Ir

In front IEM HQ Building in Petaling Jaya

Registered as a Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM) member in 2006 and later joined The Institution of Engineers Malaysia (IEM) in 2010, my journey towards becoming a Professional Engineer (Ir.) has been far from straightforward.

Over the years, I made several attempts to sit for the Ir. examination, but each time the journey stopped halfway. Life, commitments, and circumstances often delayed a dream that had quietly remained on my career bucket list for over two decades.

Last year, after witnessing a close colleague successfully achieve his Ir. title, it reignited something within me — a moment of reflection, motivation, and what I truly believe was hidayah and taufik. I realised that unfinished dreams deserve another chance, no matter how long they have been postponed.

I have visited this building multiple times with one clear intention — to one day walk away carrying the title Ir. Alhamdulillah, after more than 21 years in the engineering industry, this long journey has finally reached its finishing line.

A reminder to myself and others: long-held dreams are meant to be pursued, not abandoned. Sometimes, the right time is simply when we decide to continue.

#ProfessionalEngineer #IrJourney #EngineeringCareer #CareerMilestone

#NeverGiveUp #LifelongLearning #EngineeringMalaysia

#IEM #BEM #CareerAchievement #Gratitude #Alhamdulillah

Akta Jurutera Malaysia 1967 - Akta 138

Akta Jurutera Malaysia

Nama rasmi: Akta Pendaftaran Jurutera 1967
Akta: Akta 138
Badan pelaksana: Lembaga Jurutera Malaysia (Board of Engineers Malaysia – BEM)

---

1. Tujuan Utama Akta Jurutera

Akta ini diwujudkan untuk:

1. Mengawal selia profesion kejuruteraan

2. Melindungi keselamatan awam

3. Memastikan hanya jurutera yang kompeten dan berdaftar dibenarkan:

   • Menggunakan gelaran “Jurutera”

   • Menyediakan perkhidmatan kejuruteraan

   • Menandatangani, mengesahkan dan mengesyor kerja kejuruteraan

Ringkasnya: bukan semua graduan kejuruteraan boleh terus mengaku sebagai jurutera profesional.

---

2. Lembaga Jurutera Malaysia (BEM)

BEM ditubuhkan di bawah Akta 138 dan bertanggungjawab untuk:

• Mendaftarkan jurutera & firma perunding

• Mengawal etika dan tatakelakuan profesional

• Mengambil tindakan disiplin

• Menetapkan syarat kompetensi dan latihan

---

3. Kategori Pendaftaran Jurutera

Akta ini mengiktiraf beberapa kategori utama:

A. Graduate Engineer (GE)

Syarat:

• Ijazah kejuruteraan diiktiraf BEM

• Daftar dengan BEM (WAJIB)

Ciri:

• Belum boleh:

  • Tandatangan lukisan

  • Menjadi Person In Charge (PIC)

• Perlu bekerja di bawah penyeliaan Jurutera Profesional

---

B. Jurutera Profesional (Ir.)

Syarat:

• Berdaftar sebagai GE

• Pengalaman kerja (±3–4 tahun)

• Lulus Professional Assessment Examination (PAE)

• Temuduga profesional

Hak:

• Menggunakan gelaran Ir.

• Menyelia kerja kejuruteraan

• Menjadi rujukan teknikal sah

• Menandatangani laporan & lukisan (tertakluk bidang)

---

C. Jurutera Profesional dengan Sijil Amalan (Ir. + PEPC)

Ini tahap tertinggi dalam amalan profesional.

Tambahan:

• Boleh membuka firma perunding

• Boleh menandatangani lukisan untuk kelulusan PBT

• Bertanggungjawab secara undang-undang terhadap reka bentuk

---

D. Engineering Technologist & Inspector

(Ditambah melalui pindaan akta)

• Untuk lepasan teknologi kejuruteraan & teknikal

• Juga tertakluk kepada pendaftaran & etika

---

4. Perkara yang DILARANG oleh Akta

Akta 138 sangat tegas dalam hal ini.

❌ Kesalahan jika:

• Menggunakan gelaran “Jurutera” tanpa berdaftar

• Menyamar sebagai Jurutera Profesional

• Menyediakan perkhidmatan perundingan tanpa lesen

• Menandatangani lukisan/laporan tanpa kelayakan

⚠️ Hukuman boleh termasuk:

• Denda

• Tindakan mahkamah

• Tindakan tatatertib oleh BEM

• Digantung atau dibatalkan pendaftaran

---

5. Etika & Tanggungjawab Jurutera (Bahagian Penting Akta)

Akta ini menekankan bahawa jurutera mesti:

1. Mengutamakan keselamatan, kesihatan & kebajikan awam

2. Bekerja dalam bidang kepakaran sendiri

3. Bersikap jujur, telus dan berintegriti

4. Tidak menandatangani kerja yang tidak disemak sendiri

5. Tidak tunduk kepada tekanan komersial yang menjejaskan keselamatan

Dalam konteks sebenar:
Jurutera bertanggungjawab bukan sekadar kepada majikan, tetapi kepada masyarakat.

---

6. Hubungan Akta Jurutera dengan Industri

Dalam industri (termasuk sawit, tenaga, pembinaan, utiliti):

• Banyak jawatan teknikal sepatutnya dipantau oleh Ir.

