GREEN URBANISM: A COMMUNITY STUDY ON PERCEPTIONS OF URBAN REWILDING INITIATIVES AND MENTAL WELL-BEING IN IPOH, PERAK, MALAYSIA

Abstract

Despite growing recognition of urban rewilding as a nature-based strategy to enhance urban resilience, empirical evidence on community perceptions of its contribution to mental well-being remains limited, particularly in rapidly urbanising Malaysian contexts such as Ipoh, Perak. This study examined Ipoh residents’ perceptions of urban rewilding initiatives and their perceived association with mental well-being through three objectives: (1) assessing community awareness and understanding of urban rewilding, (2) evaluating perceived mental well-being and social benefits associated with rewilding initiatives, and (3) identifying implications for nature-based urban policy. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative surveys (n = 50 residents) conducted using purposive sampling across diverse Ipoh neighbourhoods with semi-structured interviews. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. While the sample size necessitates caution in generalising the findings, the results indicated generally positive community perceptions toward urban rewilding initiatives, with community engagement receiving the highest average rating (M = 4.22/5). Additionally, 78% of respondents associated rewilded spaces with reduced stress and enhanced social cohesion. Qualitative insights further revealed that rewilded spaces were generally perceived as restorative urban environments, although awareness and appreciation varied across age and educational backgrounds. Overall, the findings suggest that urban rewilding may contribute positively to perceived mental well-being and community cohesion, while emphasising the importance of participatory planning and community co-design in supporting socially responsive and ecologically sustainable urban environments in Ipoh and similar urban contexts.