JPBS sets up new office, training hub to drive engineering excellence

KUCHING (Dec 17): Deputy Prime Minister Dato Sri Fadillah Yusof expressed his support for the Federation of Sarawak Bumiputera Consulting Engineers (GJPBS) and its activities at the opening of the federation’s new office and training centre at the Riveredge Commercial Centre, Jalan Merdeka here.

Fadillah said he supported the federation and its planned activities during the event.

“I support all the activities and planning by the GJPBS,” he made these remarks at the opening ceremony.

Meanwhile, GJPBS chairman Irwan Zulkarnain Hasbie said the newly opened office and training centre would serve as a key focal point for the association’s members, experts, partners and clients, while also functioning as a venue for professional development and capacity building.

“Today marks the opening of our new office and training centre, which will serve as a hub for engagement, collaboration and training for our members and industry stakeholders,” he told reporters after the ceremony.

Irwan said the facility would enable GJPBS to organise professional engagement sessions and conduct training programmes focused on technical knowledge and industry-relevant skills.

“As an example, we held an artificial intelligence application workshop on Tuesday, attended by more than 30 members. This is part of our commitment to establish a centre of excellence for our members, as previously discussed with the Sarawak Premier,” he said.

Irwan added that the presence of the Deputy Prime Minister at the opening ceremony served as strong encouragement for the federation’s ongoing efforts.

Irwan also disclosed that a contribution of RM50,000 had been channelled to assist in setting up the new office.

On plans to develop a future centre of excellence, Irwan said the proposed facility would be located in Samarahan, near other professional organisations such as the Institution of Engineers Malaysia (IEM).

“This is a positive beginning for the association, but we still need to work hard to raise funds to build the centre of excellence,” he said.

According to Irwan, approval for the land was granted in 2023, with several processes still to be completed, including submissions to relevant authorities, preparation of drawings and the tendering process.

“These procedures will take time.

“The submission process alone can take between six months to more than a year,” he said, adding that the construction is optimistically expected to begin within the next two to three years.

Commenting on government’s support, Irwan said this could come in various forms, including financial assistance as well as support through coordination with relevant agencies.

Fadillah Yusof Federation of Sarawak Bumiputera Consulting Engineers lead training