PLANNING MALAYSIA

URBAN COMMUNITY FARMING: LESSONS FROM JAPAN'S CHOKUBAI MODEL FOR BUILDING SOCIAL ENTERPRISES

Nikmatul Adha Nordin — 2025-04-27

This study examines the feasibility of implementing community farming as a framework for community-driven social enterprises in urban Malaysia. Inspired by Japan’s Chokubai model, which emphasises the direct sale of locally produced goods, this study explores its potential to improve food security, economic empowerment, and social cohesion in highly urbanised areas. A roundtable discussion with nine key stakeholders was conducted using the Net-Map tool to map actors, relationships, and influences within the community farming ecosystem. This participatory approach identified critical factors contributing to project sustainability, highlighting that while government agencies provide substantial support, the most significant determinant of success is the community’s active involvement. The study also noted challenges such as inadequate infrastructure and funding, which could be addressed through targeted policy interventions. The study concludes with strategic recommendations to promote community farming projects in urban Malaysia, addressing both policy and implementation challenges.

EVALUATING AND ENHANCING SUSTAINABLE LIVELIHOODS OF URBAN IMPOVERISHED GROUPS IN KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA

Mohd Khairi Ismail — 2025-04-27

The sustainable livelihoods of urban impoverished groups in Kuala Lumpur have emerged as a critical emphasis due to the ongoing challenge of urban poverty faced by cities worldwide. Accelerated urbanization has exacerbated the socioeconomic divide, resulting in numerous urban impoverished individuals grappling with challenges related to housing, work, and access to essential services. To tackle these difficulties, sustainable strategies, such as community-driven initiatives and partnerships with local authorities, are essential for empowering citizens and equipping them to endure economic disruptions. This study assesses and improves the sustainable livelihoods of impoverished urban neighbourhoods in Kuala Lumpur. The study, grounded in the Sustainable Livelihood Framework (SLF), involved a survey of 394 participants, with data gathered via questionnaires and analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25 and Microsoft Excel. The results demonstrate that governmental actions substantially contribute to improving the sustainable livelihoods of urban residents in Kuala Lumpur. Mean analysis indicates that impoverished areas in Kuala Lumpur exhibit high well-being only in terms of environmental factors.

ANALYSIS OF FARMERS' INCOME AND WILLINGNESS TO PAY FOR UPSTREAM WATERSHED IMPROVEMENT IN KRUENG KLUET ACEH INDONESIA

Rahmat Suryanto Pirngadi — 2025-04-27

Krueng Kluet Aceh Watershed is one of the largest watersheds in the Aceh Province of Indonesia. Over the past three years, forest destruction in the upper part of the Krueng Kluet Aceh Watershed has resulted in the loss of 424.15 hectares of forest. This destruction has led to flooding during the rainy season, adversely affecting paddy fields. Farmers have incurred significant losses due to reduced production levels caused by flooding. The gap in this research lies in the analysis of farmers' income during flood events compared to non-flood situations, serving as a basis for assessing the extent of farmers' willingness to pay for environmental improvements—an approach that has not been undertaken previously. This research aims to compare farmers' income during the period of flooding versus period without flooding, as well as to assess farmers' willingness to pay for environmental improvement services in the upper Krueng Kluet Aceh Watershed. The findings of this study indicate that the average income of farmers during flooding periods is IDR 5,529,000 per hectare per planting season, equivalent to USD 354. In contrast, when flooding does not occur, farmers' income rises to IDR 26,027,000 per hectare per planting season, or USD 1,668. This means that farmers experience an income loss of IDR 21,020,000, which is USD 1,347, during flooding events. Notably, 71% of farmers expressed their willingness to pay for environmental improvements in the upper Krueng Kluet Aceh Watershed, with a total willingness to pay valued at IDR 1,078,500 per growing season, leading to an average of IDR 9,297 per farmer per growing season. The study also found that income variables, formal education, and land area positively influence farmers' willingness to pay for environmental improvements in the upstream areas of the Krueng Kluet Aceh Watershed. Furthermore, the formal education variable and the number of family dependents significantly affect farmers’ willingness to pay for these environmental improvements.

URBAN AGRICULTURE: A PATHWAY TO SUSTAINABLE URBAN DEVELOPMENT

Nurulanis Ahmad — 2025-04-27

This study explores the stakeholders' perspectives in urban agriculture (UA) toward sustainable urban development, expanding the discussion on the social, economic, and environmental potential and its challenges, thereby proposing a framework of action plans to support UA. Grounded on stakeholder theory, this study employed a qualitative approach using semi-structured interviews. A total of 15 stakeholders were selected from different authority levels in Malaysia consisting of the Department of Agriculture Malaysia and PLANMalaysia (federal level), Department of Agriculture Perak (state level), Subang Jaya City Council (local level), private property managers (real estate practitioners) and academicians (university). These stakeholders were top management, practitioners, and officers with the related background, knowledge, and experience in urban agriculture, urban planning, and real estate. The findings illustrate a framework of actionable plans centred on social, economic, environmental, policy, and technological innovation to highlight the importance of strategic initiatives in UA toward sustainable urban development. This framework contributes to the existing knowledge by proposing action plans based on sustainability pillars to advance UA as a pathway toward sustainable urban development. This study provides helpful strategies for policymakers and urban planners and guides them in making effective action plans for UA.

AGILE URBAN DYNAMICS: EXAMINING HOUSING CHARACTERISTICS IN THE SLUMS OF BELAWAN BAHARI, MEDAN-INDONESIA

Siti Zulfa Yuzni — 2025-04-27

Rapid urbanisation in Medan, particularly in the Belawan Bahari district, has catalysed the emergence of slum settlements, requiring an in-depth exploration of housing dynamics. This research employs qualitative methods, including site observations, interviews, and community engagement, to examine the structural, infrastructural, and social factors shaping housing conditions in the slum residences of Belawan Bahari. It analyses construction practices, materials, and structural integrity alongside essential amenities such as water, sanitation, and electricity. Additionally, it investigates community structures, social interactions, and shared spaces, providing a comprehensive view of the area’s social fabric. This agile approach aims to inform targeted interventions, enhancing residents’ quality of life. Expected outcomes include a detailed understanding of housing characteristics, offering insights for urban planners, policymakers, and community organisations. Findings are intended to guide adaptive interventions that address local challenges and utilise existing strengths, contributing to a resilient urban environment in Belawan Bahari, Medan, Indonesia.

