NCR REPORT - PLUMBING, ELECTRICAL, WATERPROOFING, DRAINAGE

 

NON-CONFORMANCE REPORT (NCR)

Project: Infrastructure Development Project (Roadway.... Utility Corridor.... Ancillary Facilities.....), Trades: Civil, M&E, and Drainage Works, NCR No.: NCR-INFRA-PLB-ELEC-DRN-......... Date:.......... Location: [Chainage...../Lot...../Structure Reference] Issued By: QA/QC Engineer/Consultant, Contractor: [................]

I would like to thank the Client, Consultants (MEP and C&S) including my son Nik Muhammad Hussainy Nik Zafri , Resident Engineers, Project Manager, and the QA/QC and Safety Team for their invaluable insights and collaboration. For transparency and technical reference, I have included engineering calculations in this NCR and notes from Consultants/Engineers/RE. The calculations shared here are simplified technical references for discussion and knowledge sharing. They are not intended to replace formal engineering design or certification by the project’s appointed consultants. Project details have been anonymised to protect client and contractual confidentiality.

1. DESCRIPTION OF NON CONFORMANCE

During routine inspection and site audit, multiple non-conformances were observed related to plumbing, electrical installations, waterproofing, and drainage works. The works were found to be not complying with approved drawings, specifications, and relevant standards.

1.1 Incorrect Plumbing Installation

• Water supply and sewer lines installed without proper gradient and support.

• Inadequate pipe bedding and backfilling observed,

• Pipe joints not sealed as per specification, leading to leakage risks.

• As-built routing deviates from approved shop drawings without Engineer’s approval.

1.2 Incorrect Electrical Installation

Electrical conduits improperly embedded in concrete and structural elements without coordination with structural drawings.

• Cable trays and trunking installed without proper spacing, support brackets, and earthing.

• Junction boxes and manholes installed below flood level without waterproof enclosures.

M & E Consultant Notes :

What You Should NOT Include (Unless You Are the Electrical Designer)

Avoid full system design calculations such as:

Transformer sizing, full load demand calculation, harmonics analysis, coordination and discrimination curves,

These are the Electrical Consultant’s contractual responsibility.

For NCR or Case Study: Best Practice Approach

Include: Measured values, code limits, simple verification calculations, photos and test reports

Avoid:

Redesign proposals unless formally appointed, assumptions without measurement, guessing load profiles

1.3 Failure to Implement Waterproofing System

• No waterproof membrane applied to underground utility chambers and culverts.

• Inadequate joint sealing at pipe penetrations and construction joints.

• Protective screed and drainage layers omitted in buried structures.

1.4 Neglect of Proper Drainage

• Inadequate surface and subsoil drainage leading to water ponding.

• Missing or blocked weep holes and subsoil drains.

• Poor grading and compaction of backfill causing water accumulation around utilities.

.(Notes from RE and SC) - Drainage Flow Capacity Calculation - Surface and subsurface drainage design is typically based on the Rational Method for runoff estimation and Manning’s Equation for pipe capacity.

4. Drainage Failure Engineering Interpretation

Drainage failure typically occurs when:

• Pipe diameter is undersized (Qpipe < Qrunoff)

• Pipe gradient is flatter than recommended (S too low)

• No subsoil drainage leading to hydrostatic pressure buildup

• No waterproofing membrane causing seepage into structure

• Inadequate discharge points or blocked outfalls

5. Engineering Implications of Poor Drainage

Structural Risks - Increased pore water pressure = reduced soil shear strength, foundation bearing capacity reduction, differential settlement and slab cracking

Building Envelope Risks - Rising damp and mould growth, corrosion of reinforcement, electrical system failure due to moisture ingress

2. REFERENCE

• JKR Standard Specification for Building Works (JKR 20800)

• JKR Arahan Teknik (Jalan) for road and infrastructure drainage

• JKR Arahan Teknik (Jalan) 4/85 – Urban Drainage Design

• JKR Standard Specification for Building Works (2014 & latest revisions)

• JKR Guidelines for Drainage and Subsoil Drainage

• JKR Standard Specification for Electrical Works

• JKR Guidelines on Building Electrical Systems

• SPAN Guidelines for Sewerage and Plumbing Installation

• Malaysian Sewerage Industry Guidelines (MSIG)

• Electricity Supply Act 1990 & Electricity Regulations 1994

• ST Guidelines on Electrical Installation

• MS IEC 60364: Low Voltage Electrical Installations

• MS IEC 60502: Power Cables

• MS IEC 60947: Switchgear and Controlgear

• MS EN 12056 - Gravity drainage systems

• MS EN 1992 / MS EN 1997 (Eurocode 2 & 7*) – Structural and geotechnical provisions

