KUALA LUMPUR: The newly-launched digital business-to-business platform for the construction industry, Menarabena, is expected to shorten the waiting period for procurement of building materials from six months to two months.
Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi said the platform will facilitate industry players in making informed decisions in their procurement and expedite the process to improve efficiency in the industry.
"The procurement process that usually takes six months will now be shortened to between two and three months with the help from Menarabena.
"I was also informed that the waiting period can be further improved which can enhance the overall procurement process for builders," he told a press conference here today in conjunction with the platform launch.
Menara Asia Sdn Bhd launched Menarabena on Thursday which is aimed at improving procurement, access to construction materials and supply chain visibility.
The platform integrates procurement, product marketing, delivery coordination and order tracking, connecting contractors, manufacturers and suppliers with broader sourcing options and local and international markets.
Nanta said the construction industry is currently facing various challenges, particularly in cost management, compliance with material specifications and timely project completion.
He added digitalisation has become essential to improving the industry's efficiency, productivity and competitiveness.
"Menarabena has the potential to serve as a platform connecting contractors, manufacturers, suppliers and developers, facilitating access to information, strengthening collaboration and improving efficiency across the construction supply chain.
"Successful digitalisation also requires a skilled workforce that is ready to embrace change. Therefore, training, guidance and support for technology adoption must be strengthened to ensure that its benefits can be realised across the industry," he added.
Menarabena was launched in collaboration with the Construction Industry Development Board under a memorandum of agreement.
Menara Asia is 51 per cent owned by Menara Rezeki, with the remaining 49 per cent held by Sarawak-based Mexajati Sdn Bhd. Mexajati, together with Persatuan Kontraktor Melayu Malaysia Sarawak, plans to expand the platform into Sabah and Sarawak.
The platform is expected to be rolled out in Sarawak by end-October and subsequently in Sabah by year-end.
Menara Asia executive chairman Datuk Seri Saiful Nizam Mohd Yusoff said the platform was developed to help industry players make better procurement decisions.
"The platform is open to the entire construction industry, from G1 to G7 contractors, manufacturers, suppliers and developers.
"It is designed to create additional business opportunities and strengthen the existing supply chain, not replace local suppliers," he said at the launch here today.
Saiful said the platform would also address order-tracking challenges faced by contractors.
"We also want Menarabena to resolve traceability issues faced by contractors after they have placed their orders for materials.
"Contractors should know the location of their orders from the time the order was placed until it is delivered. Traceability is not just a digital function but it's a core system in the platform," he said.
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