CIDB Malaysia Boosts Foreign Construction Worker Quality via Accreditation and CLAB Programme

7 August 2025

KUALA LUMPUR: The Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) Malaysia emphasises that all employers must adhere to the accreditation and compliance procedures for construction personnel as outlined under the Construction Industry Development Board Act 1994 (Act 520). This requirement ensures that all foreign construction workers across the country possess the necessary competencies, comply with occupational safety standards, and hold recognised qualifications within the Malaysian construction sector. Such compliance aims to enhance industry professionalism and strengthen public confidence in the credibility of Malaysia’s construction industry.

CIDB Malaysia has introduced the Accreditation and Competency Programme for Foreign Construction Personnel, a strategic initiative managed by the Construction Labour Exchange Centre Berhad (CLAB). The primary aim of this programme is to ensure that every foreign construction worker holds the Construction Skills Competency Certificate (SKKP), in line with current legal requirements. This certification also recognises the skill levels and experience of foreign workers on site, thereby bolstering professionalism and safety standards across the industry.

This initiative responds to the current situation, where the government has imposed a temporary freeze on the intake of new foreign construction workers from source countries into Malaysia, effective from 31 May 2024. This presents a crucial opportunity for the construction sector to conduct a comprehensive identification and assessment of existing foreign workers, most of whom have been employed for over two years since the freeze was introduced. It also allows the industry to ensure that all workers meet the required competency standards and safety regulations.

Commenting on the importance of maintaining a competitive and professional construction industry, CIDB Chief Executive Ms. Zainora Zainal stated that CIDB takes non-compliance with these skill recognition requirements very seriously. Failure to comply not only breaches the law but can also have significant implications for the national construction sector, including risks to project productivity, reduced work quality, compromised safety standards at sites, and restrictions on future foreign worker approvals.

The accreditation process involves no hidden costs and provides direct benefits to contractors by ensuring legal compliance while improving operational effectiveness and efficiency. Ultimately, investing in accreditation can enhance a company’s competitiveness and reputation within the increasingly demanding construction market.

This programme offers employers the opportunity to formally recognise foreign workers based on their practical experience at construction sites. The assessment process is systematic and aims to align workers’ skill levels with industry standards, uphold professionalism and improve work efficiency, and promote a culture of safety and high-quality work practices. This approach is designed to ensure that the construction industry remains both competitive and reputable.

As the official facilitator of this programme, CLAB is committed to conducting assessments in an organised and systematic manner, ensuring that workers’ skills meet industry requirements. This effort not only enhances professionalism but also fosters a culture of safety and excellence at construction sites. Through this comprehensive approach, CIDB is confident in its ability to elevate the reputation and competitiveness of Malaysia’s construction sector.