The government is reviewing proposals to address rising construction material costs, including project extensions and targeted subsidies, as tensions in West Asia impact prices.
KUCHING: The federal government is reviewing all proposals and recommendations to address rising construction material costs following tensions in West Asia.
Deputy Works Minister Datok Seri Dr Ahmad Maslan stated that the ministry had met with contractor associations last week to gather their feedback on current industry conditions.
He noted that while supply remains sufficient, higher transportation costs have driven up material prices.
“We have listened to all views and will closely study their recommendations and proposals,” he told reporters after visiting the Construction Industry Development Board Sarawak office.
Ahmad explained that this issue also involves the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Economy.
Among the recommendations put forward by contractors are extensions of time for affected projects, price controls on building materials and targeted diesel subsidies for selected construction works.
He said estimates of price increases vary, with some associations reporting rises of 30% and others up to 40%.
“We will refer to official data from the Department of Statistics Malaysia to determine the actual extent of the increases,” he added.
