Exploring the Challenges of Dispute Adjudication Boards (DAB) in Resolving Construction Industry Conflicts in Malaysia: A Qualitative Study

J.S.N. Singh, Z.Z.A. Rashid and N.e Mustaffa
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J.S.N. Singh: School of Housing, Building and Planning, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), Penang, Malaysia
Z.Z.A. Rashid: School of Housing, Building and Planning, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), Penang, Malaysia
N.e Mustaffa: Department of Quantity Surveying, Faculty of Built Environment, Tunku Abdul Rahman, University of Management and Technology, (TARUMT) Setapak Kuala Lumpur

International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science, 2025, vol. 9, issue 1, 4418-4430

Abstract: Construction projects are usually complex and dynamic, involving multiple parties, which results in frequent disputes among the involved parties. This study aims to evaluate the challenges of Dispute Adjudication Board (DAB) implementation as an alternative dispute resolution (ADR) method within the Malaysian construction sector. This study is qualitative approach and semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 industry experts, including contractors, clients, consultants, lawyers, and regulators. Four key challenges of DAB implementation were identified, which are legal challenges, procedural challenges, administrative challenges and socio-cultural challenges. Firstly, legal challenges primarily stem from the lack of robust frameworks and enforceability, while procedural issues highlight the absence of standardized protocols and contractual readiness. Administrative challenges include high operational costs and rigid institutional structures, whereas socio-cultural challenges and reliance on traditional methods further hinder DAB adoption. Despite these challenges. Moreover, this study also emphasizes the need for targeted reforms, such as legislative support, standardized procedures and increased stakeholder awareness in order to enhance DAB adoption. Future research should explore comparative analyses of ADR methods to provide holistic solutions for resolving construction disputes effectively.

Date: 2025
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