Proposal on CF won't affect house buyers

18/12/2003 The Star By Tan Pei Ing

We refer to the objection made by the National House Buyers Association (HBA) for architects to certify certificates of fitness in relation to the announcement made by the Housing and Local Government Ministry that a one-stop certificate of fitness for occupation centre would be in operation by Dec. 3, "Groups says no to certifying architects", (The Star, Nov. 25).

As the institute representing the architectural profession, we would like to reinforce our support for the proposal to streamline the process of CF application and issuance and to reduce bureaucratic red tape so that the entire process can be made more efficient for the benefit of the public.

The proposal to streamline the entire CF application process, has been talked about for many years and very little headway was made until the recent directive given by the Government.

The proposal for a one-stop centre and to reduce the number of technical agencies involved in the CF process was formulated after full consultation with the local authorities and the professional institutes including the Malaysia Institute of Architects (PAM) and the Association of Consulting Engineers (ACEM), at many levels.

The proposal does not compromise the interest of the purchasers. In all the discussions and meetings held, public interest, especially on issues related to safety and health, was always given top priority.

PAM is firmly supportive of a more transparent and efficient building approval and CF process.

The institute acknowledges the fact that in any profession there will be some black sheep.

This is why the Board of Architects will take stern action against those who do not carry out their duty professionally.

As such, the HBA should not use this to push back the effort and advancement that have been made to improve the efficiency of the building delivery process.

As a party involved in the building industry, we should work closely as a team and in full consultation with not just the Government but also with the other players in the building industry to constantly improve and strengthen the industry for the benefit of all.

Tan Pei Ing,

Immediate Past President,

Malaysia Institute of Architects

Kuala Lumpur

Related article: Group says no to certifying architects