< PreviousVisits & Dialogues VD Roundtable Session—G6 and G5 Contractors on Site Management Challenges 28 NOVEMBER 2023 MBAM and Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) recently collaborated and conducted a roundtable session with MBAM members – who are G6 and G5 contractors – to discuss site management challenges. The objective was to know more, get input from G6 and G5 contractors on their difficulties and challenges in completing projects, and share their experiences in implementing digitalisation at project sites. The session started with an introduction of a roundtable session by MBAM Manager Muhammad Fadzley. After that, Ng Zhi Hao, ASEAN Team Lead, Construction Sales, Autodesk Construction Cloud, introduced Autodesk and ACC to all attendees. Next, a demo session was conducted by Monica Roquel, Technical Solutions Consultant of ACC, followed by a discussion on how ACC can help internal and external processes related to ongoing construction projects. The main challenges to implementing digital transformation are with the older generations in the Roundtable session with MBAM members company that were not tech-savvy enough to use ACC or any other solutions related to digitalisation. Participants also requested to have a workshop to let their workers gain knowledge and familiarise themselves with the solutions before embarking on their journey of digital transformation. It was a fruitful session, and ACC will propose a training module that will suit the G6 and G5 companies in the hope they will familiarise themselves with the solutions. MBAM, together with ACC, will conduct a masterclass for G6 and G5 contractors next year. For more information on digital transformation or if you want to reserve your seats for the masterclass in 2024, please contact MBAM Manager Muhammad Fadzley at mbam18@mbam.org.my. Disclaimer: MBAM does not promote or endorse any specific products or services to its members or the public. Nevertheless, if you are interested to know more about the solutions mentioned, please contact the MBAM secretariat (Fadzley). 48 MASTER BUILDERS JOURNAL #130Visits & Dialogues VD BINA Townhall Se-Malaysia Roadshow (Central Region) 29 NOVEMBER 2023 private building projects so that it meets the criteria for the implementation of IBS. — IBS implementation guidelines for private projects are based on mechanisms and procedures for monitoring and enforcement that have been updated as a reference for state authorities (PBN), local authorities (PBT), and stakeholders. — Minimum IBS score of 70 for private building projects worth RM 50 million and above and Gross Floor Area (GFA) of at least 50,000 square metres are mandatory requirements for building plan applications at OSC 3.0 or higher. There will be another five sessions in the roadshow across Malaysia, namely: — South Region on 12 December 2023 at Thistle, Johor Bahru — East Region on 8 February 2024 at Kota Bharu, Kelantan — North Region on 5 March 2024 at Pulau Pinang — Sabah on 7 May 2024 at Kota Kinabalu, Sabah — Sarawak on 11 June 2024 at Kuching, Sarawak The session for the central region was attended by M. Shahrul Azri bin Mamat, MBAM Technical and IBS Committee Member, and Muhammad Fadzley bin Salim, MBAM Manager. MBAM encourages members and the construction industry as a whole to embark on the journey to implement QLASSIC in their building projects. MBAM also conducts in-house training related to the QLASSIC Awareness Course annually. For members who are interested and need more information on the course, please contact our secretariat. The BINA Townhall Se-Malaysia Roadshow Programme was intended as a medium for comprehensive dissemination of information on IBS compliance, enforcement, and monitoring based on Act 520 of the Malaysian Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) 1994 and the application of IBS policy for IBS construction workers and IBS components for construction projects in Malaysia. The first session was held on 29 November 2023 at the Dash Box Hotel, Cyberjaya, for the central region. During the session, CIDB presented on the decision of the National Council for Local Government, or Majlis Negara Bagi Kerajaan Tempatan (MNKT), related to IBS for the private sector: - — At least 50 percent of local authorities, or Pihak Berkuasa Tempatan (PBT) across the country, must require IBS policy in the development plan application by the year 2025. — CIDB was nominated as the Agensi Teknikal Luar (ATL) to perform its role as the statutory body on 49Visits & Dialogues VD Courtesy Visit to CIDB Chief Executive, Dato’ Sr Mohd Zaid Zakaria 1 DECEMBER 2023 The above visit took place on 1 December 2023 at the CIDB Board Meeting Room, Level 25, Menara Dato’ Onn, World Trade Centre, Kuala Lumpur. MBAM was represented