MBAM MAY 2026 WEBSITE MESSAGE
As May 2026 unfolds, the construction industry is still navigating a more complicated business environment that is defined by growing operating expenses, changing regulatory requirements, and persistent uncertainty in the global economy. In view of these developments, MBAM continues to bolster our interactions with important authorities and stakeholders in order to protect our members’ interests. We are dedicated to helping our members adjust to the present challenges while setting the sector up for long-term growth and resilience through ongoing advocacy, industry collaboration, and knowledge-sharing programs.
COURTESY VISIT TO SEE MITI MINISTER
The Master Builders Association Malaysia (MBAM) delegation, led by President Mr. Oliver HC Wee, held a courtesy visit with YB Dato’ Sri Johari Abdul Ghani, Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), on 4 May 2026 at the MITI office. Accompanied by Secretary-General Datuk Astaman Abdul Aziz, Executive Director Ms. Loh Mei Ling, and General Manager Mr. Lenny Lim, the delegation engaged in a productive dialogue centered on the industry’s growth and operational challenges. Key discussions focused on a proposal to lower import duties for heavy-lifting construction machinery to alleviate rising costs, as well as a request for MITI to update the association on emerging business opportunities abroad. Additionally, the parties explored the potential for hosting the OneBuild exhibition at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) to further elevate the industry’s professional profile.
FAIR CONTRACTS, FAIR OUTCOMES – MANAGING RISKS AND AVOIDING DISPUTES IN CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS” SEMINAR, ICW BORNEO 2026
The “Fair Contracts, Fair Outcomes – Managing Risks and Avoiding Disputes in Construction Projects” seminar is a significant industry event forming part of the ICW Borneo 2026 programme. It is scheduled to take place on 12 May 2026 at Sheraton Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.
The event is jointly supported by three major industry bodies Construction Industry Development Board Malaysia (CIDB), Master Builders Association Malaysia (MBAM) and Building Industry Consultants Association Malaysia (BICAM).
The construction industry is operating in an environment unlike anything experienced in recent decades. Volatile material prices, labour shortages, supply chain disruptions, rising compliance requirements, geopolitical tensions, and financing pressures have fundamentally changed the business landscape. Yet many projects are still being procured and administered using traditional fixed-price contracting models designed for a far more stable market. The reality is simple that the current ways of contracting are no longer workable, at least under the present circumstances.
The industry therefore needs a practical mid-term adjustment in the way contracts are structured until market conditions stabilise and recover. Greater emphasis should be placed on collaborative contracting and fair risk-sharing mechanisms. In this regard, the CIDB 2022 Form of Contract provides a timely and practical direction for the industry. Unlike the traditional approach where contract administration is often controlled heavily by one side, the CIDB 2022 form promotes a more collaborative environment where both contracting parties are actively involved in the administration and management of the project. This encourages transparency, early communication, joint problem-solving, and quicker decision-making before issues escalate into disputes.
Under such a collaborative framework, procurement approaches such as cost-plus contracting can become more workable and effective. Through joint administration and open-book management, both parties are able to monitor costs, project progress, variations, and risks together. This creates greater confidence and accountability on both sides while reducing unnecessary adversarial positions. Cost escalation can also be managed more realistically without forcing one party to absorb unforeseeable market shocks alone.
Procurement should no longer focus solely on securing the lowest bid price. Greater emphasis must be placed on value, capability, resilience, innovation, and the long-term sustainability of project delivery. Contracts must evolve from being merely legal protection documents into effective risk management and project delivery tools. A more balanced and collaborative contracting environment does not weaken accountability. Instead, it strengthens project certainty, improves relationships, reduces disputes, and increases the likelihood of successful project completion. In today’s uncertain market conditions, adapting the way we contract is not a sign of weakness, it is a responsible and necessary step to protect projects, buyers, businesses, and the wider economy. Ultimately, a fairer and more collaborative contracting approach will create a genuine win-win outcome for all stakeholders.
Most importantly, we must be able to withstand the next crisis.
MBAM ANNUAL SAFETY & HEALTH CONFERENCE 2026
The 2026 edition of this conference attracted over 330 pax for 12 and 13 May 2026, and will be held at Sunway Resort Hotel, Bandar Sunway, Selangor. The theme for this year’s conference is “Strengthening CDM Compliance: From Implementation to Industry Excellence,” reflecting the construction industry’s ongoing efforts to align with Construction Design and Management (CDM) regulations, which govern how safety is planned and managed across all stages of a construction project. The new Director General of the Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH/JKKP) Malaysia Ir. Ts. Hjh. Hazlina binti Yon is the GOH.
