Green is the way forward, says MBAM's new president

KUALA LUMPUR: The Master Builders Association Malaysia (MBAM) has elected Kwan Foh Kwai of Sunway Construction Sdn Bhd as its president for the 2011/12 term on Friday, July 9.

MBAM held its election of office bearers following its annual general meeting on June 27. He replaces Datuk Ng Kee Leen of Gamuda Bhd, who is now the Immediate Past President.

In Kwan's message to members at the association’s 56th annual dinner recently, he said ‘going green’ is the way forward in the design and construction of buildings and infrastructure.

“Going green would enable MBAM’s member to explore and adopt processes to increase efficiency in the usage of resources such as energy, water and other materials that are used throughout the construction, operation and maintenances phases.

“This will lead to reduction in waste, pollution and environmental degradation in order to protect our eco-system and conserve all non-renewable natural resources,” he said.

He added that MBAM and its members are committed to encourage the building industry to embrace responsible measures, which include water and energy efficiency, sustainable site planning and management, indoor environmental quality and material resources in our development.

He also said that the movement towards green would involve policymakers, professionals and the public to transform the building industry into one that respects our environment by embracing green considerations. He pointed out that the government, through its Green Building initiatives, would give incentives in the form of “Green Cost” tax exemptions.

“Going Green has many long-term cost savings, which include savings from energy, operational and maintenance costs in green buildings, and so benefiting building owners and occupants,” Kwan said, adding that going green could also generate better investment returns.