• Audit keselamatan, reka bentuk sistem, tekanan, stim, struktur:

  • Implikasi undang-undang jika gagal

• Akta ini melindungi jurutera yang membuat keputusan profesional walaupun bercanggah dengan tekanan pengurusan

---

7. Kenapa Akta Ini Sangat Penting

Tanpa Akta Jurutera:

• Sesiapa sahaja boleh mereka bentuk sistem berisiko tinggi

• Keselamatan awam terancam

• Profesion kejuruteraan hilang nilai dan maruah

Akta ini memastikan:
✅ Akauntabiliti
✅ Kompetensi
✅ Keselamatan
✅ Profesionalisme jangka panjang

---

8. Ringkasan Satu Perenggan

Akta Pendaftaran Jurutera 1967 (Akta 138) ialah undang-undang utama yang mengawal profesion kejuruteraan di Malaysia. Ia memastikan hanya individu yang berkelayakan, berdaftar dan beretika dibenarkan menjalankan kerja kejuruteraan. Akta ini bukan sekadar peraturan pentadbiran, tetapi satu mekanisme perlindungan awam yang meletakkan jurutera sebagai penjaga keselamatan, integriti teknikal dan kelestarian pembangunan negara.

#ProfessionalEngineer #bem #iem

MIEM Outcome-Based Professional Interview

Berikut ialah penjelasan ringkas, jelas, dan lengkap tentang MIEM Outcome-Based Professional Interview (PI) Process seperti yang diamalkan oleh Institution of Engineers Malaysia (IEM) untuk laluan MIEM/PEng.

✅ Apa Itu MIEM Outcome-Based PI?

Outcome-Based Professional Interview (OBPI) ialah format penilaian IEM untuk menilai sama ada calon jurutera benar-benar mencapai 13 Engineering Outcomes yang diperlukan oleh Engineering Accreditation Council (EAC) sebelum layak keahlian penuh (MIEM) dan P.Eng (BEM).

Ia menekankan bukti kompetensi, bukan sekadar pengalaman atau tempoh bekerja.

🎯 Tujuan Utama OBPI

Penilai mahu memastikan calon:

1. Boleh menyelesaikan masalah kejuruteraan kompleks

2. Menguasai prinsip teknikal yang digunakan dalam kerja sebenar

3. Bertanggungjawab ke atas keputusan kejuruteraan

4. Boleh berkomunikasi dengan baik (report + presentation)

5. Beretika dan memahami perundangan

6. Berkeupayaan mengurus projek, risiko dan keselamatan

🧩 Komponen utama Outcome-Based PI

Terdapat 4 komponen besar:

1️⃣ Professional Interview Report (PIR)

Panjang: ~5,000 – 7,000 patah perkataan

Kandungan mesti menunjukkan 13 Outcomes EAC, antaranya:

✔ O1: Engineering Knowledge

✔ O2: Problem Analysis

✔ O3: Design & Development

✔ O4: Investigation

✔ O5: Modern Tools

✔ O6: Engineer & Society

✔ O7: Environment & Sustainability

✔ O8: Ethics

✔ O9: Communication

✔ O10: Individual & Team

✔ O11: Project Management & Finance

✔ O12: Life-long Learning

✔ O13: Professionalism

PIR mesti menerangkan projek anda secara teknikal dan bagaimana outcome ini ditunjukkan melalui kerja anda.

2️⃣ Submission of 3 Engineering Case Studies / Projects

Anda perlu memilih 3 projek utama yang menunjukkan penglibatan anda dalam:

Analisis masalah

Pengiraan / reka bentuk

Penilaian risiko

Penyediaan spesifikasi

Pelaksanaan / commissioning

Keputusan kejuruteraan yang anda buat sendiri

Penilai akan rujuk projek ini sepanjang PI.

3️⃣ Interview Session (Q&A)

Tempoh: 1–2 jam

Panel biasanya 2–3 orang.

Soalan berfokus pada:

Penjelasan teknikal projek

Kenapa anda buat keputusan tertentu

Risiko & mitigasi

Keselamatan (OSHA, FMA, Bomba, dsb.)

Etika & undang-undang (Akta 520, Akta Kilang & Jentera, dsb.)

Pengurusan kos, masa, skop

Ini adalah bahagian paling penting.

Penilai mahu lihat pemikiran kejuruteraan anda.

4️⃣ Essay Writing (On-the-spot)

Tempoh: 45 min – 1 jam

Anda akan diberi 2 esei:

✔ 1 esei teknikal

Contoh: “Explain a complex problem you solved in your engineering practice.”

✔ 1 esei etika/undang-undang

Contoh: “Discuss an ethical dilemma faced by engineers.”

Tujuannya untuk melihat pemikiran spontan, bukan hafalan.

🔄 Keseluruhan Proses MIEM Outcome-Based PI

1. Daftar & hantar dokumen (logbook, CV, project list)

2. Hantar PIR (report 5,000–7,000 patah perkataan)

3. Review oleh penilai

4. Dipanggil ke PI (presentation + Q&A + essay test)

5. Panel sediakan laporan penilaian

6. Kelulusan Jawatankuasa IEM

7. Dianugerahkan MIEM (Ir.) jika lulus

🎓 Tips Penting Untuk Lulus Outcome-Based PI

✔ 1. Fokus pada "kenapa" dan "bagaimana", bukan “apa saya buat” saja

Penilai mahu lihat reasoning, bukan sekadar tugas harian.

✔ 2. Tunjukkan nilai tambah jurutera

Apa analisis yang anda lakukan?

Apa keputusan kritikal yang anda buat?

