Latest news with #CIDB
TimesLIVE
13 hours ago
- Business
- TimesLIVE
Erwic Awards crown SA's top women in construction
The 2025 Empowerment and Recognition of Women in Construction (Erwic) Awards celebrated the resilience, innovation and leadership of women transforming South Africa's construction industry. The sixth annual event took place on Thursday evening at the Houghton Hotel in Johannesburg, drawing industry leaders, government officials and media representatives to honour trailblazers in the industry. Public works and infrastructure minister Dean Macpherson opened the ceremony by recognising the courage of women who have overcome stereotypes in boardrooms and on construction sites. "Our goal is to advocate and equip women to compete in the open market and win, because they are capable, qualified and competitive. I believe it is possible and I will champion this for the remainder of my term,' said Macpherson. He highlighted the multiplier effect of women-led projects, including creating employment, stimulating local suppliers and creating infrastructure that enables further growth. He also noted that over the past year the department's expanded public works programme created more than 54,000 jobs, a 4.6% increase. Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) CEO Bongani Dladla described the awards as a celebration of women who were not just participants in the sector but catalysts for change. "Whether women are starting and running their own companies or being appointed in senior positions in companies building the country, the Erwic Awards highlight the transformation and empowerment they bring to the built environment.' Dladla applauded the finalists for reimagining leadership in construction, from upgrading rural water schemes to delivering clean energy and safer construction sites. "Building like a woman means bringing resilience, innovation and empathy to every project. Through these efforts we have started to change the culture of the industry,' said Dladla. CIDB chairperson Khulile Nzo echoed the sentiment, emphasising transformation was a movement, not an event. "I am proud to see that the CIDB's programmes are creating real opportunities for emerging female contractors, supporting their growth and ensuring they have a seat at the table where decisions are made.' Nzo highlighted the impact of the flagship Build Programme, which has trained ,ore than 260 women contractors in construction management systems, with a further 200 set to follow next year. The 2025 Erwic Awards recognised outstanding achievements in 15 categories, honouring women at every level of the construction value chain: Project Delivery Excellence (Grade 1): Nondumiso Amanda Ceba — Sky City Project, Milano Estate Project Delivery Excellence (Grades 2-4): Lindiwe Mathenjwa — Maintenance and construction of toilet facilities, Eastern Cape Project Delivery Excellence (Grades 5-6): Makoma Julia Matlala — Construction of 36 walk-up units, Obed "Mthombeni' Nkosi Extension 2 Project Delivery Excellence (Grades 7+): Suzan Portia Phalane — Tlaseng Roads and Stormwater Drainage Rural Project of the Year: Makoma Julia Matlala — Same as above Interior Design & Build Project of the Year: Caroll Masevhe — Daveyton Mall Retail Academy Specialised Project of the Year: Sharon Isaacs — Fencing of Boland TVET College Mentoring Entity of the Year: Avenir Holdings Transformation Entity of the Year: Sue Phalane Trading and Projects Innovative Entity of the Year: Dingwedi Renewable Energy Professional Entity of the Year: Zimile Consulting Engineers Manufacturing Entity of the Year: Isubisiso Holdings Youth-owned Woman Construction Entity of the Year: Econocom 47 t/a Qualicon Construction Woman-owned Construction Entity of the Year: GD Projects and Construction Woman Mentor of the Year: Mampho Sotshongaye — Each One, Teach One initiative Woman with Disability Contractor of the Year: Taryn Beaton — Standard Bank Water Project Exceptional Woman in Construction of the Year: Mampho Sotshongaye — Construction of culverts and drains Chairman's Award: Allyson Lawless Lawless, retired structural engineer and industry stalwart, received the Chairman's Award recognising her lifetime contribution to industry development and mentorship. "The most satisfying part of my career has been to see young people develop; that's been my reward. This award is the cherry on top,' Lawless said.
