BEJ is indexed in MyCite and Scopus. The Built Environment Journal (BEJ) (e-ISSN: 2637-0395) is an open-access international refereed journal. BEJ will be accepting research papers in the areas of built environment. PUBLICATION IS FREE OF CHARGE. The journal is managed by the Faculty of Built Environment, UiTM, and published by Penerbit UiTM. CLICK HERE TO SUBMIT MANUSCRIPT
CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 DEED Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 4.0 International
Managing Supply Chain Disruptions in Private Construction Projects: Insights from Malaysian Contractors
Fragmented supply chains in construction causes severe coordination issues, delays and transaction costs. Risk management is to counter the issues with supply chain but the divide between developed nations with developing and undeveloped nations have hampered the success of risk management. Countless research has extensively discussed construction supply chain challenges internationally. Nonetheless, there is a lack of literature that focuses on the supply chain disruptions faced by Malaysia’s private construction contractors. This research provides the context-specific assessment of supply chain disruptions faced by Malaysian contractors in the private sectors. This research aims to assess supply chain disruptions among contractor in private construction projects in Malaysia. Three (3) objectives are administered to achieve the research aim which are to identify the types of supply chain disruptions, to examine the causes if supply chain disruptions and to analyse the impact of supply chain disruptions among contractors in private construction projects in Malaysia. Quantitative research was conducted utilising questionnaire survey distributed to 150 registered G7 contractors in Klang Valley and Shah Alam. Descriptive analyses were administered using SPSS to demonstrate that the most common supply chain disruptors are material shortages, regulatory factors, and unresponsive suppliers. The underlying causes of supply chain disruptions are found to be economic instability and poor practices in risk management. The results also show that the most severe disruption is observed in the planning and construction stages where the parties involved in the project generally experience disagreements and court battles. This research identifies mitigation measures to overcome these disruptions such as diversification of suppliers, flexible contractual agreements and adoption of digital technologies such as Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Artificial Intelligence (AI). Applying these measures will help to improve the performance of the project delivery and the resilience of the private Malaysian construction sector.
Copyright (c) 2026 Nurul Farahdiana Mohd Joharudin, Maisarah Makmor, Umi Kalsum Zolkafli @ Zulkifly, Abdul Hadi Ahamad, Mohd Farhan Mohd Nasir https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Challenges in Integrating Building Information Modelling into Safety Management Practices among G7 Contractors
The construction industry faces major safety challenges despite the prevailing technological advancement. Building Information Modelling (BIM) is a commonly known tool that can be applied to enhance performance of the construction projects. Nevertheless, it is still not fully integrated into the safety management practices due to numerous implementation barriers. The purpose of this study is to identify and examine the major issues that affect the implementation of BIM in safety management within the Malaysian construction industry. A quantitative research approach was adopted using a structured questionnaire distributed to G7 contractors in Selangor. A total of 346 questionnaires were distributed, and 70 valid responses were collected, representing a response rate of 20.2%. Data were analysed using descriptive statistical analysis through the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The findings reveal that the main challenge is the lack of knowledge in BIM technology, followed by lack of government support, lack of practical training, high initial cost and investment, low data quality and inconsistency, and integration difficulties. Although respondents demonstrated high awareness and usage of BIM, the application of BIM in safety-related tasks remains limited due to insufficient technical competency and institutional support. The findings further indicate that human capability and policy-related issues have a greater influence on BIM adoption than financial constraints, particularly among large contractors. This study provides deeper insight into the barriers preventing BIM-based safety management implementation and offers useful references for policymakers, industry practitioners, and researchers in improving construction safety management practices.
Copyright (c) 2026 Nur Zulaika Mohd Fauzi, Wan Faida Wan Mohd Azmi, Mohd Saidin Misnan, Wan Norizan Wan Ismail, Mothilal Muniandy https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
The Role of Public Art in Encouraging Social Interaction Among Visitors at Elmina Lakeside Mall Urban Park, Shah Alam
Public art has long been seen as a significant contributor to create vibrant and interesting public spaces. However, its potential in fostering social interaction and community engagement remains underutilised in some urban contexts. This research investigates the role of public art in promoting social interaction among users at Elmina Lakeside Mall, Shah Alam. Public art installations, such as sculptures and monuments, are not merely decorative but have the potential to become social catalysts that foster interaction and community engagement. This study aims to evaluate how public art can transform public spaces into interactive environments that foster connections and encourage diverse groups to engage actively. Using a combination of direct site observations and questionnaire survey, the research examines how public art influences user behaviour, with a specific focus on its role in promoting meaningful social interaction and fostering a cohesive community environment. The findings offer insight into how public art can be more effectively integrated into urban landscapes to enhance community life and create more socially dynamic spaces. The study recommends strategies for landscape designers and urban planners to maximise the social benefits of public art.
