CIDB-BIFM collaboration to strengthen FM profession in Malaysia

by Brianna Crandall — June 24, 2015—Facilities managers in Malaysia may be encouraged to hear that the Construction Industry Development Board Malaysia (CIDB) and the British Institute of Facilities Management (BIFM) have agreed to collaborate and explore opportunities to develop, support and enrich the facilities management (FM) profession in that country.

A meeting was held between CIDB Chief Executive Dato’ Sri Ir Dr Judin Abdul Karim and Linda Hausmanis, Director of Education of BIFM, at the CIDB headquarters on June 22.

The areas of collaboration between CIDB and BIFM constitute the sharing of experiences and exchange of information and expertise relating to certification and development of FM companies. This will include advisory services and recommendations on an FM competent persons training scheme and organizing/facilitating events and programs for communication and education.

Judin commented, “Facilities management emphasizes the importance of managing the built environment and facilities to maximize its design purpose and functionality. However, looking at the current scenario in Malaysia, the majority of FM contractors are not trained to carry out the works awarded to them. As a result, buildings or infrastructure now built are not well managed and maintained, resulting in early deterioration.”

“Clients and stakeholders now demand a higher standard and quality service from FM contractors. The role of FM contractors is set to be more challenging and significant, and there is a need for the development of more sophisticated skills, knowledge and procedures to meet those expectations in tandem with the technological advancement and complexity of modern day built environment.”

With that in mind, an advisory committee consisting of clients and stakeholders has been set up to ensure the registration of FM companies with CIDB includes relevant skills and standards to enhance the services of FM contractors. Both Judin and Hausmanis expressed their pleasure at the two organizations’ collaboration and their expectation that the partnership will help to raise the expertise and profile of FM in Malaysia.