This document outlines the code of professional conduct for quantity surveyors in Malaysia. It discusses the key differences between an occupation and a profession, classifying quantity surveying, construction management, and contracting as professions due to their requirements for specialized skills, knowledge, and training. The document then reviews several important provisions from the Quantity Surveyors (Amendment) Rules 2016 code of conduct, providing commentary and examples for each. Finally, it examines the BQSM Conditions of Engagement, elaborating on the professional duty of care and standards expected of quantity surveyors to act with reasonable skill, care, diligence and honesty.

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School of Architecture, Building & Design
Bachelor of Quantity Surveying (Honours)
Professional Ethics
Professional Practice 1
(QSB 60604)
Vieon Sim 0331151
Wan Yee Len 0330764
Sateshraj A/L P.Devaraj 0321419
The Wan Xin 0326553
Ngiam Lok Yee 0327695
Thang Sze Yee 0328211
Lee Kah Keith 0331189
Tan Kai Bin 0331366
Wong Teng Seon 0330639

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Contents
1. Profession and occupation
a.) It has been suggested that a profession may be distinguished
from an occupation. Elaborate on the key differences after
researching into this area.........................................................................................3
b.) Is quantity surveying, construction management and contracting considered
professions? Explain and justify your views for each……………………......…...4
Quantity Surveying……………………………………………………..…………4
Construction Management………………………………………………..……….5
Contracting………………………………………………………………...………6
2. RICS Code of Ethics…………………………………………………………………..7-15
3. BQSM Code of Ethics………………………………………………………………….16
a) Critically review and prepare a commentary on ten provisions you
consider to be important under the Quantity Surveyors (Amendment)
Rules 2016, Part IV Code of Professional Conduct. Include examples to
illustrate your commentary…………………………...…………...………….16-18
b) Access and read the BQSM Conditions of Engagement under
Part IV Code of Professional Conduct. Explain and elaborate
on the professional duty of care and standard expected of quantity
surveyors…………………………………………………………………..….19-20
4. Reference List…………………………………………...………………………...….21

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1. Profession and occupation
a) It has been suggested that a profession may be distinguished from an occupation.
Elaborate on the key differences after researching into this area.
Occupation can be defined as an activity that a person undergoes to earn a living. An
occupation only requires general knowledge and basic training in order to perform the job. For
instance, office clerk, site worker, secretary, lorry driver are example of an occupation.
On the other hand, profession is an occupation that can only be done by someone who has
spent much time and effort in obtaining specialized knowledge, certain skill sets and by those who
have taken intensive training. The examples of profession are, doctor, designer, lawyer,
archaeologist and many more.
One of the differences of occupation and profession are the salaries paid by work. The
amount of salaries of the profession outnumbered the occupation as the majority of people can be
suited for an occupation but not a profession, since it requires intense training, specialized
knowledge and experience to perform. For instance, the average salary of a quantity surveyor in
Malaysia is RM 42,663/year whereas the average salary of an office clerk in Malaysia is
RM18,808/year. (Average Quantity Surveyor Salary, 2018), (Average Office Clerk Salary, 2018)
Finally, the difference between an occupation and profession is the amount of specialized
knowledge and skill set that has to be acquired before working. This is because a professional job
like quantity surveying needs to acquire knowledge of construction, software, measurement and
other interrelated knowledge such as, site surveying and building structure. Whereas an occupation
like office clerk only has to answer the phone, filling and preparing documents.

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b) Is quantity surveying, construction management and contracting considered
professions? Explain and justify your views for each.
Quantity Surveying
A Quantity Surveyor is considered as a professions working within the construction
industry and it has expert knowledge on construction costs and contracts. Quantity Surveyor
is the one who deals with estimating and managing the costs of the construction project and it
takes into account each material, resources and equipment needed in every property
development project.
Quantity Surveyors are considered as a profession who can choose to work in the private
sector with consulting firm or contracting firm, while in the public sector mainly with the
State Government Departments or Authorities. Quantity Surveyors make a huge contribution
to the achievement of construction projects and ensures their clients get the best possible end
products for their budgets.
The duties of Quantity Surveyor typically include estimate materials, time and labour
costs, prepare and analysis the costs for tenders and contracts, risk management, procurement
advice, assistance in dispute resolution, project management, interim valuation, valuing
completed projects, arranging for payments and provision of advice to client. In order to
provide cost and financial advice, a Quantity Surveyor has detailed and comprehensive
knowledge in construction. Besides that, it offers specialized skills and techniques to manage
the tender documents, bill of quantities, claims and progress payment.
Traditionally, the roles of a Quantity Surveyor were limited to measure the surveying
quantities to achieve the value of the completed construction works. This traditional role is
still practiced by small to medium sized projects. This scope has been greatly evolved and
currently the modern Quantity Surveyor plays an essential part and began to explore new
potential roles for their services. Procurement became an important area of activity due to the
increase array of options that were available. In addition, the further development of a
Quantity Surveyor should update their skills and knowledge due to new methods of
construction and new technologies such as CAD software, Glodon software, Project
management software and BIM modelling software.

