Latest news with #SabahConstruction&MachineryExpo
Borneo Post
16-05-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Sabah builders' new chief vows to tackle challenges
Luk (eighth from left) with SBA's new line up for 2025-2027 term. KOTA KINABALU (May 16): Newly appointed president of the Sabah Builders Association (SBA), Paul Luk, has pledged to lead the state's construction industry through one of its most challenging and transformative periods, calling for unity, professionalism and stronger government engagement. 'I am deeply honored to be entrusted with the role of president of the Sabah Builders Association. This appointment comes at a critical time for our state, as Sabah moves forward in an era of infrastructure expansion, economic recovery and digital transformation,' he said. Luk, who takes the helm amid growing complexities within the industry, highlighted pressing issues faced by contractors statewide. These include escalating labor costs, a shortage of skilled workers, convoluted regulatory processes, and limited infrastructure connectivity challenges that 'pose real obstacles to progress', he stressed. 'It is imperative that we, as an association, voice our concerns effectively to the government and advocate for practical, long-term solutions,' he added. To that end, SBA is actively encouraging more contractors across Sabah to join the association. According to Luk, expanding SBA's membership base will be central to its '1-Sabah Contractors' initiative, an effort to unite industry players, pool resources, and amplify their collective voice. 'Unity among industry players will be key to navigating current challenges and positioning ourselves for future opportunities,' he said. Luk also reaffirmed SBA's commitment to key industry events such as the Sabah Construction & Machinery Expo, calling it a 'vital platform for stakeholders to network, collaborate and explore innovation.' The expo has brought together government bodies like JKR and CIDB, and professional organizations such as PAM, IEM and QSM, alongside developers and suppliers. 'We invite greater participation from professional bodies and policymakers, as the expo continues to be a cornerstone for promoting local contractors and driving investment in the state's construction sector,' he said. Looking ahead, Luk outlined SBA's strategic focus on two main pillars: professional upskilling and economic growth. The association will prioritize training and capacity-building programs to raise the standards, professionalism, and capabilities of local contractors. 'A strong, skilled workforce is vital to ensuring Sabah's construction industry is resilient and future-ready,' he stressed. At the same time, SBA will engage with government agencies, policymakers and private stakeholders to push for inclusive development policies that ensure equitable access to opportunities for local builders. 'The Sabah Builders Association 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. 'Together, let us build a united, resilient and progressive Sabah,' he concluded.
Daily Express
16-05-2025
- Business
- Daily Express
Labour costs, lack of skilled workers blow
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. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
