By The Borneo Post on August 10, 2025
KOTA KINABALU (Aug 10): The limited participation of local consulting firms in major government projects is a poignant concern for engineering associations in Sabah.
Immediate Past Chairman of Association of Consulting Engineers Malaysia (ACEM) Sabah Branch, Datuk Ir.
Chin Shu Ying, said many local consulting firms are sidelined or relegated to minor roles under larger external consortiums despite their years of experience, deep understanding of local conditions and terrain.
He warned of the consequences of this marginalization — from hampering the growth of local expertise to reducing job opportunities for young engineers. His call for a more inclusive and equitable policy framework is a challenge not just for the industry but for policymakers.
“We are not asking for handouts. We are asking for a level playing field,” he asserted in his speech at the
2025 biennial dinner of the ACEM Sabah Branch at Hilton Hotel on Saturday.
“Engineering is not only about steel and concrete. It is about people. It is about trust. It is about building a future that is sustainable, safe, and inclusive. And that future cannot be built by one hand alone. It takes a collective effort,” he emphasized.
This spirit of unity resonates deeply in a post-pandemic era where collaboration is no longer optional but essential. Whether constructing physical infrastructure or developing digital frameworks, the collective strength of consulting engineers, government bodies, contractors, and communities is the foundation for Sabah’s progress, he pointed out.
Chin also highlighted ongoing issues such as fee undercutting and non-compliance with professional standards, which threaten the integrity and quality of engineering consultancy work.
ACEM’s role, he stressed, is vital in advocating for ethical practices, fair pricing, and respect for the engineering profession as a nation-building pillar.
Despite these challenges, Chin took pride in milestones achieved during his leadership, including the successful upgrading of the ACEM Sabah Branch office into a modern hub, a landmark technical tour to Wuhan, China with ACEM Sarawak, and the meaningful 30th-anniversary celebration in 2023.
Over 400 of Sabah’s brightest minds in engineering and related industries attended the dinner.
The guest of honour was Deputy Chief Minister III cum Works Minister Datuk Ir. Shahelmey bin Yahya.
In his address, Shahelmey emphasized the vital role engineers play in Sabah’s development and nation-building.
He echoed the theme’s sentiment, highlighting that “In engineering, as in governance, nothing is built in isolation.” Bridges, roads, water supply systems, and digital infrastructure require seamless collaboration among government, private sector, consultants, contractors, and communities.
Recognizing Sabah’s unique geographical and developmental challenges, Shahelmey called upon engineers to craft innovative, context-sensitive solutions and lead efforts in infrastructure connectivity, urban and rural development, and renewable energy adoption.
He pledged the State Government’s commitment to work closely with professional bodies such as ACEM on policy formulation, capacity building, and transparent procurement processes that enable local firms to thrive.
His call to action included mentoring young engineers to ensure a strong pipeline of ethical and competent professionals.
Shahelmey concluded on an optimistic note, underscoring the necessity of unity and professionalism to build a Sabah that is strong, inclusive, and progressive.
Representing the national body, ACEM President Ir. Anuar Mohd Aris delivered an insightful and forward-looking speech that celebrated ACEM Sabah’s past achievements and looked toward the future challenges and opportunities facing the profession.
He began by acknowledging the presence of Shahelmey, and praising his exemplary leadership bridging engineering expertise with public service.
“His leadership, commitment, and continued contribution to the engineering consultancy sector have had a far-reaching impact,” Anuar noted.
Congratulating ACEM Sabah on 32 years of steadfast dedication, he said, “Your unwavering commitment has not only enhanced the engineering profession in Sabah, but it has also contributed greatly to the broader development of Malaysia’s infrastructure and economy.”
Anuar highlighted how ACEM Sabah’s theme “Together We Build” reflects a collective journey marked by unity, collaboration, and a shared vision of progress and excellence. Beyond physical infrastructure, the branch has nurtured a professional community grounded in professionalism, integrity and continuous learning.
