< PreviousMBAM Annual Safety & Health Conference 2025 MBAM Council Members with DOSH Director General. From left: Nalla Sundran, Lim Chun Heng, Chan Tze Ming, Dato’ Sri Eric Kuan, Ir Zamzurin, Ir Hj. Hatta Bin Zakaria, Ts. Habsah, Alec Chong, Richard Wong, Howard Liew, Fong Tet Yoong Master Builders Association Malaysia (MBAM) organised the MBAM Annual Safety & Health Conference 2025 at Sunway Resort Hotel, Petaling Jaya. The theme, Empowering CDM: Safety by Design, Sustainability by Vision, attracted 330 participants. The Conference was supported by the Construction Industry Development Board Malaysia (CIDB) and Social Security Organisation (SOCSO), and endorsed by the National Council for Occupational Safety & Health (NCOSH) and Department of Occupational Safety & Health (DOSH). The Conference aimed to promote best practices in occupational safety and health, reduce workplace incidents, enhance productivity, and foster a strong safety culture. It provided construction personnel the opportunity to update their knowledge on government policies, exchange views, and share best practices. The event was officiated by Tuan Ir Mohd Hatta bin Zakaria, Director General of DOSH, and witnessed by Oliver HC Wee, President of MBAM, Alec Chong Sun Park, Chairman of MBAM Safety & Health Committee, Ahmad Farrin bin Mokhtar, Senior General Manager, CIDB, and Harun bin Bakar, Head of Prevention, Medical & Rehabilitation Division, SOCSO. This year’s Conference invited a number of experienced and knowledgeable speakers to share the latest compliances and best practices with the participants. Among the topics presented in the seminar were: Certificate of Standard Compliance in Scaffolding Nor Hamiza bt Zahar, Senior Manager at CIDB, highlighted the importance of standard compliance in scaffolding to ensure safety and quality on construction sites. She explained that Industry & Practices IP 38 MASTER BUILDERS JOURNAL #136the Certificate of Standard Compliance (CSC) verifies adherence to standards such as MS 1462 and CIS 22:2018, covering design, material quality, erection procedures, and inspections. She stressed the responsibility of contractors, certified scaffolders, and site safety supervisors in maintaining compliance. Nor Hamiza outlined common issues on sites, including the use of non-standard materials and untrained personnel, and shared CIDB’s plans to digitalise the CSC process for improved transparency and enforcement. She also emphasised that the CSC reflects a commitment to safety and protecting lives, not merely regulatory compliance, and encouraged continuous training and upskilling of scaffolders. ESG in Construction: Driving Sustainable Change in Projects and Beyond Rames Sivadasan, Head of Corporate Sustainability at SP Setia Berhad, outlined the growing importance of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles in construction. He highlighted practices such as energy-efficient design, sustainable material sourcing, waste reduction, and enhanced social responsibility through worker welfare and community engagement. Rames demonstrated how integrating ESG into corporate strategy strengthens governance, improves investor confidence, and drives long-term business value. He encouraged stakeholders to embrace ESG as an opportunity to future-proof projects, mitigate risks, and support national and global sustainability objectives. He also shared practical examples of SP Setia’s ESG initiatives, showing measurable impact on projects and local communities. High Reliability Teams for Safety – The Path to a Generative Safety Culture Shawal bin Mohamed, Managing Director (Asia Hub) of Fusion Safety Management Pty Ltd, emphasised the creation of high-reliability teams (HRTs) to embed a generative safety culture in construction. He explained that HRTs operate effectively in high-risk environments, minimising errors through strong communication, situational awareness, and commitment to safety. Shawal shared case studies and practical strategies, highlighting leadership, psychological safety, continuous learning, and employee empowerment as key factors. He stressed that cultivating a generative safety culture requires a mindset shift where safety is a shared value integrated into daily decision-making, rather than a set of compliance procedures. CDM Implementation in Malaysia: Challenges and Opportunities Mohd Fairuz bin Abd Rahman, Deputy Director of DOSH’s Construction Safety Division, provided an overview of CDM in Malaysia, focusing on integrating safety considerations early in project design. He discussed challenges such as low stakeholder awareness, limited competency, and resistance to change, alongside opportunities to improve efficiency, reduce accidents, and foster collaboration among designers, clients, and contractors. Fairuz emphasised the need for capacity building, legislative support, and clear allocation of responsibilities to ensure successful CDM adoption. He also highlighted case examples demonstrating how proactive CDM implementation improves project outcomes and safety compliance. Introduction to Data Centres Leong Yee Keong provided participants with an understanding of data centres and their growing importance in digital infrastructure. He explained critical components, including power supply, cooling