Melaka:The Modular Industrialised Building System (IBS), currently utilized to accelerate the construction of additional classrooms in schools, could potentially be extended to other projects such as clinics.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Maslan highlighted the suitability of this technology for projects that require shorter construction periods. Modular IBS can complete buildings in four to five months, significantly faster than the two to three years typically needed with conventional construction methods.

Dr. Ahmad Maslan emphasized that the quality and structural integrity of buildings constructed using Modular IBS are comparable to traditional buildings, with a lifespan of up to 30 years. He expressed hope that this method could be applied to facilities requiring rapid completion, like clinics.

Currently, the focus of Modular IBS technology remains on two categories within school projects. These include additional classrooms in high-density schools and classrooms designed to accommodate six-year-old children entering Year One for the 2027 school session. Dr. Ahmad Maslan noted that while there are no applications for clinics yet, the technology is being introduced gradually.

In related developments, the Deputy Minister reported that the Works Ministry is executing 145 projects in Melaka on behalf of the Education Ministry, with a total value of RM1.648 billion. Of these, 20 projects are completed, 99 are under construction, and 26 are in the pre-construction stage.

High-density school projects involving additional classrooms are underway at five schools at a cost of RM7.2 million. Six of these projects are completed, and four more are expected to be finished by the end of the year. Additionally, 73 projects for additional classrooms for the 2027 Year One session, spread across 53 schools and costing RM40.3 million, are also projected to be complete by December.

Moreover, open covered multipurpose hall projects are being implemented at seven schools, costing RM6.5 million, and are similarly targeted for completion by the year's end.