The construction industry encompasses a wide range of activities, including planning, design, and execution, aimed at creating various physical structures such as buildings, infrastructure, and more. It involves the collaboration of professionals such as architects, engineers, contractors, and workers to complete projects ranging from residential and commercial buildings to roads, bridges, and utilities. Despite the diversity of projects, they all contribute to the improvement and development of communities and infrastructure.
In any country, the construction industry is significant, serving as a pillar of the economy while having a direct impact on the quality of life and urban landscape. According to CRI, the industry's prosperity often reflects the nation's economic health and stage of development. In addition, its growth influences other sectors such as real estate, manufacturing, and finance, and thus has an impact on the broader economy. Therefore, the construction industry typically occupies a prominent position and exerts considerable influence within a country.
The construction market in Malaysia is divided into six sectors, namely Commercial Construction, Industrial Construction, Infrastructure Construction, Energy and Utilities Construction, Institutional Construction and Residential Construction. In 2023, the infrastructure construction sector accounted for the highest market share, followed by residential construction.
Strengths of Malaysian construction sector are attributed by capabilities of Malaysian construction companies to implement projects namely construction of buildings, roads and highways, railways, bridges and airports, water treatment and power plants; steel structure fabrication, installation and erection; mixed development projects including housing, hotels, leisure and luxury residences; and building maintenance, including for high-rise towers.
The steady growth of the Malaysian economy has provided a solid foundation for the expansion of the construction industry. Economic growth has driven demand for residential, commercial and industrial buildings as well as increased investment in infrastructure projects. The Malaysian government has played an important role in promoting the construction industry by stimulating the economy through the implementation of various construction projects and infrastructure programs such as the construction of roads, bridges and public transportation systems. In addition, the government has also introduced social welfare programs such as low-cost housing schemes, further boosting the demand for the construction sector.
Malaysia's construction industry has attracted significant FDI, particularly in the real estate and commercial construction sectors. Foreign investors are optimistic about Malaysia's high growth potential and strategic position, which has boosted the construction sector.
In 2023, the Malaysia construction market size was estimated at USD 35.5 billion. According to CRI’s analysis, the Malaysia construction market size is expected to reach 67.3 billion USD in 2033, growing at a CAGR of 6.6%. Although the Malaysian construction industry will face the challenges of lack of skilled labor and lax regulation, it will continue to grow in the future with the support of government policies and advanced technology.
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