systems, fire suppression, and redundancy, highlighting their role in ensuring operational continuity. Leong also discussed trends such as green data centres and edge computing, and stressed the need for skilled professionals and contractors to comply with technical, safety, and From left: Harun Bin Bakar, Head of Prevention Department, Prevention, Medical & Rehabilitation Division, SOCSO; Oliver HC Wee, President of MBAM; Yang Berusaha Ir. Hj. Mohd Hatta Bin Zakaria, Director General, Department of Occupational Safety and Health; Sr Ahmad Farrin Bin Mokhtar, Senior General Manager, CIDB; Alec Chong Sun Park, Chairman of MBAM Safety & Health Committee Industry & Practices IP Yang Berusaha Ir. Hj. Mohd Hatta Bin Zakaria, Director General of DOSH Malaysia 39 MASTER BUILDERS JOURNAL #136environmental requirements in data centre development. He concluded by highlighting Malaysia’s ambition to become a regional hub for data-driven industries. Vision Zero and The Seven Golden Rules Harun bin Bakar, Head of Prevention at SOCSO, introduced the Vision Zero approach, which prioritises proactive prevention, responsibility, and leadership at all workplace levels. He explained the Seven Golden Rules as practical steps to foster a strong safety culture, covering leadership, hazard identification, target setting, and competency development. Harun emphasised SOCSO’s role in advocacy, training, and employer engagement, encouraging construction stakeholders to adopt Vision Zero to improve productivity, sustainability, and human capital. He illustrated practical examples of organisations successfully implementing the Seven Golden Rules and achieving measurable reductions in workplace incidents. Digital Construction Management Cheng Yu-Qi Lynn, Product Manager at Hubble Pte. Ltd, showcased how digital technologies transform construction through integrated project management, Building Information Modelling (BIM), real-time analytics, and cloud platforms. She highlighted the benefits of increased productivity, quality assurance, cost control, and compliance monitoring. Cheng shared case studies demonstrating how digitalisation addresses fragmented workflows and enhances collaboration, urging industry players to embrace digital solutions for safer and more efficient projects. She also discussed challenges in adopting digital tools and strategies for overcoming them. ACT 446 – Requirement for Application and Renewal of TLQ & CLQ Nisbah Awatiff binti Md Noh, Senior Assistant Director, Department of Labour Peninsular Malaysia, discussed the requirements under Act 446 for Temporary Labour Quarters (TLQ) and Gulshan Valsdave the Winner of MBAM Site Personnel Awards Datuk Ir Ahmad ‘Asri Abdul Hamid the winner of MBAM Golden Helmet Awards Johson Lai, Keng Guan Skylift Sdn BhdHoward Liew, Makna Setia Sdn Bhd Industry & Practices IP 40 MASTER BUILDERS JOURNAL #136Centralised Labour Quarters (CLQ). She outlined employer responsibilities, application and renewal procedures, and common non-compliance issues. Nisbah highlighted digital platforms designed to improve efficiency, transparency, and worker welfare, emphasising safe and compliant accommodations for all employees. She also shared examples of recent improvements in compliance rates and ongoing government efforts to enhance living conditions for workers. Dengue is Closer Than You Think. What More Can We Do? Shaharudeen Kamaludeen, Consultant Physician, Takeda Pharmaceutical, highlighted the increasing threat of dengue in Malaysia and its public health impact. He discussed epidemiological trends, clinical implications, and the importance of early detection, community awareness, and integrated vector control strategies. Shaharudeen urged multi-sectoral collaboration and preventive measures, reminding participants that dengue risks are no longer seasonal or location-specific. He also shared data on recent dengue outbreaks and proactive measures undertaken in construction sites to reduce mosquito breeding. Fortifying Construction Sites Against Lethal Vectors Nik Khairol Reza bin Md Yazin, Ministry of Health Malaysia, emphasised the risk of vector-borne diseases at construction sites. He outlined strategies including regular inspections, environmental management, proactive prevention, and worker education. Nik Khairol stressed collaboration between stakeholders to create safe and health- conscious environments, highlighting the importance of ongoing training and awareness to minimise public health risks. He concluded with examples of successful vector control programmes implemented at active construction sites. MBAM Site Personnel Awards & MBAM Golden Helmet Award The MBAM Site Personnel Award recognised frontline personnel for outstanding performance in safety and leadership. This year, Gulshan Valsdave received the award for his exemplary role at Lendlease TRX projects, where he led EHS efforts and overall safety management. The MBAM Golden Helmet Award, the highest accolade for occupational safety, was presented to Datuk Ir Ahmad ‘Asri Abdul Hamid, Chairman CIDB IBS cum former CIDB Chief Executive, for his exceptional contributions to elevating safety standards in Malaysia. MBAM also thanked sponsors Keng Guan Skylift Sdn Bhd (Bronze), Makna Setia Sdn Bhd, and main sponsor Al- Ambia