KUALA TERENGGANU – The Works Ministry will consider a proposal to limit the granting of new licences to contractors of various classes following complaints voiced by several parties and contractors’ associations.
Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Rahman Mohamad said the grievances issued by the Malaysian Malay Contractors Association (PKMM) proved to be well-founded because the existing competition among players in the construction industry is currently too high.
“One of their demands is for the government to limit the granting of licences for the time being, or to stop applications, because the deluge of approvals has resulted in some not getting job opportunities in the construction sector.
“I will take this matter to the superiors so that the voices of the grassroots are heard, and ensure the strengthening of the Madani government itself. Insya-Allah, the prime minister will take heed of this disgruntlement and will take action,” he said.
He spoke to reporters after launching the 47th Terengganu PKMM annual general meeting, which was also attended by PKMM president Datuk Seri Mohamed Fadzill Hassan here today.
Rahman said the ministry would bring the proposal to the cabinet since the matter is under its supervision through the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB).
“The ministry will make a proposal paper to be raised in the cabinet. It does not need to be brought to Parliament... unless any MP asks, in which case we will answer in the Dewan,” he said.
Recently, media reported PKMM’s concern about the deluge of CIDB-approved contractors of various classes, which has put pressure on existing contractors in securing construction projects.
Based on last month’s statistics, the total number of G1 to G7 class contractors doubled, recording 136,000 new and existing licences compared with 60,000 licences in 2019. – Bernama, May 28, 2023
