He said greater collaboration among government agencies, industry players and research institutions was essential to strengthen local expertise, encourage innovation and create opportunities for Malaysian companies to develop and export homegrown technologies.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of International Construction Week (ICW) 2026 at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) today, Anwar stressed that industry transformation must go beyond discussions and focus on practical implementation, knowledge transfer and the development of local capabilities.
He commended the Ministry of Works and the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) for exploring 3D concrete printing technology, describing the initiative as an important step towards developing Malaysia’s own technological expertise.
Anwar said the construction industry must embrace emerging technologies, including modular construction, automation, robotics, digital design and 3D concrete printing, while ensuring that local contractors, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), were not left behind.
He emphasised that technological advancement should create meaningful opportunities for domestic businesses rather than increase dependence on imported solutions.
The Prime Minister also highlighted the importance of building an ecosystem that enables local companies to learn, test and adapt new technologies to meet domestic requirements before expanding into international markets.
ICW 2026 is organised by CIDB in collaboration with the Ministry of Works and event manager Qube, in line with the Malaysia MADANI framework.
The event features BuildXPO Malaysia as its official trade exhibition and is held concurrently with Glasstech Asia and Fenestration Asia.
Among those present were Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi, Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan and Works Ministry Secretary-General Datuk Seri Azman Ibrahim.
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