Q2

Introduction

As an engineer, we shall be responsible to our employer and take care his benefits unless it is jeopardizing the
community from health and safety aspect. Therefore, we do not disclose information gained during the course of
employment without permission of employer. The works and information could be highly important and
confidential for both the company and staffs.

Duty to employer

With awareness of our duty and responsibility in the company and to our employer, we should also try to contribute
to advancement of the industry and greater benefits of community. If in the course of my works, some other
valuable materials were discovered, the information shall also be properly recorded and reported first to my
employer. Though it is not interested by my employer, the finding/ discovery can be used for goodness of society
and possibly can reduce and even recover the non- productive investment that employer put in. If the engineer feels
it is for benefit of the people and hope the mineral could be extracted, he could propose to his employer. With
permission by employer and disclosure of information in an appropriate way will not scacrify benefits of the
company.

Duty to Community and Industry

Without jeopardizing the benefits of employer and to contribute to advancement of the industry, I shall report the
findings to employer and possibly followed with submission of proposal to employer for possible joint venture or
information sharing/ selling to another party which they make use of the valuable materials.

By doing so, we could abide by fulfilment of our duty to employer and contribute to advancement of the
industry in morale way.

No wastage of resource (both natural and efforts)

In addition, if employer agrees to disclose the information, which was not useful to us but is of great
interests of the other know party, we avoid waste of efforts and resource put in. The useful material could
also be extracted for benefit of community.

Disclosure of Information in proper way

As per earlier paragraphs, we shall take care the interests of our employer. All information and success
gained during our course of work with current employer could be important for future development of the
company and colleagues. If we feel that the information though not useful to us but to others, we can
propose disclosure of information to employer and let them to make decision for better advancement of the
industry and society at large.

Look after members in the industry

All players in the same industry can compete and help each other. by doing so, the industry can make
progress in a faster pace. The outcome is always everyone become more competitive and cost in production.
By helping others in the industry, we create healthy cooperation with others. In return, we will also gain
their assistance infuture.

Conclusion

In the course of our works, we report our findings to employer. In the same time, we make our works
benefiting the society. Disclosure of information, if with good reasons, shall be done in an ethical manner.
The interest of our employer shall be safeguarded. For this case, we shall gain permission from employer or
propose to employer our ideas.
Q3
Introduction

In Malaysia, when dealing with contractor and subcontractor, it is often unavoidable to have close and
routine liaison with them. It is often some sort of habits such as gift hampers, petrol allowance, provision of
cars, vouchers, some sort of benefits and discount for purchase orders are always seemed “normal” and not a
trait or significant matters that may involve some sort of inappropriate intention and conflict of interests.

However, as engineers, we shall always conduct ourselves responsibly, ethically and sincerely. In course of
works, we make sure works being carried out and delivered to meet the intended use, quality and required
specification. As such, we shall receive remuneration and benefits only from our employer and not others. It
is essential to avoid inappropriate actions or decisions during discharging our duties to employer.

For the case of Engineer X to accept the offer, by Mr. Z, the latest model of an electronic gadget, at a
discounted price, is seemed a bit breaching the IEM regulations on Professional Conduct. It is because the
discounted price indeed can be considered a valuable consideration. Though the engineer X is contracted to
Y company owned by Mr. Z, engineer X is already accepting remuneration from his employer who
contracting him to Y company for the project. He shall not accept financial and benefits from more than one
party for the same project. If Mr. Z appreciate engineer X for his efforts in the project, he could still make
such offer but it is more appropriate to offer via his employer to engineer X.

For the working environment, the habits could sometime affect the effectiveness of instruction/ command
when we are discharging our routine duties if we have taken some sort of benefits from another, except it is
stipulated inside contract of employment.

Engineer shall be honest when discharging his duties

As an engineer, we shall be honest when carrying out our routine works in work place. We shall not expect
benefits in any kind from others except from our employer. Our firm standing of not accepting any kind of
benefits other than from our employer could help us dealing with others confidently and earn their
cooperation in getting works completed without jeopardizing the quality.

Engineer shall uphold the dignity of the profession

Engineers are needed to perform their duties with integrity. Engineer take care the work quality, safety and
environment. Engineers shall not accept commission and request commission or other similar financial
consideration except their stipulated fee and wages as per employment contract. It is important to safeguard
the good image, professionalism of the profession and ensure the career a sustainable one.

Engineer shall ensure his work meet the needs, specification, no danger

Without taking benefits from others, engineer and other members in the industry can cooperate and make the
project completed in a truthful way. For all projects, it is priority to ensure work quality to follow design
specification and meet intended use.

Engineer shall accept only remuneration, fees and benefit of his employer

Unless the benefits are stipulated into employment contract prior to commencement of work, engineers shall
not accept unstated kind of benefits. It is important for engineers to carry duties with integrity.

Conclusion

A Registered Engineer shall not solicit or accept financial or other valuable consideration, directly or
indirectly, from outside agents in connection with the work for which he is responsible unless the
circumstances are fully disclosed and agreed by all interested parties.
Q4
Introduction

IEM regulations of professional conduct are written rules and principles for members to conduct themselves
in ethical and morale manner when discharging their duties and carrying their works. The regulations and
rules are written in broad and general terms and cover all eventualities.

The regulations, basically, require members to uphold the dignity of the profession, be honest and fair to all
parties, ensure works constitute no danger, do not jeopardize the benefits of his fellow engineers, etc.

By memorizing this set of regulations and rules, though cannot ensure professionalism of an engineer, these
rules are introduction and basic qualifying requirement and essential guidelines that all members must
remember. After memorizing and understand them with heart, the following aspects are also much desired to
attain professionalism of the engineers.