Daily Express
6 days ago
- Business
- Daily Express
CIDB move on foreign workers
Published on: Sunday, August 10, 2025 Published on: Sun, Aug 10, 2025 Text Size: A building under construction: Foreigners now need recognised qualifications Kuala Lumpur: The Construction Industry Development Board Malaysia (CIDB) has emphasised that all employers are required to comply with the accreditation and compliance process for construction personnel as outlined under the Construction Industry Development Board Malaysia Act 1994 (Act 520). The enforcement of this requirement ensures that all foreign construction workers nationwide possess the necessary competency levels, adhere to workplace safety standards and hold recognised qualifications in Malaysia's construction sector. Advertisement This compliance is also aimed at enhancing the industry's professionalism and strengthening public confidence in the credibility of the construction sector in Malaysia. CIDB Malaysia has introduced the Foreign Construction Personnel Accreditation and Competency Programme as a strategic initiative managed by Construction Labour Exchange Centre Berhad (CLAB). The primary goal is to ensure that every foreign construction worker obtains the Construction Skills Competency Certificate (SKKP), as part of legal compliance under the existing regulations. Additionally, the certification recognises the skill levels and on-site experience of foreign workers, ultimately boosting professionalism and safety standards in the nation's construction industry. Advertisement The implementation of this programme aligns with the current situation, where the Government has imposed a temporary freeze on the intake of new foreign construction workers from source countries into Malaysia, effective May 31, 2024. This is a timely opportunity for the industry to carry out thorough identification and evaluation processes of the existing active foreign workforce, many of whom have been employed for more than two years since the freeze came into effect. This also allows the industry to ensure each worker meets the required competency and safety standards. Commenting on the priority of developing a competitive and professional construction sector, CIDB Chief Executive Zainora Zainal said the board takes non-compliance with skill accreditation requirements seriously. 'Failure to comply with these provisions is not just a legal breach, but can have major repercussions for the construction sector, including risks to project productivity, reduced work quality, lower safety levels at construction sites, and potential restrictions in the approval of foreign worker intake for future projects,' she said in a statement Wednesday. The accreditation process involves no hidden costs and directly benefits contractors, not only by ensuring legal compliance, but also by improving operational efficiency and effectiveness. Ultimately, investing in accreditation drives greater competitiveness and enhances a company's reputation in the increasingly demanding construction industry. This Accreditation Programme provides employers the opportunity to identify foreign construction workers for formal accreditation based on their practical experience at construction sites. The assessment process is structured and designed to: i. Align workers' skill levels with industry standards; ii. Uphold professionalism and enhance work efficiency; and iii. Promote a culture of high safety and work quality at construction sites. This approach is crucial to ensure the construction industry remains competitive and reputable. CLAB, as the official facilitator of the programme, is committed to carrying out structured and systematic assessments to ensure worker competencies are aligned with current industry needs and standards. This initiative not only reinforces professionalism but also promotes a stronger safety and quality culture at construction sites. Through this holistic approach, CIDB is confident that it can elevate the reputation and competitiveness of the national construction industry. Employers are encouraged to review the status of foreign construction workers under their companies and take proactive steps by promptly submitting accreditation applications via CLAB if there are still workers who have yet to receive official skills certification. For any enquiries regarding the accreditation application process or for more information, employers may contact CLAB at Construction Labour Exchange Centre Berhad (CLAB), Level 2, Annexe Block, Menara Milenium, 8 Jalan Damanlela, Bukit Damansara, 50490 Kuala Lumpur. Can also contact telephone no: 03-2095 9599/018-376 9599, or email: [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]). * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
The Citizen
07-08-2025
- Business
- The Citizen
Carletonville Hospital empowers local SMMEs through outreach programme
Local entrepreneurs received a major boost on August 1 when Carletonville Hospital hosted an outreach programme aimed at empowering Small, Micro, and Medium Enterprises (SMMEs) in the region. The initiative, led by hospital CEO Josias Naidoo, reflects his commitment to community upliftment through collaboration with key stakeholders. 'The goal is not just talk but real action that helps local businesses grow,' Naidoo said. Hospital spokesperson Matabo Letsoalo explained that the outreach aimed to provide SMMEs with practical tools and knowledge for business success. 'Representatives from the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) and Gauteng Treasury gave insights that even inspired dormant dreamers like me,' he joked. Topics covered: Compliance, finance and growth The event focused on helping small businesses understand crucial topics such as: SARS tax compliance Accessing business finance Enterprise development Opening business accounts Registering with CIDB and the Central Supplier Database (CSD) CIDB registration officer Palesa Thaele highlighted the opportunities within the construction industry, describing it as a sector that has created many millionaires. 'CIDB promotes ethics, inclusivity, and measurable economic impact,' she said. Pcard System: Fast payments for compliant suppliers Attendees were also introduced to the Pcard system, a Gauteng Treasury initiative that streamlines supplier selection and ensures payment within a week of service delivery. Pcard Administrator Fortunate Kunene, along with Millicent Motsumi and Phumzile Mqweba, outlined supplier requirements. To qualify, applicants must: Be South African Have B-BBEE Level 1 or 2 Be a black youth, woman, person with a disability, township resident, or military veteran Have valid CSD and SAP Vendor numbers Interested businesses should email: 📧 [email protected] Call for unity among local SMMEs Sibusiso Nhlapo, Chairperson of the Merafong Business Chamber 2, encouraged businesses to collaborate rather than compete. 'We don't want monopolies. We want 10 new companies to get business and uplift our city's economy. Learn the rules so you can benefit.' Lastly, David Lebotse, Supply Chain Manager at Carletonville Hospital, guided attendees through the hospital's procurement procedures, urging local suppliers to become compliant and ready to deliver.
