Number of construction accidents in Malaysia 2014-2023

In 2023, 159 accidents occurred in the construction sector in Malaysia. This was higher compared to the number of construction accidents reported in the previous year. Nevertheless, Malaysia has seen fewer accidents in the past four years after a record number of 326 in 2019.

Workplace safety needs improvement

Safety in the workplace is essential and regulated by the 1994 Malaysian Occupational Safety and Health Act. Construction site workers are especially at risk because they often have to work on high surfaces, carry heavy tools, and deal with loud noises. The Malaysian Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) said that employers might overlook common workplace hazards that can cause injuries or even death. In 2023, 45 of these construction accidents led to deaths.

Increase in construction work

The construction industry in Malaysia is in recovery after it stagnated for two years during the COVID-19 pandemic. New skyscrapers and residential properties are in the pipeline for 2024. The value of construction work increased by more than ten billion Malaysian ringgit from 2022 to 2023, and it is expected to increase again this year. With more than 1.3 million people employed in the construction industry, better workplace safety would ensure fewer accidents.