REDUCING THE PREVALENCE OF SMOKING AMONG STREET CHILDREN TO MAINTAIN THE SUSTAINABILITY OF A HEALTHY CITY IN THE URBAN AREA OF JAKARTA, INDONESIA

Renny Nurhasana — 2025-04-27

Street children in urban community need protection against several risk factors easily affecting them, one of which is smoking habit. Interventions targeting their smoking habits will improve public health and healthy social life to maintain the sustainability of a healthy city. This study aims to provide an overview and evidence of street children’s condition as a driving force for more comprehensive government policies to reduce the smoking prevalence among street children. This qualitative study was conducted through focused group discussions with 38 street children in Jakarta and greater areas. Availability of affordable, cheaper and accessible cigarettes at points of sale, also ineffective education on smoking are factors making the street children difficult to stop smoking. The government needs to implement policies to address these challenges, such as raising cigarette prices and strictly banning cigarette sales to children. Therefore, it is crucial to strengthen policies supporting the tobacco control while also supporting the implementation of sustainable healthy city policy. An integrated intervention program involving all stakeholders is essential. This study lays the foundation for comprehensive policies addressing the child smoking prevalence and maintaining the sustainability of a healthy city.

SUSTAINABLE STRATEGIES BASED ON COMMUNITY PERCEPTION AND PARTICIPATION IN ECOTOURISM DEVELOPMENT PLANNING IN INDONESIA

Rahmawaty - — 2025-04-27

The Forest Management Unit of Region IV of Balige has a working area within Toba Regency, one of the regencies in North Sumatra Province which is rich in ecotourism potential. SWOT analysis was used in this study to analyze community perception and participation in ecotourism development planning and establish sustainable strategies for ecotourism development within the study area. Data were collected through focus group discussions, in-depth interviews, and a questionnaire survey with 114 respondents. The data were then analyzed using participatory analysis, involving a variety of community groups. Community members generally had a positive attitude toward the ecotourism development plan. The average community participation indicating a medium level of community engagement in ecotourism development. The positioning of strategies for ecotourism development within Quadrant I of the SWOT diagram, where strengths and opportunities are high, is an ideal scenario. To ensure long-term success, the strategies for the Forest Management Unit of Region IV of Balige should leverage positive community perceptions, address gaps in participation, and align with sustainable development goals, benefiting both the community and the environment. This study makes a unique contribution to ecotourism planning by integrating local knowledge and community involvement in ecotourism management strategy development.

INVESTIGATING THE IMPACT OF LONG AND SHORT-TERM NATURAL RESOURCE RENTS ON ECOLOGICAL FOOTPRINTS: EVIDENCE FROM INDONESIA

Zahria Zurrah — 2025-04-27

This study examines the relationship between economic growth and environmental sustainability in Indonesia, focusing on the validity of the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) hypothesis and the impact of various factors on a country’s ecological footprint. Although extensive research has explored the connection between carbon emissions and economic growth, the specific roles of economic growth, mineral rent, forest rent, and human capital in determining the ecological footprint in Indonesia remain understudied. This study aimed to investigate two primary aspects. First, it examines the EKC hypothesis in Indonesia using a cubic representation of economic growth, which offers a more nuanced understanding of the relationship between environmental degradation and economic expansion than the traditional inverted U-shaped EKC curve. Second, it analyses the long-term and short-term effects of mineral rent, forest rent, and human capital on the ecological footprint using an Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model. Data for the study variables were collected from Indonesia for the period 1991Q1-2021Q4. The ARDL findings revealed that human capital and forest rent contribute to improving Indonesia's ecological footprint. Conversely, mineral rents demonstrate the potential for reducing environmental impacts over time. The results indicate an N-shaped Environmental Kuznets Curve, illustrating the relationship between the ecological footprint and economic growth. This research has significant policy implications for Indonesian decision makers, emphasising the need for efficient transformation of non-renewable resources into a sustainable, eco-friendly environment. Additionally, this study highlights the importance of continuously enhancing environmental awareness and implementing educational reforms to achieve long-term sustainability benefits.

EVALUATION OF FLOOD SUSCEPTIBILITY MAPPING IN KEDAH WITH AHP AND GIS: A CASE STUDY OF KOTA SETAR AND PADANG TERAP, KEDAH MALAYSIA

Wan Nurnabila Imani — 2025-04-27

Model estimations of flood susceptibility often face challenges in assigning appropriate weights to factors that contribute to flooding. This study focuses on evaluating flood-prone areas in Kota Setar and Padang Terap, Kedah, Malaysia, by applying optimum weights to proposed flood parameters using the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) model integrated with a Geographic Information System (GIS). Physical features, including slope, elevation, topographic wetness index (TWI), and flow accumulation, were extracted using Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (IFSAR) data, alongside land use and rainfall data. For validation, approximately 1,279 historical flood marks from the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID) were used. The resulting flood susceptibility map and historical flood data aligned well with an RMSE of 92.2% after weighted flood parameter integration. The most significant contributors to flood susceptibility were identified as slope (39%), land use (21%), rainfall (19%), and elevation (11%). The findings indicate that that optimizing parameters with weights improves susceptible area prediction for future flood mapping research using AHP and GIS.

INVENTORY OF CARBON EMISSIONS FOR NET ZERO EMISSION POLICIES IN THE TRANSPORTATION SECTOR IN THE NEW CITY CENTER OF BANDA ACEH, ACEH, INDONESIA

Zainuddin Hasan — 2025-04-27

Carbon emissions, a major cause of global warming, predominantly originate from the transportation sector. Countries worldwide, including Indonesia, are committed to achieving Net Zero Emissions (NZE) by targeting a 29% to 41% reduction in emissions by 2030. As Aceh Province's capital, Banda Aceh strives to become a low-carbon city through various mitigation strategies. This study focuses on Mr Teuku Muhammad Hasan Street in the New City Center area of Banda Aceh, a high-traffic zone that significantly contributes to carbon emissions. The research aims to (1) measure vehicular CO2 emissions using traffic counting methods and (2) assess the CO2 absorption capacity of roadside vegetation along this route. Employing the IPCC 2019 Guidelines Tier 1 methodology, the study adopts a quantitative approach with spatial and descriptive analysis supported by field surveys and literature review. Findings indicate a residual emission of 2,676.17 tons of CO2 per year, unabsorbed by existing vegetation. Two key policies are proposed to support NZE goals: (1) increasing vegetation to enhance carbon sequestration and (2) optimizing public transportation, particularly the Trans Koetaradja bus service. Scenario analysis suggests that implementing these policies could reduce residual emissions by up to -114.29 tons CO2 per year, potentially transforming the area into a carbon-negative zone and advancing Banda Aceh's transition toward a low-carbon city.

