Malaysia's Construction Material Compliance Framework
Ensuring safety, reliability, and quality standards for construction materials across Malaysia's building industry
Last updated: September 2025
One of the most important regulatory mechanisms in Malaysia's construction industry
The CIDB Fourth Schedule is established under the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) Act 520, listing specific construction materials that must comply with Malaysian Standards (MS) or equivalent international standards before they can be manufactured, imported, distributed, or sold in Malaysia.
The goal is simple but crucial: to ensure that every building material used in the country is safe, reliable, and consistent in quality. By enforcing this schedule, CIDB safeguards the construction industry against the dumping of substandard materials, protects end-users, and promotes sustainability.
The Amendment of Fourth Schedule 2021, gazetted on 10 September 2021 and enforced from 13 September 2021, expanded and updated the list of regulated construction materials. Enforcement officially began in March 2022.
Protecting consumers from unsafe materials
Promoting eco-friendly construction practices
Preventing dumping of substandard imports
Aligning with international best practices
Understanding the regulatory foundation
The CIDB Act 520 gives CIDB the authority to regulate construction materials under Section 33C and 33D.
Non-compliance carries serious financial consequences reflecting zero-tolerance policy.
RM10,000 - RM500,000
Fine range for violations
Updated scope of regulated materials ensuring alignment with evolving industry practices.
Comprehensive coverage of construction materials
Standard: MS 2571
Fire resistance and safety for high-rise buildings
Standard: MS EN 1396
Durability and weather resistance
Standard: MS 2040
Structural frames and cladding
MS EN 206, MS 523
Uniform strength standards
MS EN 197-1
General construction use
MS 1314 series
Beams, piles, slabs
MS EN 413-1
Specialized applications
MS 1498, MS 1135
Impact and pressure resistance
MS ISO 13006
Size, absorption, strength
MS 2676
Energy efficiency standards
Industrialised Building System components transforming construction efficiency.
Standard: CIS 24
Covers: Precast beams, slabs, columns
Focus: Quality and structural safety
Energy efficiency priorities driving insulation standards.
Thermal: MS 1020
Radiant Barrier: MS 2095
Purpose: Heat transfer reduction
Understanding certification requirements and processes
Certificate of Standards Compliance
Manufacturer chooses accredited certification body
Material undergoes comprehensive testing
Certification body issues PPS certificate
CIDB verifies and records certification
Certificate of Approval
Importer applies via CIDB's online portal
Submit test reports and certificates
CIDB evaluates application and documents
COA required before customs clearance
Prevent costly fines and shipment delays
Enhance reputation and market access
Support environmental responsibility
Access to public sector opportunities
Key milestones in CIDB Fourth Schedule development
Initial additions to the Fourth Schedule
Foundation for comprehensive material regulation
Amendment Order 2021 officially gazetted
Expanded scope of regulated materials
Amendment came into force
Updated regulatory framework active
Official enforcement began nationwide
Strict customs controls implemented
Common questions about CIDB Fourth Schedule compliance
The CIDB Fourth Schedule (Pindaan Jadual Keempat) 2021 is a list of construction materials under Act 520 that require certification before being sold, imported, or used in Malaysia. It ensures all materials meet Malaysian Standards (MS) or equivalent international standards for safety, quality, and reliability.
Materials requiring certification include aluminium composite panels, cement, ready-mix concrete, IBS components, sanitary wares, insulation products, glass products, ceramic tiles, steel products, and many others. The complete list is specified in the Fourth Schedule Amendment 2021.
Local products require PPS (Certificate of Standards Compliance) obtained through accredited certification bodies after laboratory testing. Imported products require COA (Certificate of Approval) applied through CIDB's online portal with supporting documentation before customs clearance.
Non-compliance penalties range from RM10,000 to RM500,000 according to Section 33D of the CIDB Act 520. Repeat offenders may face additional consequences including business suspension. These significant penalties reflect the government's zero-tolerance stance on substandard materials.
The Amendment of Fourth Schedule Order 2021 was gazetted on 10 September 2021 and became effective on 13 September 2021. However, official enforcement with customs controls began in March 2022, allowing industry players time to adjust to the new requirements.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional, legal, tax, or financial advice. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the content at the time of publication, regulations, policies, and requirements may change without prior notice. We make no representations or warranties, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, or suitability of the information for any particular purpose. We shall not be held responsible for any loss, damage, or inconvenience arising from the use or reliance on this information. Please refer to official Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) sources for the most current regulatory updates and seek professional advice when necessary.