|
Developers can reduce construction time significantly for certain projects from the current 18 to 24 months to just four months, said Works Minister Datuk Mohd Zin Mohamed. From The Star Online, 27 August 2008.
He said this could be done by using advanced construction techniques such as the Industrialised Building System (IBS) and by packaging projects into smaller phases, thereby reducing the project’s exposure to risk substantially.
Mohd Zin said the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) had drawn up a seven-year IBS roadmap starting in 2003.“By now, there should be sufficient IBS technology for our current needs.
CIDB has also spent time and money undertaking research in this area.“The products of these research and development ventures must now be used to help the construction industry overcome the problems it faces,” he said in his speech.His deputy, Datuk Yong Khoon Seng, read out his speech yesterday at the launch of the International Construction Week 2008 and the 24th Malaysian International Building Exposition 2008 (Malbex 2008) at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre here.
Mohd Zin also said the Government had taken numerous steps to mitigate the impact of higher fuel prices on the construction sector, including the provision of a price fluctuation clause for design and build contracts.
He said the fuel savings was also expected to enhance the budget for development projects.“Although these projects will now cost more, I hope the construction industry will be able to increase its productivity so that any additional cost incurred can be negated.“I trust this is our way of contributing to our society.
It is also the way a resilient and resolute industry such as ours manages the challenges that come our way.”Later at a press conference, CIDB chairman Tan Sri Jamilus Hussein said that he did not expect problems for the industry next year with all the measures taken by the government to ensure projects remain viable.
Malbex, which will be on until Friday, will feature some 130 participants representing 15 countries networking and participating in workshops, seminars and conferences. It targets more than 14,000 building professionals.
|