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Construction Management
Construction management is a professional service that utilizes specialized, project
management techniques to oversee the overall process of a construction project, including the
planning, designing and construction stages. Professional construction managers are often engaged in
lengthy, large-scale, as well as high budget undertakings – capital projects such as commercial real
estate, transportation infrastructure, industrial facilities and military infrastructure (Construction
management, 2018).
Upon being hired, construction managers are required to possess vast knowledge of modern
management of construction projects, as well as being aware of the design and construction processes
(Santos, 2017). At the same time, other building specialists, such as architects and civil engineers will
work closely with construction managers. They will also be collaborating with a variety of trade
workers, including carpenters, electricians, and stonemasons. (CMAA, n.d.) Furthermore,
construction managers are charged with scheduling and coordinating all construction processes to
ensure that projects meet design specifications and quality assurance. They also affirm that projects
are completed on time in accordance with the work programme and within budget. Some construction
managers may also be held to numerous projects at once.
As the role of the construction manager became more vital, it brought continuous effect to the
increment of the complexity of construction project delivery. To maximize efficiency and productivity,
specialized cost-estimating and planning software is often applied by construction managers to
effectively budget the cost and time required to complete specific projects (Sokanu Edu, 2018).
After the above discussion, it can be concluded that Construction Management is a
professions as it requires certain sets of qualification, skills and knowledge. Moreover, this profession
is accredited by the professional body – Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), where registered
members are permitted to use the designation of ‘Chartered Construction Manager’ (Chartered
Construction Manager, 2017).

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Contracting
Based on the advice of the engineer, architect or the client himself, the client employs a
general contractor which takes on the role of a manager, and likely a tradesman. The appointment of a
general contractor must be carried out attentively as the overall coordination of a project is highly
dependent on him. (Michael, n.d.)
Within the time and price stated in the contract, the project must be constructed in accordance
with the designer’s plan and specifications, as it is the responsibility of the contractor. However, the
safety of the workers or the quality of the work must not be affected while carrying out this
responsibility.
For the construction of the project, all services necessary, labour, material and equipment
(such as tools and engineering vehicles) is to be provided by the general contractor. Specialized
subcontractors are hired by the general contractor for the purpose of performing all construction work
assigned. (General contractor, 2018)
In order to become a general contractor, there exist no specified educational qualifications.
Usually, general contractors begin as construction workers. Different prospects of construction
including carpentry, plumbing, framing and masonry, are obtained through work experience. This is
because hands-on participation is compulsory while obtaining a college degree to execute general
contractor responsibilities is unnecessary. Faster than the average occupation, the growth rate for jobs
specific to general contractors are predicted to grow by a margin of 11% by the year 2026. This is due
to the spike in demand for housing and other structures as a result of the increase in population.
(Bloom, 2018)

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3. BQSM Code of Ethics
a) Critically review and prepare a commentary on ten provisions you consider to be
important under the Quantity Surveyors (Amendment) Rules 2016, Part IV Code of
Professional Conduct. Include examples to illustrate your commentary.
Provision 26: Conduct of registered Quantity Surveyor
According to Seeley (1997), the rules of conduct of Chartered Surveyor practices are legislated with
the purpose of minimizing the possibility of the profession brought to disrepute as a result of any
quantity surveyors being associated with unprofessional conduct. Thus, this provision is crucial as it
serves as a guideline to all quantity surveyors, the general attitude and behaviour to be carried out in
the industry. For example, the president of the Royal Institution of Surveyors Malaysia (RISM), Sr HJ.
Mohammad Azmi Mohd Zin has provided an exemplary behaviour to all quantity surveyors due to his
meritorious work ethics in accordance to this provision.
Provision 26A: Public Interest
Every professional, with the expertise and knowledge they possess in their respective fields, shall
prioritize serving the public instead of misusing their capabilities for selfish personal gain. “Serving
the public” is one of the four defining characteristics a profession, as debate by Murdoch and Hughes
(2008). They have emphasized that mere financial reward will never be prioritized over the public
good by true professionals. Quantity surveyors are of no exception, and are also obliged to provide
professional service to the public, irrespective to whomever the party is to be served.
Provision 27: Discharge of duties
This provision explained about the important duties of being a registered quantity surveyor. A
registered quantity surveyor must show complete honesty to his employer or client. For
example, a registered quantity surveyor has to be trustworthy in performing the job that has
been given as this is one of the professional and ethical standards that is required for being a
quantity surveyor. Besides that, a registered quantity surveyor cannot accept and allow his
worker to receive the reward of services provided by others, unless there is permission from
his client that he can do so.
Furthermore, commission cannot be offer or accept by a registered quantity surveyor as it is
an illegal commission that stated in the opinion of Board. A registered quantity surveyor
which practicing as a Consulting Quantity Surveying Practice cannot be a director or dormant
partner for any construction firm, unless there is an approval of the Board. For example, a
registered quantity surveyor cannot practicing as a Consulting Quantity Surveying Practice
and be a director of a construction firm at the same time without notifying the fact to his
client.