by MBAM President, Oliver HC Wee; Deputy President, Kenneth Liew; Vice-President, Dato’ Sri Eric Kuan; Secretary-General, Datuk Astaman Abdul Aziz; Executive Director, Loh Mei Ling; and General Manager, Lenny Lim. The following matters were discussed: 1. Recruitment of skilled foreign workers taking too long 2. More aid for the construction industry to promote digitalisation 3. High construction machinery tax 4. More IBS Incentives 5. Discussion on the CIDB Certified Construction Managers and Certified Construction Project Managers 6. Collaboration on Safety and Health 7. Lack of implementation and awareness of digital transformation aligned with CR4.0 8. QLASSIC Mandatory Implementation Plan and IBS Score 9. Initiatives and support to increase productivity and efficiency in construction. The visit offered an opportunity for key industry players to address pressing issues collaboratively. The discussions on topics like recruitment challenges, digitalisation aid, and machinery tax aimed to streamline processes and foster industry growth. Furthermore, the exchange on CIDB certifications and safety initiatives reflects a commitment to enhancing professional standards and ensuring the well-being of construction Group photo of the MBAM delegation together with CIDB Chief Executive, Dato’ Sr Mohd Zaid Zakaria and other CIDB representatives workers. The visit’s focus on digital transformation and Industry 4.0 alignment demonstrates a proactive approach to staying abreast of technological advancements. Overall, the visit facilitated a constructive dialogue, fostering collaboration between MBAM and CIDB Malaysia, with the potential to drive positive changes in the construction industry, from improved efficiency to increased safety standards. Meeting—Horizon Construction Overseas Sdn Bhd and MBAM 6 DECEMBER 2023 The above meeting was held on 6 December 2023 at the MBAM Secretariat Office. MBAM was represented by its President, Oliver HC Wee; Executive Director, Loh Mei Ling; and General Manager, Lenny Lim. Horizon Construction Overseas Sdn Bhd was represented by its overseas representatives, Zhang Julian and Qi Dezhi; Senior Operations Manager, Cecilia; and Commercial Manager, Sherly Yong. Sherly Yong and the delegates briefed MBAM on Horizon Construction Overseas’s services as an equipment operation service provider of scaffolding, construction equipment, and machinery, devoted to offering customers multifunctional, lifecycle-comprehensive services. 50 MASTER BUILDERS JOURNAL #130Visits & Dialogues VD Meeting with the Malaysian Anti- Corruption Commission (MACC) 6 DECEMBER 2023 MACC paid a visit to MBAM on December 6, 2023, and was represented by MACC Assistant Commissioner, Community Education Division, Kho Lee Yee; and MACC Officers, Ani Ashaari, and Rezuan Bin Sharif. MBAM was represented by its President Oliver HC Wee, Executive Director Loh Mei Ling, and General Manager Lenny Lim. The purpose of the visit was to explore education and training collaboration between the two organisations. Enhancing knowledge and an understanding of corruption prevention can significantly improve the integrity and transparency within the sector. Engaging with the MACC is a proactive approach towards tackling corruption, and exploring collaborative educational programmes and training sessions can help to promote awareness of the different forms of corruption and their impacts within the construction industry, as well as to establish guidelines and best practices, ensuring compliance with anti- corruption laws and regulations. Key matter discussed included promoting a culture of ethical behaviour and integrity among professionals in the industry, as well as risk mitigation by identifying and mitigating potential areas of vulnerability to corruption within construction projects. Group photo during the exchange of memento session SOCSO-ILO Validation Workshop—Draft Report on Strengthening Labour Market Policies in Malaysia 6 DECEMBER 2023 MBAM Secretary-General cum Chairman of the Human Resources Development Committee, Datuk Astaman Abdul Aziz, attended this validation workshop for the draft report on strengthening labour market policies in Malaysia. The workshop was organised by the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and the Social Security Organisation (SOCSO). The Ministry of Human Resources (MOHR) and ILO had cooperated to conduct a feasibility study on policy measures to support local workforce employment in order to introduce or enhance national employment policies or programmes. This study, conducted beforehand, serves as a guideline for the report. The draft report was shared during the workshop, and representatives from different industries voiced their comments and insights. The workshop addressed issues related to documented and undocumented labour, gig work, as well as salary and benefits. Additionally, participants suggested incorporating specific frameworks into policies, such as a Gig Work Policy, a framework supporting locals in 3D sectors, and a coherent TVET system, among others. Workshop participants recommended that the government gain a better understanding of gaps in Malaysia's labour policies. They emphasised the importance of establishing long-term policies that remain aligned and adaptable to the current global situation, even through changes in leadership. Ensuring the effectiveness of policies requires the setting of milestones to measure their impact and implementation. 