Malaysia’s Steel Costs Rise Annually Even as September Prices Ease

Putrajaya, 12 October 2026 – Malaysia’s steel cost indicators remained above year-earlier levels in September even as prices eased from August, presenting construction companies with a mixed input-cost picture. Official data showed the unit price index for steel rising between 0.1% and 5.1% across most areas from September 2025, while selected locations recorded month-on-month declines of 0.2% to 1.6%.

Perak posted the strongest annual increase at 5.1%, followed by Johor at 4.8% and Tawau at 3.8%. The regional spread matters because contractors purchase materials close to project sites and face different transport, inventory and supplier conditions. A national average can therefore understate the pressure on companies operating in the fastest-rising markets.