Stutong crane incident: 2 prohibition notices issued, construction halted

The crane topple on two houses at Lorong Stutong Baru, causing extensive damage to the properties on Feb 12, 2026. Photo credit: Sarawak Eye

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, Feb 21: The Sarawak Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) has issued two prohibition notices and ordered an immediate halt to operations at a construction site in Stutong Baru here following a crane collapse on Feb 12 that damaged two neighbouring houses.

In a recent statement, the department said the incident occurred at about 8.30am and involved a rough terrain crane that toppled while in operation.

An investigation team from DOSH Sarawak was deployed to the site shortly after the incident to conduct inquiries.

Preliminary findings indicate that the crane failed to maintain stability during operations, causing it to overturn and crash onto two houses located adjacent to the construction site.

Although the incident resulted in significant property damage, no fatalities or injuries to members of the public were reported. The crane operator sustained only minor injuries.

Following the investigation, two prohibition notices were issued against the site management. All construction activities have been stopped with immediate effect pending corrective measures.

The case is being investigated under Section 15 of the Occupational Safety and Health Act 1994 (Act 514), which places a duty on employers to ensure the safety, health and welfare of employees at work.

DOSH said legal action will be taken against those responsible if violations of the Act are established. Upon conviction, employers may face a maximum fine of RM500,000.

The statement was issued by the Office of the Director, Department of Occupational Safety and Health Sarawak. — DayakDaily