Sdn Bhd, as well as all exhibitors. MBAM Council Member and Deputy Safety & Health Committee Chairman, Howard Liew, concluded the event by expressing anticipation for continued knowledge-sharing at the 2026 Conference. Industry & Practices IP 41 MASTER BUILDERS JOURNAL #13627 MAY 2025 Workshop—Empowering Malaysian Enterprises Through AI-Driven Digital Transformation The Malaysia Productivity Corporation (MPC) hosted a workshop titled ‘Transform Your Business with AI: Exclusive Workshop for Digitalisation & Productivity Growth – Construction Industry’ at Connexion Conference & Event Centre, Kuala Lumpur. The workshop formed part of the ‘Business Go-AI Digital Programme’, a collaborative initiative between MPC and PointStar to accelerate digital adoption among Malaysian businesses through artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud technologies. The fully funded, three-week programme is limited to 12 companies per intake and combines remote and in-person sessions. It includes business ideation, automation workflow design, and implementation projects, supported by mentorship and technical guidance from Google Cloud-certified consultants. The focus is on real- world use cases and challenges to help organisations automate manual processes and begin their digital transformation journeys. This initiative is part of MPC’s ‘Digital Acceleration for Learning and Industry Adoption (DALIA)’ programme, with PointStar serving as the digital solutions consultant. By leveraging Google Cloud’s technologies, the programme aims to improve productivity and competitiveness among Malaysian enterprises. While open to multiple sectors, the emphasis on process automation and digital tools is especially relevant to the construction industry, where firms can benefit from streamlined project management, better resource allocation, and enhanced collaboration. Such adoption aligns with ongoing efforts to boost efficiency and reduce operational costs. The launch of the Business Go-AI Digital Programme marks a significant step toward fostering a digitally empowered business environment in Malaysia, enabling organisations to embrace transformation and contribute to national economic growth. The 63 rd Building Industry Presidents’ Council (BIPC) meeting was held at the Malaysian Institute of Planners (MIP) office. MBAM Executive Director Loh Mei Ling was in attendance. Established in 1997, BIPC comprises the presidents of professional organisations the building and construction industry: the Association of Consulting Engineers Malaysia (ACEM), the Institution of Engineers Malaysia (IEM), the Master Builders Association Malaysia (MBAM), the Malaysian Institute of Planners (MIP), Pertubuhan Akitek Malaysia (PAM), the Real Estate and Housing Developers’ Association Malaysia (REHDA), and the Royal Institution of Surveyors Malaysia (RISM). 7 JUNE 2025 63 rd BIPC Meeting 13 JUNE 2025 MIIP 15 th AGM & Fellowship The Malaysian Interior Industry Partners Association (MIIP) held its 15 th Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Fellowship at Four Points by Sheraton. MBAM was represented by Deputy Secretary-General 2 Fong Tet Yoong, and General Manager Lenny Lim. Industry & Practices IP 42 MASTER BUILDERS JOURNAL #136Industry & Practices IP The Government-Industry TVET Coordination Body (GITC) officially launched its Council of Experts (COEXP) on 29 May 2025 at the Putrajaya International Convention Centre. This collaborative platform, established to bridge the gap between industry needs and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions in Malaysia, aims to strengthen the TVET ecosystem and align education with industry demands. The ceremony was officiated by YBhg Dato’ Dr Haji Megat Sany bin Megat Ahmad Supian, Deputy Secretary-General (Policy), Ministry of Higher Education, who also delivered the officiating remarks. Also present were YBhg Tan Sri Dato’ Soh Thian Lai, GITC Chairman, and YBhg Dato’ J. Palaniappan, GITC Council of Experts Chairman, Datuk Astaman Abdul Aziz, MBAM Secretary-General and GITC Board Member, and MBAM President Oliver HC Wee. Dato’ Megat Sany’s officiating remarks highlighted that GITC was given approval for establishing the Council of Experts (CoExp) as it was recognised as a crucial step towards institutionalising real-time industry input into TVET programs. GITC is a non-profit private sector entity funded by the government, comprising 16 representatives from the government, industries, and trade unions. It is tasked with gathering information, providing insights for policy considerations, and championing a dynamic and responsive TVET ecosystem that equips graduates with the skills and knowledge demanded by industries. 29 MAY 2025 Launching Ceremony of GITC Council of Experts (COEXP) 19–20 JUNE 2025 27 th International Surveyors’ Congress The 27 th International Surveyors’ Congress, organised by the Royal Institution of Surveyors Malaysia (RISM), was held at the Sime Darby Convention Centre. MBAM President Oliver HC Wee attended the opening ceremony, which was officiated by YB Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi, Minister of Works. Themed “Innovate to Elevate: Surveyors Reinventing the Profession and Industry,” the congress focused on how innovation is transforming the surveying profession. Discussions centred on embracing cutting-edge technologies, such as artificial intelligence and automation, to enhance efficiency and sustainability in surveying practices. Topics included smart energy management, AI-driven carbon-zero building design, and the integration of geomatics and land surveying for a sustainable future. 