Architects regret Ministry did not consult on new measures KOTA KINABALU: Pertubuhan Akitek Malaysia (PAM) regrets that the Human Resource Ministry has submitted the proposed new regulations to expand the responsibility for construction workers’ safety to include developers and designers to the Attorney General’s Chambers without prior engagement and input from construction industry professionals and stakeholders. …Tay said PAM suggests that both building industry and relevant authorities consider these larger factors that can help increase site safety culture and practice on building sites and improve the morale and well-being of workers in construction industry: Improve poor working and housing conditions for workers that contribute to low morale and work ethics. To improve site housekeeping practices, especially protection of work in progress, for example, when poured concrete is not yet set and work is suspended or abandoned suddenly during sudden heavy rainstorms. This is often a cause of site accidents and it is to be noted that the recent building collapse at Taman Desa happened during a heavy storm. Review current immigration policy to encourage retention of certified and experienced foreign workers who may go on to become knowledgeable supervisors, now grossly lacking in the market. Workers who have accumulated building experience working in Malaysia, are often not allowed to extend their work permit beyond 10 years. The contractors all-risk Insurance compensation for the death of workers should be increased from the current RM18,500 workman compensation for the death of a worker.