< Previous9 APRIL 2025 47 th IFAWPCA Convention The 47 th IFAWPCA Convention was inaugurated at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore, with Desmond Lee, Minister for National Development and Minister- in-charge of Social Services Integration, officiating. Organised by the Singapore Contractors Association Limited (SCAL), this marked the first time in over two decades that Singapore hosted the convention, bringing together construction professionals from across the region. MBAM sent a 17-strong delegation led by Chief Delegate and Vice President Yeoh Keong Yuan, with Past President and Honorary Advisor Datuk Matthew Tee attending as proxy to President Oliver Wee. Held under the theme “Embracing Tomorrow’s Construction,” the convention opened with a keynote address highlighting the importance of collaboration and innovation in the construction sector. The Minister emphasised Singapore’s shift toward advanced, sustainable construction methods, including Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DfMA), robotics, and integrated construction facilities. Key initiatives mentioned included the expansion of the Land Intensification Allowance scheme in 2026 and support for energy efficiency through grants such as the Energy Efficiency Grant (EEG) and the Built Environment Technology and Capability Grant (BETC). The Minister called upon international partners to share best practices, strengthen ties, Chief delegate of MBAM, Vice President Yeoh Keong Yuan carrying MBAM flag at the opening ceremony Guest-of-Honour HM Desmond Lee, Minister for National Development and Minister-in-charge of Social Services Integration gracing the 47 th IFAWPCA Convention Industry & Practices IP 28 MASTER BUILDERS JOURNAL #136and collectively shape the future of construction. The convention provided a platform for delegates from 17 countries to exchange updates on industry developments, challenges, and achievements. Yeoh Keong Yuan presented Malaysia’s country update on behalf of MBAM, reflecting the association’s ongoing engagement with the regional construction community. Forum sessions focused on urban resilience, coastal protection, sustainability in construction, transforming construction through technology, and international business opportunities. A keynote address by Tan Chee Kiat, Deputy CEO (Industry Development) of the Building and Construction Authority Singapore, emphasised sustainable urban planning and the adoption of innovative construction technologies. MBAM delegates also participated in board and standing committee meetings covering finance, membership, conditions of contracts, builders awards, education and human resources, and construction business development. These meetings enabled Malaysian representatives to actively contribute to discussions on governance, industry standards, and collaborative initiatives across the federation. A trade exhibition showcased cutting-edge solutions in digitalisation, sustainability, and safety. MBAM members received guided tours, gaining insights into the latest technologies and best practices. The delegation also visited the Samwoh Smart Hub, including the Samwoh Gallery and the SAC-SINGLAS accredited Samwoh Innovation Centre MBAM delegation at the opening ceremony MBAM Delegates at Welcome Dinner Renewal of friendship at the Presidential Dinner event Industry & Practices IP 29 MASTER BUILDERS JOURNAL #136(SWIC). The visit highlighted Samwoh’s 40-year growth journey, its R&D investments, and key initiatives in innovation and sustainability. The awards segment during the convention recognised outstanding achievements within the construction industry. MBAM Vice President Yeoh Keong Yuan and Past Vice President Chung Soo Kiong were acknowledged for participating in five IFAWPCA conventions, underscoring their longstanding commitment to regional collaboration. Awards were presented across categories such as the Builders’ Award, Civil Engineering, and the YEOH TIONG LAY–IFAWPCA Award for Excellence. Dr Ho Nyok Yong, Honorary Life President of SCAL and Chief Operating Officer of Samwoh Corporation, received the Yeoh Tiong Lay–IFAWPCA Award for his leadership and contributions to the industry. The IFAWPCA–Choi Construction Fieldman Award and the Atsumi Award were presented to Yvonne Goh, Deputy QM Manager at Woh Hup (Pte) Ltd, and Benjamin Lee Sze Chong, Project Director at Teambuild Engineering & Construction Pte Ltd, respectively. The newly elected IFAWPCA Board took the