Copyright (c) 2026 Shaibatul’ Islamiah Che Man, Nur Syazana Jamrus, Nurhayati Abdul Malek, Amalina Mohd Fauzi, Muhammad Noor Ismail https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Public Sector Outsourcing to a Subsidiary Company from a Principal-agent Perspective: Efficiency or Challenges?
Using the lens of principal-agent theory, this study examines the efficiency paradox and governance challenges in outsourcing facilities management (FM) services to a subsidiary company within the public sector. A case study approach was employed to investigate a higher learning institution’s FM outsourcing arrangement. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions involving key stakeholders, including representatives of the parent institution, end users, FM staff, and finance officers. Relevant documents, including contracts and performance reports, were also reviewed. The qualitative data were analysed thematically. The findings reveal critical agency-related tensions arising from internal outsourcing. Goal incongruence emerged as the subsidiary prioritised cost reduction over service quality, leading to staff shortages and heavier workloads. Information asymmetry manifested through incomplete and inaccurate reporting, which constrained the principal’s capacity to monitor performance effectively. The subsidiary’s excessive reliance on the principal for supervision blurred the accountability boundaries, undermining the intended efficiency gains. Moreover, weak contract enforcement and monitoring mechanisms enabled opportunistic behaviour, false reporting, and diminished accountability. This study is among the few to explore public sector outsourcing to a subsidiary company, a hybrid arrangement that combines elements of both internal and external contracting. It advances the outsourcing literature by exposing the unique agency risks, governance gaps, and accountability dilemmas inherent in such quasi-market relationships.
Copyright (c) 2026 Suhaiza Ismail, Hawa Ahmad, Norsyahida Mokhtar, Mohamed Aslam Mohamed Haneef https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Community Insights into the Garden as a Space for Ecotherapy: A Case Study of Selangor-Japan Friendship Garden, Shah Alam, Malaysia
According to the National Health and Morbidity Survey 2024, more than one million people, or 4.2% of the Malaysian population, are experiencing mental health issues. The National Strategic Plan for Mental Health 2020–2025 emphasises the need to improve mental health outcomes through more accessible and preventive approaches. Ecotherapy refers to nature-based interventions or experiences that reconnect individuals with the natural environment to support mental, emotional, and physical well-being. This study aims to identify community insights into the garden as a space for ecotherapy at the Selangor-Japan Friendship Garden in Shah Alam, Malaysia. The garden covers approximately two point four (2.4) hectares, with a traditional Japanese garden concept achieved through specific techniques and principles designed by a landscape architect. The elements of Japanese gardens were associated with restorative and contemplative qualities, establishing visual balance, spiritual depth, and a deep sense of peace, which relate to ecotherapy needs. Objectives of research are to i) identify reasons and expectations of respondents visiting the garden, ii) analyse demographic characteristics in relation to open space use as an ecotherapy function, and iii) evaluate landscape views that contribute to ecotherapy functions. A total of 120 garden visitors were selected as respondents. This study uses questionnaire survey data collected from garden visitors and analyses selected landscape scenes and ecotherapy-related experiences. The study indicated that the Selangor-Japan Friendship Garden has received positive community feedback on psychological, physical, and spiritual aspects. Three (3) key factors emerge from these research findings, offering a more profound understanding of the observed outcomes. The first key factor is respondents’ reasons for visiting the garden; the second is the selected photo that contributes to feelings of ecotherapy; and the third is the age factor. To strengthen the garden’s role, the city council should foster public-private partnerships and promote community involvement to maintain the quality of open space and meet future demand.