✔ 3. Tunjukkan “complex engineering problem”

Contoh yang melibatkan:

banyak constraint

risiko keselamatan

utiliti kritikal

interdisiplin

standard/undang-undang

#ProfessionalEngineer 

Professional Ethics of a Mechanical Engineer in Palm Oil Mill, Refinery, and Petrochemical Industry

1. Introduction

Engineering ethics form the moral foundation of the engineering profession. A professional engineer is entrusted with the responsibility to ensure that engineering works are carried out safely, efficiently, and in the interest of the public and the environment.
In Malaysia, the Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM) governs professional conduct through the Registration of Engineers Act 1967 (Revised 2015) and the Code of Professional Conduct.

As a Mechanical Engineer serving in the palm oil mill, refinery, or petrochemical industry, the responsibility extends beyond design and operation. It includes safeguarding human life, ensuring mechanical integrity, complying with regulations, and upholding sustainable industrial growth.

2. Core Principles of Engineering Ethics

The BEM Code of Professional Conduct and international engineering ethics frameworks (such as those from ASME and IMechE) emphasize the following principles:

1. Protection of public safety, health, and environment

2. Integrity, honesty, and fairness

3. Competence and diligence in professional work

4. Confidentiality and professional independence

5. Avoidance of conflicts of interest

6. Commitment to sustainable development and societal welfare

Each of these principles is reflected in daily engineering activities within industrial operations.

---

3. Ethical Application in Palm Oil Mill

In a palm oil mill, a mechanical engineer is typically responsible for boilers, pressure vessels, steam distribution, turbines, pumps, conveyors, and maintenance of mechanical systems. Ethical practice involves:

(a) Safety and Compliance

The engineer must ensure all mechanical systems meet regulatory and safety standards under the Factories and Machinery Act (FMA) and Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) guidelines.
Before commissioning a steam boiler or pressure vessel, it is the engineer’s duty to verify:

• Valid certificates of fitness (CF)

• Proper calibration of safety valves

• Compliance with ASME Section I and local codes
  Taking shortcuts or allowing uncertified equipment to run is unethical and potentially criminal.

(b) Integrity in Maintenance and Procurement

Ethical procurement involves selecting vendors or contractors based on technical merit, safety performance, and quality—not on personal relationships or rewards.
When maintenance budgets are tight, engineers must avoid using substandard materials or falsifying inspection records, as this could endanger lives and damage the company’s reputation.

(c) Competence

Engineers must not approve, sign, or design systems beyond their expertise. For instance, complex control or combustion systems in a biomass boiler require collaboration with electrical and process specialists. Admitting one’s limitations and seeking professional advice is a sign of ethical maturity, not weakness.

(d) Environmental Stewardship

Mechanical engineers play a direct role in reducing emissions and waste. Designing condensate recovery systems, optimizing steam traps, and ensuring efficient fiber and shell usage are not only technical improvements but also ethical commitments to environmental protection.

---

4. Ethical Practice in Palm Oil Refinery

A refinery handles higher temperatures, pressures, and chemical processes, requiring stringent ethical and professional standards.

(a) Mechanical Integrity

A refinery engineer must ensure that heat exchangers, pressure vessels, and pipelines comply with design codes such as ASME Section VIII, API 510, and API 570. Periodic inspection, corrosion monitoring, and preventive maintenance must never be ignored for the sake of cost reduction or production targets.

(b) Transparency and Truthfulness

If a mechanical defect or near-miss incident occurs, it is unethical to conceal it. The engineer must report, investigate, and correct the issue transparently. Concealment or data manipulation endangers future operations and violates the principle of public safety.

(c) Professional Judgment

When management pressures an engineer to continue production despite known safety issues (for example, a leaking heat exchanger or unsafe vibration levels), the ethical duty is clear — to stop operation until safety is restored. Short-term production gains cannot justify potential accidents or fatalities.

(d) Confidentiality and Independence

Process designs, mechanical drawings, and plant performance data are often proprietary. An engineer must protect this information and refrain from sharing it outside authorized channels.

5. Ethical Conduct in Petrochemical Industry

The petrochemical sector operates under even higher risk — involving toxic, flammable, and high-pressure systems. Ethical discipline is therefore essential.

(a) Safety and Regulatory Compliance

Engineers must ensure all mechanical systems adhere to international codes such as:

• API 650 / 653 (Storage Tanks)

• API 570 (Piping Inspection)

• API 510 (Pressure Vessels)

• ASME B31.3 (Process Piping)

Any deviation must be formally assessed and documented under Management of Change (MOC) procedures.

(b) Integrity and Accountability

Fabrication reports, welding records, and inspection data must be authentic. Forging results to meet client specifications or concealing non-compliance is unethical and could result in catastrophic accidents.

(c) Ethical Leadership

Senior engineers must lead by example — cultivating a culture where safety is never compromised, and junior engineers are encouraged to report anomalies without fear of retaliation.

6. Common Ethical Dilemmas and Decision Framework

Scenario	Ethical Issue	Appropriate Action
Management insists to bypass boiler safety interlock to continue production	Safety vs Productivity	Refuse; safety overrides production. Report to higher authority if necessary.
Contractor submits false welding records	Integrity	Reject and report. Maintain traceability of documents.
Discovery of excessive emission or effluent	Company Image vs Public Health	Report immediately, initiate containment and corrective measures.
Gift offered by supplier	Conflict of Interest	Politely decline or declare through official channels.
Assigned to approve design outside area of expertise	Competence	Decline; request collaboration with qualified personnel.

In all cases, engineers must act with moral courage and place public welfare above personal or corporate interest.

7. Sustainability and Ethical Engineering

Today’s mechanical engineers must go beyond compliance and actively contribute to sustainable industry practices.
In palm oil and petrochemical sectors, ethical responsibility includes:

• Promoting energy efficiency (e.g., optimizing boiler combustion, heat recovery systems)

• Supporting waste-to-energy projects (fiber, shell, and biogas utilization)

• Implementing zero liquid discharge systems

• Ensuring carbon footprint reduction initiatives align with corporate sustainability goals

An ethical engineer recognizes that sustainability is not a trend — it is a duty to future generations.