oath of office, marking the start of their term and ensuring continuity in fostering regional collaboration. The Thai Contractors Association (TCA) will host the 48 th IFAWPCA Convention, continuing the spirit of progress and partnership among Southeast Asian construction professionals. The convention concluded with a celebration of regional camaraderie, where member countries showcased cultural performances, and MBAM shared the spotlight with TCA as joint champions for their performance. The four-day event successfully combined knowledge sharing, networking, and recognition of excellence, leaving delegates with lasting insights and strengthened regional ties. Both MBAM and TCA (Thai Contractors Association) were announced as the joint winner for their performance at the Closing Dinner MBAM Delegation at the Closing of the 47 th IFAWPCA Convention Industry & Practices IP 30 MASTER BUILDERS JOURNAL #136Welcome to MBAM DIRECTORY ONLINE Reach out to potential clients and create awareness for your brand! www.mbamdirectory.comMBAM President Oliver HC Wee joined the board of CIDB to participate in BAUMA 2025, the world’s leading trade fair for construction machinery and equipment held in Munich. The event provides significant advantages for the Malaysian construction sector, serving as a global platform to showcase the latest innovations in construction machinery, building material machines, mining machines, construction vehicles, and construction equipment. Attending contractors can explore cutting-edge technologies and sustainable construction practices, including advancements in digitalisation, automation, and alternative drives aimed at decarbonising construction sites. Exposure to these innovations supports CIDB’s commitment to enhancing efficiency, productivity, and sustainability within Malaysia’s construction industry. 7–13 APRIL 2025 BAUMA 2025 25 APRIL 2025 ACI-Malaysia Chapter 28 th AGM & Dinner The 28 th Annual General Meeting and Dinner of the American Concrete Institute (ACI) Malaysia Chapter was held at Armada Hotel, Petaling Jaya. Datuk Astaman Abdul Aziz, MBAM Secretary- General, and Dato’ Sri Sukumar Subrayalu, MBAM Council Member, attended. The event provided a platform for industry professionals to discuss developments in concrete technology and construction best practices. The ACI Malaysia Chapter is a non-profit society representing ACI Global in Malaysia, promoting knowledge sharing, innovation, and professional development in the concrete industry. Industry & Practices IP 32 MASTER BUILDERS JOURNAL #13616 APRIL 2025 FOCS 2025 The sixth Future of Cybersecurity Summit 2025 (FOCS 2025) was held at M World Hotel, Petaling Jaya, Selangor, organised by the National Tech Association of Malaysia (PIKOM). The summit, themed Securing the Digital Frontier: Emerging Trends and Practical Solutions, marked a significant milestone in advancing cybersecurity awareness and industry collaboration. It drew strong participation from delegates, speakers, partners, and exhibitors, creating an engaging platform for sharing insights and strategies. In his opening remarks, Alex Loh, Organising Chair of FOCS 2025, expressed appreciation to all partners and supporters who contributed to the success of the event. PIKOM Chairman Alex Liew highlighted the urgent need for robust cybersecurity measures, revealing that 83% of organisations worldwide had experienced more than one data breach in the past year, underscoring that no sector is immune to cyber threats. A major highlight of the summit was the launch of PIKOM’s AI Ethics and Governance 2025 paper, providing guidance on the responsible and ethical use of artificial intelligence, particularly within cybersecurity frameworks. Attendees explored key topics including AI-driven security risks, emerging regulatory challenges, and innovative defence mechanisms for safeguarding digital infrastructures. The summit served not only as a knowledge-sharing forum but also as a practical platform for implementing effective cybersecurity strategies. The event featured the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between PIKOM, Silk Road Group, and the Hong Kong Innovative Technology Development Association (HKITDA), aimed at strengthening regional cybersecurity collaboration and knowledge exchange. PIKOM concluded the summit by reinforcing the principle that cybersecurity is a shared responsibility. Participants were urged to remain vigilant against emerging threats, foster cross-industry