UTAR-SIT partnership strengthens with ninth BIM Modelling workshop

UTAR and Shibaura Institute of Technology (SIT) showed a strong partnership by hosting another collaborative BIM Modelling workshop at UTAR Kampar Campus from 3 to 11 March 2025. The ninth edition of the workshop was jointly organised by UTAR’s Department of Construction Management (DCM) under the Faculty of Engineering and Green Technology (FEGT) and SIT’s Department of Architecture and Building Engineering.

The workshop gathered 17 SIT students, accompanied by their lecturers Prof Dr Hirotake Kanisawa, Prof Dr Kazuya Shide, and Prof Dr Naoto Mine. They were joined by 20 DCM students under the supervision of DCM lecturer Ts Dr Tan Zi Yi. FEGT Dean Ir Prof Dr Ng Choon Aun and Department of Construction Management Head Dr Kwan Wai Hoe were also present to welcome the SIT delegates.

The workshop provided students with an immersive learning experience in the construction industries of Japan and Malaysia through knowledge exchange and cultural understanding.  As the lecturers guided them on their team projects, participants learnt about the architectural and industrial practices of both economies, exploring their differences, similarities, and innovative problem-solving approaches. The participants also worked together in teams, which enabled them to establish international networking, and hone their cultural intelligence skills.

A special session featuring a talk by Hirate Technical Cooperation officers provided participants further insights into construction, architectural design, and engineering technicalities in a project. The officers explained the dynamics of working together with various experts in their field to ensure the success of the project.

Adding to their knowledge was also the site visit to The Light City in Penang, an IJM construction project, which provided participants first-hand exposure to advanced construction techniques, project management methods, M&E (mechanical and electrical) installations, BIM applications, site planning, and safety & health management. They further explored the Dalux software through a session with the BIM Manager, who explained how the software enables users to open building models and view all components, including M&E systems, structural elements, and sanitary fittings, as well as utilising the “One Click to Real Location” feature. Another key takeaway from the visit was the procurement system used in the project. The manager explained the procurement process for the current development and other ongoing projects, emphasising that detailed contract documentation is crucial, which he contrasted with the possible consequences of poorly written contracts. Participants were also able to gather interesting solutions to the problems they discovered.

UTAR student Leong E-Chong said, “It was a great experience working with the SIT students on Revit software. We presented different ideas that allowed us to see things from various perspectives. Some ideas even turned out to be better solutions that could optimise the current design. It was definitely refreshing to brainstorm together as we combined our efforts to complete the project.”

UTAR student Tinotenda Gambinga expressed, “I understand the new functions in Revit better now. This information was important for me to complete my part of the assignment. Working with the SIT students also helped me develop teamwork skills in a diverse group and improved my social skills.”
Chong Shen Henn from UTAR said, “I acquired more knowledge and learned new skills and techniques in using Revit software. I am grateful for the opportunity to participate in this workshop, which helped me gain a deeper understanding of BIM. I truly enjoyed the experience, and working together with SIT students enhanced my learning.”

SIT student Fuka Komine returned to the workshop, having been involved in its establishment back in 2016. Now a PhD student, she described the workshop as a valuable platform for growth and learning. She recalled, “It’s great to be back because it is always fun to learn with people from diverse backgrounds. I learned about their cultures, languages, and the differences between buildings in Malaysia and Japan. Everyone was friendly and welcoming, making it a wholesome experience once again.”

SIT student Genki Okamoto explained, “I expanded my knowledge of using Revit and Twinmotion software. During the design stage of our assignment, I learned about the differences in climate between Malaysia and Japan and their impact on material selection and architectural design. This made our group discussions even more engaging, as I also discovered more about Malaysian culture and traditions reflected in some buildings. I also had the chance to try Malaysian food, and I gradually developed a liking for spicy dishes. I was impressed by Malaysians’ kindness, making this workshop a truly valuable experience.”

SIT student Su Chaoyang elaborated, “As the team leader, I developed leadership and management skills. Using different languages during our discussions helped me understand the importance of embracing diversity and being open to different ideas and perspectives. This was also my first time studying in Malaysia, and everyone was incredibly welcoming. I enjoyed the local cuisine and gained a newfound appreciation for Malaysian culture. It was a truly delightful learning journey.”