• MS EN 12056: Gravity Drainage Systems Inside Buildings

• MS 1228: Code of Practice for Sanitary Plumbing and Drainage

• MS 1525: Building Services Energy Efficiency

• BS EN 752: Drain and Sewer Systems Outside Buildings

• BS EN 1610: Construction and Testing of Drains and Sewers

• *Eurocode 7 (EN 1997): Geotechnical Design (drainage effect on soil parameters)

• BS 8102 – Code of Practice for Protection of Structures Against Water from the Ground

• BS 7671 (Electrical Installations and IET Wiring Regulations)

• IEC 60364 Series

• CONQUAS (CIDB QLASSIC) - QA/QC Team, HIRARC - HSSE Team

3. TECHNICAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT

3.1 Structural and Operational Risks

• Leakage leading to soil softening and settlement of pavements and foundations

• Electrical short circuits and system failures due to water ingress

• Corrosion of metallic services and premature asset deterioration

• Flooding of utility corridors and manholes

• Public safety hazards and service disruptions

3.2 Engineering Consequences

• Increased maintenance and lifecycle costs

• Potential road subsidence and pavement failures

• Non-compliance with statutory authority requirements (Local Authority, SPAN, TNB, JKR)

• Contractual disputes and LAD exposure

4.0 ROOT CAUSE

5.0 CORRECTIVE ACTIONS

5.1 Plumbing Works

• Reinstall pipes with correct gradient and bedding (sand/cement bedding).

• Pressure test water lines and leakage test sewer lines.

• Update as-built drawings and obtain Engineer’s approval.

5.2 Electrical Works

• Reroute conduits away from critical structural zones.

• Install proper earthing, supports, and waterproof enclosures.

• Conduct insulation resistance and continuity testing.

5.3 Waterproofing

• Apply membrane systems (bituminous, HDPE, or crystalline),

• Seal all construction joints and penetrations with approved sealants,

• Install protective layers and drainage boards.

5.4 Drainage

• Install subsoil drains, geotextiles, and filter layers.

• Regrade and compact backfill to design levels.

• Ensure positive drainage to outfalls.

6. PREVENTIVE ACTIONS

• Implement BIM coordination for M&E and Civil works.

• Mandatory Inspection Test Plan (ITP) hold points for services installation.

• Third-party waterproofing specialist engagement.

• Training and certification for plumbing and electrical installers.

• SCADA/IoT monitoring for water levels and leakage detection (for critical infrastructure).

7. RISK ASSESSMENT AND REGISTER UPDATES

8. CONCLUSION

This NCR highlights critical non-conformances that compromise structural integrity, public safety, and asset durability. Immediate corrective and preventive measures must be implemented to mitigate long-term engineering and contractual risks.

STANDING AT THE HEART OF BUKIT BINTANG

 BUKIT BINTANG, THE HEART OF THE CITY THAT NEVER SLEEPS

Palm Oil, Rivers, and Water Security (Johor)

 

Excerpt : The Johor Department of Environment (DoE) has arrested a palm oil processing mill manager to assist in investigations into a pollution incident at a stretch of Sungai Johor in Kampung Orang Asli Sayong Pinang 

Palm oil mills generate large volumes of high-strength industrial wastewater known as Palm Oil Mill Effluent (POME). When treatment systems fail, are undersized, or poorly governed, POME can rapidly degrade river ecosystems and disrupt water supply systems. Johor is particularly vulnerable due to its strategic river basin supplying both Johor and Singapore. This report integrates engineering analysis, environmental science, governance risks, and policy recommendations, and proposes the most effective communication formats for policymakers, corporate leaders, and the public.

1. SCALE OF PALM OIL 

Wastewater Challenge : Malaysia is one of the world’s largest palm oil producers, with more than 500 palm oil mills processing tens of millions of tonnes of fresh fruit bunches annually. Key Statistics 

Each tonne of crude palm oil (CPO) generates 2.5–3.5 m³ of POME. Malaysia produces tens of millions of cubic metres of POME annually. POME is among the highest-strength agro-industrial wastewaters in the world.

Waste Generation per 1 Ton of Crude Palm Oil

Crude Palm Oil Output     : 1.0 ton

POME Generated            : 2.5–3.5 tons (or m³)

Solid Biomass Waste        : 0.3–0.5 tons (fiber, shells, EFB)

Scale of the Palm Oil Wastewater Challenge

2. WHY POME IS EXTREMELY POLLUTING

Raw POME is hot, acidic, and rich in organic matter. 