collaboration, and uphold ethical AI use while prioritising data protection. Fadzley, Alex Liew, Oliver HC Wee and Alex Loh at FOCS 2025 Welcome remarks by Alex Liew, Chairman of PIKOM Opening remarks by Alex Loh, Organising Chair of FOCS 2025 22 APRIL 2025 Interview Session with Datuk Ir Ahmad Asri bin Abdul Hamid The interview was conducted with MBAM PR staff Aida as the interviewer and Datuk Ir Ahmad Asri bin Abdul Hamid as the interviewee. During the session, Datuk Ir Ahmad Asri shared his insights and experiences while answering five questions on his professional journey and the future outlook of the construction industry. Industry & Practices IP 33 MASTER BUILDERS JOURNAL #1367 MAY 2025 Discussion— Current SME Business Challenges 18 APRIL 2025 Workshop—Strategic Cooperation Working Committee of the National Skills Development Council No. 1/2025 insights, emphasising the importance of engaging industry stakeholders in shaping national skills policies. The association looks forward to supporting future initiatives and strengthening its partnership with JPK and other collaborators under the MPKK framework. MBAM participated in the Workshop of the Strategic Cooperation Working Committee (JKK) of the National Skills Development Council (MPKK) No. 1/2025 at the Centre for Instructor and Advanced Skill Training (CIAST) in Shah Alam. Organised by the Department of Skills Development (Jabatan Pembangunan Kemahiran, JPK), the workshop reviewed the progress of short-term initiatives (Quick Wins), strengthened strategic cooperation among stakeholders, and aligned efforts with MPKK’s national skills development agenda for 2025. MBAM was represented by Datuk Astaman Abdul Aziz, Secretary-General and Chairman of the Human Resource Development Committee, alongside Executive Officer Nur Firzanah. Their participation highlighted MBAM’s commitment to advancing skills development and fostering public-private collaboration in the construction sector. The workshop provided a productive platform for aligning technical and vocational education and training strategies with industry needs. MBAM contributed valuable The SME Association of Malaysia organised a ‘Discussion Meeting on Current SME Business Challenges’ at Pavilion Embassy on 7 May 2025. The event gathered industry representatives to deliberate on challenges and opportunities currently faced by small and medium enterprises in the country. MBAM Deputy Secretary-General 2 Fong Tet Yoong attended the session. The CABE Malaysia International Conference 2025, themed “Constructive Collaboration,” was held at the Asian International Arbitration Centre (AIAC) in Kuala Lumpur. MBAM Deputy President Kenneth Liew attended the event, which brought together industry leaders, engineers, and arbitrators to share insights and foster collaboration in the construction and built environment sectors. Organised by the Chartered Association of Building Engineers (CABE) Malaysia Chapter, and supported by AIAC and the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB), the conference provided a platform for knowledge exchange and networking, promoting innovation and best practices across the industry. 25 APRIL 2025 CABE Malaysia International Conference 2025: Constructive Collaboration Industry & Practices IP 346 MAY 2025 Launch—SME Platinum Business Awards 2025 30 MAY 2025 AGM—ESG Association of Malaysia The SME Association of Malaysia launched the SME Platinum Business Awards 2025 at Sunway Resort Hotel. The event, attended by more than 500 guests including industry leaders and business representatives, marked the beginning of this year’s awards programme. The launch was officiated by YB Gobind Singh Deo, Minister of Digital Malaysia. Held under the theme ‘Leadership, Integration, Sustainability’, the awards recognise excellence among small and medium enterprises and emphasise their role in driving leadership, innovation, and long-term growth. MBAM Deputy Secretary- General 2 Foong Tet Yoong attended the launch, representing the Association’s backing for initiatives that celebrate SME achievements and contributions to the nation’s economic development. 