8. Personal Integrity and Professionalism

An ethical engineer demonstrates:

• Accountability — taking ownership of technical decisions and outcomes

• Transparency — reporting honestly, even in failure

• Respect — treating all colleagues and subordinates fairly

• Continuous Learning — updating knowledge to remain competent and relevant

Engineers must also mentor younger colleagues, passing down technical discipline and ethical awareness as part of the profession’s legacy.

9. Conclusion

Ethics in mechanical engineering is not limited to compliance with codes or procedures. It is about moral integrity — doing what is right, even when no one is watching.
In palm oil mills, refineries, and petrochemical industries, where operations involve high energy, pressure, and environmental exposure, ethical practice determines not only the safety of workers but also the sustainability of the entire industry.

A true professional engineer protects life, preserves the environment, and upholds the honors of the profession through honesty, responsibility, and technical excellence.

#ProfessionalEngineer #Engineer #ethic #miller #respect #integrity

Ethics, Integrity, Safety, Conflict of interest, Environmental, Role of a Professional Engineer in society

1. Engineering Ethics and Integrity 

Engineering ethics and integrity form the cornerstone of the engineering profession. Engineers are entrusted by society to apply their technical knowledge responsibly for the benefit of mankind. Without integrity, the credibility and trust placed in the profession would quickly erode.

An ethical engineer must demonstrate honesty, fairness, and transparency in all professional dealings. Integrity requires doing what is right even when no one is watching, and being willing to take responsibility for one’s decisions. For example, an engineer must never approve or certify work that does not meet design standards or safety requirements, even under pressure from clients or contractors.

Ethical behavior also includes giving credit where it is due, avoiding plagiarism, and maintaining confidentiality of sensitive information. When preparing reports, specifications, or cost estimates, accuracy and truthfulness are essential. Any form of falsification or misrepresentation is strictly against the Code of Ethics under the Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM).

Integrity also means avoiding conflict of interest and maintaining independence of judgment. Engineers must act in the best interest of the public and their employer while upholding safety, quality, and professional standards.

In conclusion, ethics and integrity are not optional virtues but professional obligations. Upholding them preserves public confidence and the dignity of the engineering profession. Every Professional Engineer must remember that technical competence alone is not enough — it must be guided by strong moral values and unwavering integrity.

2. Public Safety, Health, and Welfare 

The foremost duty of every engineer is to protect public safety, health, and welfare. Engineering works directly impact people’s lives — from bridges and buildings to water supply systems and electrical networks. Any negligence or oversight can lead to disastrous consequences.

A Professional Engineer must ensure that every design and construction complies with relevant codes, standards, and statutory requirements. Safety considerations must always take precedence over cost or schedule. For instance, selecting cheaper materials that compromise structural strength or bypassing testing procedures would be unethical and dangerous.

Engineers should also promote a safety culture within the organization by conducting risk assessments, implementing safe work procedures, and providing continuous safety training. In addition, regular inspection, preventive maintenance, and proper documentation are vital to minimize hazards.

The Street, Drainage and Building Act, the Uniform Building By-Laws, and other relevant regulations in Malaysia serve as legal frameworks to safeguard public safety. However, ethical responsibility goes beyond compliance — it is about having the moral courage to stop unsafe work and to speak out when public welfare is at risk.

In summary, engineers must always prioritize human life and welfare above all else. Public safety is the heart of professional engineering practice. A true engineer acts with diligence, competence, and conscience to ensure that every project contributes to the well-being of society.

---

3. Conflict of Interest 

A conflict of interest occurs when an engineer’s personal or financial interest could improperly influence professional judgment. If not managed properly, it can lead to ethical violations, loss of credibility, and damage to the profession’s reputation.

Examples include situations where an engineer has ownership in a contracting company being considered for a project, or when a close relative is employed by a supplier whose product is under evaluation. Accepting gifts, commissions, or personal favors from contractors or clients can also create perceived or real conflicts.

To act ethically, the engineer must disclose any potential conflict of interest to all relevant parties. Transparency is key. If necessary, the engineer should withdraw from the decision-making process to maintain impartiality. The BEM Code of Professional Conduct explicitly requires engineers to avoid circumstances where personal interest conflicts with professional duty.

For instance, if an engineer is part of a tender evaluation committee and discovers that one of the bidders is a relative’s company, the correct course of action is to declare the relationship and excuse oneself from the evaluation.

Ultimately, professionalism demands that engineers base their decisions solely on technical merit and public interest. By recognizing and managing conflicts openly, engineers preserve the trust and integrity that form the foundation of the profession.

---

4. Environmental and Sustainability Obligations 

In today’s world, engineering cannot be separated from environmental and sustainability responsibilities. Engineers play a critical role in developing infrastructure and technology that meet present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs.

A Professional Engineer must always consider environmental impact in every stage of a project — from planning and design to construction and operation. This includes minimizing pollution, managing waste, conserving energy and water, and promoting the use of renewable resources. Compliance with the Environmental Quality Act and other environmental laws is mandatory, but ethical practice goes beyond mere compliance.

For example, an engineer can design energy-efficient systems, recommend sustainable materials, or implement green construction practices such as recycling and resource recovery. Life-cycle costing and design for maintainability can further enhance sustainability.

Sustainability also includes social and economic aspects — creating projects that are affordable, socially beneficial, and environmentally sound. Collaboration with environmental consultants and local authorities ensures that projects align with sustainable development goals.

