Putrajaya: The use of Building Information Modelling (BIM) technology in the Pan Borneo Highway Sarawak project has saved the government RM157 million, according to Ministry of Works (KKR) Secretary-General Datuk Seri Azman Ibrahim.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the implementation of BIM since 2016 has identified and resolved over 3,000 errors in design drawings, preventing potential project delays of up to 10 years. Datuk Seri Azman Ibrahim emphasized the ministry's commitment to transforming the national construction industry through BIM, aiming for national standards that reflect excellence. He cited the Pan Borneo Highway Sarawak project as an example of BIM's effectiveness in resolving design clashes and achieving significant cost savings.
Azman made these remarks following the launch of Malaysia BIM Day 2026: Putrajaya Digital Built, officiated by Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi and Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Federal Territories) Hannah Yeoh. He noted that BIM had reduced the plan approval process from approximately 14 days to just 48 hours, a milestone achieved without artificial intelligence (AI), although plans are in place to integrate AI in the future to further expedite processes.
Furthermore, Azman announced plans to expand BIM Laboratory facilities across the country to support contractors and consultants in adopting the technology while alleviating the cost burden of acquiring BIM software. This year, RM83.3 million has been allocated to establish BIM Laboratories nationwide, including in Sabah and Sarawak, with the goal of having 16 BIM Centres of Excellence. This initiative is part of KKR's strategy to accelerate technology adoption and enhance Malaysia's competitiveness in urban planning and construction.
BIM involves creating and managing information-rich three-dimensional (3D) models throughout a project's lifecycle, enabling architects, engineers, and construction professionals to plan, design, construct, and manage buildings and infrastructure with greater efficiency.