44 MASTER BUILDERS JOURNAL #13610–12 JUNE 2025 16 th International Infrastructure Investment and Construction Forum & Exhibition models, but bespoke amendments often shifted risk to contractors. Prior to the Construction Industry Payment and Adjudication Act (CIPAA) 2012, conditional payment clauses like “pay when paid” were common, while court litigation and arbitration remained slow and unsatisfactory dispute resolution methods. At the Forum for Chairmen of International Associations, Oliver HC Wee highlighted how organisations can leverage their strengths to promote international infrastructure connectivity, using Malaysia’s construction achievements as a case study. He emphasised projects such as the ECRL and Tun Razak Exchange as vital drivers of national progress. Regional integration opportunities were also discussed, including the Johor–Singapore RTS, the adoption of advanced technologies such as AI, and inclusive growth through improved rural–urban connectivity. MBAM President Oliver HC Wee and Honorary Advisor Datuk Matthew Tee represented MBAM at the 16 th International Infrastructure Investment and Construction Forum & Exhibition, co-hosted by the Macao Commerce and Investment Promotion Institute (IPIM) and the China International Contractors Association (CHINCA). During the event, MBAM representatives met with CHINCA Vice Chairwoman Madam Yu Xiaohong and Vice Chairman Xin Xiuming to discuss regional collaboration opportunities. On 11 June, Oliver HC Wee presented on Malaysia’s current and future infrastructure landscape, highlighting major projects including the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL), Penang LRT, the growing data centre sector, the Upper Padas hydroelectric dam in Sarawak, and the Rapid Transit System (RTS) linking Johor Bahru and Singapore. On 12 June, he spoke at the 2 nd International Infrastructure Project Dispute Resolution and Legal Service Forum, sharing MBAM’s six-decade journey in advancing Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) within Malaysia’s construction industry. The Malaysian construction sector has historically been prone to disputes due to misaligned expectations arising from contract terms favouring the party awarding the contract. Standard form contracts such as PAM/ISM and PWD were adapted from English Industry & Practices IP 46 MASTER BUILDERS JOURNAL #136 MBAM shared insights from Malaysia’s experience with the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), presenting strategies for enhanced cooperation. The presentation underlined the importance of joint ventures balancing local priorities with global expertise, exemplified by the ECRL. Aligned standards and joint certifications were emphasised to ensure quality and safety, highlighting the Construction Industry Development Board’s regulatory role. Innovative financing models, including green bonds and pooled funding through institutions such as the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, were presented as tools to attract foreign investment. Knowledge and technology transfer, through joint labs and training initiatives, were identified as essential for strengthening local capabilities. Sustainability was positioned as a core pillar, promoting cross-border eco-friendly practices in line with the Green Development Coalition. During the Roundtable for Chairmen of International Associations, MBAM met CHINCA Chairman Fang Qiuchen and President of the International Contractors Association of Korea (ICAK), Han Man-Hee. ICAK, with a similar mission to CHINCA for Korean contractors operating overseas, expressed interest in collaborating with MBAM. Meetings were also held with representatives from Liugong to explore potential partnerships and industry cooperation. The 16 th International Infrastructure Investment and Construction Forum & Exhibition provided MBAM with a strategic platform to showcase Malaysia’s construction expertise, strengthen regional ties, and advance discussions on sustainable, technology-driven, and collaborative infrastructure development. 17 JUNE 2025 Seminar on International Good Practices on Resolving Technical Construction Disputes with Certainty – No More He Said She Said The Seminar on International Good Practices on Resolving Technical Construction Disputes with Certainty – No More He Said She Said was held at Dorsett Subang. The event was attended by MBAM President Oliver HC Wee and MBAM General Manager Lenny Lim. The seminar provided a platform for stakeholders in Malaysia’s construction sector to engage with World Bank experts in identifying challenges and developing effective mechanisms to resolve technical disputes arising from construction regulations. It aimed to promote clarity, fairness, and efficiency in dispute resolution, moving away from subjective interpretations and ensuring greater certainty in project outcomes. Industry & Practices IP 47 MASTER BUILDERS JOURNAL #136Next >