Malaysia must embrace digital technologies such as Building Information Modelling and AI to reduce its reliance on low-skilled foreign workers and remain competitive on the international stage, the country’s deputy prime minister has said
Datuk Seri Fadillah Yosof told the 70th anniversary dinner of the Master Builders Association Malaysia (MBAM) that digital construction will help to bridge the productivity gap.
“The construction sector is a key driver of the nation’s economic growth. Therefore, I highly welcome the ongoing efforts of the Master Builders Association Malaysia. As an organisation, MBAM has not only witnessed the evolution of the construction industry but also acted as a catalyst for changes that have driven the Malaysian construction industry forward,” he said.
“I also urge industry players to widely implement digital technology such as AI, Building Information Modelling, and Environmental, Social and Governance practices in project management, in line with current developments.”
Embracing digital construction in the era of Industry 4.0
Fadillah, who is also Malaysia’s minister of energy transition and water transformation, praised MBAM’s active participation in various technical committees and its work on policy formulation and program implementation.
“I am aware that many of the industry’s best practices have been initiated by the industry players themselves with the objective of enhancing the performance of the construction industry in Malaysia,” he said.
“It should be noted that the dynamics of the construction industry will continue to evolve, and the challenges ahead will undoubtedly be greater. However, I hope that MBAM and all its members will not hesitate to embrace change in the era of Industry 4.0 and continue to look forward.”
Government support for digital construction
Fadillah acknowledged that construction relies on government support from the likes of the Ministry of Works, the Construction Industry Development Board, the Ministry of Finance and other stakeholders to elevate the industry.
“In line with MBAM members’ efforts to continue advancing in the construction industry, the government will also provide advice, expertise and support to industry players in addressing current issues raised to speed up economic growth,” he said.
