Malaysia’s construction sector reaffirmed its position as a significant driver of economic growth, owing substantially to expanded civil engineering infrastructure jobs.
In addition to the development of the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL), Rapid Transit System (RTS), and Pan Borneo Highway, the construction of data centres has been instrumental in keeping the construction industry humming.
Some highlights on the development status:
- The proactive rise in the construction industry was apparent in the Bursa Malaysia Construction Index, which recorded a high of 316.83 on July 18 after entering the year at 193.83 on January 2.
- The previous year’s major developments included the ECRL project, which reached 80% completion by November, and the RTS involving Johor Bahru and Singapore, 83% complete as of August 20.
- The Pan Borneo Highway in Sabah and Sarawak is planned to improve regional connectivity. Phase 1B has just launched, fostering economic integration throughout the area.
According to the Department of Statistics Malaysia, work estimated at RM116.8 billion was completed in the first three quarters of 2024, with the civil engineering sector dominating the way.
Some of the projects involved are strategic investments and initiatives aimed at connectivity, sustainability, and digital transformation. Work on these projects helped the sector increase 19.1% in the first 11 months of 2024, and the positive sentiment points to an optimistic future prospect for 2025.
