Artificial intelligence (AI) took center stage as more than 700 professionals from the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) sectors gathered for the annual AEC Connect Day. The event, hosted in Malaysia on 24 April by Glodon, a leading digital building platform service provider in Malaysia, featured key government officials from the Ministry of Works, Public Works Department, CIDB Malaysia, the National Artificial Intelligence Office (NAIO) under the Ministry of Digital, and the Malaysian Research Accelerator for Technology and Innovation (MRANTI), as well as representatives from the Malaysian BIM Association and other notable industry groups.

Established in 2018, AEC Connect Day has evolved into a premier regional forum spanning Southeast Asia and the Middle East, offering a vital platform for industry leaders, innovators and experts to connect, exchange insights, share impactful customer success stories, and explore the latest advancements shaping the future of digital construction.

AI and the Built Environment

This year’s event, themed “The AI-Powered Future,” highlighted the growing integration of AI and digital tools across the construction industry. Attendees explored how cutting-edge technologies are transforming project workflows, enhancing decision-making capabilities, and driving greater efficiency throughout the construction lifecycle. A key focus was placed on Malaysia’s progress in implementing Building Information Modelling (BIM) and AI-powered solutions, showcasing the nation’s commitment to digital transformation in the built environment.?

YBhg. Dato' Mohd Sakeri Bin Abdul Kadir, Deputy Secretary General (Policy and Development) of the Ministry of Works of Malaysia, emphasized the government's commitment to digital transformation in the AEC industry, noting that implementation is no longer optional – it is essential for enhancing competitiveness, profitability, and sustainability across the entire construction value chain. He also stressed the importance of partnerships with technology providers from the private sector like Glodon to unlock the full potential of digitalization within Malaysia's construction ecosystem.

As a pioneer in AI for construction technology, Glodon began its AI journey in 2015. Unlike many technology providers, Glodon stands out by focusing on AI solutions tailored specifically to real-world construction scenarios, rather than developing general-purpose models. This industry-specific approach ensures that every innovation directly addresses the sector's most pressing challenges.

Dr. Yuan Zhenggang, Chairman and President of Glodon Company Limited, opened the event by emphasizing the urgency for digital evolution in construction: “The construction sector is at a pivotal moment, the wave of digitalization and AI is reshaping the entire lifecycle of the built environment—from design and construction to operations—ushering in a shift from experience-driven to data-driven practices.”?

A keynote presentation from Sr Dr. Nazirul Fariq, Product and Growth Strategy Director of Glodon Asia International, showcasing the latest development of AI in the built environment. He introduced Glodon’s AI large model AecGPT and other AI-powered products such as Concetto and Zplan, which encompasses seven key areas, including planning, design, transaction, cost management, construction, operations, and comprehensive management.

The event featured a dynamic panel discussion with thought leaders from various sectors including the Malaysian National Artificial Intelligence Office (NAIO), KAJIMA, Taylor’s University, and Glodon. The panel brought together diverse perspectives on the transformative role of AI in the construction industry. While there was clear enthusiasm for AI adoption, the experts stressed the importance of a well-planned approach—emphasizing the need for workforce upskilling, talent development, and the modernization of education systems to support a smooth and sustainable digital transformation.

Tools for Smarter Construction

Beyond AI, the forum showcased how digital technologies are being woven into everyday construction practices to boost productivity and project outcomes.

Glodon officially launched Glodon Gsite in Asia, a centralized and integrated digital platform that helps construction contractors connect stakeholders, boost efficiency, reduce costs and risks, and gain competitive advantages.?

Gsite brings together all key stakeholders—main contractors, consultants, subcontractors, and more—on a single platform, streamlining communication and improving coordination. It features a comprehensive suite of interconnected business modules covering both technical and site management functions.?

By bridging the gap between on-site operations and digital management, Gsite marks a pivotal step in enabling smarter, more connected construction projects.

Additionally, significant upgrades to the Glodon Cubicost 5D BIM Cost Management Solutions were unveiled, marking a major advancement in AI-powered integrated cost management capabilities and representing the next leap forward in 5D BIM.?

These innovations reflect Glodon’s continued dedication to driving industry-wide digital transformation.

The day also featured the Excellence in Action ceremony, honoring firms that have demonstrated remarkable achievements by pioneering customers. These firms demonstrated how the strategic implementation of Glodon technologies has resulted in measurable improvements in project speed, cost control, and sustainability.

With AEC Connect Day 2025 in Malaysia concluding on a high note, Glodon reaffirms its commitment to expanding its AI-powered solution offerings and deepening regional empowerment initiatives across Southeast Asia and the Middle East.?

The next edition of the event will be held in Jakarta on 9 May, continuing the conversation around the future of AI-driven construction and advancing cooperation in construction technology innovation.