Typical Raw POME Characteristics

BOD: 20,000–30,000 mg/L 

COD: 30,000–50,000 mg/L

pH: 3.8–4.5 (acidic) 

Temperature: 80–90°C Total solids: 4–5%

Pollution Strength Comparison (BOD) 

Raw POME : 20,000–30,000 mg/L 

Municipal Sewage : ~300 mg/L

Clean River Class II : < 3 mg/L

Raw POME can be 100×–10,000× stronger than domestic sewage.

3. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS ON RIVERS 

3.1 Oxygen Depletion : Organic matter decomposition consumes dissolved oxygen, leading to fish kills and ecosystem collapse.

3.2 Toxic Byproducts : Decomposition releases methane, ammonia, and hydrogen sulfide, degrading water quality and harming aquatic life. 

3.3 Sedimentation : Suspended solids settle on riverbeds, smother habitats and block sunlight, disrupting photosynthesis. 

4. JOHOR RIVER CASE: Socioeconomic and Strategic Impact 

Johor River is a strategic water source for Johor and Singapore. Pollution incidents have caused severe turbidity spikes and water treatment disruptions. 

Impact Indicators Turbidity spike recorded: up to ~37,000 NTU versus normal ~400 NTU,

Water treatment disruptions affecting up to millions of residents and industries.

 

Turbidity Spike Comparison Normal Level : 400 NTU

Historical Peaks : 5,000 NTU Crisis Event : 37,000 NTU

5. ROOT CAUSE ANALYSIS OF PALM OIL RIVER POLLUTION

• Technical Failures
• Effluent pipeline rupture 
• Pond embankment collapse 
• Overflow during extreme rainfall 
• Operational Failures Pump and instrumentation failure 
• Overloaded treatment ponds
• Lack of redundancy and alarms
• Economic & Governance Drivers
• Cost-cutting on upgrades 
• Production pressure 
• Historically low penalties 

6. GOVERNANCE AND REGULATORY CHALLENGES 

• Large number of mills in remote locations,
• Historically weak penalties relative to upgrade costs,
• Political and economic sensitivity of palm oil sector,
• Monitoring difficulties during rain and night operations 

7. WHY JOHOR IS A STRATEGIC WATER SECURITY BASIN

• Supplies domestic and industrial water to Johor and Singapore
• Critical for Iskandar Malaysia and regional economic growth
• Pollution events have cross-border geopolitical implications

8. THE SUSTAINABILITY PARADOX OF PALM OIL 

Palm oil is promoted as a sustainable crop, but real sustainability depends on industrial wastewater governance, not just plantation efficiency. 

9. ENGINEERING AND POLICY SOLUTIONS

Engineering Solutions 

• Covered anaerobic digesters with biogas capture
• Zero-liquid-discharge systems
• Real-time sensors and AI-based alarms
• Mandatory independent structural audits of effluent ponds 

Governance and Policy Solutions 

• Escalating penalties linked to company revenue
• Mandatory ESG disclosure of POME discharge data
• National River Basin Authorities for strategic basins 
• Public pollution disclosure dashboards ,

10. POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS 

• Environmental liability reform linking penalties to annual turnover, 
• mandatory industrial ESG and wastewater reporting and
• national integrated river basin governance framework 
• Carbon credit incentives for methane capture from POME Johor State Level Gazette Johor River as a Strategic Protected Water Source 
• Mandatory third-party structural audits of effluent systems every 3–5 years
• Real-time public water quality dashboard (turbidity, ammonia, BOD)
• Joint Malaysia–Singapore water security task force and early-warning system

11. CONCLUSIONS

Palm oil river pollution is rarely purely accidental or malicious. It reflects systemic engineering, economic, and governance failures. With modern technology and strong enforcement, palm oil can be produced with near-zero pollution. Johor’s incidents should serve as a catalyst for basin-wide reform and recognition of water security as national security.

 

Rethinking the Ringgit: Pegging to Precious Metals, the Renminbi, and Malaysia’s Strategic Role in a Multipolar World - By Nik Zafri

The Malaysian Ringgit (RM) currently operates under a managed floating system with selective intervention, while the US Dollar (USD) dominates global trade and foreign reserves.

With growing instability in the USD rising inflation, national debt, and geopolitical tensions, Malaysia could explore alternative benchmarks for its currency. One proposal is pegging or benchmarking the RM to precious metals such as gold, silver, or platinum, or to the Chinese Renminbi (RMB). Beyond currency considerations, Malaysia’s oil and rare earth resources, along with its geopolitical positioning in BRICS and APEC, could play a strategic role in shaping its economic future.

