A review on prefab industrialised building system modular construction in Malaysia: the perspective of non-structural studies

Abstract

Prefab modular construction approach is a well-established volumetric structural product through off-site prefabrication at factory. Modular construction approach builds confidents to promote sustainability in construction industry development and is beneficial to the environment ecosystem. The study explored and discussed on various non-structural perspective of IBS modular construction in Malaysia. The study aims to investigate the importance of the implementation of IBS modular construction in Malaysia as rapid efficient construction process and poised to help the Malaysia construction industry grow to solve the housing demand impacts. The study presented the definition, prefabrication technology, history, benefits, barriers and issues, application and characteristics of modular construction in the Malaysian construction industry through literature review. Based on the literature reviewed, the existing IBS practices in Malaysia is still low in application and modular construction practice currently had gained popularity worldwide and been proven as rapid and efficient construction method in IBS trend. Therefore, the existing IBS practices in Malaysia must be strategized towards more efficient and rapid construction method due to its numerous benefits and characteristics. The findings of this study will contribute to the transformation of existing construction practices to modern modular construction approach and proposed the future study on modular construction in structural perspectives.