Island of Memory: Urbanisation and Cultural Resilience in Pulau Duyong, Kuala Terengganu

Authors

  • Azli Abdullah Architecture Department, Faculty of Architecture and Ekistics, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, 16300 Bachok, Kelantan, Malaysia
  • Julaihi Wahid Julaihi Wahid Architect,1st Floor of Sublot 35, Riveredge Commercial Centre, Jalan Datuk Patinggi, Haji Abdul Rahman Yakub, 93050 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia
  • Azrul Izwan Ismail Architecture Department, Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia, Bandar Baru Nilai, 71800 Nilai, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.24191/bej.v23i2.7987

Keywords:

Urbanization, Malay settlement, Socio-economic, Cultural preservation, Eco tourism

Abstract

This study explores socio-economic and cultural consequences of urbanisation on Pulau Duyong, Terengganu-a locale historically renowned for its traditional boat-making craft. This transformation of the physical landscape and socio-economic organisation of the island has been brought about by infrastructure and land reclamation, along with improved connectivity to the mainland through the Sultan Mahmud Bridge. The study examines the impact of these changes on the local economy, cultural practices as well as environmental conditions, including the measures that can be taken to ensure modern development without compromising the cultural heritage. The use of historical analysis, ethnographic techniques, surveys, and observational research shows that urbanisation has resulted in the improvement of infrastructures in urban areas. Nevertheless, it has also led to the death of traditional industries and the migration of youths. Further threats to the cultural legacy of the island are the degradation of its environment through pollution and encroachment on the land. The paper designates the aspect of eco-tourism and cultural tourism as viable sources of local Malay livelihood and cultural identity maintenance. Finally, the study proposes a holistic and sustainable development policy that considers economic expansion and preservation of cultural heritage.

Author Biographies

  • Azli Abdullah, Architecture Department, Faculty of Architecture and Ekistics, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, 16300 Bachok, Kelantan, Malaysia

    Ar. IDr.  Dr. Azli bin Abdullah  is a highly accomplished academic and practitioner, distinguished by his dual professional status as a Professional Architect and Interior Designer, alongside his academic standing as a Senior Lecturer at the Faculty of Architecture and Ekistics, Universiti Malaysia Kelantan (UMK). Dr. Azli’s primary research and professional practice are concentrated on the built environment, specifically focusing on the socio-spatial dynamics of Malay settlements, community architecture, and urban design. His work emphasizes the preservation of cultural heritage through community-centric development models, ensuring that Malay settlements identities remain resilient amidst contemporary urban expansion. Furthermore, he actively leads interdisciplinary research initiatives and industry-linked projects aimed at promoting sustainable environmental design and fostering regional identity within the Malaysian architectural landscape.

  • Julaihi Wahid, Julaihi Wahid Architect,1st Floor of Sublot 35, Riveredge Commercial Centre, Jalan Datuk Patinggi, Haji Abdul Rahman Yakub, 93050 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia

    Ar. Ts. Dr. Julaihi bin Wahid is a registered Professional Architect with the Board of Architects Malaysia (LAM), he combines high-level academic leadership with active industry practice through his firm, Julaihi Wahid Architect, based in Kuching and Penang.  His extensive research and teaching career, which includes a previous professorship at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), is centered on the critical intersections of architecture, housing, and urban design. Dr. Julaihi is particularly recognized for his work on affordable housing, future cities and the socio-spatial evolution of traditional communities, frequently sharing his expertise as a visiting professor and keynote speaker at international architectural forums.

  • Azrul Izwan Ismail, Architecture Department, Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia, Bandar Baru Nilai, 71800 Nilai, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia

    Ar. Ts. Azrul Izwan bin Ismail is an accomplished Professional Architect and Professional Technologist currently serving as a Senior Lecturer and Architecture Program Coordinator at the Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM). With a background that spans both academia and high-level industry practice, he previously served at Universiti Malaysia Kelantan (UMK) and held the role of Head of Business Development at Hume Cemboard Industries. His expertise seamlessly integrates architectural design with sustainable environmental technology and real estate investment, supported by his academic foundations from Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM). As a dual-registered professional with the Board of Architects Malaysia (LAM) and the Malaysia Board of Technologists (MBOT), he remains a key figure in advancing sustainable building practices and architectural education in Malaysia.

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Published

03-07-2026

Issue

Vol. 23 No. 2 (2026): Built Environment Journal

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Articles

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Copyright (c) 2026 Azli Abdullah, Julaihi Wahid, Azrul Izwan Ismail

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How to Cite

Island of Memory: Urbanisation and Cultural Resilience in Pulau Duyong, Kuala Terengganu. (2026). Built Environment Journal, 23(2). https://doi.org/10.24191/bej.v23i2.7987

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