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Provision 29 – Reputation, etc of a Registered Person Not to Be Injured
Under Provision 26 (1) of the Quantity Surveyors Amendment Rules 2016 states that a
registered Quantity Surveyor shall at all times uphold the dignity, standing and reputation of
the Quantity Surveyor profession.
Therefore, acting truthfully and avoiding inconsistency within works are essential priority of
an act of the surveyors. Besides that, placing personal goals above the contentment of others
such as client or even the professional reputation or of another business or other registered
quantity surveyor, regardless if it’s done consciously or indirectly towards them is prohibited.
Thus, registered quantity surveyor needs to comprehend the barriers encountered and be
vigilant when to act on it with the finest possible methods. In conclusion, surveyors must be
committed to taking all responsibilities for the actions done and preventing oneself from
working beyond boundaries and also do not put the blame on to others if things do not go as
planned.
Provision 30 – Advertising and Soliciting Prohibited
A registered surveyor is granted to canvass or solicit professional employment, hand over or
award commission and other compensation in relation with his or her profession and shall not
welcome any gifts, money, discount or other systems of rewards in regard to his services
unless it is in accordance with the guidelines as determined by the Board.
In facts, bad reputation may be formed towards the profession and weaken the public’s
confidence towards it. More thoroughly, this could be announced as misinformation if the
facts within were false, thus leading to an unreliable expectation of the results.
Nonetheless, being a director or a shareholder in an authorized company as a registered
quantity surveyor, he or she then are allowed to receive remuneration for his or her services.
Provision 32 – Fairness in Construing and Administering Contracts
Duties of a registered Quantity Surveyor include preparing, negotiating and analyzing costs
for tenders and contracts. Besides engaging in all provisions found in a contract, a qualified
and registered Quantity Surveyor is also required to correctly render through the engaged
provisions. His or her actions, ideas, and decisions made for the project or work assigned to
the individual, has to be unbiased and justifiable. If in any situation, a disagreement or a
question is raised, the individual should act as per the procedures agreed in the contact
whether or not the case involves any other parties with regards to the provision.

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Provision 33: Restriction on Entering Professional Partnership
This provision plays a crucial role in putting an end to unethical practices in the industry such as fraud
and bribery, as it prohibits any action that indicates signs of fraudulent activities in its early stages. It
is essential for quantity surveyors to incorporate ethical behaviour and maintain transparency in their
work as there are magnitudes of areas of practice which are susceptible to corruption and malpractice
(Cartlidge 2011). For example, the most common responsibilities of quantity surveyors which are
contractual arrangements, procurement, payments and valuations often associate with a hefty sum of
finance. It can be interpreted that the construction industry is largely fabricated on personal
relationships, as the significance of trust and sincerity is too vital of an aspect to diminish.
Provision 34: A registered Quantity Surveyor practicing as Consulting Quantity Surveying Practice
not to intervene in or take over the practice of another
This provision encompasses the essence of harmony between all quantity surveyors, as it forbids any
undermining or double-crossing activities between quantity surveyors. This minimizes the possibility
of conflict occurring between quantity surveyors, and instead facilitate in the cooperation and mutual
respect. This is because quantity surveyors prohibited from meddling or sabotaging the work of
another subordinate for their own personal benefit. As a result, this endorses each personnel to uphold
a sense of professionalism, and producing a sophisticated and trustworthy industry of professionals.
Provision 35: Acting in dual capacity
This provision is very important as it mentioned about a registered quantity surveyor cannot
work with a client or employer and a contractor at the same time unless it is being instructed
by the employer. For example, if a registered quantity surveyor work with both client and
contractor on the same project, act of favouritism towards one party may easily occur as there
is no man can serve two masters. The risk of conflict of interest also will be high in this
situation and hence it will also lead to bad image towards the professional skills of a quantity
surveyor. Furthermore, this is also an irresponsible and dishonest act that will be taken to
court.
Provision 35A: Complaints against registered quantity surveyor
This provision is about a registered quantity surveyor will be appealed by anyone. The person
who made the complaint need to write the complaint and shall include his/her full name,
identity card and address. Furthermore, the complaint also needs to include the facts of it,
copies of any supporting documents which related to the complaint, signature of the
complainant and the name and address of complainant’s counsel if there is. This provision
ensures that a registered quantity surveyor to be responsible and finish the given job on time.