MEASURING RESIDENTS' INTENTION TO ENERGY RETROFIT EXISTING RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS: SCALE DEVELOPMENT AND VALIDATION

Zan Pang — 2025-04-27

Residential building energy retrofitting (RBER) is essential for enhancing energy efficiency in homes. The intention of residents to undertake energy retrofits has increasingly attracted the attention of governments and construction firms. This study develops and tests a multidimensional Residential Building Energy Retrofit Intention Scale (RBERIS) to identify the critical dimensions influencing residents' intentions to adopt energy retrofit technologies for improving the energy efficiency of their existing homes. Drawing on literature related to scale development and measurement theory, we created a 22-item, 4-dimensional scale encompassing retrofit motivation, attitude, subjective norms, and perceived behavioural control, supported by evidence of unidimensionality (all factor loadings >0.5) and reliability (Cronbach's α >0.7). The RBERIS reliably and effectively assesses residents' intentions to undertake RBER, assisting building energy retrofit companies and promoters in formulating development strategies and offering new insights into understanding these behavioural intentions. Future research directions are also discussed.

CYCLIST SAFETY: IDENTIFYING HIGH-RISK GROUPS THROUGH DATA ANALYSIS

Puteri Intan Solha Salim — 2025-04-27

Cycling has gained global popularity due to its health, environmental, and cost benefits; however, cyclist safety remains a significant concern. Understanding the factors contributing to risky cycling behaviours in Malaysia is therefore crucial for developing effective safety interventions. This study aimed to identify high-risk cyclist groups in Kuala Terengganu and Dungun, Terengganu, Malaysia, focusing on helmet non-use, reflective clothing non-use, and riding two abreast. A total of 2,205 cyclists were observed at eight locations over six days, revealing significant associations between behaviours and explanatory variables such as age, time of day, day of the week, speed, and road type, using a binary logistic regression model. Helmet non-use increased at speeds above 10 km/h, was less common among children and adolescents, and was less likely to occur during morning peak hours and on municipal roads. Non-use of reflective clothing increased during evening peak hours, was less common at speeds between 10 and 20 km/h and decreased on state roads. Riding two abreast was more common on weekdays and on state roads but less likely at speeds over 20 km/h and on municipal roads. The findings of this study may support the development of targeted interventions, including cyclist awareness programmes for specific groups, policy enforcement, promotion of safety gear, and other safety initiatives essential for improving cyclist safety.

EVALUATING URBAN PUBLIC BUS TRANSPORT SERVICE QUALITY: PERSPECTIVES FROM TWO USER GROUPS

Ery Sugito — 2025-04-27

This paper aims to compare the views of passengers and non-passengers on the service quality of public bus transport in urban areas. The methodology used combines importance and performance analysis, as well as importance and performance map analysis, to identify the critical components of the views of both groups. The sample consisted of 55 questions completed by passengers and non-passengers conducted around the Trans-Batam bus line in Batam City through an online panel. The analysis results show that non-passenger satisfaction is 65.59%. In comparison, passengers reach 66.19%, both of which fall into the "satisfied" level range. Still, both groups have different views on the priorities for improving service quality, primarily related to “travel time”, “infrastructure”, and “reaching time”. However, both groups agree that the current service quality is in line with expectations, especially concerning “fit connections”, “speed”, and “accessibility”. However, four indicators need to be improved, such as “distance of stops”, “safety stops”, “comfort in stops”, and “waiting time”. The other two indicators, namely “line frequency” and the “need for transfers”, need to be maintained at the same level of improvement. The government and public transport operators can use the findings to identify areas where the quality of public bus transport services in urban areas can be improved.

UNIVERSITY STUDENTS’ PERCEPTIONS OF PUBLIC BUS SERVICE EFFICIENCY AND EFFECTIVENESS IN INFLUENCING RIDERSHIP

Nur Aulia Rosni — 2025-04-27

The efficiency and effectiveness of public bus services are essential for fostering sustainable urban transportation. In Malaysia, despite widespread concerns about lengthy commutes, congestion-related stress, and high traffic fatality rates, private vehicles remain the dominant mode of transport, even among university students. This examines university students' perceptions of public bus service efficiency and effectiveness, aiming to identify areas for improvement to increase public transport usage. A mixed-method approach was adopted to provide a comprehensive analysis of users’ experiences and perceptions. Findings indicate that economic factors significantly influence ridership rates, particularly among young adults who often face financial constraints. At the same time, this demographic is highly mobile, relying on transportation for social, educational, and physical activities. Furthermore, satisfaction with service quality emerges as a critical determinant of public bus loyalty. To enhance efficiency and increase ridership, the study recommends addressing the multifaceted factors influencing public bus service use through a comprehensive strategy. Future research should delve into socioeconomic analyses to better understand these dynamics.

APPLICATION OF FUZZY-AHP IN GIS-BASED ANALYSIS FOR ROAD SAFETY INDEX MEASUREMENT

Nur Maisarah Abd Ghany — 2025-04-27

Maintaining the safety of road users is an absolute necessity. Therefore, the road must be safe, and road infrastructure is one of the most important aspects. Several studies suggested that different road infrastructures had different impacts on road safety. Therefore, this study was conducted with two (2) objectives, which are (i) to determine the degree of importance of factors influencing road safety and (ii) to derive the road safety index. This study proposed the application of Spatial-Multicriteria Decision Analysis, where Fuzzy-AHP was chosen as the technique to deal with uncertainty in criterion weighing. Findings revealed that the criteria with the highest degree of importance is Road Marking, with a weightage of 0.392, while the least important is Street Lighting, with a weightage of 0.028. The criterion weightage was then used in GIS proximity analysis to measure the safety index, which revealed that most roads in the study area have high and very high safety indexes. The indices were verified by interviews with an expert and site verification to see if the calculated indices were accurate. Thus, this study revealed the possibility of using Fuzzy-AHP and GIS methods in measuring safety index, which can be applied in the future.