In conclusion, environmental stewardship is a moral and professional duty. Engineers are custodians of natural resources, and every decision they make should balance progress with preservation. Through sustainable design and responsible practice, engineers help build a cleaner, safer, and more resilient future for all.

5. Role of a Professional Engineer in Society

A Professional Engineer (Ir.) holds a position of trust and responsibility within society. The title signifies not only technical competence but also a deep commitment to public service, ethical conduct, and leadership.

Engineers contribute significantly to national development through the design, construction, and maintenance of essential infrastructure such as roads, bridges, power systems, and communication networks. Their work improves the quality of life and supports economic growth.

Beyond technical duties, Professional Engineers must uphold high ethical standards, ensuring that all work complies with safety and environmental regulations. They should also mentor young engineers, share knowledge, and promote professionalism within the industry.

Engineers play an important advisory role to policymakers and the public. They must communicate complex technical issues in an understandable way and provide sound, unbiased opinions. During times of crisis, such as structural failures or environmental disasters, society relies on engineers for competent and honest assessment.

The professional title “Ir.” represents integrity, accountability, and service to the community. As representatives of the profession, engineers must continuously update their knowledge through lifelong learning and actively participate in professional bodies such as IEM and BEM.

In summary, the role of a Professional Engineer extends beyond solving technical problems — it encompasses leadership, ethical conduct, and a commitment to advancing society. Through responsible and dedicated practice, engineers earn the public’s trust and contribute meaningfully to national and human progress.

#ProfessionalEngineer

✏️ Essay: Responsibility of a Professional Engineer to the Public

A Professional Engineer carries a great responsibility to the public because every engineering decision directly or indirectly affects human safety, health, and welfare. The trust placed in engineers is not merely to design and operate systems efficiently, but to ensure that these systems function safely, reliably, and ethically for the benefit of society.

Under the BEM Code of Professional Conduct, the first and foremost duty of an engineer is to hold paramount the safety, health, and welfare of the public in all professional activities. This means that in any situation, public interest must come before personal gain, company profit, or project deadlines.

In the context of my work as Head of Facility in a palm oil refinery and solvent extraction plant, this responsibility translates into strict adherence to safety and environmental standards. I ensure that all boilers, pressure vessels, and solvent recovery systems comply with relevant codes such as ASME, API, and DOSH regulations. This is essential because negligence in maintenance or operation could lead to fire, explosion, or pollution — endangering workers and surrounding communities.

Beyond safety, an engineer’s responsibility to the public also includes environmental stewardship. We must minimize emissions, manage waste responsibly, and use energy efficiently to reduce our environmental footprint. For example, when planning plant upgrades, I emphasize recovery systems and cleaner technologies to align with sustainability goals and public well-being.

Transparency and honesty are also part of our public duty. A Professional Engineer must report any unsafe condition or unethical practice, even if it may be unpopular. Concealing information that could harm the public violates both engineering ethics and legal obligations under the Engineers Act 1967.

Furthermore, engineers must ensure that their professional competence is maintained through continuous learning. By staying updated with the latest technology and regulations, we can make better decisions that serve the public interest.

In conclusion, the responsibility of a Professional Engineer to the public is to act as a guardian of safety, a steward of the environment, and a model of integrity. Our work should always reflect honesty, fairness, and a deep respect for human life. By upholding these values, we preserve public trust and honor the true spirit of the engineering profession.

#ProfessionalEngineer #Engineer #SteamEngineer #mrsm #boiler #usm #blog #blogger

✏️ Essay: What Should You Do If Management Asks You to Certify Unsafe Equipment

As a professional engineer, my foremost duty is to ensure the safety, health, and welfare of the public. If management asks me to certify equipment that I know to be unsafe, I must act according to the BEM Code of Professional Conduct — which clearly states that a Professional Engineer shall not approve or certify any work that is known to be defective, unsafe, or non-compliant with relevant standards or regulations.

The first step I would take is to conduct a thorough engineering assessment of the equipment to verify the facts. I would document the technical condition, identify the safety non-conformities, and refer to the applicable design codes such as ASME, API, or DOSH regulations. My decision must always be based on engineering evidence, not assumption or personal opinion.

If the assessment confirms that the equipment is indeed unsafe, I would formally communicate my findings to management in writing, stating clearly the risks involved, potential consequences, and the corrective actions required to restore safety compliance. This documentation serves to protect both the organization and myself as the responsible engineer.

If management insists that I proceed with certification despite the known safety risks, I would refuse to sign or approve the document. Certifying unsafe equipment would violate the law, endanger lives, and breach my ethical duty under the Registration of Engineers Act 1967. My professional responsibility to the public and to BEM must always take precedence over organizational pressure.

At the same time, I would try to handle the matter diplomatically — by proposing alternative solutions, such as temporary isolation, repairs, re-inspection, or third-party verification by an authorized competent body (such as DOSH or an external PE). This approach maintains professionalism and shows that my decision is not based on confrontation, but on safety and compliance.

In conclusion, a Professional Engineer must never compromise safety for convenience or cost. Upholding ethics means having the courage to say “no” when safety is at stake. By maintaining integrity, transparency, and adherence to standards, we not only protect lives and property but also preserve the trust and credibility of the engineering profession.

#ProfessionalEngineer #SteamEngineer #engineer #usm #blog #blogger #KembaraInsan

✏️ Essay: How an Engineer Can Maintain Professionalism in Teamwork

Engineering projects are rarely the work of one individual; they are the result of collaboration among engineers, technicians, operators, and management. To achieve safe and successful outcomes, every engineer must maintain a high level of professionalism when working in a team. Professionalism in teamwork reflects integrity, respect, and responsibility — the core values of the engineering profession.

