1MDB embarks on tender process for KLIFD project

(Published in the Star BizWeek 24th December 2011 issue: page 12)

PETALING JAYA: The tender process on major foundations works for the Kuala Lumpur International Financial District (KLIFD) has started,1Malaysia Development Bhd (1MDB) said.

The Government-owned company had invited contractors to participate in a pre-qualification exercise in the construction and completion of earthwork and excavation works, retaining structure, piling works and related sub-structure works.

Deputy chief executive officer (operations) Datuk Azmar Talib said in a statement yesterday: “This is probably among the largest earthwork, covering the size of about 20 football fields (12ha) and excavating about 20m or about four storeys into the ground.”

Azmar said many activities had been taking place in view of the start of construction in the first quarter next year. Amid this, they are creating and enhancing value to the site.

Acting as the master developer for KLIFD, 1MDB is taking measures in environment management planning to minimise the impact of construction on the surrounding environment.

“As the master developer for KLIFD, we are always conscious of our responsibility to the community. We have sought the guidance and cooperation of Dewan Bandaraya Kuala Lumpur. We have taken proactive steps to submit the Environment Impact Assessment (EIA),” Azmar said.

The EIA is voluntary as the size of the KLIFD development is below 50ha, which is the minimum development size that will call for a mandatory EIA.

The notice of pre-qualification will close on Jan 6. Short listings and invitations to tender have been scheduled to complete by mid-Feb next year.

Azmar said 1MDB sought an inclusive participation by both big and small players. Companies can form joint ventures (JV) or consortium to participate in the pre-qualification.

The JVs can also be between local companies and international companies with locally incorporated operations. This will promote a blend of global and local expertise as well as technology transfer.

1MDB is also developing a Digital Master Plan for a digitally smart financial district, utilising technologies that are smart, intelligent and future proof.

The 30ha development in the Imbi area in between Jalan Tun Razak, Jalan Sultan Ismail and the Putrajaya elevated highway, seeks to create a catalytic pool of world-class players by combining leading financial institutions and top global companies.