Kuala lumpur: The claim that local expert engineers are not recognised as professionals due to a supposed lack of a structured expertise module or a specific accrediting agency, which allegedly impacts their careers, is inaccurate and unfounded. Minister of Works, Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi, addressed this issue, emphasizing the role of the Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM) in regulating, registering, and recognising professional engineers.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Nanta explained that the pathway to recognition for engineers is clear, structured, and transparent through the Professional Assessment Examination (PAE). He further highlighted that BEM has long implemented outcome-based assessments across 30 engineering disciplines. These remarks were made during the 2026 BEM meeting with Malaysian Engineering Institutions and Associations, where the BEM Strategic Plan 2026-2030 was also launched. BEM president Datuk Seri Ir Roslan Ismail was also present at the event.
Nanta emphasized the necessity for all engineers involved in the country's development to be registered with BEM. This registration is a crucial requirement for employment in both the public and private sectors. He reiterated that BEM is the sole statutory body that recognises the engineering profession, including expert engineers, and accredits engineering programmes at diploma and degree levels to ensure quality. Currently, BEM has registered over 290,000 engineering practitioners across various categories, though there are still some who are believed to be unregistered.
Further, Nanta announced that the government is reviewing amendments to the Registration of Engineers Act 1967 (Act 138) to bolster BEM's enforcement capabilities. These amendments aim to enhance BEM's regulatory power to ensure compliance and protect public interests, with hopes for their swift passage.
Regarding the launch of the BEM Strategic Plan 2026-2030, Nanta stated that the plan sets the direction for the country's engineering sector with four key pillars: talent, governance, recognition, and innovation. This strategic plan aligns with the Works Ministry's Strategic Plan for 2026-2030, aiming to enhance industry capabilities and competitiveness through human capital development.