PETALING JAYA: Small contractors have called on joint management bodies (JMBs) and building managements to be more flexible so that house renovations can be carried out.
Bumiputra Contractors Association of Malaysia secretary-general Ahmed Zaharani Yusof Omar stated that while contractors from G1 to G4 grades are grateful that authorities are finally opening up these sectors, he hoped for more cooperation and understanding from the respective building managers.
“Our members have been advised to ensure all of their workers are vaccinated, and all standard operating procedures are followed while carrying out work on site. Our members are also told that they must follow SOP when they deliver their services to home owners.
“However, we would like to ask that home owners themselves make it easier for us to carry out renovations and construction by settling such matters with the management, especially joint management bodies in condos and apartments,” said Ahmed Zaharani.
He was responding to the recent relaxation of rules by the National Security Council, through the Construction Industry Development Board, for G1, G2, G3 and G4 contractors.
Contractors in these categories are allowed to resume work on house construction and renovations by complying with a list of SOP.
Ahmed Zaharani also said JMBs must understand that while there were rules set by these bodies, there was also work which could be carried out with the permission of the house owner like urgent plumbing or electrical work.
He also said management bodies in high-rise residential buildings should be more flexible when it comes to lift repairs, and as such, make it easier for contractors.
“If the authorities such as CIDB that are particular about our adherence to rules, have allowed us to carry out house construction and renovations, why do you not allow us to carry out these works provided we follow the SOP and have the right permits?
“We understand they are being stricter than the authorities as the number of Covid-19 cases are increasing in certain areas. We are small-time contractors who have had our livelihoods disrupted so we will ensure all precautions are taken.
“We would also like to call for better cooperation between the Works Ministry, Housing and Local Government Ministry, and local councils, to make it easier for us to carry out our work,” said Ahmed Zaharani.
