Strategies to lessen dependency on foreign workers in the Malaysian construction industry
List of Authors
  • Khairun Nisa Rizam, Norazlin Mat Salleh, Nurul Huda Muhamad, Siti Nurhayati Hussin, Syarifah Nur Nazihah Syed Jamalulil

Keyword
  • Foreign Workers, Dependency, Strategies, Construction Industry, Malaysia

Abstract
  • The Malaysian construction industry is currently facing a significant labour shortage and depending heavily on foreign workers to meet its demands. As of 2024, Malaysian’s net migration rate has decreased by 2.33% from the previous year, with approximately 3 million migrants are making up 8.9% of the population. The industry employs 2.1 million documented foreign workers, along with an unknown number of documented workers. This dependence is largely due to the reluctance of local workers to take on dirty, dangerous and difficult jobs. Consequently, the industry has increasingly turned to foreign worker, particularly for low -skilled positions, because of their cost-effectiveness and flexibility. Given this situation, the aim of this research is to propose strategies to lessen dependency on foreign workers in the Malaysian construction industry. The suggested strategies include adopting automation and advanced construction technologies, developing the local workforce through vocational training and education, and implementing supportive government policies and incentives. A quantitative research methodology was employed, utilising a questionnaire survey distributed to G7 contractors in Petaling, Selangor Darul Ehsan. Out of 175 distributed questionnaires, 102 were completed and analysed using descriptive statistics through SPSS software. The findings indicate that government policies and incentives are the most crucial strategy compared to other strategies. These results highlight the need for a multifaceted approach in lessening dependence on foreign workers, which includes regulatory reforms, financial incentives for local workforce training, and the integration of advanced construction technologies. By implementing these strategies, Malaysia can develop sustainable and self-reliant construction industry.

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