The construction industry is playing an important role in the successful implementation of the 10th Malaysia Plan and the Economic Transformation Programme (ETP) with many economic entry point projects to be launched under the 12 National Key Economic Areas (NKEAS). Several key areas of growth highlighted under Sarawak Corridor of Renewable Energy (SCORE) include Tanjung Manis, Mukah, Samalaju, Baram and Tunoh have been selected as the five New Growth Nodes, with the aim of focusing investment efforts within the corridor. The selection of these New Growth Nodes is a key element of the corridor's strategic development plan. The Mukah Node will be developed into a Smart City, and will serve as the nerve centre for the corridor. The Tanjung Manis Node will be developed into an Industrial Port City and Halal Hub. The Samalaju Node will become the new Heavy Industry Centre, whereas Baram and Tunoh will focus on tourism and resource based industries. The synergy among these five New Growth Nodes will drive the development and growth of the Central Region and Sarawak as a whole.

Under the Factories and Machinery (Building Operations and Works of Engineering Construction)(Safety) Regulations 1986; for any building operation and works of engineering construction projects:

Main Contractors are required to employ competent SSS for safety supervision within the work site

Sub-contractors must employ competent Contractor’s Safety Supervisor at the place of work to keep each project safe, yet to be cost effective and efficient.

The Department of Safety & Health (DOSH) is enforcing strictly the above-mentioned regulations from January 2012. In order to fulfil the requirements and at the same time to resolve the high demand and serious shortage of Site Safety & Health Supervisors (SSS) in the construction industry, with the endorsement of DOSH, MBAM is taking a pro-active step in helping the Industry to overcome the above issue by conducting a SSS training course tailored for the industry. This SSS Course is accredited and recognised by DOSH. After successfully conducting SSS trainings in Kuala Lumpur and Sabah, MBAM is bringing the programme to Sarawak and is collaborating with Sarawak Building and Civil Engineering Contractors Association. This 6-days continuously training will be held from 15th March 2012 (Thursday) – 20th March 2012 (Tuesday) at Kuching, Sarawak.

Certificate of Attendance will be given upon successful completion of the course. Furthermore, Certificate of Competency from MBAM will also be given upon successfully obtaining a pass in the Competency Examination. In addition, the successful candidates shall be recognised and accepted for Registration with DOSH as competent SSS. (Yellow Book upon successfully registered). The Qualification required includes Minimum LCE/SRP/PMR or equivalent; with minimum 2 years of site working experience; and certification by employer and entrance test or interview. Alternatively, a Diploma in any engineering related field for those without site working experience can also be considered.

For those who are interested, they can visit MBAM official website: www.mbam.org.my or call 03-79848636 or they may contact Mr James Ha (mobile: 019-8888468) or Madam Goh (mobile: 019-8872553) from Sarawak Building and Civil Engineering Contractors Association for more information.

Kwan Foh Kwai JMN
President