JOHOR BAHRU, June 13 – The Building Information Modelling Research Group (BIMRG) from the Faculty of Built Environment and Surveying (FABU), Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), in collaboration with 3D Tech Parametric Sdn. Bhd., successfully organised the BIMRG Tech Tweak CPD Event 2025 on 13th June 2025 with the theme “Advances in Technology & Sustainability for Quantity Surveyors & Construction Technologists.” Held virtually via WebEx, the event brought together a diverse group of industry professionals, government agencies and academic participants, underlining the increasing importance of digital transformation and sustainable practices in the built environment sector. Notably, the event was recognised by the Board of Quantity Surveyors Malaysia (BQSM), with 2 CPD points awarded to all registered BQSM members who participated. The event commenced with a welcoming speech by Dr. Shamsulhadi Bandi, moderator of the event, who introduced the agenda and briefed participants on webinar procedures, followed by an overview of the BIMRG’s objectives and initiatives in promoting research, knowledge-sharing, and professional development within the construction industry.
The event featured three distinguished speakers who presented on cutting-edge topics relevant to both practitioners and researchers. The first speaker, Dr. Ahmad Faiz Azizi Ahmad Fauzi from BIMRG, UTM presented “AI in Construction: A Game Changer for Quantity Surveyors and Construction Technologists.” His session explored how artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the construction industry, particularly in the domains of quantity surveying and construction technology. Dr. Ahmad Faiz introduced a range of innovative AI tools, practical applications, and emerging trends that are redefining industry standards. The presentation highlighted how AI enhances cost estimation, risk management, and project planning, while significantly improving accuracy, efficiency, and strategic decision-making which ultimately reshaping professional roles and improving construction outcomes. A Q&A session followed, where participants sought further input on real-world applications and the integration of AI in current industry practices.
The event proceeded with the second speaker, Kamisah Mohd Ghazali, Head of Resilient Environment at Iskandar Regional Development Authority (IRDA), who delivered a talk on “Introduction to Comprehensive Assessment System for Built Environment Efficiency (CASBEE): Accelerating Green Building Appreciation in Iskandar Malaysia.” She shared insights into the fundamentals of CASBEE and its strategic role in advancing sustainable development within the construction industry. The presentation introduced CASBEE’s assessment tools to practitioners, emphasising their benefits, implementation strategies, and impact. With a particular focus on Iskandar Malaysia’s rapid urbanisation, Kamisah underscored how CASBEE can serve as a key mechanism for promoting the appreciation and adoption of green building practices across the region. The session concluded with enquiries from participants on assessment metrics and explore opportunities for local adoption.
The last speaker, Fatin Huwaina Abdullah, BIM Application Engineer at 3D Tech Parametric Sdn. Bhd., presented “Autodesk Takeoff: A Collaborative Digital Platform for Construction Cost Estimation and Quantity Surveying.” Her session examined how Autodesk Takeoff is revolutionising construction cost estimation and quantity surveying through its robust digital platform. Attendees were introduced to the platform’s key features, including real-time data integration, cloud collaboration, and workflow optimisation. The session provided practical insights into how Autodesk Takeoff enhances accuracy and collaboration during preconstruction planning—making it an ideal solution for quantity surveyors, estimators, and project managers seeking smarter and faster delivery outcomes. Participants responded with keen interest during the Q&A session, asking about implementation challenges, software integration, and team adoption strategies.
The BIMRG Tech Tweak CPD Event 2025 exemplifies FABU and UTM’s commitment to bridging academic research with industry needs, while supporting the continuous professional development of construction professionals. The event reaffirmed the vital role of academia-industry partnerships in advancing technological innovation and sustainable practices within the built environment.
Prepared by: Dr Siti Nurhuda Abd Wahid