SOCIOECONOMIC INFLUENCES AND PEDESTRIAN INFRASTRUCTURE IN PROMOTING ACTIVE TRAVEL TO SCHOOL AMONG PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN

Naimah Osman — 2025-04-27

Walking is considered a physical activity, as it is well-established as a health-enhancing behaviour for children. Opting for active school travel like walking may help increase children’s physical activity levels. However, participation in active school travel remains low in many countries. The lack of physical activity among children is a significant global health issue that can lead to an increased risk of non-communicable diseases and poor mental health. A questionnaire survey was conducted among primary school children aged 7 to 12 to study this issue further and gather their perspectives on active school travel. This study investigates the relationship between socioeconomic factors, such as household income, parental education level, and car ownership, and children’s decision to engage in active travel to school. Furthermore, the study aims to assess the current state of pedestrian facilities and infrastructure near schools. In addition to the questionnaire survey, the researcher conducted on-site observations to evaluate the availability and condition of pedestrian facilities and infrastructure. The observations also included assessing traffic conditions and potential safety hazards for children who use active transportation to get to school. It is important to note that simply improving pedestrian facilities and infrastructure near schools may not be sufficient to change parental perceptions of traffic safety in the surrounding area.

THE INFLUENCE OF URBAN PARK ON SHAPING THE PERCEPTION OF SOUNDSCAPE: CASE STUDY OF PUTROE PHANG PARK IN BANDA ACEH, INDONESIA

Laina Hilma Sari — 2025-04-27

Urban parks play a vital role in enhancing the quality of life in cities by providing serene, healthy natural environments. Among their numerous benefits, urban parks significantly influence the auditory experience of visitors. This study investigates the impact of landscape elements within urban parks on perceived soundscapes, focusing on Putroe Phang Park, one of the largest urban parks in Banda Aceh, Indonesia. Our methodology combines landscape observations, soundwalk data collection, visitor questionnaires, and sound measurements, including Sound Pressure Level (SPL) and Ambisonic recordings. We used a UNI-T UT sound level meter and a Zoom H1N digital audio recorder for data collection. The SPL distribution within the park was visualized using contour maps generated using Surfer software (version 23.3.202). Our findings reveal that while some landscape elements contribute positively to a pleasant soundscape, others, notably traffic noise, detract from the overall experience. However, the park’s Leq remained between 58 and 68dB(A), below the upper threshold of 70 dB(A). Our findings suggest that enhancing the diversity and quality of landscape elements can mitigate undesirable sounds and improve the park’s auditory environment.

THE IMPACT OF AGODI URBAN PARK ON THE SUBJECTIVE WELL-BEING OF ITS VISITORS

Muhammad Aliyu Yaman — 2025-04-27

Urban parks, within city centres are green spaces that incorporate natural elements such as grass, flowers, and trees, often featuring wildlife, small zoos, and abiotic components like hills and lakes, whether natural or artificial. These parks form a crucial interface between individuals and nature, contributing to public health, social cohesion, climate improvement, and tourism development. This study investigates the impact of the Agodi Park experience on the subjective well-being of visitors in Ibadan, the second-largest city in Africa. A survey method and a 6-point Likert-type scale were used to gather data on park experiences. Questionnaires were administered to 378 participants, with 350 responses analysed. Descriptive statistics and Spearman correlation analysis was employed. Results showed that 34.6% of respondents strongly agreed that they felt a sense of oneness with nature in the park, 44.3% agreed, 7.1% disagreed, and 11.1% were neutral. The findings indicate a high level of well-being among visitors, with various factors influencing their experience. The study recommends improving park facilities to alleviate pressure on limited resources and suggests further preservation and development of the park’s vegetation as a key visitor attraction.

ANALYZING LOCATIONS OF OUTDOOR ADVERTISEMENT DISPLAY BY USING FUZZY-AHP AND GIS

Nazirah Hanani Helmi — 2025-04-27

City councils generate revenue through fees for advertising display structures within their various council districts. However, there is yet a map that depicts the area where the advertisement display structure is permitted to be constructed. The city councils often need to refer to a manual book containing the guidelines in textual form, which may make it difficult to directly assess the location of the application to install an advertising display. Therefore, this study was conducted to spatialize the guidelines and analyse the suitable area for installing outdoor advertisement displays. Experts’ choice was used to obtain the weightage for the main and sub-criteria, which was calculated using the Fuzzy-AHP method and then used to derive the GIS suitability index model indicating suitable and not suitable areas. Findings revealed that within the tested study area, 94% of the area is suitable, while 6% of it is not. Based on on-site verification, the model is proven to be reliable since the unsuitable area does not comply with the criteria. Hence, a visualization map was created to act as a spatialized guideline, which the experts also agree that the suitability map could help them make decisions efficiently, thus leading to smarter planning for the future.

THE IMPACT OF LANDSCAPE NARRATIVE FEATURES IN CHINESE URBAN HERITAGE PARKS ON VISITOR SATISFACTION IN FUYONG CITY, ANHUI PROVINCE, CHINA

Chen Xiang — 2025-04-27

In recent years, the number of Chinese visitors in urban heritage parks has been growing, fuelling the rapid development of the heritage site tourism sector. This study explores how landscape narrative features influence visitors’ satisfaction in urban heritage parks to bridge the gap between theoretical and practical research in this field. Taking the visitors of Yingzhou West Lake in Fuyang City, Anhui Province, China, as the research object, a questionnaire survey was used to collect data, verify the influence of landscape narrative features on visitors’ satisfaction, and analyse its mechanism of action. The study constructed a mechanism model of landscape narrative features affecting visitors’ satisfaction and classified the features into three dimensions: physical space, narrative space, and heritage space. The results show that such features significantly positively affect visitors’ satisfaction, and enhancing landscape narrative features can effectively improve visitors’ satisfaction. This study provides important theoretical support for sustainable tourism development in urban heritage parks and proposes practical ideas for tourism management and design practices in heritage sites.

