KUALA LUMPUR, September 4 - New construction projects involving a value of RM10 million and above are required to use the Building Information Modeling (BIM) system.

Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan said that the use of the system is not limited to building construction, but should also be used in sewerage and road construction.

He said the BIM system will help prevent mishaps in construction work.

"With the comprehensive implementation of BIM, we can reduce 'clashes' in construction which cause increased costs and sustain damages.

He said this to the media after officiating the 13th Geotropic and IChitra Seminar in the capital.

He explained that a committee will be established and chaired by the Secretary General of the Ministry of Public Works to coordinate new technology in construction projects.

He added that the ministry is looking into efforts to produce Malaysian-made BIM software in collaboration with universities.

The effort is to reduce dependence on foreign systems.