Self-awareness and agreement to the importance of stipulated rules and regulations

Laws, regulations and rules are being introduced, developed, improved and enforced when society was
forming and growing. In other words, civilisation was created with co- existence of rules and regulations.
The rules and regulations are reference of accepted conducts for own comfort from all aspects and not
jeopardizing the same of others. All members in the community will live in harmony situation and to make
progress with healthy and positive competition ways when there are orders and everyone adhered to them.

For one to adhere to rules and regulations, his agreement and understanding to the rules is important. Then,
he will only pledge to follow the rules.

For instance, some of the IEM regulations of professional conduct prohibit members from using self-
laudatory works in advertisement or do not maliciously injure the reputation and prospect of other engineers.

In my opinions, engineering works are application of science knowledge to improve living standard of
human. Engineers are those involved with the roles. This kind of roles are informative and implementation
patterns and not adjective and praising ways. It is important so that we can perform our duties with real
understanding and attending to engineering problems sincerely. We do not say or make public perceive that
we could perform something extraordinary or can do much better or no one else could able to do similar.
This rule is essential to avoid wrong perception from the public and to show our sincerity to contribute to the
community while taking care of our business prospects.

Engineers shall not injure other engineer both from words and any kind of unethical methods too. Should
they want to compete, they compete with their skill and expertise to strive for valued engineering design and
front end engineering design. With such healthy competition, both will further improve their own
competence, benefiting themselves and the nation.

Practise/ Self-discipline to follow rules

Upon one agrees and understands the rules and regulations are for all members to conduct themselves in an
order and ethical ways, which will eventually strengthen the attractiveness of the profession as a rewarding
career; one will follow and practise the rules and regulations.

Continuing Professional Development

Competence is important for advancement of oneself and for the industry as a whole. Though one’s practises
to-date provide safe and reliable works, technology are becoming more modern compared 20 to 30 years
ago. Engineers, in old days, strive for safe, reliable works and meet schedule. For nowadays, in addition to
safe, reliable and within schedule, the clients, industry players and public are also demanding for valued
engineering design, front end engineering design (FEED), Green buildings and etc.

In other words, the industry is becoming more demanding. We need to cope with latest development of
technology, new knowledge and open to its application. By continuing study and develop our competence,
only can we keep our pace to provide excellent services to clients and public from all aspect such as safety,
reliability, valued for money works, contemporary design and not jeopardizing the environment.
By continuing professional development, we enhance our competence and compete confidently to secure
jobs and maintain business prospects. By becoming more competent, we could achieve professionalism and
do not need unethical approaches.

Whistle blowers/ Enforcer such as Board of Engineers, Malaysia

There are sometimes some “bad apples”. Therefore, there must be an enforcement system in place. “Bad
apples” are like small moles, but catch most attention and could be a crisis once appear and not be removed.

In Malaysia, Board of Engineers (BEM) is the regulatory body to register and deregister engineers. There are
also mechanism and reasons, stipulated inside Registration of Engineers Act 1967 (Act 138) (REA), how an
unethical offences that can lead to suspension or cancellation of registration of an engineer.

However, BEM does not able to play her roles and responsibilities unless there are whistle blowers and the
similar mechanism within Institution of Engineers Malaysia (IEM). By adhering to IEM rules and
regulations, we could abide by most of the regulations by BEM and REA which both are reference for
engineers to maintain professionalism.

Promoter of good practices and network among members such as Institution of Engineers, Malaysia

Interaction among engineers is important. Via interaction, people with similar abilities, qualifications,
background and job nature can become peers among themselves to move to ethical direction. They could
learn, share ideas, monitor and motivate each other.

By becoming members of Institution of Engineers Malaysia (IEM), we can enhance our competence by
participating talks, seminar organised by IEM and share ideas and experience among members. By
becoming IEM members, we promise to abide by IEM rules and regulations. If any of the members breach
the rules, he shall feel shame and will not earn the respect of others.

Guidance/ Mentor system

Young engineers are drivers of the industry and profession in future. It is relatively easy for them to acquire
academic qualification and technical expertise under supervision of a registered professional engineer.
However, both academic and technical skills are not total for professionalism. Professionalism shall include
ethical behaviour too.

Hence, it is of paramount important that supervisor to monitor and guide their trainee the ethical practices
when handling project and bear in mind his obligation to his clients and duties to public and environment at
large.

Conclusion

Regurgitating IEM regulations on professional conduct is basic qualifying requirement to attain

professionalism. In addition to that, members shall have strong agreement to the rules and regulation, feel
proud and honour to follow the rules. It is because their pledges to follow the rules are to maintain the
sustainability of the profession and make the career to continue to be rewarding and respectable ones
Q5
Introduction

IEM regulations of professional conduct are written rules and principles for members to conduct themselves
in ethical and morale manner when discharging their duties and carrying their works. The regulations and
rules are written in broad and general terms and cover all eventualities.

The regulations, basically, require members to uphold the dignity of the profession, be honest and fair to all
parties, ensure works constitute no danger to public, do not jeopardize the benefits of his fellow engineers,
etc.

One of rules is member shall not use self-laudatory language or in any manner derogatory to the dignity of
the profession, to advertise or write articles for publication, nor shall he authorize any such advertisement or
article to be written or published by any other person.

All these IEM regulations of professional conduct, including prohibit of active self- promotion and
advertisement, are to enhance the stature of engineers as professionals and further promote the profession as
an attractive and rewarding ones.

How the prohibition of active self-promotion and advertisement to enhance professionalism?

Active self-promotion and advertisement like sales and marketing industry may result the use of self-
laudatory language. In my opinions, engineering works are application of science knowledge to improve
living standard of human. Engineers are those involved with the roles. These kinds of roles are informative
and implementation patterns and not adjective and praising ways. It is important so that we can perform our
duties with real understanding and attending to engineering problems sincerely. We do not say or make
public perceive that we could perform something extraordinary or can do much better or no one else could
able to do similar. This rule is essential to avoid wrong perception from the public and to show our sincerity
to contribute to the community while taking care of our business prospects.

