The National BIM e-Submission (NBeS) is a revolutionary, first-in-the-world AutoChecker system developed by CIDB Malaysia through its subsidiary CIDB E-Construct Services Sdn Bhd. This system automates the submission and approval of Building Plans at the Local Authority (PBT) level, transforming the process from conventional 2D drawings to 3D Building Information Modeling (BIM). Unlike traditional methods, NBeS offers a fully online, streamlined workflow, ensuring compliance with the Uniform Building By-Law (UBBL) and other relevant regulations through advanced rule-checking engines.

Launched in 2017, NBeS was initially tested with five local authorities: Perbadanan Putrajaya (PPj), Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ), Kangar Municipal Council (MPK), Historic Melaka City Council (MBMB) and North Kuching City Hall (DBKU). This collaborative effort aimed to redefine the process of building plan submissions in Malaysia by introducing 3D model-based compliance reviews. The system was further expanded to include Purpose Groups such as Small Residential (Purpose Group I), Other Residential (Purpose Group III), Office (Purpose Group IV) and Shop (Purpose Group V).

In 2018, NBeS integrated additional functionalities, including Safety and Fire Protection compliance checks in collaboration with the Fire and Rescue Department of Malaysia (JBPM). This enhancement allowed for the automatic review of safety regulations, further improving the efficiency and accuracy of the approval process. By 2019, four pilot projects with PPj, MBPJ, MPK, and MBMB demonstrated the system’s potential, with all authorities providing positive feedback. These projects also led to the introduction of Act 133 which governs the Roads, Drains, and Buildings Act 1974 into the NBeS framework.

Building on its early success, NBeS expanded further in 2021 with three more pilot projects, involving DBKU, PPj, and MBPJ. These projects focused on Purpose Groups IV and V (Office and Shop Buildings) and simulated the system’s usability at the PBT level. The positive results from these projects solidified NBeS as a key tool in Malaysia's construction industry digitalization efforts.

The adoption of OpenBIM technology underpins the system’s capability to manage the entire process online, including 3D rendering, ruleset management (UBBL, MS, UUK), and automated compliance checks. Users can upload 3D building models and view the results of the compliance review directly through a web browser, simplifying the traditionally complex approval process. In 2023, NBeS expanded its scope to include Factory Building Plans (Purpose Group VI), starting with Majlis Perbandaran Kulim Kedah (MPKK) to expedite factory construction approvals and attract foreign investment.

NBeS is not just a tool for expediting approvals, it is a key driver of Malaysia’s Industry Revolution 4.0 goals, promoting digitalization in the construction industry. The system also supports Smart City initiatives, enabling better data-driven urban planning, reducing costs, and improving environmental sustainability. By cutting approval times to as little as 24 to 48 hours, NBeS contributes to Malaysia’s improved Ease of Doing Business ranking, making it a more attractive destination for foreign investment.

In line with the Malaysian government’s vision for a more productive and efficient construction industry, NBeS plays a vital role in addressing the industry's challenges such as low productivity, safety issues, and compliance with regulations. As the system evolves, it is expected to contribute further to enhancing construction site management and ensuring the sustainable growth of Malaysia’s infrastructure development.