The Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) has introduced a new multi-functional digital green card for construction workers in Malaysia. This innovative solution integrates identity verification, site attendance, and wage management into a single platform.

Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi officiated the initiative, which aims to modernise workforce oversight and reduce the sector’s reliance on cash and physical documentation.

“Workers no longer need to rely solely on cash or physical documents,” Nanta Linggi stated during the launch. “Their identity, attendance, and wages can now be managed digitally.”

A central feature of the new card is the ‘e-Wages’ system, which allows employers to credit salaries directly into workers’ e-wallets.

According to the CIDB, this function ensures timely, traceable, and compliant salary payments, enhancing transparency and reducing disputes.

The e-wallet functionality also enables workers to make local and international transfers, pay bills, and top up mobile phones.

The system replaces manual logbooks with a digital attendance function, allowing workers to log in at construction sites via QR codes.

CIDB expects the initiative to enhance safety oversight, verify identities, and strengthen enforcement against undocumented labour.

Information collected by the card flows directly into the Construction Productivity System. Consequently, this data offers critical insights into workforce trends and compliance to bolster strategic industry planning.

Nanta Linggi described the initiative as “purpose-driven digitalisation” intended to protect workers and raise industry standards.

Five construction companies and 279 workers have already carried out a pilot project.

The CIDB will manage the system’s adoption alongside its subsidiary CLAB, Bayo Pay, and MBSB Bank, ensuring it is accessible to both local and foreign labour in the construction sector.

Featured image by Freepik.