DOCUMENTING THE CULTURAL CEREMONIES OF ORANG ASLI PAHANG

Aisyah Abu Bakar — 2025-04-27

The Orang Asli Pahang celebrate their heritage with vibrant ceremonies embodying the spirit of community, culture, and nature. This study aims to develop a digital documentation strategy to archive the cultural ceremonies of the Orang Asli Pahang in a cultural repository. This will preserve and enhance access to this cultural information, filling gaps in collective memory and improving documentation of lesser-known communal ceremonies to help revive the cultural heritage. Purpose: The primary objectives of this paper are (i) to document the cultural ceremonies of Orang Asli Pahang, and (ii) to assign themes to the cultural ceremonies widely applicable to all tribes of the Orang Asli in Pahang. Method: Qualitative research method is employed to explore, document and thematize the cultural ceremonies of Orang Asli Pahang. Such methods include content analysis, semi-structured interviews, and thematic analysis. Findings: There exists a rich tapestry of cultural ceremonies that interrelate with other domains of cultural heritage. These cultural ceremonies are commonly motivated by marital celebrations, ancestral honorations, supernatural phenomena, and occasional communal feasts. Concerning all tribes of Orang Asli Pahang, the cultural ceremonies are thematized under rite of passage-related, ancestor-related, supernatural-related, and communal feast-related. The findings also highlighted the urgency to digitally document the Orang Asli Pahang's cultural ceremonies. Respondents remember individual rites of passage but struggle to recall communal ceremonies involving feasts, ancestors, and the supernatural.

TRANSFORMATION OF CORAL REEF ECOTOURISM THROUGH THE DEVELOPMENT OF SUPPORTING INFRASTRUCTURE AT BIG KELAGIAN ISLAND INDONESIA

Ahmad Herison — 2025-04-27

Coral reefs play a crucial role as habitats where marine life can thrive and seek sustenance, as well as serving as attractive tourist destinations. The research aims to analyse the suitability of tourism and the carrying capacity of ecotourism on Kelagian Besar Island, Indonesia, along with its supporting infrastructure. The research method utilizes an analysis of tourism suitability and area carrying capacity for snorkelling and diving tourism, as well as observing the supporting infrastructure. The analysis resulted in an average suitability rating for snorkelling and diving tourism at 51.38% and 51.63%, respectively, across 7 stations, with a carrying capacity of 1395 and 3187 individuals per day for snorkelling and diving. Field observations revealed that the island's infrastructure is relatively adequate but still requires further improvement and development. To maximize the potential of the area, coral reef transplantation could be undertaken to enhance and maintain tourism suitability on the island. In conclusion, the overall tourism suitability analysis falls into the category of not suitable (S3), with a carrying capacity of 4,582 individuals per day for snorkelling and diving tourism, indicating the need for improving the quality of coral reefs and their supporting infrastructure for ecotourism management on the island.

DIFFERENTIATION OF TOURISM PERFORMANCE IN RURAL AREAS: CASE STUDY OF DESA LESTARI, MALAYSIA AND DESA MANDIRI, INDONESIA

Mohamad Fadhli Rashid — 2025-04-27

Rural tourism in Southeast Asia have leveraged the potential of rural tourism through a community-based approach by initiating a village-owned enterprise to strengthen the village economy based on the unique village’s characteristics. However, despite the importance of rural tourism, considerable differences in economic performance happened among villages. It raised a question of how rural tourism performance varies between villages and what factors determine the variation. Thus, this paper aims to examine the differentiation of tourism performance in rural areas between Desa Lestari in Malaysia and Desa Mandiri in Indonesia. A quantitative method was employed using a structured interview involving tourism-related stakeholders to understand the diverse potential and dynamic of rural tourism. The findings highlighted that village-owned enterprises in both countries have successfully boosted the village economy by optimising the village’s potentials, managed by the local community and supported by the government’s initiatives. Regarding factors of rural tourism performance, Ponggok Village demonstrates a strong linkage between tourism performance with cultural and environmental dimensions, While Peruas Village strongly links tourism performance with economic and social dimensions. Hence, this research serves as a reference in understanding the success factors in rural tourism performance in Southeast Asia.

THE AUTHENTICITY OF INTANGIBLE CULTURAL HERITAGE MODEL BASED ON TOURISM TERMINATE INTENTION

Lin Xiaofeng — 2025-04-27

Recent studies have extensively examined the motivation of tourism intention related to the authenticity of intangible cultural heritage (ICH), but however, the factors influencing tourism termination intention are still poorly understood. This study proposes an integrated research model of the ICH tourism termination intention. The model is constructed based on the theoretical perspectives of the (Expectation Confirmation Theory) ECT and (Landscape Perception Theory) LPT. The objectives of this study are to investigate the factors and mechanisms influencing the termination of tourism intention. This study adopted the quantitative method and analysed 311 questionnaires using structural equation modelling by making assumptions about the relationships among the constituent factors and examining the influence of tourists' anticipatory motives and landscape perception factors. The findings not only elucidate the impact of low expectation confirmation on tourists' intentions to terminate their visits but also offer valuable insights into potential negative phenomena in intangible cultural heritage tourism. This study highlights the crucial role of perceived authenticity in shaping tourists' decision-making processes and establishes a new theoretical framework for the preservation and management of intangible cultural heritage.

URBAN DYNAMICS OF RIVERBANK SETTLEMENT IN SAMARINDA CITY, INDONESIA

Amos Setiadi — 2025-04-27

Economic change and government policy are the major factors that determine the settlement on the riverbank in Samarinda, which were originally determined by roads. The transformation problem arises due to economic development with an increase in land-based transportation modes. Therefore, this research aimed to analyze the urban dynamics of settlement based on the configuration and distribution of building masses on the riverbank. It used the qualitative method to determine the urbanity of settlement and the dynamic relationship between mass and environment that creates the morphological characteristics. The result showed that the riverbank settlement in Samarinda is in form of a dense structure due to the availability of limited land. The orientation of settlement persisted towards the river and land as the basis for daily activities. This research made an important contribution to riverbank settlement planning, especially in Samarinda.