Firstly, an engineer must demonstrate clear and respectful communication. In a multidisciplinary environment such as a palm oil refinery or solvent extraction plant, effective communication ensures that technical information, safety requirements, and operational plans are clearly understood by all parties. Miscommunication can lead to costly mistakes or safety incidents. Therefore, engineers should express their views professionally, listen to others, and document important decisions through proper channels such as meeting minutes and technical reports.

Secondly, professionalism requires accountability and integrity. A professional engineer must take ownership of his work and decisions, while respecting the contributions of others. In team discussions, one should present facts and technical justifications, not personal opinions or emotions. If an error occurs, a professional engineer accepts responsibility, rectifies it, and learns from the experience rather than shifting blame. This builds trust among team members and sets a positive example for younger engineers.

Thirdly, engineers must practise fairness and collaboration. Teamwork involves balancing different opinions and expertise. A professional engineer must respect diversity — whether of discipline, seniority, or background — and make decisions based on technical merit and project objectives. Sharing knowledge openly, mentoring juniors, and acknowledging others’ contributions demonstrate leadership and ethical conduct.

In my own role as Head of Facility, maintaining professionalism in teamwork is critical during plant shutdowns and commissioning activities. I ensure that all departments — mechanical, electrical, instrumentation, and process — work with a shared understanding of safety priorities. Through pre-startup meetings, task risk assessments, and open communication, the team can solve problems collectively while maintaining respect and discipline.

In conclusion, professionalism in teamwork is not just about technical competence; it is about attitude, communication, and ethical behaviour. When engineers uphold integrity, respect, and accountability within their teams, they not only achieve project success but also elevate the reputation and trust of the entire engineering profession.

#ProfessionalEngineer #engineer #SteamEngineer #mrsm #usm #blog #blogger #KembaraInsan

✏️ Essay: The Importance of Continuous Learning for Engineers

Continuous learning is an essential part of an engineer’s professional life. Engineering is a discipline that evolves rapidly due to technological innovation, new materials, and changing industrial standards. For engineers to remain competent and relevant, they must continuously update their knowledge, skills, and understanding of best practices. This lifelong learning ensures that engineers can deliver safe, efficient, and sustainable solutions in a dynamic world.

In the industrial sector—particularly in palm oil refineries and solvent extraction plants—continuous learning is crucial because process technology, automation, and environmental regulations are constantly improving. Engineers must keep abreast of new process control systems, energy efficiency measures, and safety standards such as ASME, API, and ISO. By attending professional training, seminars, and industry conferences, engineers can learn new techniques for optimizing plant operations, reducing solvent losses, improving steam utilization, and ensuring environmental compliance under DOE and DOSH requirements.

Continuous learning also strengthens the engineer’s ability to make sound technical and ethical decisions. A professional engineer is responsible not only for plant performance but also for public safety and environmental protection. By engaging in lifelong learning, engineers reinforce their understanding of BEM’s Code of Ethics—especially the principles of competence and responsibility. This ensures that engineering judgement is based on up-to-date knowledge rather than outdated practices.

In my own experience as Head of Facility in a palm oil refinery and solvent extraction plant, continuous learning has been vital in managing complex projects. For example, attending a process safety management course and ASME boiler code seminar helped me identify better inspection and commissioning methods that improved plant reliability and reduced downtime. Sharing this knowledge with my team also enhances collective capability, creating a stronger safety culture and higher overall performance.

Moreover, continuous learning contributes to innovation and national development. When engineers upgrade their skills in digital technologies, energy management, and sustainability, they can design smarter systems and greener processes that align with Malaysia’s goals for industrial modernization and environmental stewardship.

In conclusion, continuous learning is not optional but a professional duty for every engineer. It preserves competency, strengthens ethical responsibility, and drives technological progress. By committing to lifelong learning, engineers can uphold the dignity of the profession, protect public interest, and contribute meaningfully to sustainable industrial growth.

#ProfessionalEngineer #engineer #SteamEngineer #malaysia #mrsm #code

ENGINEERS – A FAILURE IN LEADERSHIP?

IEM Essay Writing Competition 2005 -2nd Prize Winner Category I (Public, Members and Graduates) 

ENGINEERS – A FAILURE IN LEADERSHIP? 
by Calvin Tey Choo Yew 

Engineers are often perceived to be followers rather than leaders. It is said than an  engineer merely implements a plan rather than play any role in creating the plan. As most people say, the engineers are the ones who simply carry out the dirty work. He is simply playing a “small” role in a bigger scheme of things. Needless to say such a negative perception has removed much shine from this once coveted profession. Why has the profession come to such a state? Are we really lacking of engineers with good leadership capabilities? Or is it really true that engineers and leadership simply does not go together?

There should be a serious examination of the profession and concerted effort to instill leadership. There must be an understanding of contemporary needs in order to keep engineers abreast with the time. By doing so, the status of the profession can be raised and the interests of the engineering fraternity can be further advanced.

Dilemma of an Engineer 

But first, we have to acknowledge the present state of engineers vis-à-vis leadership – the dilemma of engineers not being regarded as good or effective leaders. Is it a universal fact? How severe is the dilemma? Do we even have to be concerned at all?