13–14 MAY 2025 BuildXpo Borneo in Conjunction with ICW Borneo 2025 BuildXpo Borneo was successfully held in conjunction with the International Construction Week (ICW) Borneo 2025, serving as a premier trade showcase featuring over 50 exhibition booths. Attendees experienced the latest technologies, smart building systems, and sustainable construction materials. Master Builders Association Malaysia (MBAM) was among the key exhibitors, demonstrating strong industry support for both BuildXpo and ICW Borneo 2025. The exhibition highlighted Construction 4.0 innovations, from AI-integrated project management tools to next-generation green building solutions, underscoring the industry’s shift towards smarter and more sustainable practices. ICW Borneo 2025 was officially launched by The Honourable Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg, Premier of Sarawak, and attended by distinguished leaders including The Honourable Datuk Amar Haji Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, Deputy Premier of Sarawak and Second Minister for Natural Resources and Urban Development, Minister for International Trade, Industry and Investment; The Honourable Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi, Minister of Works, Malaysia; Yang Berbahagia Datuk Seri Azman bin Ibrahim, Secretary General, Ministry of Works, Malaysia; The Honourable Ir Haji Yusuf bin Haji Abd. Wahab, Chairman, CIDB Malaysia; and Madam Zainora Zainal, Chief Executive, CIDB Malaysia. The presence of these leaders highlighted ICW Borneo 2025 as a key platform for innovation and sustainable growth in the construction sector. The Premier and guests also visited the exhibitions, engaging with industry representatives and exploring the latest solutions on display. Opening ceremony of ICW Borneo 2025 Premier of Sarawak visiting the MBAM booth The ESG Association of Malaysia held its Annual General Meeting at Pavilion Embassy, Ampang. MBAM Deputy Secretary-General 2 Fong Tet Yoong attended the meeting as an observer. Congratulations were extended to Adjunct Practice Prof Cheah Kok Hoong on his re-election as President of the ESG Association of Malaysia, together with the council members for the 2025–2028 term. Industry & Practices IP 35 MASTER BUILDERS JOURNAL #136Urban Renewal Act (PlanMalaysia), and sustainability research developments (CREAM). Research institutions Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) and Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) shared insights on ongoing sustainability studies and innovations. A dedicated session allowed participants to identify major challenges and propose strategic solutions, with an open floor for additional issues and concerns. The meeting concluded with final remarks from Datuk Seri FD Iskandar, who urged stronger collaboration across stakeholders to drive sustainability forward in the real estate sector. The session ended with a vote of thanks and a networking lunch. 15 MAY 2025 GreenRE Advisory Panel (GREA) No. 5 The Master Builders Association Malaysia (MBAM) participated in the fifth GreenRE Advisory Panel (GREA) meeting on 15 May 2025 at One World Hotel, Petaling Jaya. The panel convened to review the progress of GreenRE initiatives, share policy updates from government agencies, and discuss collaborative strategies for promoting sustainability in Malaysia’s built environment sector. Representing MBAM, Deputy President and Chairman of the ESG Committee Kenneth Liew actively contributed to discussions on sustainability strategies and industry collaboration, highlighting MBAM’s commitment to ESG compliance and sustainable construction practices. The meeting began with registration and morning tea, followed by opening remarks from Datuk Seri FD Iskandar, Chairman of GreenRE. Executive Director Ir Ashwin Thurairajah presented the minutes of the previous meeting and provided an overview of ongoing GreenRE projects and recent developments, setting the context for strategic discussions. Representatives from various ministries and regulatory bodies presented briefings on key national policies, including the Climate Change Act (Ministry of Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change), updates to the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Act (Energy Commission), Green Data Centres and Industry & Practices IP 36 MASTER BUILDERS JOURNAL #136BuildtheExtraordinary DefythelimitsoftraditionalconstructionwithEasternPretechMalaysia. Ouradvancedprecastsolutionsempoweryoutobuildfaster,smarter, andgreener,turningboldvisionsintoreality.Fromsustainablematerials toprecisionengineering,wedeliverexceptionalqualityandefficiency foreveryproject.Whetherit'siconicinfrastructureormodernindustrial spaces,we’reheretohelpyoubuildtheextraordinary. +60389493333 ContactUs@ info@easternpretech.com; info@parmarine.com.myNext >