In a significant development for the construction and surveying industries across Southeast Asia, the Association of Quantity Surveyors Thailand (AQST) has officially become a member of the ASEAN Quantity Surveyors Association (AQSA). This historic event was done during the Pacific Association of Quantity Surveyors (PAQS) Congress in Brunei done last August 23 to 27 2024. The event was well represented by 15 countries from Asia and the Pacific region which marks a new era of collaboration and synergy among quantity surveyors in the region.

The ASEAN Quantity Surveyors Association was established to promote professional excellence and foster regional integration, is comprised of quantity surveying associations from across Southeast Asia. By joining AQSA, AQST aims to elevate its role within the regional framework, aligning its practices with international standards and contributing to the collective growth of the profession.

For Thai quantity surveyors, this membership offers numerous benefits. Firstly, it provides access to a broader network of professionals, allowing for the exchange of best practices and innovative approaches in quantity surveying. Additionally, it facilitates participation in regional conferences, workshops, and training programs that are instrumental for professional growth.

The integration into AQSA also promises to enhance the credibility and recognition of Thai quantity surveyors on a regional scale. This can lead to more opportunities for Thai professionals to engage in international projects and collaborate on large-scale regional developments

The membership of AQST in the ASEAN Quantity Surveyors Association is a testament to the growing recognition of the importance of regional cooperation in the construction and surveying sectors. As Thailand and its neighbors continue to embark on ambitious infrastructure projects and urban development initiatives, the collaboration between quantity surveyors across ASEAN will play a crucial role in ensuring their success.

Both AQST and AQSA look forward to a productive partnership that will drive innovation, uphold professional standards, and contribute to the advancement of the quantity surveying profession in Southeast Asia. This milestone underscores a shared commitment to excellence and a collaborative spirit that promises to benefit the entire region.

In a landmark event for both quantity surveying bodies, the Association of Quantity Surveyors (AQST) and the Australian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (AIQS) hosted their first-ever joint face-to-face Continuing Professional Development (CPD) event. The Australian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (AIQS) is the national body representing quantity surveyors and cost management professionals in Australia that promotes high standards of practice and provides a range of professional development opportunities for its members.

This groundbreaking event, held at the Intercontinental Hotel Bangkok, drew professionals from across the industry and marked a significant milestone in fostering collaboration and professional growth within the field.

The CPD event named Elevating Urban Landscapes, which took place on the 23 May 2024, featured an extensive topic designed to address the latest developments, challenges, and innovations in both the quantity surveying profession and construction industry. Comprising of more than 100 participants, all attendees were treated to a series of high-caliber presentations, and panel discussions led by industry experts and thought leaders.

Key Highlights:

1. Innovative Presentations: The event included over 3 sessions covering a wide range of topics from Urbanization, Low Carbon Solutions and Digital Innovations. The keynote speakers were Russell Kim – Chief Design and Innovation Officer at Frasers Property Management Services Thailand, Mr. Frank Cui – Glodon’s General Director of Business Development and Mr. Puttipong Pothi – a Lead Quantity Surveyor at WT Partnership Thailand.
2. Panel Discussions: The panel discussion featured prominent figures from both AQST and AIQS led by Amanda Ng – AIQS Region 1 President, as the moderator and expert panelists comprised of Mr. Andrew Brady – AIQS National President, Mr. Peter Ng – first AIQS Life Fellow Awardee, Mr. Seth Leong – Managing Director of Mentabuild Thailand, and Mr. Kattiya Rangseepanya – Executive Director for AQST. It provided a platform for interactive dialogue on critical issues facing the industry, including regulatory changes, ethical practices, and the impact of digital transformation.
3. Networking Opportunities: The event facilitated ample networking opportunities, allowing professionals to connect with peers, exchange ideas, and explore potential collaborations. The networking sessions were well-received, providing a dynamic environment for knowledge sharing and relationship building.

The success of “Elevating Urban Landscapes” sets a promising precedent for future collaborations between AQST and AIQS. Both organizations are committed to continuing their partnership and providing ongoing opportunities for professional development that drive innovation and excellence in quantity surveying across both regions.

As the industry evolves, AQST and AIQS remain dedicated to supporting the professional growth of their members and advancing the standards of practice in quantity surveying. The positive feedback and high level of engagement from this event highlight the ongoing need for collaborative efforts in shaping the future of the profession.