The conference serves as a premier platform dedicated to strengthening safety standards, promoting health awareness, and fostering a culture of excellence within the construction industry. It provides participants with an opportunity to stay updated on current safety regulations, best practices, and emerging trends relevant to the Malaysian construction sector.
The CDM-focused theme of this year’s conference is particularly timely. CDM regulations place legal duties on clients, designers, and contractors to consider safety throughout a project’s lifecycle from design and planning through to construction and maintenance. By centering the 2026 conference on CDM compliance, MBAM signals its intent to push Malaysian construction beyond mere rule-following and toward a mature, proactive safety culture that sets a benchmark for industry excellence across the region. A major highlight of the opening ceremony was the presentation of the prestigious MBAM Safety and Health Awards 2026. This year, MBAM conferred the esteemed Golden Helmet Award upon Ir. Haji Mohd Hatta Bin Zakaria in recognition of his meritorious leadership and untiring advocacy for safety within the construction industry. Since its inception in 2011, this award has served as a hallmark of the Association, celebrating individuals who have made safety a defining pillar of their professional legacy.
The 13th MBAM Safety and Health Award for Site Personnel was presented to Tan Ching Siong of Sunway Construction Sdn Bhd for his exceptional commitment to safety protocols. This accolade underscores the vital importance of individual vigilance and leadership at the ground level, ensuring that safety policies are effectively translated into daily practice on-site to protect the well-being of every worker.
We urge all members to stay watchful, flexible, and unified in tackling the issues impacting our sector as we continue to confront a changing operational and economic environment. The sector’s long-term sustainability and competitiveness will depend on strong cooperation, open communication, and group dedication. We emphasize to our industry partners and stakeholders the value of promoting equitable and balanced business practices that promote resilience and mutual progress. Together, we will keep overcoming obstacles and constructing a more robust and sustainable future for Malaysia’s construction sector.
KUALA LUMPUR BUSINESS CLUB PANEL SESSION
I was recently featured as a key panellist at the Kuala Lumpur Business Club’s highly anticipated panel session held on May 15, 2026, at The St. Regis. Addressing the critical and timely topic, “Global Fuel and Diesel Supply Crisis: How it will affect you and your business,” the session brought together prominent industry leaders and financial experts to dissect the far-reaching economic impacts of volatile energy markets. The discussion was expertly guided by moderator Mr. Firdaus Rosli, Chief Economist of AmBank Group, who facilitated a sharp exchange of strategic insights tailored for the local and regional business community.
The dialogue proved to be a highly engaging and interactive session, offering diverse perspectives from across Malaysia’s corporate spectrum. Joining Mr. Wee on the panel were Dato’ Seri Michael Tio, CEO and Managing Director of PKT Logistics Berhad, and Ms. Felicia Ling, Chief Economist of Hong Leong Investment Bank Berhad. Together, the panelists explored how escalating global fuel strains threaten supply chains, escalate operational overheads, and shift macroeconomic forecasts. For business owners and executives in attendance, the session provided invaluable forward-looking strategies to navigate the tightening energy landscape and build long-term operational resilience.
MALAYSIA BUILDING & PROPERTY SUMMIT (MBPS 2026) “POWERING SMART & SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN THE NEW GEOECONOMIC ERA”
The Malaysia Building & Property Summit (MBPS 2026) was successfully convened on 19 May 2026, at The Majestic Hotel in Kuala Lumpur, anchoring its discussions around the timely theme, “Powering Smart & Sustainable Development in the New Geoeconomic Era.” A major highlight of the summit was Session One, titled “CEO Panel: The State of the Building and Property Industry – Key Challenges and Opportunities – Where Do We Go from Here? What’s Next?” This high-level opening session brought together a distinguished group of industry titans to deliberate on the shifting landscape of Malaysian property development, focusing heavily on how local markets must adapt to complex geopolitical and global economic pressures.
