This index which was developed by the Malaysian Institute of Architects(PAM) is also the first of its kind, aimed at creating a construction industry that is more sustainable for commercial or residential buildings.
In the context of USM, the GBI element will be absorbed into academic programmes at the School of Housing, Building and Planning, USM which will cover programmes such as Architecture, Town Planning, Surveying, Building Management, Interior Design, and Building Technology.
Prof. Tan Sri Dato’ Dzulkifli Abdul Razak, the Vice-Chancellor of USM said that this move is important to enable USM to produce graduates from the relevant School who are not only trained but who understand their responsibilities in creating new buildings that are sustainable, energy-saving, eco-friendly and efficient.
“More importantly the buildings, irrespective of where they are developed, must not contribute to the destruction of the environment, are suitable for the future and are in harmony with the environment,” he said in his speech before signing the Memorandum of Agreement between USM and PAM at the Chancellery Conference Room, USM here today.
He added that the index is expected to be implemented for purposes of training for students in early July when the 2009/1010 Academic Session commences.
“USM is also considering the possibility of using the index to measure the sustainability of buildings that have yet to be built and those already built around the campus. This is to ensure that efforts can be made to improve and upgrade the structure of the buildings in campus,” he said.
At the same function, Ar. Lee Chor Wah, the President of the Malaysian Institute of Architects(PAM) said that GBI will measure 6 important elements such as efficient use of energy, indoor quality, sustainable planning and site management, materials and resources, efficient use of water and innovation.
He added that each building that is assessed will receive the status of platinum, gold, silver or pass according to the level of sustainability incorporated into the building.
“So far, PAM has identified 11 buildings to be assessed and USM is the first university that has been given the honour to use GBI in its training programme for its students in order that they understand the philosophy and evaluation techniques using GBI.
“PAM believes that GBI will provide an added value to USM graduates in terms of market demands which require a skilled workforce that understands the importance of creating buildings that are sustainable,” he said.
Picture: MEASURE OF SUSTAINABILITY… Prof. Tan Sri Dzulkifli and Lee exchanging the MoA documents that have been signed and witnessed by Prof. Mahyuddin Ramli, Dean of the School of Housing Building and Planning, USM (left) and the Chairman, the Malaysian Institute of Architects, Northern Branch, Ar. Nik Rahman Nik Mohd Taib. (Please click on link below to see the picture)
