PETALING JAYA (April 12): The Malaysian Institute of Architects (PAM) launched their new PAM Contract 2018 yesterday, the fourth version of the PAM standard form of building contract since it was first introduced in 1969.

The latest iteration of the contract covers the rights and duties of employers and contracts, matters materially affecting the regular progress of works, certificate of extension of time and retention period, said the institute in a press release.

“I am hopeful that the new contract will address challenges that industry players face and promote inclusivity as well as fairness. Most importantly, we have revamped the document to ensure that the forms are relevant and applicable in the current economic climate, which takes into account commercial, professional and political factors,” said PAM president Ezumi Harzani.

“In a nutshell, the 2018 contract takes into consideration compliances to new laws and regulations; industry feedback and experiences shared by the practitioners. It also incorporates a new provision for ‘Expert Determination’ as another mechanism for dispute resolution,” he added.

PAM had held a preview and engagement session with its members and construction industry practitioners earlier this year to discuss solutions to further enhance the 2018 contract, said the institute in the press release.

PAM had released the second version of the building contract in 1998, which was then replaced with the PAM 2006 Contract in 2007.

Following the institute’s roadshows with stakeholders, it will release official copies of the contract.

Ezumi also thanked the PAM Contract Review Committee and representatives from the Association of Consulting Engineers Malaysia (ACEM); Royal Institute of Surveyors Malaysia (RISM); Master Builders Associations Malaysia (MBAM); Chartered Institute of Building Malaysia (CIOB); Real Estate and Housing Developers’ Association Malaysia (Rehda); and Institute of Engineers Malaysia (IEM) for their contributions toward revising the PAM Contract 2018.