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b) Access and read the BQSM Conditions of Engagement under Part IV Code of
Professional Conduct. Explain and elaborate on the professional duty of care and
standards expected of quantity surveyors.
According to Part IV Code of Professional Conduct, quantity surveyors are qualified
construction industry professional that carries out works and services with reasonable skill,
care and diligence that they have been engaged to. A consultant QS is generally concerned
with contracts and cost on construction projects. QS shall uphold the dignity, standing and
reputation of both Institute as well as the quantity surveyor profession.
In addition, the consulting QS should offer services which are listed in the Schedule. The QS
should pay attention to his duties and directed by the provisions of the Code of Professional
Conduct as set out in the Rules or guidelines as determined by the Board. For example, the
consultant QS shall prepare an accurate Bill of quantities based on the Standard Method of
Measurement of Building Works (SMM) provided by Institution of Surveyors Malaysia in
order to provide standard structure for measuring the building works. Besides that, the QS are
required to measure, calculate and estimate the material, labor and plant cost of a project.
In order to gain trust from clients, a consulting QS should be honest in action and trustworthy
at all times while performing duties to clients or employers. Furthermore, the QS must not
leak any confidential information obtained throughout the journey while carrying out the
work, duties and obligation under the terms of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA). Also,
without the approval from Government, the QS is not allowed to use the previous information
obtained from past project on the other project.
A consulting QS should not step in or take over the work of another QS practicing as a
consulting QS who is originally under the employer or client. Nonetheless, professional
consulting QS should avoid acting in double duty. According to clause 35, the consulting QS
who is appointed by employer or client shall not be working on the same project as a
contractor unless there is special demand from the employer.

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Standards expected of QS
As for the standards expected, a QS shall provide services using care, diligence and
reasonable skill. The consulting QS shall prepare Bills of Quantity (BQ) in accordance with
Standard Method of Measurement (SMM) of the latest edition for building works provided
by the Royal Institute of Surveyors Malaysia (RISM). The reason behind this is because the
SMM provides standard basis for measurement of building works and incorporates the
importance of good practice.
Whenever a registered QS is appointed, the consulting QS must obtain a confirmation
in writing from the client regarding the matter of having any other registered QS on the same
project. If there is, the second registered consulting QS can take over the same project from
the first consulting QS, only given that the first QS gave his approval or consent in the form
of writing to the second QS, in other words first QS issues a Letter of Release to the client for
the second QS to continue handling the project without any conditions attached. For the
projects which are subject to the MOA agreement, the consulting QS shall not have any direct
or indirect interest in any of the contracts or construction. The QS is able to have interest in
any of the supply contracts for the project, only after the QS has exposed his interest to the
Government in addition obtained the written consent of the Government successfully.

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4. Reference List
10 things you need to know about quantity surveying | Waterford Institute of Technology.
(2018). Retrieved from https://www.wit.ie/news/engineering/10-things-you-need-to-know-
about-quantity-surveying
BQSM - What is Quantity Surveyors?. (2018). Retrieved from
https://www.bqsm.gov.my/index.php/en/faqs/30-bqsm/umum/176-what-is-quantity-surveyors
What is a QS?. (2018). Retrieved from
https://www.aiqs.com.au/imis/AIQS_Website/About/What_is_a_QS_/AIQS_Website/About/
What_is_a_QS_.aspx?hkey=75ff0452-67ec-4747-8100-34fb97d1e989
The roles of graduate quantity surveyors in the Malaysian construction industry, B.L. Chong,
W.P. Lee and C.C. Lim (2012). Retrieved from http://www.ipedr.com/vol37/004-
ICMEI2012-E00012.pdf
Memorandum of Agreement (2012). MOA. Retrieved from
https://www.bqsm.gov.my/index.php/en/download/sof/item/memorandum-of-agreement
Scope of quantity surveyor’s duty of care when valuing construction works, Paul Redfern and
Kristina Vongas (2011). Retrieved from https://beale-
law.com/uploads/files/beale_and_company/publications/imported/2011.03.17---Dhamija--
Anr-v-Sunningdale-Joineries-Ltd---Ors-2010-doc(1).pdf
Ethics, RICS (n.d) Standard of conduct. Retrieved from
https://www.rics.org/asean/upholding-professional-standards/standards-of-conduct/ethics/
Code of professional conduct of SISV QS Division, SISV (n.d) Retrieved from
http://www.sisv.org.sg/doc/qs/Code_of_Professional_Conduct_QS_Division.pdf
Professionalism and Ethics: A quantity surveying perspective, Tony Cunningham (2011).
Retrieved from https://arrow.dit.ie/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1006&context=beschreoth