URBAN SPRAWL TRANSITION RULE ALGORITHM CONCEPT IN CELLULAR AUTOMATA FRAMEWORK: CASE STUDY OF MALALAYANG DISTRICT, MANADO CITY, INDONESIA

Octavianus H.A. Rogi — 2025-04-27

This study aimed to develop an urban sprawl model transition rule algorithm based on land coverage indicators in a cellular automata grid framework. This study attempts to identify various attributes that impact land coverage in a spatial grid cell using statistical and spatial analysis methods. This concept provides a theoretical and methodological basis for developing a more comprehensive urban sprawl simulation model. The results indicated three determinant factors for the condition of land coverage in a cellular automata spatial grid cell: built-up land conditions, slope gradients, and the availability of road network infrastructure. The concept of the algorithm found can be expressed through the following statements: 1) built-up land in a particular spatial grid will be influenced by the condition of built-up land in neighboring grid cells, with a determination of 67%; 2) every one unit increase in the average area of built-up land in neighboring cells will be associated with the same phenomenon in a particular grid cell of 1.08 units; 3) built-up land on each spatial grid is correlated with the slope gradient and the availability of road network infrastructure on the spatial grid; 4) the flatter the slope condition of a spatial grid will be associated with higher built-up land in the spatial grid cell; and 5) the better the road infrastructure availability on a particular spatial grid will be associated with higher built-up land.

AGILE CITIES: PROSPECTS AND CHALLENGES OF SPATIAL PLANNING FOR URBAN ECONOMIC RESILIENCE IN THE ISLAMIC CULTURAL CONTEXT OF BANDA ACEH, INDONESIA

Evalina Zuraidi — 2025-04-27

Urban economic resilience is increasingly critical for cities facing environmental, economic, and social challenges. This study investigates the prospects and challenges of agile spatial planning in fostering economic resilience within the Islamic cultural context of Banda Aceh, Indonesia. Grounded in the agile cities framework, which emphasises flexibility, adaptability, and stakeholder engagement, this research examines how Islamic principles, including social cohesion, environmental stewardship, and public welfare (maslaha) inform urban planning to build resilience. Using a qualitative approach with semi-structured interviews involving 10 key stakeholders and systematic observation, the study identifies key strategies such as flexible zoning, adaptive reuse, and sustained community engagement as prospects to enhance resilience while preserving cultural identity. Nevertheless, challenges remain in balancing tradition with modernity, institutional inertia, and sustaining stakeholder commitment. Findings suggest that integrating cultural heritage with adaptive planning supports sustainable development, positioning Banda Aceh as a potential model for cities seeking to harmonise tradition and modernity. Recommendations include revising zoning regulations for adaptability, fostering continuous community engagement, and utilising digital platforms to improve participation. Future research should examine the long-term impacts of these strategies to further support resilient and culturally cohesive urban development.

AGILE URBAN SYMBIOSIS: STRATEGIC DEVELOPMENT OF HOSUR AS A RESILIENT SATELLITE CITY FOR BENGALURU, INDIA

Zahra Yasmoon — 2025-04-27

Urban environments exhibit mounting complexity, yet traditional centralized planning methodologies struggle adapting to rapid transformations. An agile approach prioritizes iterative, experimental interventions reconciling short-term necessities and long-term resilience. This paper investigates agile adaptation's potential calibrating secondary municipalities like Hosur, India into sustainable ancillary settlements for major metropoles including Bengaluru. Utilizing Durkheim's organic solidarity concept, diverse, interdependent urban collectives foster social cohesion while enabling flexibility. Through limited pilot initiatives, collaborative governance, and scenario analyses, municipal bureaucracies can nimbly confront uncertainty and evade lock-in to rigid developmental trajectories. Hosur's proximity to Bengaluru engenders opportunities for developing sustainable, habitable auxiliary urban capacity, contingent on reimagining inclusive urban design and infrastructure augmenting resilience, accessibility, and quality of life. This manifests a novel iteration of engineered organic solidarity between municipalities. Though situated in different states, the potential for a symbiotic relationship between Hosur and Bengaluru is contingent on effective intergovernmental collaboration between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. Adopting an agile paradigm, civic governments can implement adaptive governance addressing immediate needs while expanding prospective options. This empowers equitable enhancement of resilience and sustainability.

INVESTIGATING FACTORS INFLUENCING RESIDENTIAL LOCATION CHOICE USING PLS-SEM ANALYSIS: A CASE STUDY IN SEBERANG PERAI, PENANG, MALAYSIA

Syafiqah Nazurah Mukhtar — 2025-04-27

Individuals often select their residence based on the availability of land and housing on the market and by taking into consideration of various factors involved. This is known as residential location choice. The inconsistency in earlier studies regarding modelling residential location choice persists despite numerous attempts made from a multidisciplinary background. As a result, it is difficult to understand the factors influencing residential location choice. By using PLS-SEM, this study seeks to understand the factors influencing residential location choice. Four hundred eighty-four heads of household in Seberang Perai provided primary data for the study. SMART-PLS software version 3.0 was used to assist in the PLS-SEM analysis. The results showed that social relations, neighbourhood features, and housing quality are the significant factors influencing residential location choice in Seberang Perai. These results serve as a guide for future research that considers variables from the economic, geographical, and social perspectives when examining the factors that influence residential location choice. A model of residential location choice that considers social, geographical, and economic factors can assist in creating agile cities by enabling planners to design flexible, inclusive urban environments that adapt to changing needs and conditions.

HOSPITAL FIRE SAFETY MANAGEMENT COMPONENTS

Hasan Halbouni — 2025-04-27

Hospital fire safety is one of the many important elements of safety in hospitals. The fire safety management is vital to have a proper response to the fire. The research aims to study the hospital's fire safety management and determine the most important elements of this topic. The methodology used for this research is qualitative research using semi-structured interviews with four participants. The qualitative analysis used is thematic analysis was used to present the themes of the fire safety management using NVIVO software. The findings of this study provided 7 themes for the safety management.