However, consultancy services are businesses too. When a prohibition was imposed, resources such as
personnel, time and money earlier allocated for the advertisement could have be channelled and used for
better ways. For instance, these resources can be allocated for training, purchase of latest analytical and
design software, new equipment such plotters and PCs for the office. All these training can enhance the
competency and efficiency of all engineers. In other words, such restraint of active promotion can promote
efforts to maintain and develop professional competency by attention to new development in science and
engineering relevant to his field. Fruitful competition are based on competence, creativity, innovation,
valued engineering design, front end engineering design (FEED), etc rather than merely active
advertisement.

In addition, the restraint can avoid unhealthy competition among engineers such as deduction of fees. This
approach to secure works is definitely detrimental to the profession and other engineers. The impacts are the
profession could no longer be an attractive and rewarding one. In future, there will less and less talents
willing to join the profession making the industry not sustainable and stagnant from advancement.

Such restraint may promote close collaboration among engineers of different discipline and expertise too. It
is because the projects nowadays are growing in complexity. As an engineer, he does not speak and make
public statement without ensuring his

qualification and undertake jobs that are out of his area of expertise and competence. By pooling all
discipline of engineers, they work and collaborate with one another.
Eventually, they can contribute to nation in efficient ways.

How to detect such violation of active self-promotion and advertisement?

Again, as per earlier sub-chapter, active self-promotion and advertisement like sales and marketing industry
may result the use of self-laudatory language. It could sometimes become worst if there is any manner
derogatory to dignity profession.

Therefore, the violation can be detected by identifying the presence of these two elements of advertisement
and articles published on both traditional media and online. If one uses self-laudatory language, the
statement is unlikely providing informative details tally with his qualification, capacity and competence.
Both Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM) and Institution of Engineers Malaysia (IEM) have the directory
and registration details and public could access via online to check the registration of individual engineer.

How to deal with the violation of active self-promotion and advertisement?

Peer system within Institution of Engineers Malaysia

Communication is important among engineers. Via communication, people with similar abilities,
qualifications, background and job nature can become peers of among themselves to move to ethical
direction. In addition, they could learn, share ideas, monitor and motivate each other.

By becoming members of Institution of Engineers Malaysia (IEM), we become peers among each other. By
becoming IEM members, we promise to abide by IEM rules and regulations. If any of the members breach
the rules, he shall feel shame and will not earn the respect of others.

To enhance competence

Competence is important for advancement of oneself and for the industry as a whole. If one becomes
competent, he does not need self-laudatory languages and unethical approach to earn his prospects. As such,
the continuing professional development programs organised by accredited organisation such as BEM and
IEM are much anticipated.

Whistle blowers/ Regulators/ Enforcement such as Board of Engineers, Malaysia

There is sometimes some “bad apples”. Therefore, there must be regulators and enforcement system in
place.

In Malaysia, Board of Engineers (BEM) is the regulatory body to register and deregister engineers. There are
also mechanism and reasons, stipulated inside Registration of Engineers Act 1967 (Act 138) (REA), how an
unethical offences that can lead to suspension or cancellation of registration of an engineer. One of the by-
laws also stipulates that a registered engineer shall not advertise in any manner or form in connection with
his profession (Item 27c) except as permitted by BEM.

However, BEM does not able to play her roles and responsibilities unless there are whistle blowers and
assistance of IEM.

Most registered engineers are also members of IEM. IEM has similar mechanism to suspend membership of
default members. Hence, the close collaboration from both BEM and IEM since earliest days is dealing with
the matters.

By adhering to IEM rules and regulations, we could abide by most of the regulations by BEM and REA,
which include the prohibition of active self-promotion and advertisement.

Conclusion

Prohibition of active self-promotion and advertisement are not means to restrict growing of business of
individual engineer. It is indeed encouraging competency with allocation of resources into enhancing
competence and skills. The restraint could avoid unhealthy approaches which shown desperation to secure
jobs but jeopardizing the profession as a rewarding career as a whole and in the long run.
Q6
Introduction

According to IEM regulation on professional conduct, members shall ensure that his works and products
constitute no danger, cause no health issues and no damage to the environment. When there is conflict of interest
between his own and others especially the community, his shall uphold the benefit of the community and his duty
to them must prevail.

In addition, it is responsibility of all humans to not polluting the environment, not initiating irresponsible actions
that will jeopardize others and own good health and safety. All economic activities and development will only
become sustainable if people are healthy, work places are safe and environment is clean.

Like sickness, prevention is better than cure. If the sickness has unfortunately arisen upon us, we shall open to
medical examination and accept the cure.

If my project activities or plant production had cause an adverse health, safety or environmental (HSE) impact, I
will report, discuss and advise employer for stipulated period for repair and rectification works. If it is deemed
necessary, due to benefits of workers and public from HSE aspects, I will recommend too about ceasing of project
activities and production though that may resulting in the inability to meet the schedule and targets.

In the same time, I will quickly kick off the repair and rectification works, along with contingency plan such
business response plan to catch up schedule of project activities and production after repair works with all relevant
colleagues and staffs.

The prime action is definitely to settle the HSE matters. While in the same time, we plan and arrange in advance
plans to recover business and project activities or production back to tracks once the HSE matters are settled.

Stop work

Occupational, Safety and Health Act 1994 is the law to govern the safety and health at work places while
Environmental Quality Act 1974 is the law to govern environmental matters in Malaysia. For construction and
manufacturing industries, which often involve the use of heavy machine and equipment, Factories and Machinery
Act 1967 is the law to govern the safe use of machine during work and after installation for tenant use.

