Centralized Labour Quarters (CLQ) Implementation in Malaysia: Their Benefits and Drawbacks

Abstract

For decades, construction labours have been playing a vital role by contributing their energy in the construction industry and known as one of the prime assets in this industry. Despite that, the workers’ welfare, especially in terms of providing comfortable accommodation and amenities has been neglected by many. In Malaysia, shop lot and temporary house or “Rumah Kongsi” is a common temporary accommodation provided for the construction workers. Issues such as deplorable living condition, safety problems, constant outbreak of contagious diseases as well as poor level of amenities are often seen. This poor living condition can affect the health, safety and wellbeing of the workers. Therefore, the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) has taken the initiative to improve the living conditions for construction workers by providing Centralized Labour Quarters (CLQ) and the first CLQ has been launched on October 2017. This paper presents a conceptual study on CLQ implementation in Malaysia and their benefits and drawbacks. From the literature review, CLQ implementation benefits are practical and economical options for employers, minimize the turnover rate of workers, increase construction worker’s performance, provide safe, clean, conducive accommodation, and boost the outlook of Malaysia construction industry. On the other hand, inadequate CLQ provided, high rent, long wait to place the workers and additional transportation expenses, are the drawbacks of CLQ. Finding from this study will help CIDB to further improve the CLQ implementation and the facilities provided which will then lead to more contractors willing to put their workers at CLQ.