The National BIM e-Submission (NBeS) is a pivotal initiative launched under the Construction Industry Transformation Programme (CITP) 2016-2020, aimed at enhancing the productivity of Malaysia’s construction industry. The system enables the automated, fully online submission of Building Plans, significantly streamlining the review and approval processes for Local Authorities (PBT). Unlike traditional methods, which rely on 2D drawings, NBeS uses 3D Building Information Modeling (BIM), ensuring compliance with the Uniform Building By-Law (UBBL) and other relevant regulations through its automated checking systems.

Developed by CIDB E-Construct Services Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of CIDB Malaysia, NBeS integrates OpenBIM technology and provides a complete digital workflow, from 3D rendering to rule-based compliance checks, fully accessible via a web browser. The system’s capability to process and review complex 3D models online positions Malaysia as a pioneer in the digitalization of the building approval process.

Launched in 2017, NBeS underwent extensive testing through multiple pilot projects. By 2019, the system had been implemented at four Local Authorities (PBT): Perbadanan Putrajaya (PPj), Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ), Kangar Municipal Council (MPK) and Melaka Historic City Council (MBMB). These trials demonstrated the system’s efficiency, with positive feedback from all participating authorities. The pilot projects also involved benchmarking with agencies such as the Ministry of Housing and Local Government (KPKT), Public Works Department (JKR), Malaysian Administrative Modernization and Management Planning Unit (MAMPU) and the Malaysia Productivity Corporation (MPC).

The success of the pilot projects culminated in the 2020 report which highlighted a 92% achievement score for the overall effectiveness of NBeS. This included a 70% reduction in approval time for building plans when integrated with the OSC 3.0 Plus Online system developed under the Ministry of Housing and Local Government. The system’s integration with other platforms such as the Sistem Pemantauan OSC 3.0 under Perbadanan Putrajaya, enables NBeS to become a leader in the digitalization of the Uniform Building By-Law 1984 (UBBL).

In 2023, NBeS expanded to Purpose Group VI (Factory), further increasing its scope to accelerate the building plan review process. Majlis Perbandaran Kulim Kedah (MPKK) became one of the first authorities to adopt this expansion, focusing on expediting factory construction approvals and boosting foreign investment. By 2024, additional Local Authorities, including Majlis Perbandaran Port Dickson (MPPD) and Majlis Daerah Tampin (MDT) were onboarded to the system as part of its nationwide rollout.

The comprehensive digitalization of building plan submissions and compliance processes directly aligns with Industry Revolution 4.0 aspirations, promoting the use of smart technology within Malaysia’s construction industry. The NBeS system also lays a foundation for Smart City initiatives, contributing to better urban planning through the collection of meaningful data sets and reducing environmental impact. The adoption of NBeS supports Malaysia’s drive to improve its Ease of Doing Business ranking and attract foreign direct investment, marking a significant step toward making Malaysia a hub for global construction innovation.