Building information modeling (BIM) from the perspective of facilities management (FM) in Malaysia

Building lnformation Modelling (BIM) is a new adaptation of computeraided technology used in Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC). Presently, BIM is one of the most talked-about concepts within the Built Environment (BE) sector. BIM comprises of 3D digital representation of a building system or subsystem, and it contains visual models of building integrated with database of building information especially the building fabrics and its components. Interestingly, with this particular function, BIM can definitely be integrated with Facilities Management (FM). However, the view of BIM within the Malaysia's FM arena is mixed as FM is seen slowly to engage with the development of BIM across the country. Though BIM might have emerged from the construction side of the built environment sector, but it must not be ignored by the FM stakeholders in any building life cycle project particularly after the construction project completed (Post- Construction Phase).The integration between BIM and FM have many positive effects and benefit as it capable of helping Facilities Managers to efficiently manage building, assets and facilities. Thus, this paper is trying to discuss definition and context of BIM in Malaysia; its benefits to close the computer-aided BIM-FM gap as well its impediments toward FM best practice excellence.