Under the acts, both employer and employee have obligation to ensure safety and health at workplaces and not
causing environmental problems. If offended, fines and imprisonment could be imposed.

Nowadays, many companies have their own HSE policy too, which could be more stringent because industry
oriented requirement such as oil and gas industry. By adhering to company HSE policy, it is sometimes abide by
the laws. In addition, the self- voluntary stop work is not merely obligation to laws, it is indeed our commitment to
HSE and sustainability of project activities and business. Stop work at early stage when problems are identified,
rather than waiting until serious damage take place, could maintain good corporate image and make the business
sustainable.

For construction industry, one errant contractor with occurrence of bad HSE incidents would not be welcomed by
client and could be blacklisted from future bidding of projects.

Repair/ rectify the problem within schedule

The stop work period provide full access of all relevant personnel and measurement to repair and rectify the
problems.

The cause of problem and remedy methods, should have already identified prior to or immediate to be identified
after stop work initiated. If it is the machine problem, the machine shall be repaired and replaced. If it is the work
place, which are messing and could cause safety concern because of negligence, the place shall be cleaned and
arranged in order. If it is the work process could cause the HSE matters, the expert and

relevant personnel shall modified the work flow with involvement and briefing to all staffs. If it is the competency
of the staffs, training shall be provided.
For instance, mining industry could catch worldwide attention because HSE matters once occur are often serious
and accompanied with loss of lives. If it is noticed that there is uncomfortable signs about the tunnel access and its
underground structures, the stop work is inarguably the best option to uphold safety of the workers. It is
unavoidable that no production during the period until full strengthening of the underground access rather than
permanent closure issued by authority.

Miscellaneous response plan

As per earlier sub-chapter, the stop and problem rectification work are not deterrents to business growing or
achievement of business target but to ensure sustainability and to achieve goals, which is including the project
schedule.

During the stop work and repair work period, planning and schedule to catch the project and production activities
can be carried out, which can cover all aspects after the completion of repair works. The planning can cover order
and delivery of materials, sourcing for suitable tools, machines and technology to carry work in an efficient and
speedy ways, training of staffs to be more skilful and employment of additional manpower.

In addition, the current encountered difficulties can be informed to and discussed with clients. This is to show our
sincerity and commitment to them for quality excellence and to safeguard their interest too. Benefit of all parties
will be affected if HSE matters are not taken as priority. Rational clients may provide extension of time for
completion too.

Car manufacturers such as Toyota and Honda have shown to the world of their commitment and responsibility to
users of their cars. They recall back their products and rectify them. Such actions do not hurt their business but
indeed helping to boost to higher level of consumer confidence. This is definitely good example to all players of
other industries too.

Conclusion

In other words, efforts and incorporation of HSE concern into project activities and production are not merely
obligation to laws but also aligning to sustainability of commercial interest and consideration. For my project
activities and production, if HSE matters are affected, I will definitely rectify the matters first and follow up with
response plan to catch up the schedule for the project activities and production.
Q7
Engineering judgement is a process of forming opinion or evaluation, which characterized by or conforming to
the technical or ethical standards of engineering knowledge and often long and intensive academic preparation
by discerning and comparing. To make an engineering judgement, decisions are usually based on technical
information and public impact. There are few factors that can develop the judgement such that academic
training, professional experience, professional development and mistakes.
In the society nowadays, engineers play an important role to ensure the safety of life, which is important to
maintain and improve the quality of the world. Engineers independently address and reconcile a broad range of
complex engineering problems, which may or can’t be adequately assessed and determined, from measurement
or observation alone. They deal extensively with controversial economic and public policy issues that are likely
to hinder progress of construction or operating permits. Besides that, engineers can represent department with
authority on technical engineering matters to develop procedures and standards for multiple engineering projects
that are significantly technical and complex. Engineering judgement is important because engineers apply
professional judgment where a variety of conflicting engineering related conditions present a major problem.
One thing that can’t be neglected is codes and practices often suggest discretion of engineering judgement.
There are merits and demerits of international codes of practice and standards as opposed to national documents
within the context of the Malaysian industry and practices.

For example, Engineer A, employed by the XYZ Manufacturing Company, is assigned to an internal task force
composed of engineers to develop a job description and qualifications for a supervisory engineering position and
to prepare a list of qualified engineers for the position. The task force interviews a number of candidates,
eliminating some and advising them that they are no longer under consideration. At the conclusion of its
interviews the task force members all agree that none of those considered is of the quality desired. The other
members of the task force, however, tell Engineer A that they believe he is highly qualified and suggest that he
resign from the task force so that he may be considered for the position as being in the best interest of the
company.

From the example above, it’s clearly shown that the decision of Engineer A does not comfort to Code of Ethics-
Section 8 and Section 11. Code of Ethics-Section 8 states that “The Engineer will endeavor to avoid a conflict of
interest with his employer or client, but when unavoidable, the Engineer shall fully disclose the circumstances to
his employer or client.”. I assume that those in management who appointed Engineer A to the task force would
know the facts when and if A’s name were presented for the higher position, there will be no ethical problem
regarding his relationship with his employer. As has often been noted in the past, a conflict of interest between
an employed engineer and the employer occurs only when the circumstances are such that an advantage to the
engineer would be at the expense of the employer. Even if that were the case, however, an employer may waive
the conflict when it is to his or her advantage to do so.

There may be some implication that Engineer A had some hidden role in the determination of the task force
members, including him, that none of the other candidates was acceptable for the higher position. If Engineer A
were improperly motivated to influence an adverse conclusion on the other candidates he could have had in
mind the result that the other members of the task force would turn to him. But this is a highly conjectural
approach, without supporting evidence, and I assume under these conditions that the other members of the task
force could not so easily have been led to that result.

