(From left) Qube Integrated Malaysia Sendirian Berhad executive chairman Richard Teo, Malaysia Works Ministry secretary-general Datuk Seri Hasnol Zam Zam Ahmad, Malaysia Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi, CIDB Malaysia chief executive Datuk Sr Mohd Zaid Zakaria and CIDB Malaysia deputy chief executive I Razuki Ibrahim at the ICW buildXpo 2024 soft launch. — Photos by RAJA FAISAL HISHAN/The Star
BuildXpo 2024 aims to host over 10,000 industry professionals globally
KUALA LUMPUR: With the global construction industry expected to be back to full strength this year, local industry players will have the chance to expand their reach and explore more potential opportunities at this year’s BuildXpo 2024.
Held in conjunction with International Construction Week (ICW) 2024, the exhibition will see over 500 exhibitors showcase their latest products, services and innovations while also spotlighting modern technologies, sustainable practices and creative solutions across nearly 10,000sq m of exhibition space.
Hosted by the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) under the Works Ministry, over 10,000 industry professionals globally are expected to attend the exhibition, which will run from Oct 22-24 at Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (Mitec).
The week will also feature a series of seminars, conferences, competitions and guided site visits to construction marvels around the city, each designed to inspire and educate.
Mohd Zaid invites industry players to showcase their latest innovations in digital construction, smart technologies and sustainable solutions.
Showcasing innovative ideas
CIDB chief executive officer Datuk Mohd Zaid Zakaria said this year’s exhibition theme, “Envisioning the Future of Construction”, promises to be a visionary platform to showcase pioneering ideas and innovations that will lead the industry going forward.
“We invite all industry players to join us as exhibitors, showcasing your latest innovations in digital construction, smart technologies and sustainable solutions.
“We also encourage you to share your insights and expertise as speakers at our various conferences and seminars.
“Additionally, there will be numerous opportunities to collaborate with us as strategic partners, helping to organise special events that will enrich our programme and elevate the overall attendee experience,” he said in a welcoming speech at the exhibition’s soft launch on Tuesday, May 14.
Nanta said BuildXpo 2024 “will provide a strategic platform for high-level discussions between industry stakeholders and business leaders”.
Impetus for greatness
Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi said the exhibition would become a catalyst for more companies to gain exposure and succeed internationally, to further boost the industry’s overall growth and sustainability.
He also emphasised the importance of the exhibition as a platform for shared growth as he highlighted one of the exhibition’s new events in the Construction Outlook Summit.
“This will provide a strategic platform for high-level discussions between industry stakeholders and business leaders.
“Not only will this provide them essential insights into the future prospects of construction both domestically and globally but also prepare us as a nation to navigate upcoming challenges and opportunities,” he said in his officiating speech at the soft launch.
He also announced the new Construction Dispute Resolution Conference, which will provide a platform for professionals across the sector to develop connections with each other.
“This event will increase our understanding of construction disputes by exploring their causes, impacts and resolutions.
“It’s an opportunity for professionals across the sector – including contractors, architects, engineers, project managers and legal experts – to forge connections that enhance collaboration and dispute prevention,” he added.
Nanta also highlighted the exhibition’s role in developing talented youth for the future of the industry through career opportunities and technological developments.
In this regard, he noted the exhibition’s importance amid recent growing challenges in both the economy and society.
Engaging new perspectives
“Challenges like an ageing workforce and a need for modernisation amid rapid technological advancements are becoming ever present in the industry.
“Today’s youth, as digital natives, are inherently adept with technology and their involvement is crucial for bringing about innovation and modernising our industry.
“Their fresh perspectives and proficiency in new technologies can revolutionise construction methods, sustainability practices and safety standards.
“It will therefore highlight not just technological advancements and career opportunities, but also the significant societal contributions of our industry,” he said.
This year’s exhibition is also projected to bring in RM1bil in sales, double of that achieved by the exhibition in 2023, which saw projected sales total around RM494.3mil.
“This is a result of the construction industry expected to fully recover and reopen from the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic,” Nanta added.
Managing the exhibition will be Qube Integrated Malaysia, whose executive chairperson Richard Teo also shared his enthusiasm for ICW 2024.
“Our focus is on elevating this year’s event by integrating the summit, leveraging advanced technologies and creating a dynamic platform for knowledge sharing and business networking.
“Collaborations with industry giants such as Gamuda, MRCB, Petronas and YTL Cement have been instrumental in our achievements to this regard so far.
“Additionally, by extending BuildXpo’s reach to emerging markets like Zimbabwe and Zambia, we aim to open doors for Malaysian construction firms and contribute to the economic growth of these regions,” he said.
This year’s edition of the exhibition will be supported by the Public Works Department and other associations, which include the Association of Consulting Engineers Malaysia, the Chartered Institute of Building and the Malaysian Institute of Architects.
