Topic > Engineers in Society: An Ethical Approach - 2391

Engineering is considered a unique field in society. Both locally and globally, there would always be a growing demand to solve problems. But engineering isn't just a career that helps solve everyday life problems; it has become a key path for development in many aspects. With such complex diversity, engineers today need more than just a manual to contribute to society. In Malaysia alone, there are more unregistered engineering undergraduates than registered professional engineers (PEs) working in the public and private sectors. This raises a question: Does this mean that most unregistered engineers do not have to comply with the code of professional conduct regulated by the Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM) and the Institute of Engineers Malaysia (IEM)? Technically speaking, only group members are required to follow and adhere to the code of conduct. However, the notion of professional ethics should also not be forgotten. Ethics is defined as the set of moral values ​​and principles intended to guide the code of conduct of individuals and organizations. In the case of the assignment, as an experienced and competent engineer, the sense of responsibility towards customers, individuals and society should already be deeply instilled in their mindset. By using the title Engineer, engineers should imply that they possess a shared understanding of the guidelines of proper conduct in their profession. Together with this notion, the act of adhering to the code of ethics must be supported; not tied to wealth, reputation, power or work experience. Coming back to the question, when an experienced and respectable engineer is offered means to promote his image to gain benefits in return, what should he do? Certainly, to answer this question... half a sheet...". While ensuring the profitability of the business is important, moral ethics prevail. The act of campaigning on behalf of a third party, from a certain point of view, is considered to be focusing attention on the wrong party. The engineer's quality of his service will be questioned, as well as diminish the credibility of his company. In all, all the speculations made about the engineer's decision to campaign for the political leader can only be realized after the by-election is won. A promise will remain as a commitment yet to be achieved. But from here one could conclude that the engineer will cost more than he could earn for the company if he promised it to the political leader. And, most importantly, the code of ethics in the engineering profession does its job well in ensuring the interests of all parties are protected. This is what an engineer should always consider as long as he is serving society.