Bian: Digital procurement for govt contracts ready in 2020

KUALA LUMPUR: The e-Works system, a digitalised procurement system for government contracts, is expected to be implemented in 2020, says Works Minister Baru Bian (pic).

Baru said that the system, mirrored after the Finance Ministry’s ePerolehan, would ensure “greater transparency” in the procurement process for projects.

“The aim of this is to be transparent and to avoid compromises or interference (from the outside) within the procurement process.

“It appears to be the best option we have now, but it needs to be fine-tuned before it is implemented,” he told reporters after giving an opening speech at the 44th International Federation of Asian and Western Pacific Contractors’ Associations (IFAWPCA) Convention 2018 at Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre here yesterday.

Baru added the e-Works system was in line with the government’s commitment to good governance.

Other ministries, he said, will also adopt the system once it has been implemented in the Works Ministry.

Meanwhile, he said the theme of the convention, which was Strategic Alliance with Innovation and Human Capital, was apt as this was a time where local construction players can learn about new innovations and share their knowledge with those from other countries.

“This synergy can bring about economic prosperity and social advancement, and will provide a win-win situation for cross-border collaborations,” he said.

Master Builders Association Malaysia (MBAM) president Foo Chek Lee said the convention helped promote the local construction industry to the world.

“All (the players in) the industry are now under one roof (at the convention). This is important for us as we plan to expand our construction industry abroad.

MBAM is the organiser of the 44th IFAWPCA Convention 2018.