He urged members to embrace the inevitable changes ushered by technological advancement and sustainability imperatives. Engineers must deliver projects that are cost-effective, environmentally friendly, and resilient to climate change. He emphasized the growing role of digital tools, automation, and artificial intelligence in the sector, balanced against rising operational costs and workforce upskilling needs.
Anuar’s message was clear: the industry must be resilient, adaptable, and proactive. ACEM members hold a unique position to drive innovation, sustainability, and quality in engineering consultancy.
He closed by urging the community to continue building not just infrastructure, but a better world, and congratulated ACEM Sabah on its ongoing success and future prospects.
In his inaugural speech as the newly appointed chairman of ACEM Sabah Branch, Ir. Benny Song laid out a comprehensive vision centered around the four strategic pillars of empowering local capacity, elevating professional standards, strengthening partnerships, and empowering the next generation through education and outreach.
He reiterated the significance of the theme “Together We Build,” urging members to recognize their roles as nation-builders actively contributing to Sabah’s vibrant development trajectory spanning transportation, energy, water resources, and urban growth.
Benny stressed the importance of championing “Sabah-first” policies to ensure fair participation of local consulting firms in major projects, with appropriate fees, supervision roles, and knowledge transfer mechanisms. His call to uphold ethical practices and quality assurance aims to reinforce public trust and professional integrity.
He further emphasized the need for active engagement with government agencies and industry stakeholders to shape infrastructure policies that prioritize innovative, sustainable, and cost-effective solutions. Mentorship and youth development remain critical components, with close collaboration planned with universities, technical institutes, and STEM initiatives to nurture the future generation of engineering leaders.
Summarizing his vision, Benny said, “Sabah’s development requires more than just bricks and mortar; it requires vision, expertise, and teamwork.” He reaffirmed ACEM Sabah’s commitment to supporting the State Government’s infrastructure initiatives and thanked clients and partners for their ongoing trust.
The new ACEM Sabah committee members with Shahelmey (seated centre) and Benny (third from left).
A highlight of the evening was the recognition of four distinguished long-serving committee members whose dedication and contributions have significantly shaped ACEM Sabah’s journey.
• Ir. Ts. Tan KJ, JP
Celebrated for his extensive service and unwavering commitment to the engineering profession, Ir. Tan has been instrumental in fostering collaboration and advancing standards in Sabah’s engineering consultancy landscape.
• Ir. Tan Koh Yon
Renowned for his technical expertise and leadership, Ir. Tan’s dedication has strengthened the branch’s capacity-building efforts and professional development initiatives.
• Ir. Benny Song Perng Yeu
Prior to his appointment as chairman, Ir. Benny’s energetic involvement and strategic vision have helped guide ACEM Sabah through transformative periods of growth and modernization.
• Ir. Chia Khuin Fung
Known for his steadfast advocacy and technical contributions, Ir. Chia has played a vital role in bridging local consulting expertise with broader industry developments.
Each received a special award recognizing their longevity and impact, underscoring the value of sustained commitment in nurturing Sabah’s engineering community.
During the dinner, the new leadership team was formally introduced, embodying a diverse blend of expertise across civil, mechanical, electrical, environmental, and digital engineering disciplines. The committee members are:
Chairman – Ir. Benny Song Perng Yeu (C), Deputy Chairman – Ir. Wah Kheng Haw (C), Hon. Secretary – Datuk Ir. Ts. Gs. Br. Pmr. Dr. Amarjit Singh (C), Hon. Treasurer – Ir. Lo Chau Tai @ Kenny Lo, Immediate Past Chairman – Datuk Ir. Chin Shu Ying, Executive Committee Members – Ir. Tan Koh Yon, Ir. Mohd. Arzahri bin Abd Rahman (C), Ir. Hiew Vun Heng, Ir. Silvia Voon Ching Yee, Ir. Leong Kah Hau, James.
Source: https://tinyurl.com/46uutead