The Citizen
09-07-2025
- Business
- The Citizen
Sanral faces scrutiny over tender award during contractor suspension
Roads agency defends R1.57bn contract despite one joint venture partner's CIDB registration being inactive at the time of award. Two R1.5bn contracts awarded to same JV a day apart – both 'should be suspended' says Outa. Picture: Moneyweb The South African National Roads Agency (Sanral) has allowed a Chinese joint venture (JV) to continue executing a R1.56 billion Eastern Cape road contract despite the registration of one of the JV partners to enable it to do public work being suspended at the time the tender award was made. The Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) registration of Base Major Construction (Pty) Ltd – part of the Base Major-China State Construction Engineering Corporation (CSCEC) JV – was suspended on 24 November 2024 and lifted on 9 January 2025. ALSO READ: Sanral taking its time to investigate R1.57bn tender award Two R1.57bn contracts, one legal challenge A contract valued at R1.57 billion for the upgrade of the R61 from All Saints to Baziya was awarded to the JV on 28 November 2024, according to Sanral's website. A day earlier – on 27 November 2024 – a contract worth R1.57 billion was awarded by Sanral to the same JV for the improvement of a section of the N1 from Masekwaspoort in Limpopo. However, following a legal challenge to the Masekwaspoort award by Hillary Construction – the second lowest bidder – Sanral agreed to suspend this contract award pending the completion of an investigation by the roads agency. This agreement was made an order of court on 14 February 2025, but Sanral has not yet completed the investigation. Hillary Construction launched an urgent high court application to interdict Sanral from allowing the JV to implement and execute the Masekwaspoort contract pending the finalisation of Part B of its application to review and set aside the contract award to the JV. It indicated it was seeking to set aside the award because Base Major's CIDB registration was suspended at the time the tender award was made. ALSO READ: Sanral suspends R1.57bn contract award pending an investigation Bidders can't become compliant 'later' Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (Outa) CEO Wayne Duvenage said on Tuesday that at the very least, both tender awards should have been subject to the same process. If the law is that at the time of awarding the tenders, the successful bidder has to be compliant 'you can't say they became compliant later and it stands'. 'Both of the tender awards should be suspended and if Sanral wants to start again, they can, otherwise they have to go to the second best bidder.' Sanral said on Friday it awarded the R61 tender to the Base Major Construction-CSCEC JV after undertaking its internal procurement processes. It said there is no legal challenge to the awarding of the R61 tender and work is progressing as per norm. However, in its response to Moneyweb's query, Sanral skirted around the issue of whether it is legal to award a tender to a contractor whose CIDB registration was not active at the time the award was made. Sanral said bids for the tender were evaluated by the Bid Evaluation Committee (BEC) in February 2024. 'At this stage, the legal obligation to ascertain Base Major Construction's CIDB status arose. … [its] status with CIDB at that time was active and, after confirming this to be the case as part of the procurement process as legally required at evaluation stage, Sanral proceeded with the evaluation,' it said, adding that the responsive bids for the tender were adjudicated by the Bid Adjudication Committee (BAC) on 7 November 2024. ALSO READ: Sanral: Concerns around multi-billion-rand contract awarded to highest bidder 'On this day, the BAC made a decision regarding the awarding of the tender to the JV. 'Base Major Construction's status with the CIDB was active at that time,' it said. 'In light of the relevant and applicable legal prescripts, such as the CIDB Act, Standards and Regulations relating to CIDB registration, the evaluation of the R61 tender to the JV was permissible, as was the award, and the procurement processes followed by Sanral were above board. 'Currently, Base Major Construction's status with the CIDB is active, and there is no impediment to the JV undertaking the construction work arising from the R61 tender. 