CONTRACTOR’S PERCEPTION TOWARDS CENTRALISED LABOUR QUARTERS (CLQ) IMPLEMENTATION IN MALAYSIA

Construction workers is one of the prime assets in the construction industry. In Malaysia, many construction workers are being house in “Rumah Kongsi” or shop lots where the living conditions are very poor, high risk and low-security level, constant outbreak of contagious diseases, lack and poor basic amenities. To improve the living conditions of the construction workers, the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) had introduced Centralised Labour Quarters (CLQ) in October 2017. The implementation of CLQ could give benefits to employers such as it is a more practical and economical option and increase construction workers' performance. On the other hand, inadequate CLQ, and high rent, are among the setback of CLQ implementation. This research aims to investigate the contractor's perception towards Centralised Labour Quarters (CLQ) implementation which focus on the benefits and drawbacks of CLQ implementation in Malaysia. Based on the interview with 5 contractors, there are eight (8) benefits of this initiative i.e. it is more practical, economical options for employers, provide safe, clean, and conducive area. It can also minimize workers turnover rate, increase workers' performance, improve their social life, and boost the outlook of Malaysian Construction Industry as well as reduce the public disturbance due to foreign workers. Nevertheless, CLQ also has some drawbacks for example, limited numbers of CLQ provided, high rent, long travel distance and it provides less facilities to promote good living for workers. The findings from this research would help CIDB to improve the provided facilities and create awareness among the contractors to provide better accommodation and amenities for their workers.