rate, as stated by Datuk Paul Khong, managing director of Savills Malaysia. He clarified that these properties were not in high demand and had a high chance of having demolition costs. Purification rituals would also need to be done to cleanse the property.

Hence, the prices would need to be lowered to attract investors.

If you’re still interested, here are some ways for you to purchase a haunted property:

Common Strategies to Purchase a Haunted Property

1) Buying Low, Selling High

The strategy of buying low and selling high has been used by many investors worldwide, as they would like to have a nice profit from the property they sold off. Haunted properties typically have a lower market rate as stated above, providing an opportunity for investors to purchase these places before being resold at a higher value.

It is not certain that this strategy will work, but it’s still worth the investment if the investor is interested in it.

2) Renting Out To Tenants

Another strategy that an investor could utilise is to purchase the property and rent or lease it out to potential tenants. So, if it’s an office building, the investor can lease it out, turning it into offices or even shops if the contract allows it. If it’s a house, they can rent out to tenants, be it workers or students.

However, there would need to be leniency when renting these places out, like having no down payment, close to public transport or even nature.

Furthermore, if the property is located in an exceptionally good location, it can be catered to expats, who usually favour convenience and accessibility over other factors.

Looking for more property tips? check IQI’s Blog to see more relevant tips

Blogs Uncategorized

Dato Kong

Post author By Cheah Ka Wai
Post date September 7, 2022

Datuk Kong – The statue in the Chinese-like Shrines are actually Malay?! Here’s what they are!

Ever walked past the shop lots or inside the shopping mall car parks and noticed the shrines nearby that the Chinese and Taoist pray for good fortune and wealth? You may think of it as a Chinese god or deity that is being worshiped, but did you know that some of these deity statues are actually Malay? Wait, people are actually praying to a Malay statue? Putting religious sensitivity aside, this is the unique culture of Malaysia. These shrines are commonly called “Datuk Kong” and in this article, we’ll dive into their history and how cultures worship them.

A History Of “Datuk Kong”

So when did the act of worshiping and praying to the Datuk Kong shrine start? It was believed that the worshiping of the “Datuk Kong” started around the 15th to 19th century, around the time when an influx of Chinese migrants started coming into Malaysia. The Chinese would bring in the spirit known as “di zhu gong” or god of the land for protection on a foreign land. At the time, the act of worshiping animate objects or “animisme” was profound, and so it was easy for the Chinese & Malay to assimilate and combine one another’s culture. It was also said that when the Chinese tried to explain this concept to the local Malays, they would pronounce it as “tok kong” which was then interpreted as “Datuk Kong”.

The Shrines Aren’t Always Deities or Gods..

One would think that the shrine statues would be gods or deities, but this isn’t always the case. A person who went above and beyond to help their community or village would also be worshiped as a Datuk Kong! Datuk / Dato is known as an honorary term bestowed upon a person who contributed overwhelmingly. Similarly, “Gong” is an honorary term for the Chinese to their gods. If a man’s martial prowess is so amazing and powerful, then it wouldn’t be surprising that some people would worship him as a deity even after his death. It was likely some Na Tuk Kong might have been local people as some of these effigies have tengkoloks, sampins, kopiahs and other traditional Malay wear.

Wait, some shrines don’t accept non-halal offerings?

As some of these shrines consist of Malay figures, many believe that these Malay shrines should and can only be served with halal food as Islam doesn’t allow for drinking alcohol or eating pork. The practice will change according to the area but the general consensus is that one should be “cautious” in thinking of what to offer at Na Tuk Kong’s menu. Offerings such as curry, kopi-O, nasi lemak, cigarettes and such could be used as an offering. On the other hand, non-Malay Na Tuk Kongs are fine with non – halal offerings such as pork and alcohol.

Why worship the shrines?

You’ll see people praying when they want to wish for good luck and fortune to be bestowed onto them. Property developers who are starting a construction of a new building may also build a shrine nearby or pray at one prior to the actual construction as they believed that their prayers would ensure that the construction goes smoothly without any bumps. If they don’t believe in their prayers or don’t perform them, the construction will likely go wrong or face difficulties, but of course this could very well just be coincidence.. Most shopping malls and the mall parking lots would also have shrines so that business owners can pray that their shops do well in sales and have smooth daily operations.

So, all in all, that is a short history of what the Datuk Kong shrine is. This blend of different religions can only be done in a country that is the melting pot of cultures as Malaysia. Speaking of worshiping, over at Hauntu, the mysterious Bintang 7 cult is also doing it’s own worshiping to appease their own spirit. But what is this spirit and what is Bintang 7? Book a slot with us now and find out by yourselves today.

Blogs

5 Paranormal Investigator movies you must watch before experiencing Hauntu EP 3!

Post author By Cheah Ka Wai
Post date June 20, 2022

5 Paranormal investigators movies suggestion by Hauntu Image Cover

5 Paranormal Investigator movies you must watch before experiencing Hauntu EP 3!

We have a lot of paranormal investigator movies out there. But what if you could experience it exactly as if you are in a horror movie? Hauntu is popular for its immersion and the experience of going through different episodes. Episode 3 portrays a group of paranormal investigators finding out what lies in the eerie Colle Eastern Hotel. Prepare for the horrors of this sinister hotel by watching these paranormal investigator movies and get a taste of what’s to come.

Balsam: A Paranormal Investigation (2021)

Kane Warren Hodder, who is an American actor best known for his horror movies such as Friday the 13th, joins a group of paranormal investigators in their journey to explore the The Grand Old Lady Hotel in Balsam, North Carolina. This is a documentary type movie which takes a look at the hotel’s dark history where people have often related tales of those souls who may have passed away in their rooms.

The Conjuring Universe Movies

These franchise horror movies tell of the numerous cases conducted by the famous American paranormal investigators and demonologists Ed and Lorraine Warren. Each of these movies are must-see movies as critics say the fine details of the cinematography to the character portrayals and script writing has given this franchise its own place into some of the best horror movies of all time.

Grave Encounters 2011

This is one of the more popular paranormal investigators movies as the scenes were quite surreal to the point that it makes everyone question if it was actual real footage! The story is about a group of paranormal investigators from a reality television crew who are exploring an old abandoned psychiatric hospital in hopes of getting real sightings and evidence of the numerous entities that haunt the building. It isn’t long before things go wrong and the team are in for the scariest night of their lives!

Insidious Quadrilogy Movies

It tells the story of Elise, a psychic with her paranormal investigators, Specs and Tuckers. They are called to help people who have issues with the paranormal entities and hauntings. The best part is that each movie intertwines with each other, leading to bigger stories and tales. The movies are also popular with their unexpected twists.

Highland Tower 2013

Closer to home, Shima, who is the host for a TV program, produces a paranormal show with her team to explore the infamous tragedy of the Highland Tower which collapsed back in 1993. The movie became viral as people who saw the film came to Highland Towers themselves to experience the supposed hauntings in the area.

As all the movies above deal with paranormal investigations, you’ll find yourself doing the same when you experience Hauntu Episode 3! Read the case files, perform paranormal experiments and hunt for spirits within the dark hallways of the Colle Eastern Hotel. Are you ready to check in?

Set the date with your friends and book the slots now from the link here.