The ultimate ethical issue under the above assumption is whether Engineer A had competed unfairly with other
engineers by attempting to obtain advancement by "improper or questionable methods." If there were any
reasonable basis to support a suspicion that Engineer A had, in fact, used his position on the task force to
achieve the position for himself, that would be a clear violation of Section 11 of the code. Thus, I suggest that
Engineer A should resign from the task force and permit himself to be considered as a candicate so that it would
be ethical.
There’s another example. Engineer B had been retained by the prime professional engineer to provide
mechanical and electrical engineering services for a large housing project. The project was completed and
occupied four years later, and Engineer B was fully paid for his services. Approximately seven years after the
original occupancy, ownership of the facility changed. The new owner informed Engineer B he had retained
Engineer C to make an engineering inspection of the facility, and there were problems associated with the
wiring. At the owner's request, a joint inspection of the wiring was made by the two engineers and the city
wiring inspector. The inspection did not reveal any defects in the wiring. The owner advised Engineer C of his
complaint concerning the plumbing and heating systems. Engineer C thereafter conducted a further study and
filed a report with the owner. The report noted there was no problem with the design of the plumbing system,
but concluded there were design inadequacies in the original sizing of the equipment for hot water and heating.
Engineer C recommended the installation of equipment of higher capacity. Engineer B thereafter filed a
complaint with the state engineering registration board alleging that Engineer C had acted improperly in that the
report was not objective and did not include all pertinent information, and further alleged that the actions of
Engineer C were self-serving at the expense of the dignity and reputation of Engineer B. Engineer B requested
the registration board to find Engineer C guilty of "misconduct" in that Engineer C had obtained employment by
a questionable method of criticizing Engineer b without his knowledge.
The Engineer B’s decision does not comfort the Code of Ethics Section 12 and Section 12(a). Section 12 states
that "The Engineer will not attempt to injure, maliciously or falsely, directly or indirectly, the professional
reputation, prospects, practice, or employment of another engineer, nor will he indiscriminately criticize another
engineer's work. If he believes that another engineer is guilty of unethical or illegal practice, he shall present
such information to the proper authority for action". Section 12(a) states that "An Engineer in private practice
will not review the work of another engineer for the same client, except with the knowledge of such engineer, or
unless the connection of such engineer with the work has been terminated."

