PRELIMINARY investigations have identified a collision involving the boom of a skylift machine as the cause of a partial structural collapse at the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) project on Jalan Lingkaran Tengah 2 (MRR2) near Batu Caves yesterday.
Deputy Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Rahman Mohamad said the findings are based on an initial probe conducted by the Department of Occupational Safety and Health (JKKP).
The incident occurred during paint thickness inspection work carried out by subcontractor Wuhan Construction Sdn Bhd.
“The high-risk work was being conducted without written permission from the main contractor, China Communication Construction Sdn Bhd,” Abdul Rahman said. “Following this, the Public Works Department (JKR) has directed that the remaining steel canopy structure at the site be immediately dismantled to prevent any repeat incidents.”
He explained that the collapsed structure was a temporary protective framework intended to prevent objects from falling onto the roadway and was not designed to withstand impact loads.
The incident, which occurred at around 1.40pm, left a female motorist nearly fatally trapped under the debris.
The woman was rescued by members of the public and transported to hospital for treatment prior to the arrival of emergency teams.
Abdul Rahman added that JKKP has issued a Prohibition Notice to the main contractor under Section 15(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act 1994, barring further paint thickness inspection work until a safe working system is established and certified by the agency.
“All contractors and subcontractors must comply with the Occupational Safety and Health (Construction Work) (Design and Management) Regulations 2024, particularly ensuring that risk assessments are conducted from the design stage and continued throughout the project,” he said.
“This approach is essential for identifying hazards, implementing preventive measures, and ultimately avoiding accidents on construction sites.”
The deputy minister confirmed that a comprehensive investigation will continue to establish the exact cause of the incident and ensure that appropriate action is taken against parties failing to adhere to safety requirements.
He has also ordered JKKP to carry out inspections along all sections of the ECRL near roadways to ensure full compliance with existing regulations. - November 19, 2025
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