51 MASTER BUILDERS JOURNAL #130Visits & Dialogues VD Roundtable Session—G7 & G6 Contractors on Digital Transformation 8 DECEMBER 2023 A roundtable session with G7 and G6 contractors on Digital Transformation was held on 8 December 2023 at the MBAM secretariat office. The event was organised by the MBAM ICT-Automation-Robotic Committee together with Cognitive Digital Sdn Bhd (CDx) and Yonyou (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd. The objective was to know more and get input from G7-class contractors on their difficulties and challenges in their Digital Transformation journey in alignment with the Construction 4.0 Strategic Plan by CIDB Malaysia. For the past three years, the MBAM ICT-Automation-Robotic committee has organised a lot of webinars and seminars on the digital transformation. In 2022, we found out that the level of adoption among contractors in terms of Construction 4.0 technologies is not more than 20%, based on research by the Construction Research Institute of Malaysia (CREAM) in early 2022. The committee then decided to have a closed roundtable session to gain valuable insights related to hurdles faced in digitalisation. The session started with an introduction and welcome remarks by MBAM Council Member cum Chairman of the ICT-Automation-Robotic Committee, Alex Liew. Next was the sharing session and introduction by CDx Chief Operating Officer, Prabodh K Sheth. Prabodh delved into the focus areas of the CDx and Yonyou partnership, which were on Digital Transformation and related activities, Yonyou ERP solutions, Construction Industry Specialisation, E-invoicing, and ESG Solutions. He also mentioned that digital transformation is a key driver of future sustainability. It was discovered during the session that while there was a recognised need to move towards digital transformation, members are facing challenges because multiple departments and units are involved in the process. They also raised concerns about talent, which was the technical person in charge of the digital transformation. Challenges on the project site are due to each project being unique with various variables, which means standardisation is difficult. Prabodh also shared a few case studies, which he summarises as: — Some companies do not have organisational direction or a framework related to digital transformation, and — There was uncertainty on how to move forward or gain knowledge related to digitalisation. Members also shared other challenges, such as a lack of integration with the common tools used for site-based activities. After that, CDx briefs attendees on digital maturity assessment as well as an example of a digital blueprint formation and digital framework. Later, Amos of Yonyou shared and introduced Yonyou solutions, which are YonBIP for large enterprises or group enterprises and YonSuite for small and medium enterprises, that might provide a solution for the challenges discussed and shared earlier by members. Amos also shared case studies on a few companies that have embarked on their journey in digital transformation with Yonyou. Further to that, Amos also shared the E-invoice platform and ESG Solutions Map with the attendees, followed by a live demo of the Yonyou solutions. Disclaimer: MBAM does not promote or endrose any specific products or services to its members or the public. Nevertheless, if you interested to know more on the solutions mentioned, please contact the MBAM secretariat (Fadzley). Group photo of members together with Cognitive Digital representatives and Yonyou Malaysia representatives after the roundtable session 52 MASTER BUILDERS JOURNAL #130Visits & Dialogues VD Courtesy Visit by Arai Shoji Co. Ltd. 13 DECEMBER 2023 platform for MBAM to showcase its pivotal role within the Malaysian construction industry. The discussions encompassed the association’s services, its support structure, and the significant role it plays in facilitating industry growth. Through this interaction, MBAM effectively demonstrated its capabilities, highlighted its services, and portrayed its role as a conduit for industry