1.0 Benchmarking RM to Precious Metals

2.0 Benchmarking RM to the Renminbi (RMB)

3.0 Hybrid Approach: Precious Metals + RMB

A basket peg (e.g., 50% gold, 50% RMB) could provide:

• Balanced value: Combining intrinsic value from gold with trade alignment from RMB,

• Diversified risk: Reduces reliance on a single currency while maintaining credibility.

Challenges:

• Requires sophisticated central bank management to maintain peg stability and liquidity,

• Complexity in reserve allocation between precious metals and foreign currency.

4.0 Strategic Role of Oil and Rare Earths

Malaysia’s natural resources could support a new RM benchmark:

Oil: 

• As a net oil exporter, Malaysia earns substantial USD revenue, which can support foreign reserves for a hybrid or metal-backed peg,

• Stabilizes domestic fuel pricing under a new benchmark, aiding inflation control.

Rare Earths:

• High-value rare earth exports for electronics, EVs, and green technology provide strategic foreign income,

• Alignment with RMB trade could reduce FX risk if RM is partially pegged to Renminbi.

• Global demand for rare earths strengthens Malaysia’s reserve position, supporting currency stability.

Together, these commodities provide a natural anchor for the Ringgit, offering resilience even amid USD volatility.

5.0 Geopolitical Considerations: BRICS, Troika, and APEC

BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, plus expansion):

• Provides trade diversification and alternative financial systems reducing USD dependence, 

• Malaysia could access BRICS development bank financing and participate in alternative trade settlements,

• Strengthened ties give Malaysia more autonomy from Western-dominated financial systems, enhancing strategic leverage.

Troika (EU + US + IMF):

• Malaysia must balance engagement with BRICS while maintaining access to global credit markets,

• Continued partial USD reserves ensure flexibility and credibility in global finance,

• Strategic hedging allows Malaysia to benefit from multipolar systems without full detachment from Western institutions.

APEC (Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation):

• Malaysia could act as a bridge between BRICS and traditional USD-aligned economies,

• Could promote multipolar currency discussions and alternative payment systems,

• Strategic resource exports (oil, rare earths) enhance Malaysia’s bargaining power within APEC.

6.0 Broader Economic Implications

• Stability in trade pricing: Reduces reliance on USD fluctuations,

• Attraction of alternative investors: RM-linked assets may appeal to investors wary of USD inflation,

• Monetary discipline: Precious metal or hybrid benchmarks limit excessive money printing,

• Geopolitical flexibility: Strengthens Malaysia’s position in Asia-Pacific while diversifying financial partnerships.

Risks:

• Liquidity and reserve management complexities,

• Reduced central bank flexibility during recessions or crises,

• Market perception challenges if currency benchmarks change suddenly.

Conclusion

Pegging the Ringgit to precious metals, the Renminbi, or a hybrid of both could offer Malaysia greater financial stability, reduced USD dependence, and enhanced geopolitical leverage. Coupled with strategic natural resources like oil and rare earths, Malaysia could strengthen its position in both BRICS and APEC frameworks, potentially acting as a regional bridge between multipolar financial systems. However, careful management is essential to mitigate risks, maintain market confidence, and preserve monetary flexibility in an increasingly complex global economic landscape.

MY SUPPORT TO MACC

I fully support the MACC’s actions, in collaboration with various enforcement agencies, financial institutions, the Securities Commission, Companies Commission, Registrar of Societies, and other relevant authorities, in taking action against high-profile individuals involved in large-scale corruption and money laundering.

MACC must remain impartial and courageous in carrying out its mandate. No one should be above the law, including those who attempt to rebrand themselves from “giver” to “whistleblower” to seek leniency. Justice must be consistent, transparent, and uncompromising. Strong and decisive enforcement builds investor confidence and reinforces national and institutional credibility.

I hope MACC will continue its mission without fear or favour, supported by strong political will, institutional integrity, and the trust of the public. Transparency and accountability are fundamental pillars of national resilience, governance stability, and sustainable development. Sustainable governance demands zero tolerance for systemic corruption.

Getting rich quickly through abuse of power is an injustice to ordinary people like us especially the general workers, drivers, junior clerks, office assistants and many more who earn a living through hard work, blood, sweat, and tears. Corruption is not merely a legal violation, it is a profound moral and societal failure that erodes trust and weakens social cohesion. True wealth should be built on integrity, innovation, and contribution not exploitation.