EXPLORING INTERIOR DESIGN WORK PROCESS IN GOVERNMENT BUILDING PROJECTS

Nur Adilla Abd Rahaman — 2025-04-27

Government building projects in Malaysia, primarily managed by the Public Works Department (JKR), play a vital role in creating functional, aesthetic, and sustainable environments that meet diverse user needs. Despite structured guidelines for design and construction, interior design works (IDW) often lack standardization and detailed attention, leading to suboptimal functionality, aesthetic inconsistencies, and compromised user satisfaction. This gap between design intent and execution underscores the need for a structured framework to address client values, prioritize meticulous detailing, and streamline processes to enhance IDW quality in government projects. This study aims to explore strategies to enhance IDW processes by addressing these deficiencies. A qualitative research approach was adopted, involving focus group discussions with 25 JKR architects, each with over 10 years of experience managing IDW in government buildings. Thematic analysis revealed significant inconsistencies in current IDW practices, particularly in the lack of meticulous detailing during planning and execution phases. These findings highlight an urgent need for standardized processes and enhanced detailing practices to ensure consistency and quality throughout project stages, from planning to post-construction. The needs to refine IDW processes and prioritizing detail-oriented practices are crucial for achieving higher standards and better alignment with modern design requirements. This approach will elevate user satisfaction and ensure functional, aesthetically pleasing, and user-centric environments. The study provides a foundational framework for improving interior design practices, promoting consistent and high-quality outcomes across government building projects in Malaysia

ASSESSMENT OF TEACHERS’ PERCEPTION OF FACILITIES PROVISION IN TEACHERS’ QUARTERS

Aisha Sissoho — 2025-04-27

The persistent issue of vacant teachers' quarters in Malaysia's East Coast Region has raised serious concerns regarding their management, maintenance, and overall liveability. This study seeks to evaluate the facilities of these quarters through a questionnaire survey, aiming to identify key factors influencing occupancy rates. A quantitative research approach is employed, incorporating descriptive analysis, frequency tables, the Relative Importance Index (RII), and Spearman’s Rho correlation to analyse responses. The survey examines various aspects of the quarters' facilities, including housing conditions, available amenities, security features, accessibility, and overall maintenance quality. Findings indicate that poor maintenance, outdated infrastructure, inadequate security measures, and insufficient amenities are major contributors to low occupancy rates. The study also explores the correlation between facility conditions and teachers’ willingness to reside in these quarters, highlighting the need for regular maintenance, enhanced security, and modernized living spaces to improve occupancy. By addressing these challenges, this study aims to support the development of a more sustainable and conducive housing environment for educators.

A STUDY OF MAINTENANCE COMPETENCIES IN AIRPORT BUILDING FACILITIES

Sheikh Ali Azzran Sh Said — 2025-04-27

Airports function as global gateways and carry millions of people and tons of cargo each day. Therefore, maintaining and keeping them running is crucial. Thus, this study highlights the significant issues of insufficient maintenance and poor work quality in the airport building facilities, focusing on Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA). Hence, these issues lead to inefficiencies in operations, safety concerns, and reduced passenger comfort, emphasising the importance of effective airport maintenance systems. This research aims to identify essential maintenance competencies, analyse maintenance employees' challenges, and make recommendations to enhance maintenance practices at KLIA. The data collection method involves collecting both primary and secondary data. Primary data is obtained through qualitative interviews with the KLIA building services department and related maintenance employees. These interviews employed both in-depth and semi-structured methods to ensure comprehensive data collection. Secondary data consists of information from existing papers, manuals, procedures, reports, and standards related to airport maintenance. The data collected from these interviews are systematically analysed to identify common issues as well as opportunities for improvement. This method ensures that the results are based on real-world experiences. Consequently, the analysis defines significant problems among KLIA maintenance employees, including skill gaps, challenges towards emerging technology, high reported costs, and inadequate training. Thus, this study implies that using new technology, preventive maintenance approaches, and providing regular training may considerably increase maintenance efficiency, safety, and passenger comfort in airport building facilities.

BARRIERS AND SOLUTIONS OF BUILDING INFORMATION MODELLING (BIM) IN CONSTRUCTION SITE SAFETY IN MALAYSIA

Muhammad Aiman Tajuddin — 2025-04-27

The construction industry faces a high fatality rate due to its hazardous work environment and the inherent risks associated with construction activities. These challenges results in numerous incidents, injuries, and illnesses among workers, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced safety measures. Building Information Modelling (BIM) has shown considerable promise in improving safety on construction sites. This study explores the challenges of adopting BIM for construction site safety and suggests potential solutions within the Klang Valley, Malaysia. A questionnaire survey was conducted to evaluate ten major barriers and ten corresponding solutions to BIM adoption. The survey targeted 250 construction professionals with BIM experience, and the collected data were analysed using descriptive statistics in SPSS Version 27. The findings identified interoperability limitations, resistance to change, and lack of knowledge and skills as the primary barriers to adopting BIM for construction site safety. On the other hand, appointing a BIM Safety Manager or Coordinator, integrating BIM with real-time monitoring technology, and enhancing safety planning and visualisation through BIM were identified as the top solutions for implementing BIM in building projects within the Klang Valley.

PERCEPTIONS OF SAFETY AMONG ELEMENTARY SCHOOL CHILDREN AND ITS SURROUNDINGS DURING SCHOOL COMMUTES: CASE STUDY FUKUOKA, JAPAN

Zafirah Al Sadat Zyed — 2025-04-27

This study looks at how elementary school students in Fukuoka, Japan, perceive the safety of their commutes. It employs a mixed-methods approach, integrating observational research of school routes with quantitative questionnaires. 165 kids between the ages of 6 and 12 participated in surveys to gauge how safe they thought they were. Real-time insights into environmental risks, such as sidewalk conditions, traffic patterns, and safety infrastructure, were made possible by observational data. Traffic accidents, strange people, and dimly lit streets are the main issues cited; there are also higher risks on the trip home, especially in dim alleys. The existence of "few people" was another common worry. The results underscore the necessity of safer school routes and the significance of cooperation between transportation authorities, educators, and legislators. The report emphasises the need for better illumination, monitoring, and community engagement to improve kids' commute safety and provide a safer environment for school transportation.

STRATEGIES TO OVERCOME UNETHICAL ISSUES OF ESTATE AGENCY PRACTICES IN MALAYSIA

Nur Lesya Firsya Johaimi Ling — 2025-04-27

The real estate sector contributes significantly to economic growth by providing investment opportunities that influence the social and financial environment worldwide. However, this industry has also faced ethical issues, particularly in estate agency practices, even though there are acts, rules, standards, and bodies governing real estate professionalism in Malaysia. This has vast implications for consumers and the real estate industry. Hence, this study aims to explore strategies and recommendations from the perspective of estate agents to improve estate agency practices and prevent such unethical behavior. To understand the strategies for unethical practices in the Malaysian real estate market, this research employs a qualitative approach involving semi-structured interviews with 15 participants from diverse Registered Estate Agent (REA) practices. This study identified eight strategies to overcome unethical issues of estate agents’ practices in Malaysia. This includes regular audits and inspections, encouragement for strict law enforcement, extended periods of comprehensive training, increased awareness through campaigns, limitations of Real Estate Negotiator (REN) recruitment, collaboration with community organizations, reporting mechanisms, and enhanced monitoring by REA. Accordingly, the real estate industry can apply these strategies to reduce unethical behavior and increase the ethics of real estate agents in Malaysia.

