Labour costs, lack of skilled workers blow

Daily Express

16-05-2025

Published on: Friday, May 16, 2025
Published on: Fri, May 16, 2025
By: Wu Vui Tek Text Size: Luk (right) receives the appointment letter from Cheng. Newly-elected Sabah Builders Association (SBA) President Paul Luk Tzun Kee said contractors across Sabah are facing mounting challenges from multiple issues. These include rising labour costs and shortage of skilled workers.
Advertisement He said the increasingly complex regulatory and permitting processes and limited infrastructure connectivity have further impacted the building industry. 'These issues pose real obstacles to progress, and it is imperative that we, as an association, voice our concerns effectively to the government and advocate for practical, long-term solutions,' said Luk, who will lead the association for the 2025–2027 term. He took over from Henry Tsen Nyuk Chen at the swearing-in ceremony witnessed by legal advisor Roland Cheng at the SBA premises. Luk urged more contractors to join SBA in strengthening its capacity to act with a stronger voice. 'Expanding our membership will allow us to pool resources, amplify our collective voice, and work towards our shared vision through the 1-Sabah Contractors initiative. 'Unity among industry players will be key to navigating current challenges and positioning ourselves for future opportunities,' he said. He said the Sabah Construction & Machinery Expo, which is their flagship event, will be continued. 'The event has provided a vital platform for stakeholders including government agencies like JKR and CIDB, as well as private sector bodies such as PAM, IEM, QSM, developers, and suppliers to network, collaborate, and explore innovation,' said Luk. He said more professional bodies and policymakers will be invited to the expo, which is a cornerstone for promoting local contractors and driving investment in the state's construction sector. Looking ahead, he said SBA's strategic focus will centre on two core pillars: professional upskilling and economic growth. 'We will prioritise training and capacity-building initiatives aimed at elevating the standards, professionalism, and capabilities of local contractors and workers. 'A strong, skilled workforce is vital to ensuring Sabah's construction industry is resilient and future-ready,' he said. Simultaneously, he said SBA will actively engage with government agencies, policymakers, and private stakeholders to advocate for inclusive development policies. 'Our aim is to ensure local builders are provided with equitable access to development opportunities that contribute meaningfully to Sabah's economic progress,' he said. He said SBA stands ready to serve as a platform for dialogue, partnership, and shared progress. 'We welcome the continued support of the State Government, media, and all relevant stakeholders as we strive to enhance the integrity, transparency, and competitiveness of the construction industry in Sabah,' he said. * Follow us on Instagram and join our Telegram and/or WhatsApp channel(s) for the latest news you don't want to miss. * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available.
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