development, fostering potential collaborations while offering insights into the dynamic Malaysian market. The visit also served as an enriching exchange, facilitating knowledge sharing and potentially paving the way for future collaborations between Arai Shoji Co. Ltd. and MBAM. Focus Group—Critical Occupation List (COL) Discussion 2023 13 DECEMBER 2023 The above focus group discussion was held on 13 December 2023 at MBAM. Participants included the MBAM HRD Committee Chairman, Datuk Astaman Abdul Aziz, and MBAM HRD Committee members, as well as Education & Special Institution Committee members. The interviewers were Nurul Nadiah and Jamilah Jawahir from PE Research, and Nurul Syazwani and Adliwa Sofa from Talentcorp. This focus group aimed to understand the critical occupations that are significant to industry, the performance of the labour market, and the skills demanded by employers in key economic sectors. The discussion was structured to align human capital development policies, support the development of Malaysia’s National Skills Registry (MyNSR), and cultivate a deeper understanding of critical occupations that are categorised as skilled, where the shortages are, and which one is categorised as strategic. During the interview, Datuk Astaman mentioned that despite the 36 polytechnic schools in Malaysia, there is still a shortage of skilled local workers. It was suggested that the graduates should be tracked after graduation to measure the employability and sustainability of the students in the industry. MBAM was of the opinion that the list of occupations for the construction industry can be obtained from CIDB. Wet trade occupations are currently in immediate need. Adoption of technology in construction is slow due to its high cost, and it was proposed that grants and subsidies from the government should be made available for industry to adopt technology, which will subsequently reduce the labour needs in the construction industry. Overall, the interview session captured many constructive suggestions and comments. A note of thanks was expressed to the Chairman and both HRD and Education & Special Institution committees for their time as well as valuable suggestions and insights. Arai Shoji Co. Ltd., a Japanese auction house mainly focusing on heavy machinery, agricultural machinery, farm tractors, van trucks, and passenger vehicles, paid a courtesy visit to MBAM recently. The purpose of the visit was to seek collaboration opportunities while also gaining critical Malaysian market insights. MBAM was represented by MBAM Council Member and Chairman of Machinery Resources Committee, Ong Ka Thiam; Executive Director, Loh Mei Ling; General Manager, Lee Siew Mei; Manager, Muhammad Fadzley; Assistant Manager, Shirley Foo; and Executive Officer, Nur Firzanah. The engagement provided a 53 MASTER BUILDERS JOURNAL #130Visits & Dialogues VD The Purchasing and Logistics Manager of CBMI Engineering (M) Sdn Bhd, Li Xuan, paid a courtesy visit to MBAM on 21 December 2023. He was met by MBAM Executive Director, Loh Mei Ling; General Manager, Lenny Lim; Assistant Manager, Shirley Foo; and Executive Officer, Norhanisa Paiman. MBAM invited CBMI Engineering to join as a member. Courtesy Visit by CBMI Engineering (M) Sdn Bhd 21 DECEMBER 2023 Engagement Session—HRD Corp National Training Index (NTI) 14 DECEMBER 2023 The HRD Corp NTI Engagement Session was attended by MBAM HRD Committee member Khairatul Akhmam and Secretariat, Shirley Foo, on 14 December 2023 at the Crystal Crown Hotel Petaling Jaya. The NTI measures the level of training activeness and activities among Malaysian industries. This includes employers, economic sectors, and sub-sectors. This engagement session equipped the industry players with an overview of the index’s development as well as showcased the key insights derived from the National Training Index Report 2022. In the NTI Report 2022, it was reported that a total levy of RM1.95 billion was collected (data as of November 2023) from the total of 89,394 registered employers. There are a total of 6,800 construction companies registered with HRD Corp and this number is expected to increase in the coming years as the construction industry is a newly covered sector under the PSMB Expension Act 2021. A survey shows that semi-skilled workers make up 75.7% of the workforce, skilled workers account for 19.3%, and low-skilled workers represent 5.0%. As the construction industry heavily relies on engineering-related skills, employers need to enrol workers in training courses that are more technical to enhance their skills. As the construction sector moves towards technology adoption, new skills and expertise are required. HRD Corp also advised the construction sector to invest in upskilling and reskilling initiatives to increase worker productivity and sector performance. A survey showed that 90% of courses enrolled in the construction sector in 2022 have certificates of attendance, and only 10% have professional certificates. Therefore, an urgency arises to ensure more construction workers gain adequate certification and relevant industry skills. In conclusion, it is crucial for the construction industry to invest in upskilling and reskilling initiatives. This strategic investment aims to reduce dependency on foreign labour while simultaneously enhancing productivity and performance within the sector. 