Modular precast system to be studied to speed up building construction projects — deputy minister

ISKANDAR PUTERI (June 16): The Works Ministry has recommended that the Public Works Department (JKR) scrutinise and conduct an immediate study on the use of the modular precast system (MPS) to expedite the implementation of building construction projects nationwide.

Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan (pictured) said the construction method is seen to be more efficient compared to the industrialised building system (IBS) because building components are manufactured in modular form before being assembled on site, similar to Lego blocks.

He added that the use of the MPS shorten construction periods, while ensuring stronger and higher-quality building structures.

“The JKR must scrutinise and conduct an immediate study on the MPS method for building construction. This system is more refined than the IBS, enabling buildings to be completed within a shorter time frame.

“Buildings such as houses, schools and halls can be built using this method so that the public can enjoy the facilities provided without having to wait too long,” he said after a working visit to the Johor JKR office here on Monday.

Ahmad, who is also the Pontian member of Parliament, said that there is a limited number of MPS suppliers currently compared with Singapore, which adopted the technology earlier.

He said that among the ministries actively using the MPS is the Ministry of Education, especially for the construction of additional classrooms in schools with a high student density.

“Through the MPS, the construction of one to six classrooms can be completed within about three to four months.

“This proves that the technology can accelerate project implementation without compromising construction quality,” he said.

Meanwhile, Ahmad said that the Johor JKR is currently handling 38 construction projects worth about RM350 million, funded through state government allocations.

Of the total, he said four projects involve building construction worth RM158.2 million, 10 road development projects worth RM136.8 million and 24 maintenance projects worth RM53.6 million.

..........

Read about emerging trends, data-backed insights, growing subsectors, and expert commentaries in EdgeProp print. Subscribe now for your free copy!