PRESIDENT MESSAGE- SEPTEMBER
MBAM have just successfully organised our biggest event namely the 63rd MBAM Anniversary Dinner on 18th August 2017 at Sunway Resort Hotel & Spa. The dinner was graced by the Prime Minister of Malaysia, YAB Dato’ Sri Mohd Najib Bin Tun Abdul Razak as our Guest of Honour accompanied by the Minister II, Ministry of International Trade and Industry, YB Dato’ Seri Ong Ka Chuan. On behalf of MBAM, I wish to extend our heartiest appreciation to YAB Dato’ Sri Mohd Najib and YB Dato’ Seri Ong Ka Chuan for gracing our event. It meant the world for us to have both of you to celebrate this auspicious event. I hope that the upcoming MBAM events will be just as merrier as the anniversary dinner and more members will come forward to sponsor and participate in the events that the association has lined up.
MBAM SCAFFOLDING TRAINING – BASIC COMPETENCY: LEVEL
Master Builders Association Malaysia (MBAM) have organized a series of scaffolding training for our Members and industry players. The Level 1 (Basic) Scaffolding Course 27th intake was successfully held on 1st – 10th August 2017.
The structured approach of learning using the Training Modules and Methods of presentation, is designed to give a comprehensive overview of the work process so that it is in compliance with the scaffolding standard BS 1139 and the requirement of the legislations. After attending this session, participants will be able to compare and understand all the scaffolding systems and procedures between Frame, Tubular and Modular types.
This Competency Scaffolding training is approved and recognized by DOSH. It is 100% HRDF claimable. Participating company will be given an approved 20 CIDB CCD Points for each employee attended this training as well as 10 DOSH CEP Points.
COURTESY VISIT AND DIALOGUE WITH THAI CONTRACTORS ASSOCIATION
MBAM and TCA representatives at the dialogue
Group photo during the visit to TCA’s office
MBAM delegation paid a courtesy visit to the Thai Contractors Association’s (TCA) on the 3rd August 2017 at Oriental Residence Building, Pathumwan, Bangkok. MBAM delegation was warmly received by the TCA President, Mr Sangvorn Liptapanlop accompanied by his Council, ACF Secretary General and Vice President, Ms Liza Ngamtrakulpanit, TCA Secretary General, Mr Thanat Vasarachanond, TCA Treasurer, Mr Danuch Yontararak, TCA Board Members, Mr Piyadit Atsavasirisuk, Mr Sarun Rojlertjanya and Mr Anuchit Wanglee. The visit was held to discuss the upcoming 44th IFAWPCA Convention in Kuala Lumpur. MBAM representatives conveyed their hope that TCA can send a big delegation for the conference next year. Besides that, we also discussed issues that the local contractors are facing, especially with the increasing number of Chinese contractors penetrating the local market. However, we all agreed that this scenario is happening all over the world and the best way is to adapt and work together with the Chinese contractors to gain shared knowledge.
In addition, TCA also asked about the roles and contribution of Construction Industry Development Board Malaysia (CIDB) to the progress of the industry. They are planning to have a similar government body in Thailand to govern the construction industry. The meeting and dialogue concluded with an exchange of memento between both parties and with TCA promising to send more participants for the 44th IFAWPCA Convention.
ASEAN CONSTRUCTORS FEDERATION (ACF) SPECIAL CONFERENCE
MBAM President, Mr Foo Chek Lee giving his presentation
Group photo with the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Thailand, H.E. Mr. Virasakdi Futrakul.
Presentation of 60th MBAM Anniversary Coffee Table Book to the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Thailand, H.E. Mr. Virasakdi Futrakul.
The ASEAN Constructors Federation (ACF) Special Conference was held on 4th August 2017 at Dusit Thani Bangkok. Representatives from 7 countries attended the conference and presented papers on their local construction industry. Each presenter were given 15 minutes to present on their country’s construction industry past and present environment as well as on related regulations. The conference started with the welcoming speech by TCA President, Mr Sangvorn Liptapanlop and report by the ACF Chairman, Mr Nattaphorn Bhromsuthi followed by the opening speech by the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Thailand, H.E. Mr. Virasakdi Futrakul.