54Visits & Dialogues VD Courtesy Visit to the Director General of DOSH 8 JANUARY 2024 MBAM paid a courtesy visit to the new Director General (DG) of the Department of Occupational Safety & Health (DOSH), Haji Ir Mohd Hatta Bin Zakaria, on 8 January 2024 at DOSH Putrajaya. The visit was led by MBAM President Oliver HC Wee, and included Deputy President, Kenneth Liew; Vice-President, Richard Wong; Secretary-General, Datuk Astaman Abdul Aziz; Deputy Secretary- General I, Tan Zi Ni; Council Member & Chairman of Safety & Health Committee, Michael Yap; Council Member & Deputy Chairman of Safety & Health Committee, Alec Chong; Executive Director, Loh Mei Ling; and Senior Manager Chai Min Fung. Among the issues discussed were: 1. Issues with SSS Yellow Book Online Registration MBAM sought clarification on the recent issue regarding the registration of the Yellow Book via the online MYKKP system. DG confirmed that there is no validity date set for the Certificate of Competency for SSS issued by MBAM. However, certified trainees are urged to apply for Yellow Book via the DOSH online portal immediately after obtaining a Certificate of Competency. DOSH will take note and notify all their officers in the DOSH State Offices of this requirement accordingly. It was also confirmed that there is no requirement for SSS to obtain CEP points in order for them to renew their Yellow Book registration at this point in time. 2. Refresher Course for Ex-MBAM Lifting Supervisor Trainees MBAM reported that the total number of participants trained for Lifting Supervisors Training from 2019 to 2023 was 1,780. Currently, participants who have obtained the Certificate of Competency (COC) of this training are not mandated to renew their certification with MBAM or to attend any refresher courses to update their knowledge and skills in lifting operations. The construction industry is constantly evolving with new technologies, lifting equipment, and regulations. It is important for the Lifting Supervisors to stay up-to-date and abreast of all these changes so that they are competent to supervise lifting operations safely and efficiently. DOSH has no objection to MBAM’s proposal to conduct a refresher course for the lifting supervisors who have been certified for more than two years. MBAM was requested to submit the proposal details with training modules for DOSH’s review and endorsement. 3. Competency Training for Trained Persons in Excavation & Working at Height DOSH is supportive of the said competency trainings and has requested that MBAM submit the training details, such as the training syllabus, modules, and assessment, to DOSH for approval. 4. DOSH Proposal to Organise an Expo & Seminar on Technology in Safety DOSH is tentatively planning to organise an expo related to technology in safety in August 2024. DOSH is hoping that MBAM could collaborate on this exhibition and the seminar. Both DOSH and MBAM will discuss the details of the collaboration soon. 5. Sharing of information on accident cases and lessons learned from the Forensic Division, DOSH MBAM will write to DOSH to invite a speaker from the Forensic Division to present on accident cases and lessons learned in preventing accidents at construction sites. DOSH also agreed to share relevant information on accident cases and statistics to be published in the MBAM Journal. MBAM will share a copy of the CIDB Journal by the CIDB Law Division on mediation cases for accidents in the construction industry. Notably, DOSH has expressed its appreciation to MBAM for the proactive initiatives undertaken and the establishment of a close working relationship. This mutual effort has played a significant role in elevating the standards of safety in the Malaysian construction sector. 