Malaysia infrastructure projects: 256 ahead of schedule

Malaysia’s Ministry of Works (KKR) has reported that 256 out of 871 ongoing public infrastructure projects are currently ahead of schedule. According to Deputy Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Maslan, this represents 29.39 per cent of projects in the construction phase, while another 304 projects, or 34.90 per cent, are proceeding according to schedule.

Overall, 560 projects—representing 64.29 per cent of those under construction—are reported to be running smoothly. The Ministry aims to achieve zero ‘sick projects’ (delayed projects), increase the number of projects completed ahead of time, and ensure zero accidents at construction sites.

As of July 30, the Public Works Department (JKR) has been entrusted with 2,433 physical construction projects totaling RM133.89 billion. Of these, 1,050 projects (43 per cent) are in the pre-construction stage, and 871 (35 per cent) are in the construction phase. The Ministry noted that the rate of delayed projects has decreased from 6.81 per cent in June 2025 to 4.13 per cent currently.

Key challenges affecting project timelines include contractor-related issues—such as management weaknesses, financial flow problems, and labor or material shortages—which account for 81 per cent of delays. The remaining 19 per cent are attributed to land acquisition, compensation, utility relocation, weather, and natural disasters.