CIDB allocation for programmes to aid industry players welcome news — Sim

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KUCHING: Construction industry players in the state welcome the announcement of a RM70-million allocation by the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) for the implementation of strategic programmes to aid those affected by the Movement Control Order.

In saying this, Sarawak Housing and Real Estate Developers’ Association (Sheda) Kuching branch chairman Sim Kiang Chiok pointed out that the construction industry in Sarawak relies very much on traditional or conventional methods owing to the Industrial Building System (IBS) still not being cost effective due to low volume.

Sim Kiang Chiok

“These various programmes are highly welcomed in the construction and development industry as we are always in need of construction workers – from unskilled to highly skilled, management personnel, supervision to security guards,” he said when contacted yesterday.

He was commenting on the announcement Saturday by Senior Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, who said that apart from implementing various programmes, the RM70 million allocation was also to support the country’s policy in enhancing the use of technology in the industry while reducing dependence on foreign workers.

Sim suggested that it would be better if IBS components were to also be manufactured in the state instead of only in Peninsular Malaysia, given that it could help local contractors save cost and time in their work process.

As for the subsidies to purchase building information modelling software to be used by industry players, he said the initiative would help construction players remain up-to-date with the current and powerful tools in design and coordination, for a more efficient construction process.

“The Contractor4U app as announced by the minster is also a very good app for our registered and licensed contractors to be matched with homeowners for small construction works.

“Great for those looking for a small contractor to repair a leaking roof, extending that kitchen or (building) that extra room,” he added.

Sim also expressed hope that the app would be greater publicised so that the public especially in Sarawak would be more aware of it and thus utilise it to serve their needs.