The conference were also attended by government officials from several countries such as The Undersecretary of Construction Industry Authority of the Philippines, Department of Trade and Industry, Ms Atty. Ruth B. Castelo; Director of Cambodia Construction Department Ministry of Land Management, Urban Planning and Construction, Mr Chhann Sorphal and Senior-General Manager, Construction Industry Development Board Malaysia, Mr Mohd Nazli Ahmad Mahyadin.
All participants were also invited for a riverboat dinner after the conference ended. We enjoyed an international buffet while cruising along the Chao Phraya River for an unforgettable dining experience and comradeship. Overall, the meeting was fruitful and beneficial for all participating countries as we shared our knowledge and technology for the betterment of our own construction industry.
BRIEFING BY POLITEKNIK SHAH ALAM ON THE WORK BASED LEARNING FOR FACILITIES MANAGEMENT BACHELOR DEGREE PROGRAMME
Politeknik Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah (Politeknik Shah Alam) held a briefing on the Work Based Learning programme for their Bachelor of Technology in Facilities Management students on 7th August 2017 at Administration Building, Politeknik Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah.
The Polytechnic Bachelor degree students will undergo their Work Based Learning (WBL) programme starting on 11th September 2017 for the duration of 20 weeks in semester 7 plus 20 weeks more in semester 8. MBAM Council have approved during the last Council Meeting on 21st July to collaborate with the Polytechnic to provide placements for them. Confirmed Participating Companies will be invited to attend Certificate of Collaboration Signing Ceremony on 22nd August 2017 at Politeknik Shah Alam.
Orientation Workshop for Nominated Mentors will be held by Politeknik Shah Alam in the 1st week of Sept 2017 to brief them on the Syllabus, requirements by MQA for this Bachelor Degree programme and other related matters.
ON THE JOB TECHNICAL TRAINING TO PV SOLAR SYSTEM, NILAI, NEGERI SEMBILAN
Presenting a token of appreciation to the speakers from Solarvest Energy Sdn Bhd
MBAM Treasurer General, Mr Kenneth Liew (2nd from right) and MBAM Council Member, Mr Chong Tat Yam (Far right) with participants of the site visit.
On 8th August 2017, a total of 28 MBAM members led by MBAM Treasurer-General and Chairman of Mechanical & Electrical (M&E) Committee, Mr Kenneth Liew went on a study visit to Photovoltaic Solar System hosted by Metex Steel Sdn Bhd. The technical talk took place at MBAM Training Centre and was delivered by three speakers from Solarvest Energy Sdn Bhd. Managing Director of Solarvest Energy Sdn Bhd, Mr Davis Chong Chun Shiong presented on overview of the solar industry in Malaysia, Marketing Manager of Solarvest Energy Sdn Bhd, Mr Reik Ong Kah Jun talked about Net Energy Metering (NEM) and the Head of Project Team of Solarvest Energy Sdn Bhd, Mr Jack Tan Qi Jie gave a technical talk on PV solar system.
The second part of the training was the study visit to Metex Steel plant located in Nilai, Negeri Sembilan. The Operations Senior General Manager of Metex Steel, Mr Sia Seow Kok and his team members welcomed MBAM Members. After a quick briefing on safety procedures, the participants was taken to the manufacturing plant along the sky bridge to see the production. Mr Jack Tan of Solarvest Energy Sdn Bhd explained the mechanism of conversion of solar energy into direct current through an inverter. Thereafter, they were taken to the Rooftop Solar Gallery to see solar panel, followed by a Q & A session.
Overall, the feedbacks received from the participants on the visit was educational and had enhanced their knowledge on renewable energy.
MBAM AFFILIATE DIALOGUE
The MBAM Principal Officers
Group photo of MBAM Principal Officers together with MBAM Affiliate Members
MBAM Affiliates Dialogue 2017 was held on 18th August 2017 at Bahamas 1+2, Sunway Resort Hotel & Spa, Level 12. During my opening speech I thanked the MBAM Affiliate Members present for being supportive of this initiative. A total of 43 representatives from MBAM affiliate members attended the dialogues to discuss on issues affecting the construction industry. The issues discussed are as follows:
- Implementation of IBS
- Procurement Policy – China Contractors
- Employment Insurance Scheme (EIS)
- Centralised Labour Quarters (CLQ)
- Enforcement of Scaffolding
- Rehiring Programme for Construction Foreign Workers
On the implementation of IBS, both MBAM and CIDB representatives gave the latest updates including on the recent discussion to implement uniform IBS clause into the Uniform Building By-Laws (UBBL).
