Builders Warn Lorry Crackdown Could Delay Key Projects

Malaysia’s construction industry is warning that the Transport Ministry’s new crackdown on overloaded lorries could throw key projects off track and drive up costs nationwide.

The operation known as Ops Lebih Muatan kicked off on Oct 15 and runs until Dec 31, targeting heavy vehicles in quarries, ports, and industrial areas. 

But construction groups say the sudden enforcement, with no adjustment period, is already causing major disruptions to the supply of essential materials like cement, sand, and aggregates.

In a joint statement, the Master Builders Association Malaysia (MBAM), Persatuan Kontraktor Bumiputra Malaysia (PKBM), and Persatuan Kontraktor India Malaysia (PKIM) said the move risks paralysing the construction sector just as the economy is stabilising.

"Tighter load limits mean trucks now carry less, forcing double the trips and higher fuel costs which could delay project deliveries and inflate budgets

"In order for the industry to supply as per current demand, we need to double the supply of machinery and manpower, which is impossible to get as a replacement overnight,” the groups said.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke previously said the operation aims to curb unsafe and damaging overloading practices that operators have long treated as a mere cost of doing business.

But industry groups argue that sudden enforcement has left little time for adjustment. 

They warn of potential delays to major housing and infrastructure projects under the 13th Malaysia Plan, as well as the risk of liquidated ascertained damages (LAD) for late completion.

The associations are  also urging the Transport Ministry and JPJ to introduce a grace period or phased approach to enforcement.

“Enforcement must not come at the expense of economic vitality. We call for collaborative action to safeguard jobs, projects, and public welfare,” they concluded.