BuildTech Yangon Synergises Green Network Development in Myanmar
The 4th edition of BuildTech Yangon concluded on 20 May 2017 after three days of industry discussions, international dialogues, commercial engagements and knowledge sharing in Myanmar. Organised by Sphere Exhibits, a subsidiary of Singapore Press Holdings (SPH) and co-organised by the Myanmar Construction Entrepreneurs Association (MCEA), BuildTech Yangon 2017 is the leading industry event focusing on the value chain for the build environment sector in Myanmar.
Graced by the Guest of Honour, U Zaw Aye Maung, Minister of Ethnic Affairs, Ministry Yangon Region Government, BuildTech Yangon 2017 focused on green buildings, key solutions and technologies, redefining Myanmar’s building and construction sector. Attended by high profile delegates, dignitaries and key decision makers, the event took a focused approach in addressing key policies in the country’s city development.
Advancing the Green Building Network in Myanmar
A highlight this year was the inaugural Green Building Conference, an innovative two- day event designed to help nurture sustainable and green development whilst fostering the formation of a National Green Building Council in Myanmar.
The World Green Building Council (WGBC) participated in BuildTech Yangon for the first time this year, supported by the Singapore Green Building Council, the country’s representative to the eminent international group. WGBC held several meetings with local industry associations to discuss the development and nurturing of Myanmar’s green building movement. 
Delegates to the Green Building Conference had access to sessions on a range of topics that included cases studies on recent green projects and introductions to green buildings and green architecture. Panel discussions with a wide range of experts on the topics of Regulations, Certifications & Policies Building and Housing adapted to Climate Change and Innovative Solutions towards a Greener Yangon were well received.
Dr. Swe Swe Aye, Chairman of the Green Building Committee, Building Engineers Institute of Myanmar and co-organiser of the Green Building Conference, said: “The inaugural Green Building Conference was a tremendous success, and we are thankful for the experts in green building construction who took time from their busy schedules. The Green Building Committee and Building Engineering Institute welcome the opportunity to be able to collaborate closely with local and regional green building experts and authorities in the region.”
Delegates and visitors also saw the latest in green technologies and sustainable and energy efficient solutions at the Green Pavilion. Participating companies from China, India, Italy, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, South Korea, and Thailand showcased a wide array of innovative products, solutions, and materials on the trade floor.
Mr. Ryo Lau K.S, Sales Engineer of Master Wire Cable Sdn Bhd said, “As a Malaysian company that has taken the plunge to explore opportunities, we have identified a gap in the manufacturing and supply of cables in Myanmar. There is a vast potential in Yangon as the city expands its infrastructure and building construction capabilities and needs. We are happy to have obtained good sales leads at the trade show.”
Additionally, a Memorandum of Understanding between the Myanmar Construction Entrepreneurs Association (MCEA) and the Singapore Institute of Building Limited (SIBL) was renewed to further extend their collaboration in advancing the industry. I&H Engineering Co., a joint venture between the Myanmar Ministry of Construction and I&H Asia Pacific, launched their new factory located just outside of Yangon, while trade missions from across the region held closed-door networking sessions.
Championing Industry Leaders
Mg Mya Hnin Bi from THS Construction was the winner of this year’s highly anticipated brick laying competition, which featured a live assembly of a set prototype of a model building. The national competition saw 20 companies competing to win the accolades, and spurring improvements in brick layer techniques and skillsets in the local construction sector.
The objective of this national competition aimed to increase the skill level of workers in the industry as well as to incentivise award winners to further their skills in similar international brick laying competitions. Brick laying is an important and essential skill that is much-needed in the construction industry. Competitions such as this will encourage workers to sign up to bricklaying courses in Myanmar’s effort to stay ahead.
Some 1,000 guests also came together for the MCEA annual gala which took place on 19 May 2017. Awards, jointly presented by MCEA and Sphere Exhibits, were given to young construction entrepreneurs for their exemplary contributions to the industry and community. They included Diamond, Gold and Silver Awards for the Best Contractors and Best Projects, and individual accolades for MCEA’s Man of the Year and the Builder of the Year Award.
For more information, visit www.btyangon.com/en.
