CREAM Secures RM1 Million Research Grant from YTL Cement to Spearhead Sustainable Construction

YTL Cement committed a RM1 million research grant for CREAM to kickstart construction personnel development programmes and R&D initiatives in support of the industry’s transition to sustainable construction

KUALA LUMPUR, 17 October 2023 – Reinforcing its commitment to championing sustainable construction practices, YTL Cement, Malaysia’s largest building materials group has announced a RM1 million research grant to the Construction Research Institute of Malaysia (CREAM), a subsidiary of the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) Malaysia. This financial boost is a follow-up to the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the two organisations in April this year, highlighting their shared mission to achieve construction excellence and support of the industry transition to sustainable construction.

CREAM and YTL Cement signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate in developing the construction industry’s workforce, research and innovation, as well as enhance the understanding and adoption of sustainable construction practices among industry players. The MoU marked the beginning of a meaningful collaboration between industry players to achieve construction excellence with a collective effort to increase sustainability-focused research and development initiatives.

Dato’ Sri Michael Yeoh, Managing Director of YTL Cement and co-chair of the MoU Steering Committee said, “As a company that has been assisting with the development of Malaysia for over 70 years, we know the importance of investing in our nation’s progress while simultaneously addressing our construction needs in a sustainable manner. The RM1 million research grant reflects our steadfast dedication to supporting CREAM's efforts in promoting industry growth with well-trained personnel, championing research and development, and advancing sustainable construction practices."

Dato' Sr Mohd Zaid Zakaria, Chief Executive of CIDB and co-chair of the Steering Committee also echoed the sentiment, noting that “CIDB has been championing a socially and environmentally responsible construction industry in Malaysia. However, we cannot do it alone, as partnerships with industry stakeholders and key players are paramount in making our sustainable transition a reality. The collaboration between YTL Cement and CREAM represents a significant stride towards reshaping the construction industry as their efforts are crucial to accelerating change among construction industry players.”

The RM1 million research grant will be channelled to kickstart three main initiatives:

i. Construction Personnel Development

CREAM and YTL Cement will jointly design training and accredition programmes for youths to be certified as concrete technicians and batchers. It is hoped that this will assist in attracting, retaining and growing skilled workers in the construction industry.

ii. Research & Development (R&D)

CREAM will work together with YTL Cement’s team of experts to conduct R&D on lower embodied carbon alternatives in materials and construction methods.

iii. Support the Construction Sector’s Transition to Sustainable Construction

CREAM and YTL Cement are collaborating to facilitate the adoption of sustainable construction practices in Malaysia.

Ir. M. Ramuseren, Chief Executive Officer of CREAM highlighted, “We aspire to be a globally recognised institute for research and development that drives quality, innovation, technology, and skills towards achieving sustainability in the construction industry. In realising this, YTL Cement’s research grant has played a significant role in further empowering our research capabilities and efforts to meet the evolving demands of Malaysia’s construction industry.”

By joining hands, YTL Cement and CREAM hope to build Malaysia’s sustainable future together.