55 MASTER BUILDERS JOURNAL #130Visits & Dialogues VD Meeting with the High Commissioner of the British High Commission of Kuala Lumpur 10 JANUARY 2024 Discussion—Construction Skills Competency Training Programmes for Youth 18 JANUARY 2024 MBAM President Oliver HC Wee led a delegation consisting of Vice- President cum Chairman of the International Affairs Committee Richard Wong; Secretary-General, Datuk Astaman Abdul Aziz; and Executive Director, Loh Mei Ling, to attend a high tea meeting with H.E. Ailsa Terry, British High Commissioner to Malaysia, on 10 January 2024 at her residence. H.E. Ailsa Terry was accompanied by Francine Torbett, Deputy Country Director – Trade; Tom Shepherd, Political Counsellor (Internal); and James Schmidt, Second Secretary, Political External of the British High Commission of Kuala Lumpur. During the meeting, the following exchange of information was held: — MBAM and its activities — British Standards for Construction — Construction Court — Update on the amendments to the CIDB Standard Form of Contracts — UK Education — TVET Training — Government-Industry TVET Coordination Body (GITC) — Outlook for construction in Malaysia — Infrastructure projects — Renewable Energy MBAM took the opportunity to thank the British Government for their support and funding for the ILO-MBAM-UK Partnership Skills for Prosperity programme in Malaysia. The British High Commission expressed interest in helping with TVET training. MBAM requested them to explore the Train-the-Trainer programme to have a better multiplier effect for the industry. The above discussion was held on 18 January 2024 with CIDB. Among those attending were MBAM Secretary General cum Human Resources Development Committee Chairman, Datuk Astaman Abdul Aziz; Council Member cum Human Resources Development Committee Member, Tang Juang Yew; Education & Special Institutions Committee Member, Lee Chee Yian; and Secretariat, Loh Mei Ling and Shirley Foo. The objective of the meeting was to identify the needs of competency skills training and the trades currently needed in the construction industry to ensure that students who complete the programme will be able to get a job and also to fulfil the industry’s needs. During the meeting, CIDB shared that they currently have six Akademi Binaan Malaysia (ABM) branches and six CIDB Technologies Sdn Bhd branches throughout Malaysia, which conduct youth training programs. Till today, they had trained roughly 5,000 people under the Youth Training Programme. MBAM suggested CIDB to focus on wet trades such as carpenters, plasterers, brick layers, barbenders, tilers, skim coaters, and screeding. MBAM also suggested that the quality of the trainers must be on par with industry experts to ensure the quality of the students. We believe that once the quality of the students is guaranteed, the chances of getting a job will be higher, as most companies are more willing to hire locals rather than foreign workers. At the end of the meeting, CIDB suggested that MBAM visit the ABM centres to understand better about the training provided, and they hope the industry will be able to give feedback through quarterly meetings to discuss progress. MBAM President with the British High Commissioner to Malaysia, H.E. Ailsa Terry 56 MASTER BUILDERS JOURNAL #130Visits & Dialogues VD Courtesy Visit by Gree Air Conditioner (Vietnam) Co., Ltd. 9 JANUARY 2024 Courtesy Visit by the Vice President of MCEF 12 JANUARY 2024 Meeting with IEM 18 JANUARY 2024 Vice President Tin Maung Naing of the Myanmar Construction Entrepreneurs Federation (MCEF) paid a courtesy visit to MBAM on 12 January 2024, with the aim of exchanging updates and information related to the construction industry in the ASEAN region. Present at the meeting were President Oliver HC Wee, Deputy President Kenneth Liew, Secretary- General Datuk Astaman Abdul Aziz, Executive Director Loh Mei Ling, and General Manager Lee Siew Mei. Gree Air Conditioner (Vietnam) Co., Ltd. paid a courtesy visit to the MBAM office on 9 January 2024. The visit was led by the Chairman of Gree Air Conditioner (Vietnam) Co., Ltd., Yang Wen Bin, who was accompanied by his colleagues, Jiang Wen, Mario Wong, and Maggie Huang. The purpose of the visit was to explore potential collaboration opportunities with MBAM. MBAM representatives who attended were MBAM President Oliver HC Wee, Deputy President Kenneth Liew, and Secretariat staff Loh Mei Ling, Lenny Lim, Lee Siew Mei, and Sung Suet Yee. MBAM recently received visitors from the Institution of Engineers Malaysia (IEM). IEM was represented by IEM Special Projects General Manager, B.E. Ooi; Head of Communications and Public Relations of Gamuda Engineering, Dr Bavani Iyer; and Assistant Public Relations Manager of Gamuda Engineering, Tang Tze Wai. Representing MBAM were MBAM Secretary-General, Datuk Astaman Abdul Aziz; Executive Director, Loh Mei Ling; General Manager, Lenny Lim; and Public Relations Executive, Farah Alia. IEM sought MBAM’s assistance to promote the Southeast Asian Conference and Exhibition on Tunnelling and Underground Space 2024 (SEACETUS 2024), which will be held at Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre on 5 to 7 March 2024. 57Next >