'There is no reason for Sanral to suspend the R61 contract pending an investigation and, likewise, no need has arisen for Sanral to investigate the matter on account of an irregularity, of which there is none, and Sanral sees no reason to cancel, re-advertise and re-award the R61 tender,' it said. Unik JV and WBHO were the other bidders for the R61 contract but neither challenged the award. ALSO READ: Sanral faces scrutiny over board changes and possible tender award delays Tenders 'not linked' – Sanral Sanral stressed that the R61 and Maskwaspoort tenders are not linked. It said the tenders were advertised separately, with different scopes of work, and were evaluated and adjudicated independently. Sanral stated in its answering affidavit to Hillary Construction's urgent application regarding the Masekwaspoort tender that its board 'does not intend to take time to investigate the matter.' The court disagreed, and it is now almost 21 weeks since the agreement between Sanral and Hillary Construction was made an order of court. Sanral on Friday repeated what it had previously told Moneyweb about the time it was taking to complete the investigation. 'An investigation of this nature cannot, in the circumstances, be conducted overnight or rushed. This would not be in the interests of the litigating parties, being Sanral, the court and the public. There has been no delay in completing the investigation. All the relevant documents, as well as facts, are under consideration, and all relevant parties at Sanral are being consulted,' it said. 'The investigation will be completed timeously, after undergoing all the necessary processes, and Sanral will comply with the court order.' ALSO READ: Sanral provided misleading information about its 'R53bn in tender awards' Hidden agenda? Outa's Duvenage said 'clearly there is an agenda when that [delays] happens'. 'They are really giving the public and journalists a runaround. They know what is wrong. They are not forging ahead with this investigation and speeding up the process. 'Everything is laborious because it just allows a continuation of this maladministration,' he said. 'Sanral is not working in the best interests of this country, which is an indictment on the board. The Sanral board should step down.' This article was republished from Moneyweb. Read the original here.
Borneo Post
05-07-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Small engineering firms can leverage BIM for SMJ 2.0 success
Tan Introduction: The Changing Landscape of Infrastructure Development The construction and infrastructure industries in Malaysia are undergoing rapid transformation. Government initiatives like CIDB's Construction 4.0, the Public Works Department (JKR)'s BIM roadmap, and the Construction Industry Transformation Programme (CITP) have set the stage for digital adoption, with Building Information Modelling (BIM) as a central component. In Sabah, the SMJ 2.0 plan reinforces this momentum by calling for modernised infrastructure, integrated planning, and sustainable development — key outcomes that BIM is designed to support. To remain competitive and relevant, even small-scale engineering consultants must begin adopting digital tools that enhance efficiency, transparency, and coordination. 2. What is BIM? Building Information Modelling (BIM) is a process that involves creating and managing digital representations of physical and functional characteristics of infrastructure and building assets. BIM goes beyond traditional 2D design by enabling: • 3D visualisation of structural and system components • Integration of scheduling (4D) and cost estimation (5D) • Coordination across disciplines via a shared digital platform • Future integration with operation and maintenance (6D/7D) systems BIM serves as a central source of truth, where architects, engineers, contractors and clients can collaborate in real-time, minimising design conflicts, reducing delays, and improving decision-making from planning to post-construction. 3. Alignment with SMJ 2.0 The SMJ 2.0 blueprint outlines three core pillars: a. Sustainable Economic Development BIM improves project efficiency and cost control, leading to higher productivity, competitiveness, and better resource utilisation — key drivers for Sabah's economic growth. b. Human Capital Empowerment BIM encourages upskilling in digital engineering, drafting, modelling, and project management. This supports Sabah's goal of nurturing a future-ready workforce in civil, structural and M&E fields. c. Green and Resilient Infrastructure BIM facilitates sustainable design by enabling simulations, environmental analysis, and carbon footprint assessments — aligning with Sabah's goals for environmental protection, disaster resilience, and climate action. 