In this particular set of facts, it is apparent that Engineer B knew that Engineer C had been retained to make an
engineer's inspection of the facility and that the resulting evaluation would necessarily entail a review of the
original designs. Also, it is equally clear that the connection of Engineer B with the project had been terminated
some years earlier. By considering whether the work of Engineer C was for the same client, it may be helpful
for future guidance to again point out that the purpose of 12(a) is to provide the engineer whose work is being
reviewed by another engineer the opportunity to submit his comments or explanation for his technical decisions,
thereby enabling the reviewing engineer to have the benefit of a fuller understanding of the technical
considerations in the original design in framing his comments or suggestions for the ultimate benefit of the
client. On the basis of the information submitted to us, there is no showing that Engineer B had undertaken his
review and subsequent report with the intent to injure the professional reputation or practice of Engineer A. The
fact that Engineer B concluded that some changes were needed in the equipment originally specified cannot
alone constitute the kind of actions barred by 12. Otherwise, there would be no point in an owner's retaining
another engineer to review the original design in an attempt to resolve current problems with the facility. In
conclusion, I think it is not ethical for Engineer C to take the assignment and in rendering the report to the
owner.
Q8
Introduction
Though engineers contribute to nation in general, public sometimes cast suspicious feeling of possible unethical
conduct, bribery and corruption upon engineers and others
in the construction industry when there are failure of engineering works. For instance, public is inevitably doubt
about the integrity of engineers when the collapse of steel roof at Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin Stadium, cracking
of pier structures of MRR2, collapse of a building at Petaling Jaya during demolition works, delays of
completion of mega projects, boosting up of project cost and etc. These cases have resulted bad perception
among the public about the ethical behavior, competency and responsibility of engineers and others in the
industry.
It is often, when failures of engineering works take place and boosting of project cost is reported, public
perceive possible corruption has taken place. The investigation of trueness of the perception upon engineers or
others in the industry to be handed over to relevant parties such Board of Engineers and Ad hoc committee set
up for the objectives.
Notwithstanding to trueness of the perception, engineers shall still take actions and behave themselves in
professional manners to safeguard the good image of the profession. The good and responsible actions are much
needed from engineers for the sustainability, advancement of the engineering profession and good prospect to
those involved in the career. Some of the actions are:
a) Adhere to code of ethics and abide by laws, rules and regulations
Engineers shall be well versed with rules and regulations relevant to his practices and registration such as
Registration of Engineers Act 1967 (Act 138). Section 15 of the act stipulates that an engineer can be suspended
and cancelled his registration with the board if he is found to offer or accept illicit commission and involved
with dishonesty and fraud practices.
Rules and regulations from both Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM) and Institution of Engineers Malaysia
(IEM) also prohibit engineers from accepting remuneration from others except from his employer when
discharging their routine duties and responsibility.
Therefore, engineers shall follow the rules and regulations when discharging their responsibility, which is also
directly to maintain the dignity of the profession and fellow engineers.
In addition to Registration of Engineers Act, Street, Drainage and Building Act 1974 (Act 133), Uniform
Building By-laws 1984, Occupational Safety and Health Act 1994, Factories and Machinery Act 1967, if could
be well studied and remembered by engineers, also can enabling engineers discharging their duties and liaising
with all parties confidently. All these acts are not restricting prospect and performance of engineers but instead
are useful reference to safeguard the good image of engineering profession and construction industry.
b) Executing works, duties and responsibilities according to appropriate work procedure
Engineers shall follow generally accepted, but not burdening work procedure, to prevent possible occurring of
unethical behavior and bribery.
For instance, site engineers may inform head office, after reporting to project manager, about the much needed
construction material at project and also may attend to new product presentation from salesperson. However, the
quotation, purchase order, invoice and payment method shall be followed by others and colleagues from
relevant department such as purchasing department.
For site engineers, he shall inform and request the presence of resident engineer or clerk of works, who are
normally act on behalf of consulting engineer and project owners when there are testing works. For instance, it
is advised that presence of third party engineer (not from contractor) to witness the preparation of concrete cube,
cube test work, piling works, early setup and reading of gauging instrument for Maintain Load Test, etc. This
work procedure and request could prevent unethical behavior due to conflicts of interest. In other works, people
to execute the works, the person to certify the results or quality and the party to make the payment are
recommended not the same individual.
With the above work procedures, pay master and certifying parties of different parties could avoid unethical and
corruption
c) Be open-minded, transparent when conducting assessment and make decision
An engineer shall be open-minded and transparent when discharging his responsibility with other professional
counterpart and project owners.
For instance, if the engineer is the one that project owner rely mostly for advice of award of contract, he shall be
well versed about the tender document and specification. Then, he subsequently makes fair evaluation including
assessment to possible counter proposal from all aspect such as specification, completion period, capability and
price to meet client’s requirement.
Such open-minded and transparent situation could be promoted by conducting tender interview with presence of
project owner, members of the consultancy team and allow queries and presentation by all bidders. All
discipline of the consultant team members to take care their respective technical roles.
With open mindset, check and compare all proposal and options in transparent situation, without stick or keen to
one, the best decision can be made and unethical behavior avoided.
d) Engineering decision made via team and committee
Engineering works often involve millions of ringgits. Hence, it is promoted decision made by a group of
members of all relevant discipline and stakeholders via situation at sub-subject c). Being at transparent situation,
conflict of interest could not easily be hidden and unethical behavior can be prevented.
e) Do not abuse authority (power) for own interest and report conflict of interest
Abuse of authority could be prevented with practice as per earlier sub-subject c) especially for conventional
contract.
In addition, engineer should report in writing about conflict of interest to client. It is even more appropriate if he
reject appointment as consulting engineer for the same project if he have substantial stake of the contracting or
supplier firm and keen to bid for the contract. By choosing whether to work as consulting engineer and
contractor only, we could avoid conflict of interests and unethical behavior.
f) Conduct routine inspection and spot check
The professional engineer, though with his appointed representative at site, shall also conduct spot check or
inspection to site. If possible, the inspection shall be periodical. He shall read and check the site dairy and record
too. Spot check and periodical inspection to site may enable engineer to provide early reminder so that work
quality can achieved and unethical conduct could be prevented at site.
g) Work Audit (Check and balance)
An engineer shall be aware and open that his works can be reviewed and audited if requested by project owners.
Internally, there shall be a superior or employer supervising his works. Hence, he shall not accept bribery or be
involved in unethical behavior in any manner.
h) Practice zero tolerance to corruption
Engineer shall report immediately of unethical behavior and corruption to Board of Engineers, Malaysia,
Institution of Engineers Malaysia and Association of Consulting Engineers for unethical behavior. For bribery
and corruption, the case shall be report to Anti-corruption agency.
i) Continuing Professional Development
All engineers shall strike for excellence for their works. In order to strike for excellence, engineers shall always
continue study and follow the latest development of technology relevant to their field of works and others. With
continuing self-improvement, engineers could become more competent when discharging their duties. When an
engineer or any person became more competent, he does not rely to not morale and not ethical actions.
We could become more competent by joining the Institution of Engineers Malaysia, where we could take part in
seminars, talks, discussions. We could meet other fellow engineers, exchange view, share our work experience
and ideas. By becoming more competent, we do not need unethical practice of corruption.
Conclusion
Engineers play significant role in developing the nation. Almost all mega projects that are needed to put our
nation into developed conditions need engineers. Therefore, engineers shall have ethical behavior which is much
anticipated to contribute to healthy and competent work culture while contributing to the physical and hardware
aspect.

