KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 30 — YTL Construction is adopting artificial intelligence (AI) in its operations while investing in talent development and nurturing new leaders to strengthen its construction capabilities.
Its executive director Yeoh Keong Yuan said technological adoption and workforce development needed to progress together, with Malaysia’s pool of skilled people and construction companies providing a strong foundation.
“For me it’s about developing talent, right? Growing new leaders, investing in them and investing in new technologies.
“Because Malaysia has so many talented people and so many talented construction companies,” he told Bernama in an exclusive interview at the Malaysian Construction Industry Excellence Awards (MCIEA) 2026 here last night.
Yeoh cited Intelek Luhur Malaysia Untukmu (ILMU), a Malaysian large language model developed by YTL AI Labs, as an example of the group’s technological capabilities that could help enhance the quality of its work.
He said YTL Construction’s position within the group’s broader business ecosystem enabled it to draw on capabilities across different businesses and apply them to its projects.
Yeoh also stressed the importance of continuous learning and skills development among younger industry players as technological advancements, particularly AI, continued to reshape the working environment.
“Many people don’t want to work in construction because they think it’s dirty and dangerous. But I think construction is a wonderful industry, full of friendships, relationships, and if everybody works together, makes this industry better. Then it’s a very very exciting future for all,” he said.
Reflecting on the Gemas-Johor Bahru Electrified Double Track Project, he said its successful delivery demonstrated the ability of local companies to undertake large-scale infrastructure projects that met international standards, while prioritising safety, quality and timely completion.
YTL Construction received three industry awards last night, including the Best Project Award (Infrastructure – Major Category) for the Gemas-Johor Bahru Electrified Double Track Project.
The company also won Construction Company of the Year (Transport Infrastructure) at the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) Malaysia Building Excellence Awards 2026.
“The Gemas-Johor Bahru Electrified Double Track Project has demonstrated the capabilities of local engineers and technical specialists in undertaking complex, large-scale infrastructure projects.
“This recognition is the result of the efforts and commitment of our entire workforce. It also strengthens YTL Construction’s resolve to continue developing local talent, adopting new technologies and delivering infrastructure that provides lasting benefits to the nation,” Yeoh said.
The RM8.9 billion rail project, undertaken by SIPP-YTL JV, spans 192 kilometres and comprises 11 stations, completing the country’s electrified double-track network from Padang Besar to Johor Bahru.
According to the company, the project recorded 28 million safe working hours, involved more than 3,000 local engineers and technical specialists, and generated over 35,000 employment opportunities during its construction.
Building Information Modelling (BIM), drones and Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) technologies were used to enhance planning and construction efficiency.