The Rehiring Programme for foreign construction workers was another issue that attracted a lot of feedback from MBAM Affiliate Members. The consensus was the rehiring cost is still very high and some of the requirements set by the implementing agency makes some employers ineligible to register their illegal foreign construction workers. The Affiliate Dialogue ended with a Press Conference to highlight the issues raised.
63RD MBAM ANNIVERSARY DINNER
The Prime Minister of Malaysia, YAB Dato’ Sri Mohd Najib Bin Tun Abdul Razak during his speech presentation
Presentation of certificate of appreciation to the Sunway Construction Group Bhd for their Emerald sponsorship
Master Builders Association Malaysia (MBAM) celebrated its 63rd Anniversary on 18th August 2017 at the Grand Lagoon Ballroom, Sunway Resort Hotel & Spa with the attendance of 1850 distinguished guests including the decision makers in the Government and construction industry such as Heads of Government Departments, agencies, leaders of professional organizations and leading construction firms in Malaysia and ASEAN region, MBAM members and MBAM Affiliate Members. MBAM was honored to have the presence of our honorable Prime Minister of Malaysia, YAB Dato’ Sri Mohd Najib Bin Tun Abdul Razak, as the Guest of Honor of the 63rd Anniversary Dinner. Also, present was Minister II, Ministry of International Trade and Industry, YB Dato’ Seri Ong Ka Chuan. YAB Dato’ Sri Mohd Najib Bin Tun Abdul Razak congratulated MBAM and its members for their contribution to the building of our nation.
The highlights of the Dinner was the presentation of the various service awards to individuals & companies in recognition of their dedicated and outstanding contributions to the development of the Association and the construction industry. On top of that, the Dinner also served as a channel to raise and pledge for donation in aid of MBAM Building Fund and Education Fund 2017. MBAM records sincere appreciation to the donors for generously sponsoring this year’s Anniversary Dinner. Overall, the event was very successful and MBAM hopes for continued support towards the MBAM Anniversary Dinner in 2018.
CERTIFICATE OF COLLABORATION SIGNING CEREMONY AT POLITEKNIK SULTAN SALAHUDDIN ABDUL AZIZ SHAH (POLITEKNIK SHAH ALAM)
Exchange of document between PSA Director,Tuan Haji Tajuddin Bin Abdul Rashid and MBAM Vice President, Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Sufri Bin Haji Mohd Zin
Group photo of the participating companies
To formalise the collaboration on the next cohort of their Work-Based Learning (WBL) programme, Master Builders Association Malaysia (MBAM) was invited to sign the Certificate of Collaboration (COC) with Politeknik Shah Alam on 22nd August 2017 at Multipurpose Hall, Politeknik Shah Alam. Along with MBAM, 10 other companies and organizations were invited to sign the COC on that day. These companies and organizations will be participating in the next cohort of WBL programme including for Politeknik Shah Alam’s students majoring in other fields.
The registration for this Cohort is now closed. MBAM Member companies interested to participate in the next Cohort can contact MBAM Secretariat, Mr Mohd Hanif Ismail at 03-7984 8636 or email mbam17@mbam.org.my to confirm their interest to provide placements for the Facilities Management students undergoing their WBL programme.
ON THE JOB TECHNICAL TRAINING TO FACTORIES VISIT STARKEN AAC SERENDAH & BUBBLE DECK RASA, SELANGOR
The participants was taken around the plant to see the products
Presentation of 60th MBAM Coffee Table Book to the Factory Manager, Mr Low Kok Wah and his team members
On 23rd August 2017, a total number of 21 MBAM members joined the study visit to Starken AAC Sdn Bhd factory at Serendah, Selangor and Bubble Deck Construction Sdn Bhd’s factory at Rasa, Selangor. The training aims to create awareness and enhance our members’ knowledge on the autoclaved aerated concrete and biaxial hollow precast slab system.
During the morning session, the technical study visit took place at Starken AAC Sdn Bhd factory at Serendah. The Factory Manager, Mr Low Kok Wah, Technical Manager, En Asbar Sanusi, Manager, Mr Tan Chee Fung, Production, Marketing Manager, Ms Chen Sook Moy and Sales Manager, Mr Chen Chit Chuang welcomed MBAM Members.
