KUALA LUMPUR, Feb. 25 -- The construction industry has appealed to the government for a one-year grace period to adjust before the amended Workers' Minimum Standards of Housing and Amenities Act 1990 can be properly implemented.

A coalition of construction industry associations said that although the amended Act is commendable as it provides a conducive living space for workers, enforcing it right away would have a detrimental effect on industry players.

It cited one of the penalties for failure to provide proper housing facilities for workers, a RM200,000 fine, three years' imprisonment, or both.

"This amended fine during the current weak economic situation is too drastic and it will seriously disrupt the industry's revival initiative...