4. Why BIM Matters for Small Engineering Firms in Sabah Although BIM is often associated with large firms and mega-projects, its benefits are even more profound for small engineering consultants seeking to enhance competitiveness and adapt to industry changes. a. Increased Efficiency and Fewer Errors BIM reduces rework and design conflicts through automated clash detection. Changes made in one part of the model are reflected instantly across related views and documents. This enhances speed, reduces costly mistakes, and improves team productivity — essential for firms with limited manpower. b. Enhanced Project Collaboration In BIM, all project stakeholders work within a shared model, enhancing coordination between civil, structural, mechanical, and architectural disciplines. This digital collaboration improves relationships between firms, subconsultants, and contractors. c. Better Client Communication Using 3D visualisation, small firms can communicate complex ideas more clearly to clients and stakeholders, helping them understand design intent, space usage and material options. This improves trust and enhances the firm's professionalism. d. Long-Term Cost Savings Despite the initial investment, BIM delivers measurable returns: • Accurate quantity take-offs • Efficient construction sequencing • Reduction in change orders • Fewer site disputes and delays For small consultants handling multiple roles in a project, these savings are significant. e. Future-Proofing Business Operations Government agencies and GLCs are increasingly mandating BIM compliance in tenders and public works. Firms that adopt BIM early are better positioned for such opportunities and can qualify for larger, more complex assignments under SMJ initiatives. 5. Key Challenges in BIM Adoption for Small Firms Despite the clear advantages, small firms in Sabah face notable obstacles: • High startup cost for BIM software and hardware • Lack of trained BIM professionals in rural districts • Limited local training access and support services • Cultural resistance to new workflows and processes • Infrequent demand for BIM in smaller-scale projects Addressing these barriers requires collaborative efforts between government, industry, and professional bodies. 6. Strategic Recommendations To support the sustainable adoption of BIM among small engineering consultant firms in Sabah, the following strategies are recommended: a. Government-Backed Incentives Sabah's State Economic Planning Unit and SMJ Secretariat can initiate: • Digitalisation grants for SMEs to acquire BIM tools • Tax rebates for BIM adoption costs • Priority to BIM-compliant firms in government project bidding This ensures equitable participation of local consultants in SMJ infrastructure works. b. Modular and Phased BIM Implementation Rather than full-scale BIM from the outset, firms can begin with: 1. 3D Modelling for basic building design 2. Integration with 4D project timelines 3. Adoption of 5D cost management tools 4. Gradual extension to facility management (6D) This incremental approach allows firms to build competence and confidence over time. c. Upskilling the Workforce Public and private training providers should develop BIM certification programs for technicians and engineers. Suggested actions include: • Integrating BIM into engineering curricula at local polytechnics and universities (e.g., UMS, Polytechnic Kota Kinabalu) • Partnering with software vendors like Autodesk, Bentley, or Graphisoft for accredited training • Offering evening or weekend classes for working professionals Such efforts build the human capital needed to sustain BIM adoption. 7. BIM and Sustainable Infrastructure in Sabah Sabah faces mounting pressure to modernise while safeguarding its natural heritage. BIM allows for: • Energy simulation in building design • Optimised material use and reduced construction waste • Lifecycle costing to ensure maintenance-friendly designs • Incorporation of flood resilience, slope safety, and green building principles For projects such as flood mitigation, rural road connectivity, and public building upgrades, BIM supports better long-term decision-making and aligns with SMJ 2.0's resilience agenda. 8. Conclusion: Embracing BIM as a Strategic Imperative The construction industry is evolving rapidly, and digital transformation is no longer a choice — it is a necessity. BIM represents a core component of this transformation and offers a critical pathway for small engineering consultant firms in Sabah to enhance competitiveness, deliver better projects, and participate in the broader SMJ 2.0 mission. Rather than being left behind, small firms should seize this opportunity. With the right support, collaborative frameworks, and mindset shift, they can thrive in a new era of digital infrastructure planning and sustainable development. As Sabah builds its future, BIM will be an essential tool — not only for structures of concrete and steel but for building a more resilient, inclusive, and future-ready engineering ecosystem.