Q9
Conflict is so common in today’s world that is full with sophistication and complexity. All of us are facing with
some kind of conflicts in our daily life. We are frequently encountering conflicts with our family members,
friends, colleagues or even our bosses. Even the countries worldwide are having conflicts with each other such
as conflict between United States and Republic of China. Conflict occurs as a result of different views, opinions
and different interests in individual, society or country. Everybody, individuals, societies or countries are
looking into their opinions and interests respectively. They adopt a defensive view of their opinions and
interests. As a result, conflict occurs when one is disagree with another’s opinion. In the following section of
this essay, I will discuss the conflict of professional interest in the working environment of an engineer in
particular for the civil engineer, and suggest the appropriate solutions for overcoming these problems.
As mentioned in the earlier section, conflict occurs as a result of different opinions and interests in oneself from
that of others. Engineering industry is a comparatively wide profession that involves various parties such as
developers, contractors and consultant engineers etc. These parties would have their own interests and are
always be there to safeguard their interests respectively. As a result, conflicts frequently arise in the working
environment of the engineers. Developers are the clients for the construction project. They are basically
businessmen that invest in property development and their main objective is to obtain profitability. Developers
are basically the cost-conscious group and they are very concern about the cost aspects of the project.
As for contractors, they are also cost-conscious but their main interest is to complete the project fast within the
allocated timeframe in order for them to claim construction fees in soonest possible time. Consultant engineers
however are more concern about the quality of works of the construction activities. They are there to ensure that
the construction works are carried out in accordance to relevant engineering codes and complying with
international best practices. The different interests in these parties have resulted in conflicts occurring between
these parties in a frequent basis.
Various effective measures can be adopted in the direction to reduce conflicts between the developers,
contractors and consultant engineers. One of the most effective measures towards reducing conflicts is to
cultivate mutual respect between each other. All the three parties would have to instil a relatively high
awareness in themselves on the other parties responsibilities and interests. They have to be aware of and
understand the interests of the other parties. Developers, contractors and consultant engineers would have to
respect each other and compromise solution that could meet requirements of all the three parties respectively. In
this respect, they could perhaps create shared objectives or goals that mutually meet the critical requirements of
all parties in order to avoid any unnecessary conflicts from occurring.
Developers, contractors and consultant engineers would have to meet each other in a more frequent basis to
discuss as well as resolve construction issues in a speedy manner. Very common, construction industry is
flooded with various construction issues and problems. However conflicts would occur if these issues were not
being resolved in a speedy manner. As a result, all parties must meet in a more frequent basis in order to resolve
necessary site problems without delay. This is important to avoid any unnecessary conflicts from developing. In
addition, all parties must ensure that effective communication is taken place in order to minimise unnecessary
conflicts as a result of miscommunication.
Perhaps the most important measure to minimise conflict is to put yourself into other people shoes. One would
have to possess high self-awareness and be able to understand the other’s parties concerns in order to gain
respect in the society. Developers, contractors and consultant engineers must try to understand the
responsibilities and obligations of one another respectively in order to minimise unnecessary conflicts from
occurring.
Q10
Introduction
We, as engineers, do not injure directly or indirectly the prospect of another engineer. In the same time, we shall
be faithful and honest with our client and employer. In discharging our duty and carrying our works, we shall
bear in mind that fair and honest dealing with all parties is essential principle. If there is conflict of interest of
oneself with others, we shall act with integrity and fair toward others.
For the scenario which I was approached by the “winner” to join his consultant team, I presume the invitation to
bid and the project are of design and build contract. I was the engineer of another contractor who has not
successful bidding the contract. Upon announcement of the “winner”, the “winner” offers the appointment as
their engineer to us.
In my view of points, I may accept the invitation because of the following reasons and with the following
conditions.
Completion of duty and responsibility to current employer
For design and build contract, which both contractor and consultant are working together to bid the project,
contractor is the leader and appoint his consultant. The letter of appointment is often issued after successful
bidding of the project. For ethical practise in the construction industry, the original engineer working together
with contractor shall be appointed. In other words, no letter of appointment is issued or no official appointment
of engineer will be carried out if the bidding is not successful.
During the bidding process, engineer shall be faithful and honest to his employer. He applies his best
knowledge, skills and efforts in assisting his employer to bid the contract. Upon successful bidding and with the
official appointment, he works together with his employer to ensure successful implementation.
If fail in the bidding stage, engineer’s duty and responsibility to original employer has completed. Hence, I may
consider the invitation of the “winner” subject to condition in the following paragraphs.
No improper termination of consultant of “winner”
For construction industry, it is only considered ethical and appropriate to appoint consultant who have assisted
the contractor during the bidding works once successful in the bidding process. However, there is always some
bad “apples”. Errant people may like make use of another’s efforts.
Therefore, I shall communicate and check the reasons of termination of the consultant of the “winner”. I shall
consider accepting new appointment if there is no errant happening in the termination of services of another
engineer. If the works have started, I shall only take over if there is written consent by the engineer and formal
notification by “winner” that the services of other engineer have been terminated and no arrear is due.
In other words, I shall only accept the appointment of “winner” after receipt of release letter of the engineer.
No fee reduction or discount
In order to prevent unethical practises by errant players in the industry, there shall not be fee reduction or similar
like discount, for acceptance of appointment as new engineer to the “winner”. Engineering consultancy services
(ECP) are professional services to design and advice the client for reliable, valued and front end engineering
works. It is unavoidable for clients to bargain for cheaper price but engineers shall not compete with one another
by slashing their fee. The act will downgrade the technical competency of engineers in the long term and make
the profession an unattractive one.
In my view of points, it is good if the scale of fee recommended by BEM to be adhered to.
No disclosure of business information and copyright with current employer
All works, done with current employer, could be considered property and business information of current
employer. Though we fail to bid, we shall not or simply disclose the information to the “winner”. This is
because current employer could still compete and bid for other project with current information, which are
works of both current employer and us. Furthermore, I will possibly his engineer too. If I disclose the
information to the “winner”, it is conflict of interest.
Rights to review, redesign, use and not to apply the design of original engineer of the “winner”
Engineer bears his responsibility with him to grave. Though the design of other engineer is well prepared and
done, the engineer who take over the jobs shall monitor and ensure successful implementation and construction.
He therefore need to review, check and possible redesign if not all but still there could be substantial part needed
to be checked.
By accepting the invitation or appointment of the “winner”, it is merely change of responsible engineers to
monitor, supervise and handle the project. The new engineer shall still discharge his duty and responsibility to
“winner”.
Hence, engineers shall not accept wrongful offer by “winner” with the all kind of reasons to substitute engineer
and try to appoint a cheaper one.
Conclusion
As an ethical and responsible engineer, we shall take care the interest of our employer and ensure duty and
professional services rendered to him are completed. We shall avoid conflict of interests by not assisting two
clients who are opposite competing sides at the same time. If it is unavoidable, we shall inform both of them and
let them to make decision or we choose one.
In the same time, we do not attempt to take over the business prospect of another engineer unless the engineer
consents and there is no unethical and errant practise in replacing the original engineer