In the afternoon session, all participant went for the study visit to Bubble Deck Construction Sdn Bhd plant located in Rasa, Selangor. The participants was welcomed by the Director of Bubble Deck Construction Sdn Bhd, Mr Thomas Ng, Project Director of Bubble Deck Construction Sdn Bhd and General Manager of BDC Concrete Sdn Bhd, Mr Ng Kian Chuan and Manager – Admin & Quality Assurance of Bubble Deck Construction Sdn Bhd and BDC Concrete Sdn Bhd, Ms Joanne Lim Li Ching. After a brief presentation about the products, the participants then proceed to the plant to see the manufacturing processes and work procedures.
Overall, the feedbacks received from the participants were the visit were educational and had enhanced their knowledge on building materials.
TALK ON GST AUDIT WORKSHOP “ARE YOU READY FOR GST AUDIT BY CUSTOMS?”
Mr. Jacky Chan sharing his knowledge on GST with over 60 participants
Presentation of souvenir to Mr Jacky Chan by MBAM Executive Director, Ms Loh Mei Ling
This workshop was jointly organised by Master Builders Association Malaysia (MBAM) & YYC GST Consultants Sdn Bhd and was attended by 66 participants. MBAM Treasurer-General, Mr Kenneth Liew delivered the welcome remarks, introduced and thanked the Executive Director, YYC GST Consultant Sdn Bhd, Mr Jacky Chan for supporting this event by sharing his GST knowledge on the subject matter.
Mr Jacky Chan has highlighted some GST fine cases, travel ban as well as on Customs Blue Ocean Strategy (CBOS). He also covered Custom audit purposes, submission of GST-03, GST Audit Files, (GAF) Offences & Penalties and Guide on Review & Appeal. In his talk he reminded the attendees on the importance of keeping proper GST records for verification or investigation audit. It is hope that more members will participate in such event for latest updates & issues.
44TH IFAWPCA CONVENTION PROMOTIONAL VISIT TO THE NATIONAL CONSTRUCTION ASSOCIATION OF SRI LANKA (NCASL)
Group photo with NCASL Chairman, Mr Athula Priyantha Galagoda (centre) and his Council Member
MBAM Immediate Past President cum IFAWPCA President, Datuk Matthew Tee and MBAM Vice President cum IFAWPCA Secretary General, Ir. Chuan Yeong Ming paid a visit to the National Construction Association of Sri Lanka (NCASL) Secretariat on 24th August 2017. This visit was to promote the upcoming 44th IFAWPCA Convention in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia which is scheduled from 12th to 16th November 2018. The NCASL Chairman, Mr Athula Priyantha Galagoda and their Council Members gave a warm welcome to MBAM delegation. During the informal discussion, NCASL has confirmed their support to the 44th IFAWPCA Convention by confirming to send at least 160 delegates to Kuala Lumpur. Both parties also shared their views and ideas to encourage more members participation and involvement in the convention activities.
In conjunction with the visit, Datuk Matthew Tee and Ir. Chuan Yeong Ming were also invited as the Guest of Honour to attend the Opening Ceremony of the Construct Exhibition 2017 which was held on 25th August 2017 at BMICH Exhibition Centre. The Prime Minister of Sri Lanka, Mr Ranil Wickremasinge was present to officiate the event. The exhibition is one of the largest and comprehensive construction trade exhibition in Sri Lanka organized by the NCASL for the 17th consecutive year. It brings together the entire value chain of the building & construction industry under one roof. This year’s exhibition feature over three hundred local and foreign exhibition while showcasing the achievements of Sri Lanka’s construction industry.
SESSION 6: EFFECTIVE PROJECT, VALUE AND RISK MANAGEMENT
Sr. HT Ong during his presentation
Among the participants of the final session
The sixth and final installment of the collaboration with Sr. Ong Hock Tek of BK Entrusty for the year continued with 22 participants attending on 24th August 2017 at MBAM Training Centre. Overall the programme continued to be a success, with members exposed to more information and updates relating to previous articles published in the Master Builders Journals. It is hoped more members will sign up for the contracts training programme next year. The Association will continue to improve the content and its relevance for the benefit of MBAM members.
