CIDB Sarawak uses IBS, local culture for its convention centre

KUCHING: A new center piece is in town now with the opening of the swanky CIDB Convention Centre Sarawak (CCCS) on Friday morning  (April 27). The building was launched by Minister of Works Dato’ Sri Fadillah Yusof.

The CCCS is the first phase of the CIDB Sarawak Complex built at a cost of RM30 million. It is also the second of CIDB’s convention centres after the CIDB Convention Centre in Jalan Cheras, Kuala Lumpur.

The first phase of CIDB Sarawak Complex includes the CCCS, hostel as well as sports and recreation facilities.

It is part of the industry’s strategy to elevate the state’s workforce quality through technical education and vocational training (TVET) for Sarawak youths. This is also in line with the government’s goal in promoting and facilitating the construction industry’s transformation in the state.

The CCCS can accommodate up to 800 people, and was built with Industrialised Building System (IBS), a modern construction method whereby building components are manufactured in a controlled environment, then installed into construction works.

In fact, the CCCS, which is located within the 60-acre CIDB Sarawak complex achieved an IBS score of 78.00 whereas the hostel block that is also located in the complex scored a high 82.69, hence the total development recorded an overall 79.43 IBS score.

The CIDB complex was built in an ecologically sustainable method with IBS, integrating the surrounding pond for a cooling effect on the building.

A modern, open-wall concept and capillary effect design harnesses natural lighting and wind through its corridors and intermediate spaces.

Furthermore, the design of the CCCS drew inspiration from Sarawak, including elements from local Bidayuh and Iban cultures.

The hostel block was complete with facilities such as dining hall and kitchen, prayer room, meeting rooms and utility rooms; as well as a grandstand and multi-sports complex.

Earlier, during the launch, minister Fadillah reiterated the government’s commitment to improve the industry’s overall productivity.

“In this regard, the Ministry of Works through CIDB will continue to invest in upskilling the construction talent pool to create a robust and sustainable construction workforce.

Meanwhile, Tan Sri Dr Ir Ahmad Tajuddin Ali, Chairman of CIDB, said the CCCS was a testimony of the government’s efforts as it will serve as the primary institution and training centre for ABM, making it a prestigious and world-class training provider.

“This will in turn encourage more locals to join the construction sector, especially as skilled workers,” said Tan Sri Dr Ir Ahmad Tajuddin Ali.

[27 April 2018]