Q11
This is refering to the conservative universities which offer fundamental engineering curriculum without
compromising engineering standards. With limited resources, e.g. lecturers, facilities and funds, the design of
the curriculum is as follows;
Mathematics Courses- Even though mathematics courses are not engineering courses in and of themselves,
proficiency is very important for those who wish to be successful in engineering. In my revision of the
engineering curriculum, a fair share of mathematics classes will be at a higher priority. Algebra, Calculus,
Trigonometry, Differential Equations and coordinate geometry are an integral part of the engineering
curriculum.
Science Courses- Science courses are another big component in our engineering curriculum, particularly if
student’s concentration is in an area like biological or chemical engineering. Physics, chemistry and computer
science are all important aspects of an engineering program.
Even if the student’s concentration is in civil engineering, they will be expected to cover at least the introductory
areas of chemistry and physics. The computer sciences are often tailored to the specific needs of the engineering
curriculum, and they will probably find that proficiency in this area will be very helpful to the rest of their
studies.
Engineering Courses- Engineering courses themselves are at the heart of every engineering curriculum. The
types of classes students participate will depend in large part upon your area of concentration. In the first year
however, engineering courses tend to be more introductory and also focused on the tools they need to do the job;
computers in particular. Once they understand the basics, their engineering curriculum will concentrate on their
area of specialization. For example, if the student’s focus on electronics engineering, he will take a lot of solid
state physics and semiconductor device classes, in addition to classes on circuit theory and logic circuits.
General Studies Courses – Most four-year universities in the United States and Japan want to ensure that their
graduates are well-rounded and conversant in areas apart from their specialization. As a result, their engineering
curriculum will include diverse classes like English composition, Japanese literature, economics, anthropology,
music appreciation and political science. I will revise these subjects and compile them into General Subject in
the first year and Engineering Management in the final year

Q13
Introduction
Engineer, when called upon to give opinion, shall give opinion that is reliable. Prior to any statement made, he
shall ensure his qualification to make such statement. No one shall benefit from his statement with prospect and
fair treatment deserved by others being scarified.
For the scenario, which I were principal partner of a reputable engineering-based firm and my family was well
reputed, respected and influential in the small state, I believe the respect and credits to our family are due to
genuine and honest contribution from all family members since decades. As an engineer, I presume the respect
earned from genuine efforts and contribution to public services, design, buildings of public amenities to the
small state.
Hence, I shall continue to take the interest and benefit of community as the priority. In the same time, I shall not
scarify the dignity of the engineering profession and company.
In other words, I will reject the invitation of errant leaders of political parties to assist them in campaigning in
the coming state by-election in order to secure major projects after election.

Uphold the dignity of profession

The dignity of the profession of engineer shall be upholded. We shall not campaign for the any political party
with the name of well-known engineer and his reputable firm. Engineers are to provide professional services and
accept remuneration for services rendered by them.
All engineers shall not exchange the dignity of the profession for his own benefits but harming the image of the
profession.
Maintain company image and interest of fellow partners
For the scenario, which I were the principal partner of reputable engineering-based firm, I have duty and
responsibility to safeguard interest of fellow partners and all staffs too. Though the firm desires to secure new
projects, the project shall be obtained via ethical appropriate channel such as via open bidding process. This
should be the successful secret of the firm to-date.
All fellow partners also have high standard of ethical behavior and competent. They are definitely not
supporting to secure new project via supporting errant leaders of political party. If I choose to support the errant
political leaders, the company image and interest of fellow partners could be jeopardized because voters
definitely reject errant political leaders and unethical approaches.
Do not jeopardize the prospect of other fellow engineers
All projects, especially government initiated for the benefits of nation and people, shall only awarded via
competitive and open bidding process. For the scenario, which I were already principal partner of a reputable
engineering firm, I presume I should already an elder engineer in the industry. Therefore, it is reasonably that
both my firm and I do not jeopardize fair opportunity to other fellow engineers.
All engineer with appropriate competency and skills shall be given chances to secure the projects. In the long
run, all engineers will become more competent and it is definitely good for the industry, profession and public.
Contribute to sustainable development of the profession
All benefits obtained via inappropriate and unethical approaches are short term and not sustainable. Both
inappropriate and unethical approaches, may in short period, make oneself gain. However, it is damaging both
the individual and others in the industry because there could be many to follow unethical approaches. If this
situation happens, the profession will become unattractive and not sustainable.
Be integrity and competent
Engineers’ works often involve millions of ringgits. The works are often related to benefits of public, nation and
clients. Hence, we shall be integrity and transparent in both implementation of project and efforts to secure
projects. With integrity, only public will perceive engineers are competent and not errant.
Accept remuneration from employer for services rendered
Engineers accept remuneration for professional services, for their competency and professional services,
rendered to clients. They only take responsibility that they are confident to discharge.
The errant leaders of political party, though make promise to award major projects upon winning the by-
election, are not client to engineers. The administrator of the major projects is government, which are elected
representatives by people. The clients are the government and people.
Should my firm was chosen for the major projects, it is remuneration for services rendered.
Make reliable public statement and relevant with qualification
Engineers are professional people with technical qualification and competency. He shall not make public
statement which he is not deemed the qualified and suitable person to make. He shall not wrongfully make
statement that resulted public perception that his fellows, company and all association memberships that he may
have linked to backup and support of his statement. If he does otherwise, no one indeed will benefit but creation
of bad image to his own and others.
Do not improperly solicit work
By assisting the errant leaders of political party and in return for award of major project, in my opinion, is
improper act to solicit works too. It is because there is no ethical method to secure jobs and it can be considered
benefits accepted other than employers.
Both the government and the people indeed, are the employers and clients, if the projects awarded to engineers.
Conclusion
Though it is desirable for a firm to secure projects, the process shall be transparent and via competitive bidding
process. Jobs awarded with hidden secrets and unethical method will not be sustainable for the firm. It is
because the firm could have lost his competency. Furthermore, as an elder reputable engineer, he has greater
responsibility to show good sample to his peers for advancement of the profession.
In other words, I will reject the request of the errant leaders of political party. If he is willing to listen, I will
further advise them to listen to people and sincerely to provide services to people. With that, only will they gain
victory in the by-election and supports from people