Journal of Design and Built Environment

Implementation of Building Information Modelling (BIM) Education for Construction Management Students: The Case of Malaysia

2025-04-09T09:23:07+08:00

The construction industry is continuously evolving, and the adoption of Building Information Modelling (BIM) has become crucial for efficient project management. BIM can be defined as a collaborative process among various construction players by providing information in digital format throughout the project’s lifecycle. Its potential in the industry, such as clash detection between elements will improve project efficiency and operational processes. However, there is a shortage of BIM skills in the Malaysian industry, resulting in low implementation compared to other developed countries. As a result of this lack of skills and high demand for BIM professionals, institutions should integrate BIM education effectively. Although several institutions in Malaysia have incorporated BIM into their academic programs, and some are still working to do so, it still needs improvement. Therefore, there is a need to understand its challenges and strategies for implementing it in the academic system. This study employed quantitative research as the primary method of collecting data with questionnaires were distributed online to 86 active Construction Management (CM) students enrolled in the BIM course in UiTM. Only 54 students responded to the survey (62.79% response rate). The findings reveal that the inadequate facilities to implement BIM properly (technology aspect) is the most challenging factor when learning BIM. Besides, it was found that the best way for institutions to implement BIM is to work with BIM professionals. Thus, it is hoped that the outcome of this research will help institutions and educators identify areas of improvement for enhancing the quality of BIM learning.

Wi-Fi Poles in Johor Bahru for Wearable Sensors in Construction Sites and Digital Cities

2025-04-09T09:43:35+08:00

This study explores the potential integration of wearable sensors with existing Wi-Fi poles in Johor Bahru to enhance safety monitoring on construction sites and contribute to the development of digital cities. In this study, the assessment of the capabilities and limitations of the existing Wi-Fi infrastructure, interpretation of survey data on the effectiveness of Wi-Fi, identification of challenges in monitoring construction sites, and development of a heat map for wearable sensor usage were undertaken. Focused on Hutan Bandar, Johor Bahru, with a specific emphasis on two Wi-Fi poles, the research employs a methodology that includes literature review, surveys, statistical data analysis, and visualization of findings. The significance of this study lies in its potential to improve safety practices, reduce accidents, and contribute to the development of smarter and safer construction sites and digital cities in Johor Bahru. The evaluation of the Wi-Fi infrastructure in Hutan Bandar, Kulai, Johor, highlights the need for improvement to accommodate wearable sensors and support digital city initiatives. In conclusion, the construction industry in Johor underutilizes wearable sensors, presenting an opportunity for enhancement. The integration of IoT sensors not only enhances safety but also has the potential to boost productivity.

An Integrated Model for Efficient Defect Management and Improved Service Delivery: A Preliminary Study at Malaysian Polytechnics

2025-04-09T10:00:51+08:00

This study examines the factors that contribute to inefficiency in managing academic building defects and their impact on maintenance costs and the quality of service delivery. Through in-depth interviews with five heads of maintenance units from five ageing polytechnics in Malaysia, this study has identified vital themes such as staff awareness and understanding, allocation and resource constraints, management and implementation of repairs, recurring damage issues, and communication and collaboration. The findings show that the maintenance of gutters, water supply systems, internal sanitation, and various other types of maintenance is the highest scope of work performed. The Integrated Building Defect Management Model (IBDMM) is proposed as a comprehensive framework to address these challenges. This model emphasises the importance of provision support, staff training, and improved communication between all parties involved. This study contributes to facility management area by providing in-depth insight into practical strategies for managing building defects in academic institutions, particularly at polytechnics. By applying this model, the management of building defects can be improved, further providing a better and safer learning environment for the occupants, especially at ageing educational institutions.

Sustainable Construction in Rural Areas: The Advantages of Integrated Building Systems for Affordable Housing