The scenario could not be more apparent if we examine the corporate scene of Malaysia. There are many major corporations with engineering concern being helmed by a leader devoid of any engineering background. Isn’t this a classical example of a business graduate being the boss and the engineer becoming a subordinate? This is the case even  in many engineering-based companies. The list of such organizations is endless. We do not question the suitability of the business leader. There must surely be plus-points which have enabled a person to climb up the leadership stairs. However, we do ponder the dilemma of engineers who just don’t quite seem to make the grade. Why have they been sidelined? Is he not competent enough? But isn’t he the best engineer around in his
organization?

The engineer is supposed to be technically competent in his field. With years of professional training and working experience, he should be blessed with a strong logical mind to mitigate a wide variety of issues. In an engineering organization, an engineer should be the one who has the full and complete understanding of the goings-on of the organization. After all he knows the technical details right down to the last bolt and nut!

Unfortunately, he seldom makes it to the top. Despite years of effort and commitment, an engineer is most likely to remain just that, an engineer, not a leader. Is this really an international phenomenon? Not quite. This is not really the norm in other well-known international companies such as Siemens AG and Bharat Heavy Electricals. These established corporations with heavy dealings in the engineering world are led by prominent engineers in their respective field. They must have been effective leaders too as their sprawling corporations have made their presence felt in every nook and cranny of the globe.

The situation is even bleaker if we dare take a glimpse of the political arena. It is really quite unlikely to find many engineers as ministers or holding prominent public office in Malaysia. On the contrary, there seems to be an abundance of doctors and lawyers holding such important positions. Aren’t they just like us, professionals? What made us less a leader? On the global platform, we have even less engineers with a position to influence or to make an impact. Fancy an engineer prime minister?

Some engineers may beg to differ. “Aren’t there many engineers who have worked their way up to become managers?” some may say. They may add, “These managers lead many people of different professional background in their respective departments or divisions.” This is true, but a manager is a manager. He is not necessarily a leader. Leadership will require much more personal qualities that may not be possessed by a manager. A manager organizes and controls. A leader guides and provides vision. It is this vision that really makes the difference. There are plenty of engineer-managers, but not many who are leaders are the same time. Not in the true sense anyway.

On the micro level, engineers have also much catching up to do. Many young engineers are able to perform superbly on their job but failed to exhibit sound leadership prowess. They simply perform their work as “prescribed”, lacking in creativity and fresh ideas. Some fail to convey their opinions effectively and some fail to provide guidance to their subordinates. This is probably due to the spoon-fed education system Malaysians are so accustomed to.

The dilemma is very real in Malaysia. It may not be a trend globally, but it is definitely of concern in Malaysia. We ought to take definitive steps if we do not want to be led down the drains.

Where has it led the engineers? 

The boss speaks and makes promises. The engineers have to slave it out and get the job done. He knows the details, what can be done, what is not plausible; but the boss simply has it his way. An engineer says, “it is wrong and unethical to do so and so…it will collapse… life will be lost” The boss says, “Just do it!” Haven’t we learnt this from stories of the ill-fated Discovery space shuttle? Failure of an engineer to exhibit leadership capability may compromise the professional code of ethics. This is not a mediocre matter – this is putting the image of the profession at stake!


It is really no wonder that the general public no longer look upon engineers with high esteem. In fact, engineers are seldom credited for their contributions. But when the flyover cracks or a slope gives way, lo and behold, the engineer is to blame! A massive power outage, blame the engineers – “they’ve made some mistake!” After all the general public is more excited when there are scandals. No comment when things are peaceful and in order.

With such arguments, surely not many will aspire to become an engineer. What is the point of loathing day and night at an engineering school to just become a follower, a subordinate till the end?

Nevertheless, engineering remains one of the most sought after undergraduate course. Universities and colleges throughout Malaysia continue to churn out new graduate engineers at breakneck speed. It is tough to be admitted into an engineering school and it is even tougher to become a competent professional engineer. Yes, we have the technical and professional standards but it is somehow lacking something. And we have to do something about that “something”!

Engineers to become leaders? 

That something is leadership and it must be instilled from the very beginning and kept alive thereafter. Plant the seed, we must and water it we should. It should start from school and continue throughout a person’s professional life. An engineer must live up to its name and reengineer to keep up with the times. Only by doing so, he can continue to contribute to the society in a more effective manner.

There must be a concerted effort in reviewing and possibly revamping the engineering education system in the country. There is no doubt that local institution of higher learning produce highly competent engineers in their field of study. Engineers graduating from renowned engineering schools such as that of Universiti Malaya or Universiti Teknologi Malaysia are highly sought after. Even newer universities such as Universiti Tenaga Nasional and Multimedia University have made their mark. But is it enough just having engineers who are technically competent? They may be well versed in thermodynamics, current and voltage or slope design. But are they also familiar with ringgit and sen, for instance? Are they able to communicate their opinions and professional judgment? Are they able to develop good interpersonal skills? Can they build a lasting relationship with their friends, counterparts and clients? Are they independent, or rather inter-dependent as Stephen Covey puts it? Can they be depended upon as leaders?

In order to produce all-rounder engineers, there should be more than just engineering curricula. Engineers ought to be made aware of the inter-relationship between engineering, business, economics, socio-politics and other aspects. There ought to be an awareness that the works of an engineer is meant to provide various conveniences to mankind. As such, engineers should reach out and understand the needs of different people. Only by doing so, can an engineer provide the necessary vision and guidance to others and thus become a leader.


Engineers should not just be competent technically; he must be competent in the so- called soft skills. These are exactly the type of skills most often ignored and as a result engineers will have to pay dearly for it. In fact some say, leaders are mostly endowed with excellent soft skills, even if they are technically incompetent. Engineers, on the other hand are so technically savvy they just lost touch with the softer things in life. Heard of the term “nerds” often associated with engineering students? Those bespectacled young ladies and gentlemen talking in weird jargon and poring over thick volumes of engineering books throughout their university life? Yes, the technically savvy who lost touch with the wider society.

