Factors influencing blockchain integration for sustainable material handling in Malaysian construction industry

The construction industry in Malaysia is a key driver of economic growth but faces significant challenges in achieving sustainability, particularly in material handling processes. Inefficient material management often results in excessive waste, increased costs, and environmental degradation, impeding efforts toward sustainable development. Blockchain technology, with its decentralised, transparent, and secure features, has been identified as a potential solution for enhancing efficiency and accountability in material handling. However, its adoption in the Malaysian construction sector remains limited. Therefore, this study aims to identify the key factors influencing blockchain technology integration in Malaysian construction industry. Semi structured interviews are employed using both modes, such as face-to-face or online interviews, with selected 21 respondents from various backgrounds in the construction industry. Thematic analysis was applied to the collected data to uncover insights. The findings of this research identified five critical factors influencing the adoption of blockchain technology: 1) Social, 2) Educational, 3) Technical, 4) Political, and 5) Financial. The results of the study show that factors that need to be considered are awareness of blockchain, lack of professional workforce, and government support in leveraging the use of blockchain. The findings offer a solid foundation for informed decision-making among policymakers, industry practitioners, and researchers, thereby facilitating the adoption of blockchain technology, particularly in the context of material handling within the Malaysian construction industry.