2025-04-09T10:29:10+08:00

The Industrialised Building System (IBS) offers a transformative approach to sustainable construction in rural areas. However, traditional construction methods have an inefficiency and environmental impact, which are particularly challenging in rural settings. Therefore, this research aims to identify the potential benefits of IBS in rural areas. This study employed a qualitative survey design to gather detailed information on implementing IBS. The research used purposive sampling to select 40 respondents from government organizations, consulting companies, and contractors (class G6 and above) involved in IBS projects in Kelantan. Data were collected using a structured interview protocol and analyzed using thematic analysis with ATLAST—ti software. The results indicate that IBS significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions, improves material efficiency, shortens construction time, and lowers project costs. The empirical evidence demonstrates that IBS construction methods lead to lower greenhouse gas emissions, higher quality and uniformity in construction components, and reduced on-site waste through controlled manufacturing processes. These advantages are crucial for sustainable construction in rural areas, where challenges such as limited access to skilled labor and materials often exist. Implementing IBS can thus provide more affordable, efficient, and environmentally friendly housing solutions in rural communities. IBS addresses the inefficiencies of traditional construction and promotes sustainable practices, particularly in rural areas where these benefits are critically needed. The research contributes valuable insights to construction practitioners, policymakers, and industry stakeholders, encouraging the adoption of IBS to enhance resource efficiency and environmental sustainability. This study also adds to the body of knowledge on sustainable construction by empirically validating the benefits of IBS, providing a robust framework for future research and practical applications in the construction industry.

Conceptual Framework of Landscape Physical Quality Assessment: A Review of Challenges and Paradigms for the Malaysian Construction Industry

2025-04-09T10:45:46+08:00

Workmanship quality is becoming an increasingly important issue in construction project management, sparking tons of new debates. In a more profound aspect, practitioners consider landscape quality to be oversimplified in its quality assessment. Various rating tools were introduced, but critics argued that a high-quality landscape had already been achieved. Despite the fact that existing rating tools indicated that the themes and elements accessed already had a landscape component, only a few minor aspects were evaluated. Given the diversity of the landscape as well as the political and management systems, experts in the field are unable to identify a single type of tool that is universally applicable to quantifying the overall quality of a landscape construction project. The main question which remains to be answered is, “what constitutes the landscape physical quality assessment?”. This article aims to provide a concise review of the process theory for measuring criteria related to the assessment of landscape physical quality to address the research question. The review is based on the theoretical background and concepts of the relevant study taken from various established database references on “landscape quality”, “landscape assessment”, and “landscape evaluation”. Multilayered thematic analysis was carried out to identify the landscape physical quality assessment indicator. In accordance with the metadata findings, landscape quality assessment should have been evaluated using five key categories: 1) perceived character and significant values; 2) perception, preferences, and satisfaction; 3) landscape visual and aesthetic; 4) environmental condition, sensitivity, and trend; and 5) construction, functional, and performance quality. This study implies that the landscape physical quality assessment was generic, regardless of landscape project type, which could then efficiently steer industry players in conducting standard quality checks and preparing big data for landscape construction projects.

Moment-Rotation Characteristics Prediction Models for Unique Boltless Steel Connections Using Machine Learning

2025-04-09T10:55:49+08:00

Beam-to-column connections (BCCs) in pallet rack structures are used for storing goods in industrial buildings, warehouses, and super-stores. BCCs must be easily demountable and reassembled to accommodate changing requirements over time. Common experimental tests for evaluating connection behaviour are expensive and time-consuming, so this study developed three prediction models using different algorithms to assess the moment-rotation behaviour of different connection types. The models were based on Support Vector Machine (SVM), Deep Learning (DL), and Decision Tree (DT) algorithms and trained using 70:30 split ratios, with further testing of 60:40 and 80:20 ratios. The models were evaluated using root mean square error, mean absolute error, and relative coefficient. The modified 60:40 DT Least Square model outperformed the other models in predicting moment-rotation behaviour, with consistent performance across all split ratios. The SVM Radial model performed poorly due to classification errors, and the DL Rectifier model made inconclusive predictions due to small sample size. The study highlights the accuracy and feasibility of various algorithm techniques in predicting BCC behaviour, enabling cost-effective and efficient testing of connections in pallet rack structures.

Quantifying Subcontractor Risk Impact on Construction Project Performance

2025-04-09T11:12:19+08:00

Delays in the gas unitisation project in Bojonegoro were caused by subcontractors' inability to carry out the job, resulting in the project not meeting its performance goals. This study examines the effects of subcontractor-related communication risks, resource, financial, technical, and management on the execution of construction projects. The quantitative method with survey data was gathered from 39 personnel interacting with subcontractors on an Indonesian gas project to quantify risk influences on performance quality. Structural equation modelling analysis revealed that the R-square value for the monitoring and control variable is 0.582; it may be inferred that technical risk, risk associated with finances, manpower risk, managerial risk, and interpersonal interaction risk account for almost 60% of the variance in management and control. The result also reveals the direct adverse effects of technical and resource risks. Financial and managerial risks exhibited indirect effects through monitoring mechanisms. However, risk impacts were insensitive to motivational factors of subcontractor reputation, experience and competence. By highlighting salient risk drivers of project outcomes, results offer guidance for contractors in subcontractor selection and oversight.

