CIDB and MBAM Launch Construction Digital Maturity Index to Drive Industry Transformation

Malaysia’s construction industry is taking a major step toward full digital transformation. The Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB), in collaboration with the Master Builders Association Malaysia (MBAM), has introduced the Construction Digital Maturity Index (CDMI) — a pioneering tool designed to measure and benchmark how digitally integrated a construction company’s operations are.

The announcement was made by Minister of Works Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi during the opening ceremony of the 27th International Construction Week (ICW) at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), Kuala Lumpur.

Describing the CDMI as the first of its kind in Malaysia, Nanta said the framework is meant to help contractors and developers evaluate their level of digital readiness.

“The CDMI allows contractors to assess and benchmark their digital maturity based on industry standards, giving them a clear roadmap toward becoming fully digital,” he explained.

A New Benchmark for Digital Readiness

The CDMI represents a significant milestone for Malaysia’s construction sector, where the integration of digital tools — from project management software to Building Information Modelling (BIM) — has become crucial for efficiency and competitiveness.

According to CIDB CEO Zainora Zainal, the index is currently in its pilot phase. Input from contractors and developers will be gathered before its full rollout.

Once the benchmarks are clearly defined, CIDB will introduce targeted programmes to help smaller firms and early adopters catch up with the nation’s digitalisation goals.

This initiative is expected to have a direct impact on businesses involved in commercial property in KL, industrial land in Selangor, and industrial property in Shah Alam, where digital project management and sustainable construction practices are increasingly becoming standard requirements.

Promoting Sustainable Development in Perak

Alongside the CDMI launch, the Ministry of Works also witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between CIDB and the Perak Housing and Property Board (LPHP).

The partnership aims to strengthen sustainable housing and infrastructure development in Perak, with LPHP adopting several CIDB quality and sustainability tools such as:

• Qlassic (Quality Assessment System for Building Construction Works)

• Shassic (Safety and Health Assessment System in Construction)

• MyCREST (Malaysian Carbon Reduction and Environmental Sustainability Tool)

• INFRASTAR (Infrastructure Sustainability Rating Tool)

These tools will help ensure projects meet high standards of safety, quality, and environmental responsibility — principles increasingly relevant to developers and investors managing projects like factories in Puchong or office spaces in Bukit Jalil, where both safety compliance and sustainability certifications add value to property portfolios.

International Construction Week 2025: Bigger, Smarter, More Collaborative

The 27th International Construction Week (ICW) 2025, held alongside BuildXpo 2025, is Malaysia’s largest annual event for the construction and property industry.

Running from October 28 to 30, the event showcases the latest innovations and technologies reshaping the built environment. It brings together industry players, government agencies, and technology providers to collaborate on advancing Malaysia’s construction ecosystem.

Deputy Minister of Works Ahmad Maslan highlighted that this year’s event saw stronger international participation and higher business engagement — with 11 countries participating (up from nine last year) and potential sales estimated at RM700 million.

Toward a Smarter, Sustainable Construction Ecosystem

The introduction of the Construction Digital Maturity Index (CDMI) reflects a larger trend within Malaysia’s urban and industrial landscape: a move toward smarter, data-driven, and sustainable development.

For developers, contractors, and investors in high-growth areas like KL and Selangor, this shift signals the importance of embracing innovation — whether in managing industrial land in Selangor, upgrading commercial property in KL, or developing a factory in Puchong.

Digital transformation isn’t just a technological upgrade — it’s the foundation for more resilient, efficient, and sustainable cities and businesses.