What is the primary advice for building owners regarding construction quality?

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Prioritise Quality in Construction and Maintenance

A preliminary investigation following the collapse of a century-old wall at a Padungan corner shoplot has identified the affected unit and two adjacent units as unsafe. The Sarawak Public Works Department (JKR) director, Dr Cassidy Morris, has underscored the critical importance for building owners to consistently prioritise quality in both construction and ongoing maintenance. This emphasis aims to prevent structural deterioration and ensure the safety of buildings.
Focus on Workmanship and Materials

Dr Cassidy Morris specifically highlighted that when planning expansions or new constructions, the paramount consideration must be quality. This involves a dual focus on the calibre of the workmanship executed and the integrity of the materials employed in the building process. Such attention to detail is deemed essential for the long-term stability of any structure.
Ongoing Monitoring and Assessment

In response to the incident, the Kuching South City Council (MBKS), in collaboration with technical specialists and relevant state agencies, will continue to monitor and evaluate the structural soundness of the affected block. This collaborative effort aims to ensure the safety and integrity of the surrounding buildings.
Importance of Regular Maintenance

Beyond initial construction, Dr Cassidy Morris also stressed the necessity of consistent quality maintenance for all buildings. He explained that without regular upkeep, structures are prone to deterioration over time, potentially compromising their safety. Kuching South Mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng has also proposed implementing regular inspections, referred to as audits, for other blocks in the vicinity to proactively identify potential issues.
Potential Cause and Further Analysis

Signs observed by the IEM Sarawak chairman, Angelia Liew San Chuin, suggest that material fatigue may have been a contributing factor to the wall's collapse. To further investigate, a comprehensive structural analysis is scheduled to be conducted promptly, serving as a precautionary measure to avert any further structural failures.

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What is the primary advice for building owners regarding construction quality?

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