The panel featured a robust exchange of strategic insights, featuring myself, alongside fellow industry leaders Mr. Previndran Singhe, Chief Executive Officer of Zerin Properties, and Mr. Alistair James LaBrooy, Founder of AREA Market Intelligence and Director of the AREA Group of Companies. Under the expert guidance of moderator Tan Sri Dato’ (Dr.) Abdul Rahim Abdul Rahman, Executive Chairman of Rahim & Co International Sdn Bhd, the speakers tackled pressing structural challenges while mapping out emerging opportunities. I elaborated that we must find solutions to the current predicament affecting contractors and those in the building industry. The dialogue provided attendees with a clear, forward-looking roadmap on sustainable growth practices and resilient strategies necessary to navigate the industry’s next chapter.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank KSI Strategic Institute for Asia Pacific for bestowing the the Outstanding Building and Property Icon Leadership Award at the event.
MBAM continues to bolster our interactions with important authorities and stakeholders in order to protect our members’ interests. We are dedicated to helping our members adjust to the present challenges while setting the sector up for long-term growth and resilience through ongoing advocacy, industry collaboration, and knowledge-sharing programs.
72nd MBAM ANNIVERSARY DINNER 2026
The 72nd Anniversary Dinner of the Master Builders Association Malaysia (MBAM) has successfully rolled out the red carpet with a grand celebration of the nation’s construction industry. Held on 22nd May 2026 at the Grand Ballroom, Sunway Resort Hotel, with the theme “A Legacy of Excellence, A Future of Innovation”, the event was a memorable evening that brought together more 1,600 attendees including key industry leaders, professionals, and distinguished guests to celebrate MBAM’s incredible legacy and contributions to the sector.
Graced by Yang Berhormat Tuan Sim Tze Tzin, Deputy Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) Malaysia, as the Guest of Honour as well as Yang Berhormat Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi, Minister of Works Malaysia as the Special Guest, the evening highlighted the importance of building a resilient construction industry. The evening also featured a welcome address by Ir. Anthony Teoh, MBAM Treasurer-General cum Organising Chairman, and a speech by Mr. Oliver H.C. Wee, MBAM President.
The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the MBAM Special Awards. The MBAM Bronze Award was proudly awarded to Mr. Yee Wing Peng, MBAM Honorary Advisor (Taxation), while the MBAM Silver Award was presented to Yang Berhormat Dato Ir. Hj. Yusuf bin Hj. Abd. Wahab, Chairman of the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) Malaysia, in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the construction industry and development. In addition, the Long Service Awards were bestowed upon individuals and organisations that have shown exceptional commitment and dedication to MBAM and the construction industry over the years. A tribute video and memento of appreciation was also presented to Mr Oliver HC Wee, MBAM President on that memorable night to commemorate his two terms as President of MBAM.
The event also showcased the remarkable performance of the MBAM Council Members and Secretariats, who took centre stage and demonstrated their unity and leadership by delivering the association’s new anthem, “We Build a Dream”. Among them were industry captains of Malaysia’s leading construction companies, whose participation highlighted the strength and vision of MBAM’s leadership.
MBAM extends heartfelt thanks to all sponsors, partners, and members whose unwavering support made the 72nd Anniversary Dinner a resounding success. The evening reasserted MBAM’s crucial role in sculpting the future of Malaysia’s construction industry and celebrating the wins of its members.
On the same day on 22nd May 2026, The MBAM Dialogue with Affiliate Members (2026), took place at Master Builders Association Malaysia, Subang Jaya, Selangor. The proceedings began with a welcome speech from MBAM President, Mr. Oliver HC Wee, to set the tone for the dialogue with all Affiliate Members in attendance. Participants were introduced to MBAM’s attending affiliate members of 24 organisations, with discussions led by MBAM’s Secretary-General, Datuk Astaman Abdul Aziz. Also present were representatives from Construction Industry Development Board Malaysia (CIDB), Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) Malaysia and Construction Labour Exchange Centre Berhad (CLAB).
The dialogue focused on various industry pain points that highlighted the urgent need for regulatory enforcement, new ways of contracting, impact of conflict in West Asia as well as other supply chain challenges. This productive exchange and discussion constructed the way for actionable solutions aimed at supporting the continued growth and sustainability of the construction sector. Moving forward, the valuable insights gained from this dialogue will play a role in shaping future strategies and policies to strengthen the industry and ensure its resilience in the face of the world’s evolving construction challenges.
Oliver HC Wee KMN AMN
President, MBAM