21-05-2025
Call for greater access in projects for non-Bumiputera contractors
Ting (centre) highlights a point during the association's recent AGM.
SIBU (May 21): The Sarawak Sibu Division Building and Civil Engineering Contractors' Association is urging both federal and state governments to address the challenges faced by non-Bumiputera small and medium-sized construction contractors by opening up more government projects for their participation.
Speaking at the association's annual general meeting (AGM) here recently, its chairman Ting Teck Kai appealed for more access to construction projects, particularly small to medium-sized ones that are free from ethnic-based allocations.
'Most projects valued below RM20 million are currently awarded predominantly to Bumiputera companies, leaving non-Bumiputera contractors with only a minor share,' he added.
Ting said non-Bumiputera contractors aspire to be principal contractors for small and medium-scale projects, claiming that despite their significant contributions to national development, they are often 'relegated' to subcontracting roles.
'In many cases, although government officers are aware that non-Bumiputera contractors are the ones executing the projects, they are not formally recognised as the principal project holders.
'This lack of recognition limits their visibility and standing within the industry,' he explained.
Ting added that during project meetings, non-Bumiputera contractors are not recognised as the main contractors, even though they are managing and executing the construction.
'This lack of formal recognition places them in an awkward and disadvantageous position,' he said.
He highlighted that government contracts are the backbone of the construction industry, yet existing policies remain unfriendly and inequitable towards non-Bumiputera firms.
'All we want is the chance to survive. We hope for fair access to small and medium-scale projects.'
As such, he urged the government to allocate more projects that allow open and fair competition as well as free from racial distinctions, as the association is predominantly composed of such contractors.
Also present at the meeting was the association's advisor Siek King Kwong.