A Preliminary Assessment of Facade Integrity and Aesthetic Significance in Early Shophouses of Muar

2025-04-09T11:23:26+08:00

Muar, a town in Johor, Malaysia, is nestled in the historical terrain near to Malacca and proudly exhibits a remarkable collection of early shophouses that symbolize its rich tradition and architectural sophistication. Recognizing the historical importance of these structures, this study explores the current situation of Muar's early shophouses, with the goal of laying the groundwork for their preservation. The study, conducted as a pilot study in Muar's major business district, focusses on the facade of 72 selected shophouses, taking into account structural integrity, aesthetic value and maintenance requirements. Visual assessments found widespread structural concerns such as wall fractures, damaged roof tiles and corroded metal fittings, posing a serious threat to the structures' stability and needing prompt intervention. Substantially, the analysis revealed significant differences in the exterior aesthetic value of these shophouses. Some kept the original design characteristics, while others showed significant changes throughout time. The aforementioned results highlight the pressing need to tackle structural weaknesses and stress the significance of routine maintenance in order to prevent additional degradation. This study is an essential first step toward comprehending the complex problems Muar's early shophouses had to deal with. The issues that have been identified demand quick response, highlighting the necessity of an all-encompassing preservation approach. In addition to providing insightful information about the current state of Muar's heritage, the study lays the groundwork for further investigation and proactive steps to preserve and advance the distinctive historical legacy ingrained in the town's early shophouses.

Barriers in The Integration of Digital Twins (DTs) And Building Information Modelling (BIM) For Predictive Maintenance in Facility Management

2025-04-09T13:35:42+08:00

The construction sector is progressively employing sophisticated technologies to optimize operational efficiency and the durability of constructed environments. Digital Twins (DTs) generate exact digital duplicates of tangible objects, whereas Building Information Modelling (BIM) offers encompassing digital depictions of a building's physical and functional attributes. Integrating these technologies enables a proactive approach to maintenance and management through the constant monitoring, data analysis, and predictive insights they allow. This study examines the obstacles to using BIM and DTs to help predictive maintenance in facility management. A qualitative method utilizing focus group discussions was conducted to examine the use of DTs and BIM in this field. Using purposive sampling, 12 industry practitioners with experience utilizing and applying BIM and digital twins were chosen. The results have identified the problems and obstacles in integrating BIM and digital twins, offering industry practitioners insightful information and opening the door for more developments in construction technology.

Evaluation Thermal Comfort based on PMV and PPD using CBE Tool for Three Non-Air-Conditioned Pre School: A Case Study in Melaka Tengah, Malaysia District Area

2025-04-09T13:47:08+08:00

Thermal comfort plays an important role in educational environments, which has a profound effect on the physical and mental health of children. The objective of this study is to assess the thermal comfort levels, specifically the Predicted Mean Vote (PMV) and Predicted Percentage of Dissatisfied (PPD), in three non-air-conditioned preschools (Pre-school A, B and C) situated in the residential region of Melaka Tengah, Malaysia. The ASHRAE Standard 55 (2023) were used for evaluation of PMV and PPD based on Fangers Model. Data on indoor temperature, relative humidity, and air velocity were collected in three preschools from 08:00 to 14:00 in accordance with the Industry Code of Practice of Indoor Air Quality by the Department of Occupational Safety and Health 2010 (ICOP, DOSH Malaysia). The PMV and PPD were calculated using the CBE tool version 2.5.6. The calculations were based on a metabolic rate of 1.0 met for the activity of "Seated, relaxed" and a clothing insulation level of 0.61 clo (trousers and long-sleeve t-shirt). The findings suggest that the air temperatures in all three preschools are constantly above the suggested comfort range of 27°C to 35.5°C. Overall, the environmental conditions found in these preschools indicate a notable level of thermal discomfort based on PPD, which is above 95% PPD for all the preschools. The high PMV and PPD highlight the urgent requirement for better ventilation, adjustments in building design, and improved environmental controls to guarantee a healthier and more comfortable interior environment for preschool children and staff.