Local contractors must be more aggressive in taking advantage of opportunities available in the sewerage sector especially in introducing the trenchless technology in the country, said Energy, Green Technology and Water Ministry secretary-general Datuk Loo Took Gee.

Trenchless technology is a type of subsurface construction work that requires few trenches or no continuous trenches.

It is used for the laying of underground pipes for the oil and gas, electric cables and to channel wastewater in busy areas without having to disrupt the surface.

She said the sewerage industry was fast developing but the participation of local contractors were negligible although significant advances have been made in the use of trenchless technology in Malaysia in recent years.

"At the moment, there are only few players (in the industry) and I'm also disappointed to see local players setting up small booths at big events like the "Trenchless Asia 2016," she said after opening the exhibition here today.

The two-day Trenchless Asia 2016 has attracted 79 companies from 11 countries including Japan, Belgium and China.

It will showcase international machinery, products and methods which are available to aid the installation and refurbishment of underground utilities and pipelines without disruption to the surface.

Loo said Malaysia's participation in the exhibition was vital not only in terms of gaining exposure to the trenchless technology but also to explore investment opportunities in the region.

For the Greater Kuala Lumpur project, the government had installed 200 kilometers of underground sanitation pipes using the trenchless technology.

"For the 200 km work, we awarded the project to locals. They teamed up with foreign companies...we want them to be more efficient.

"These international companies are exhibiting at the event. We must deliver good quality work, learn from them and do the job properly," she added.

On cost, Loo said it was five times more expensive to use this technology but it was more efficient and reduced carbon emission and minimised traffic disruption in busy areas.

The government had allocated RM8.6 billion for the refurbishment and development of underground services.

Loo said the trenchless technology was expected to do away with traffic congestion as roads need not be closed and traffic diverted, hence minimising the economic impact on business premises.