THE PERSATUAN PEMBINAAN KELANTAN (KIN CHO HONG) 47TH ANNIVERSARY DINNER
Group photo with the council members of the Persatuan Pembinaan Kelantan
The Persatuan Pembinaan Kelantan (Kin Cho Hong) 47th Anniversary Dinner was held on 24th August 2017 at Grand Riverview Hotel, Jalan Post Office Lama, Kota Bahru, Kelantan. The Dinner was attended by MBAM Assistant Manager, Mr Leon Leong and I. In the dinner speech I highlighted the issue on rehiring programme and Government’s intention to raise foreign worker levy in 2019.
57TH ANNIVERSARY DINNER OF PERSATUAN PEMBINAAN TERENGGANU (PPT)
With the President of PPT, Mr Teo Soon Meng (Far right)
The 57th Anniversary Dinner of Persatuan Pembinaan Terengganu (PPT) was held on 25th August 2017 at restaurant Ocean, Jalan Zainal Abidin, Kuala Terengganu. The PPT dinner was attended by MBAM Council Member, Mr Fong Tet Yoong and MBAM Assistant General Manager, Mr Lenny Lim. Mr Fong congratulated PPT for their anniversary dinner celebrations and noted that PPT is an active member in the construction industry in Terengganu. MBAM hopes that both MBAM and PPT will continue to work closely together to develop the construction industry. He also noted that PPT has been a member of MBAM since 2010.
Mr Fong also spoke at length on the key issues faced by the industry such as the Rehiring Programme, manpower related issues, Industrialised Building System and Employment Insurance scheme (EIS) and he also touched on the recently concluded MBAM Affiliate Dialogue and the 63rd MBAM Anniversary Dinner. Overall, it was a great opportunity for MBAM to get closer to our Affiliate and their members in Kuala Terengganu.
50TH ANNIVERSARY DINNER OF PERSATUAN PEMBINAAN KUANTAN
A token of appreciation was presented to the President of the Persatuan Pembinaan Kuantan, Mr Chua Say Chai
MBAM Secretary General, Mr Dennis Tan and MBAM Assistant General Manager, Mr Michael Thong attended the Persatuan Pembinaan Kuantan 50th Anniversary Celebration which was held on 26th August 2017 at Golden Palace Restaurant, Kuantan. On hand to welcome the guests were the President of the Persatuan Pembinaan Kuantan, Mr Chua Say Chai and his committee members.
Other highlights of the sumptuous Dinner celebration were the lion dance competition performed by eight troupes, the 50th Birthday cake cutting ceremony and the drum beating ceremony. MBAM Secretary-General Mr. Dennis Tan was invited on stage to perform both the birthday cake cutting and drum beating ceremony along with other VIPs.
BEST PRACTICES ON MOBILE CRANE OPERATION TRAINING COURSE
Certificate of appreciation was presented to Mr Noor Azam Bin Mohd Ariffin
Among the attendees present for the training
The MBAM Machinery Resources Committee organised the Best Practices for Mobile Crane Operations Training Course on 29th August 2017 at MBAM Training Centre. MBAM Deputy Secretary-General 1 and Chairman of MBAM Machinery Resources Committee, Mr Ong Ka Thiam delivered the welcome speech. The training was headed by Trainer/Instructor at Gamuda Plant Operator School (GPOS), Mr Noor Azam Bin Mohd Ariffin. A total of 42 participants attended the training.
Each year, a number of mobile cranes overturned at construction sites, causing serious accidents involving personal injury, significant financial damage and potential legal action and related claims. Most incidents were a result of poor planning, unclear responsibilities, insufficient training and lack of resources, as well as unsafe or dangerous practices at the construction site.
When an accident occurs, the question of who is responsible for crane operation is often asked. However, by the time an accident occurs it will be too late for regret. As a crane owner, operator, or the owner of a construction company that uses mobile cranes in construction works, it is important that members are familiar with these responsibilities and best practices required to avoid accidents.
Overall, the programme was useful to help members understand the best practices needed for practitioners in the industry.
I would like to take this opportunity to wish all Malaysians and MBAM members Selamat Hari Raya Haji and Happy Merdeka Day!
FOO CHEK LEE
President