Builders must also think ahead

The Star 29/08/2002

RECENTLY, the Government gave in to appeals by the construction sector to allow Indonesian labour to be employed in the industry again. 

The reasons given were that other nationals could not put up with the harsh conditions faced at our construction sites. 

I wonder what is so different between our construction sites and those in other countries in the region.  

Could it be that our sites are less safe, dirtier, have poor accommodation and facilities for workers? Should these be allowed to be used as an excuse to allow for the exploitation of labourers, no matter where they might be from? 

Are our contractors and developers so blinded by the need to maximise profits that they forget that basic necessities must be provided to workers so they can have a well-deserved rest after a hard day’s work?  

The Government has given ample warning on the changes in policies but most chose to ignore it as they believed in the old Malaysian adage: “Can settle one lah.’’ 

I am sorry to see that the Government has allowed itself to be armed-twisted into making concessions that I believe will only lead to things returning to square one if the contractors and developers have their way.  

I hope to be proven wrong and that the construction industry takes the lead in, for one, using only skilled and approved labour.  

While it is said that cost might increase, what they have conveniently failed to mention is that this would result in better quality and more efficient construction activities which, in the long run, will result in cost savings. 

A recent Construction Industry Development Board study has shown that when compared to countries like Japan and Singapore, where labour is more expensive, total construction costs in Malaysia are actually higher because our industry is less efficient and productive.  

I believe these countries do rely on foreign labour as well. Perhaps a benchmark needs to be done to ascertain how much labour is actually required in these countries and what they have done to improve productivity.  

I believe one will see that they make use of modern construction methods that are more efficient and productive. Developers and contractors will claim that these methods are more expensive and we lack the skills to implement them. 

This is so only because they refuse to see the bigger picture and want to stay in their “comfort zone,’’ unwilling to try new things. 

How then will this sector contribute to Vision 2020? 

Once upon a time Malaysia was one of the safest countries to live in. Things have now changed. 

My appeal is to all loyal Malaysian citizens to act for the betterment of our country and not be driven by profits alone. 

CONCERNED CITIZEN
(via e-mail)