DEVELOPING MALAYSIA MADANI: THE IMPACT OF GENDER AND STUDENT ORIGIN (URBAN VS. RURAL) ON LEADERSHIP, CITIZENSHIP, AND DEMOCRATIZATION IN MALAYSIAN UNIVERSITIES

Wan Khairul Aiman Wan Mokhtar — 2025-04-27

The impact of gender and origin on student leadership, citizenship, and democratisation in Malaysian Islamic universities is a critical yet underexplored area in advancing the Malaysia Madani agenda. This study aims to examine how these factors influence student interactions within the unique context of Islamic higher education institutions. Data were collected from a randomly selected sample of 593 students across three Islamic universities in Malaysia using a survey methodology. Specialised questionnaires measured student leadership, citizenship, and the democratisation process, alongside demographic information. Ethical guidelines were strictly followed, and data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 26. T-tests were employed to compare mean differences across gender and origin groups. The findings indicate no significant gender differences in student leadership and citizenship. However, a slight disparity was observed in democratisation, where female students reported marginally lower scores. Similarly, no significant differences were found in leadership and citizenship between urban and rural students. Nevertheless, urban students demonstrated a notably higher engagement in democratisation compared to their rural counterparts. These findings underscore the importance of tailored educational strategies to address disparities and foster inclusive leadership and democratic values in Malaysian Islamic universities. The insights from this study can inform policies aimed at ensuring equitable educational opportunities and outcomes for all students.

A REVIEW OF LAND ACQUISITION PROCEDURES AND COMPENSATION PRACTICES FOR THE PAN BORNEO HIGHWAY PROJECT IN SARAWAK, MALAYSIA

Ahmad Shazrin Mohamed Azmi — 2025-04-27

The Pan Borneo Highway is one of the mega projects in Malaysia aimed at improving the infrastructure and enhancing connectivity in Sabah and Sarawak. With over 2000 kilometres in span, the Pan Borneo Highway project required the government to conduct massive land acquisitions and pay a huge compensation amount. Although receiving the compensation, many landowners felt it was insufficient and remained unsatisfied. Some landowners had expressed their dissatisfaction in the newspapers, which gave a negative impression of the project. This paper seeks to understand the land acquisition procedures and fair compensation determination practice in Sarawak. The qualitative research method examines the legislative resources to determine the land acquisition procedures and compensation. The study also interviewed personnel from the Land and Survey Department, Sarawak, to confirm the practice. The study discovered that the legislation is in place and clear to standardize the practice. This legislation clearly sets out the principles for determining fair compensation. The land acquisition procedures in Sarawak differentiate between land with a title deed and land under the Native Customary Rights (NCR) gazette. The paper concluded with suggestions to explore compensation principles for communal rights.

WOMEN’S AGILITY IN COPING WITH CYCLONE AND CYCLONE-INDUCED HAZARDS: A CASE STUDY ON FEMALE-HEADED HOUSEHOLDS IN COASTAL BANGLADESH

Saima Rahman — 2025-04-27

Women's coping capacity and adaptation practices lead to transformed social roles and responsibilities, making them essential for building resilience against cyclones and cyclone-induced hazards. This study aimed to investigate the evolution and agility of women's coping mechanisms, adaptive capacities, and available resources in response to cyclones and cyclone-induced hazards. A mixed-method approach, comprising questionnaire surveys and semi-structured interviews, was adopted to collect data from women in female-headed households in Gabura Union, a coastal area of Bangladesh. The findings reveal these women's impressive and transformative adaptation capacity. Their local knowledge, skills, and resilience have helped their families cope with recurrent and intensified cyclone events. In the absence of husbands, female heads have taken on work outside the home, migrated for jobs, and performed full household responsibilities. They make decisions, maintain connections with communities and organizations, and gain self-empowerment through knowledge of the outside world. Consequently, their adaptive capacity in the face of cyclones and related hazards has increased. The results also indicate that response and adaptation transformations depend on the female heads' socio-economic condition. These findings are valuable for developing a sustainable and inclusive cyclone-resilient plan for women.

URBAN HEAT ISLAND DYNAMICS IN RESPONSE TO LAND COVER CHANGE IN URBAN AREA: A CASE STUDY OF MEDIUM-SIZED CITY, MAJENE, INDONESIA

Isfa Sastrawati — 2025-04-27

The urbanization process often results in reduced green space, increased electricity consumption, and the use of fossil-fuel vehicles. It triggers urban heat islands (UHI)—a phenomenon characterized by increasing surface temperatures in urban spaces. This impacts thermal comfort, quality of life, and the environment. This study aims to identify UHI based on the land cover change in Majene Urban Area, a medium-sized city that acts as a center for educational activities in the province of West Sulawesi in Indonesia. Interpretation of satellite imagery in 2011 and 2022 was carried out to determine land cover changes, including built-up land, open land, agricultural vegetation, non-agricultural vegetation, and waters. Then, UHI is analyzed by measuring brightness temperature, normalized difference vegetation Index (NDVI), the proportion of vegetation, land surface emissivity, and land surface temperature. The UHI calculation is divided into four temperature classes: Non-UHI (<0°C), UHI I (0-2°C), UHI II (2-4°C), and UHI III (>4°C) to simplify the spatial analysis of affected areas. The results indicate that while land cover in Majene City has not changed significantly, UHI dynamics are evident in temperature class. This supports previous studies in larger cities, where increased built-up areas raise surface temperatures, though the effect is less pronounced in Majene. However, Majene still experiences temperature rises of over 4°C due to expanding land use for settlements, offices, and services. Therefore, it is crucial to develop strategies that balance built-up areas with green spaces and promote sustainable urban planning to mitigate the impacts of climate change.