An engineer should gain an understanding of financial and commercial aspects of life. After all, it is all about money in the end, isn’t it? What use is a piece of start-of-the-art equipment if it costs a bomb and is not feasible in the end? Many engineers who started out on their own business simply go bust because they are blind to things like market forces or financial ratios. Without the necessary financial knowledge, engineers will find it hard to elevate to become a leader. This is probably the reason many organizations are not led by engineers, but by business graduates. The business graduate may not know the micro-details of say, a pump but he does know how to pump the dollars and cents out and keep it flowing!

An engineer should develop good management skills. This encompasses management of his personal works and that of others. By doing so, he would be able to put first things first and get things done in proper sequence with proper results. An engineer should also instill a sense of responsibility and accountability. Such qualities will help build trust and confidence of others on him. Trust is a pre-requisite to being a leader. A dishonest and fraudulent person hardly makes a leader.

Interpersonal skills are just as important. An engineer must develop good personal skills in dealing with people. The way he identifies himself to others will portray the image and gives a lasting impression on others. His ability to communicate his sincere feelings and sound professional judgment will enable him to be heard and understood. It makes him convincing and respected. He can thus influence and persuade. His thoughts will be considered and not merely put aside. A good proposal remains a proposal if it is not articulately presented. A good plan turns awry, if relationship sours due to poor interpersonal skills.

The various soft skills should be emphasized right from the beginning and given prominence throughout the professional career. Presently, subjects like management or ethics are often relegated as miscellaneous, to be taken just to fulfill the requirements to graduate. As if not bad enough, these subjects are taken usually at the end of the engineering course, kept to the last. Even after graduation, similar courses are only taken simply because it is necessary in order to satisfy the requirements of the Board of Engineers. This should not be the case. Such courses should instead be regarded as value- added knowledge to enhance an engineer’s technical know-how. Engineers do not live in their own world; their world is also shared by others from very different backgrounds.

These softer things are a must to bridge the gap between people from diverse background.

In addition, engineers should be well read and well informed. There is a need to keep abreast with not only new technologies but also new ideas and thoughts. Motivational reading materials such as those written by Anthony Robbins, Stephen Covey and Norman Vincent Peale help provide new guidelines and thoughts on leading an effective life and building effective leadership. Thoughts of great world leaders such as Tun Dr. Mahathir and Lee Kuan Yew make excellent source of information for aspiring leaders. Engineers too should not miss out on it. There is no better place to learn but from the real gurus in leadership.

Engineers in Malaysia are not really working in the framework of Malaysia only. With an increasingly globalized world, the inter-dependency of various countries is becoming more pronounced. A leader has to be in touch with the workings and realities of other communities in the world. Malaysia is not alone. We are but a member of a larger global community.

An engineer should also possess sound and unwavering principles. A principle-centered engineer with a clear conscience will inspire and motivate others. By giving paramount importance to the welfare of the community, engineers will earn the respect and awe accorded to a true leader. In this respect, the professional code of conduct and engineering ethics are already in place and continuously promoted by the Institution of Engineers and Board of Engineers. These should not be brushed aside as a proper conduct is necessary to instill proper leadership. After all, what use do we have of an unscrupulous “leader”? “Leaders” of the likes of Hitler and Pol Pot are definitely not desirable, if not downright disastrous!

Leadership is not a clear-cut skill which can be discerned from some text book. It cannot simply be learnt from attending some course. It has to be instilled and given time as well as opportunity to grow. It cannot be the task of the academia or Institution of Engineers alone. It has to be a personal endeavor and awareness. With leadership comes heavy responsibility as well. A leader has to be accountable for what he leads. He has to lead with conscience and with vision. It is by no means a simple task. It is harder than calculus or all the engineering design calculations. It is not something we can grasp with our hand. The skill is vague but the result is clear.

Can we make it? 

Of recent years, we have been blessed with several prominent leaders from engineering backgrounds. We are not lacking of leaders in the engineering fraternity. It is just that many remain undiscovered and they should be helped and given the right awareness to emerge as one.

Tan Sri Francis Yeoh of the YTL Group is a civil engineer by profession who is now a leader of a fast-growing empire, which spans the construction, power and cement industries. His thoughts on leadership are not simply a boon on his business endeavors. It has become a source of inspiration to many others. His annual leadership conference draws hundreds of YTL employees who come to listen to him share his views on leadership. He is ample proof that engineers too can be a leader and inspire others.

Tan Sri Tajuddin Ali, the former Chief Executive Officer of TNB, the biggest electricity utility company in South East Asia is also a well-known engineer. Under his stewardship, TNB has grown by leaps and bounds recovering from the several national blackouts in the 1990’s. He is highly regarded in having turned the utility giant around through his brand of leadership. Yet another proof that engineers go well with leadership.

Politically, a young and aspiring Ir. Wee Ka Siong is fast becoming a well-respected Member of Parliament from Johor. An engineer by profession, he has shown that engineers can also become a leader and serve his community. His excellent communication and interpersonal prowess have made him a promising star in the political arena in years to come.

There are of course many other exemplary engineer leaders in Malaysia. We just have to create even more of them. The engineering fraternity has to work tirelessly to bring leadership into engineers. Doing so will help raise the status and further advance the interest of the engineering profession. Sounds familiar? This is one of mission statement of the Institution of Engineers, Malaysia. Engineers are not failures in leadership and we can prove it!

#jurutera #engineer #bem #iem #malaysia #anekdotkerjaya