Pertubuhan Akitek Malaysia (PAM) or the Malaysian Institute of Architects launched their new PAM Contract 2018 at PAM Centre in Bangsar, Kuala Lumpur on Wednesday, 11 April.

The event was launched by the Construction Industry Development Board Malaysia (CIDB) Chief Executive Officer, Dato' Ir. Ahmad Asri Abdul Hamid and the ceremony was witnessed by Ar. Ezumi Harzani, Pertubuhan Akitek Malaysia's (PAM) President and PAM Contract Review Committee Chairman, Ar. Steven Thang.

The PAM 2018 Contract is the fourth edition of the PAM standard form of building contract since it was released in 1969. Since then, the PAM form of contract has become the benchmark as the Malaysian Standard Form of Building Contract. The 1998 edition was introduced to replace the PAM 1969 form for a period of ten years, before it was replaced with a completely revamped PAM 2006 Contract in 2007.

In his speech, the PAM President thanked the PAM Contract Review Committee and representatives from the Association of Consulting Engineers Malaysia (ACEM); Royal Institute of Surveyors Malaysia (RISM); Master Builders Associations Malaysia (MBAM); Chartered Institute of Building Malaysia (CIOB); Real Estate and Housing Developers' Association Malaysia (REHDA); and Institute of Engineers Malaysia (IEM) for their valuable input and contribution in revising the PAM Contract 2018.

"I am hopeful that the new contract will address challenges that industry players face and promote inclusivity as well as fairness. Most importantly, we have revamped the document to ensure that the forms are relevant and applicable in the current economic climate, which takes into account commercial, professional and political factors.

"In a nutshell, the 2018 contract takes into consideration compliances to new laws and regulations; industry feedback and experiences shared by the practitioners. It also incorporates a new provision for ‘Expert Determination' as another mechanism for dispute resolution" said Ezumi.

Some of the amended clauses cover the rights and duties of employer and contractor; matters materially affecting the regular progress of the works; certificate of extension of time and retention period. PAM will be conducting more roadshows with stakeholders to create awareness on the revamped contract and official copies will be released once roadshows are completed.

Ezumi also shared that the PAM forms have been a de facto benchmark and we will continue to uphold quality standards to promote the advancement of architecture and the architectural profession for the betterment of society.

Earlier this year, PAM held a preview and engagement session with its members and construction industry practitioners to deliberate solutions that will further improve the 2018 contract.

For more information on Pertubuhan Akitek Malaysia (PAM), please visit www.pam.org.my.