Copyright (c) 2026 Noralizawati Mohamed, Siti Fatimah Hashim, Masbiha Mat Isa, Mohamad Syafi Mohd Sani, Majidah Md Ali https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Sharia Public–Private Partnerships Infrastructure in Indonesia: A Framework for the Operational Phase
In recent years, local governments and central ministries in Indonesia have demonstrated growing interest in Sharia Public–Private Partnerships (PPPs) as a mechanism for accelerating infrastructure development. The novelty of this study lies in its explicit focus on the operational phase of Sharia PPPs, a critical stage characterised by sustained project execution and long-term engagement with communities. To date, existing studies and policy discussions in Indonesia have largely concentrated on the planning and financing phases of Sharia PPPs, with limited attention given to operational realities. This study employed semi-structured interviews with 22 experts representing business practitioners, government institutions, and multilateral agencies or professional associations. The findings identified four overarching themes that reflect key challenges and opportunities in managing Sharia-compliant PPP infrastructure financing in Indonesia: dissemination of Sharia PPP operations, PPP management preparation, monitoring the implementation of the PPP agreement, and concession termination. Each theme is further elaborated through supporting subthemes and detailed empirical insights. These findings contribute new understanding of Sharia PPP operations in the Indonesian context and provide practical guidance for policymakers, investors, financial institutions, and practitioners seeking to strengthen Sharia-compliant partnerships for sustainable infrastructure development. However, as the findings are broadly applicable across infrastructure sectors, future research is required to develop sector-specific analyses and policy adjustments aligned with the distinct priorities of relevant ministries and local governments.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ali Sunandar, Saipol Bari Abd Karim; Umi Kalsum Zolkafli @Zulkifly https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
A Comprehensive Literature Review on the Role of Masjid (Mosque) as an Important Development Hub
Masjids are important development hubs that support the social, economic, educational, and spiritual facets of the Islamic society. However, researchers indicate that whereas certain masjids are effectively performing these expansive functions, others encounter difficulties and are not completely achieving their potential as centres of development. Thus, the aim of this Systematic Literature Review (SLR) of 50 articles is to provide a comprehensive examination of the best practices and limitations relevant to masjids carrying out their role as a development hub in towns. In order to conduct this SLR, the following procedures are recommended: determine the research question, choose which study categories to include, create a search to find those studies, and evaluate the studies' findings and relevance. Reviewing research published between 2014 and 2024 using five (5) reputable, open-access academic web databases—Web of Science, Science Direct, Scopus, Emerald Insight, and Google Scholar—is the stated set of guidelines used in this SLR. Every database is an intellectual internet resource that is accessible through the university library for scholars. To examine the chosen literature efficiently and transparently, the researchers employ Google Notebook LM, an AI tool. Notwithstanding its primary purpose as a house of worship, the SLR's results show that masjid serves a variety of purposes for the community. Fulfilling its social, economic, and educational responsibilities without sacrificing its primary purpose is the masjid’s finest practice. The results of the literature gap are significant for future studies on the function of masjids as a hub for social, economic, educational, and spiritual development.
Copyright (c) 2026 Siti Mazwin Kamaruddin, Salbiah Mokhtar, Kamariah Abdullah, Norainah Abdul Rahman, Arina Rahmat, Azila Ahmad Sarkawi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
The The Role of Innovative Project Management Practices on Construction Project Performance
This study examines the impact of innovative project management practices on construction project performance. The study adopts positivist epistemology, conducting a cross-sectional survey of 296 professionals in Oman’s construction sector. Quantitative data analysis was performed covering the dimensions of innovative project management practices such as cost efficiency, stakeholder engagement, and project management methodologies while evaluating the impact on project performance. The findings confirm a significant and positive impact of innovation project management practices on project performance with an innovative culture as a moderating variable. The study also discussed challenges in the form of financial constraints, persistent fragmented approaches, scepticism, and indifference. It reveals the need for system transformation with a call to strategically invest in and increase capacity in technology, as well as advance collaborative governance to facilitate innovation practices. The study suggests four (4) main objectives for Oman’s construction sector, covering innovation project management, increased efficiency, managing risks, and contributing to the diversification goals of the country. This research adds to the knowledge on innovation value chains in emerging economies. Innovative value chain and innovative culture have also been significantly and strongly associated with project performance. In general, it provides policy and practical implications for managers and policymakers to harness the benefits of innovation through adaptive project management.
Copyright (c) 2026 Hamed Nasser Mubarak AL Khudhuri, Sivadass A/l Thiruchelvam, Mohammad Khudari, Sam Wamuziri https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Evolving Trends and Gaps in Transit Accessibility Index Research in Asia: A Bibliometric Analysis
Transit Accessibility Index (TAI) has become a key tool for evaluating how effectively public transport systems connect populations to essential opportunities in rapidly urbanising Asian cities. Despite increasing scholarly attention, existing studies remain fragmented, geographically concentrated, and methodologically constrained, limiting the development of context-sensitive and equity-oriented frameworks. This study addresses these limitations through a bibliometric analysis of TAI research in Asia from 2002 to 2024, based on 260 publications indexed in Scopus. The analysis examines publication trends, geographic distribution, collaboration networks, and thematic evolution. Results indicate significant growth in research output, reflecting the integration of accessibility into sustainable mobility and transit-oriented development agendas. However, research remains concentrated in a few countries, while collaboration is largely intra-national, limiting regional knowledge exchange. Thematic analysis reveals a strong focus on spatial accessibility and system performance, with limited attention to equity, informal mobility, and climate resilience. Although data-driven approaches are increasing, their application remains uneven. This study provides a systematic synthesis of TAI research in Asia and highlights the need for more inclusive, multidimensional, and context-sensitive accessibility frameworks to support sustainable urban planning.
Copyright (c) 2026 Lutfi A. Rahaman, Nabilah Naharudin, Siti Aekbal Salleh, Elina Alias https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Drivers and Barriers to Adopting Smart Construction Technologies by Small and Medium Enterprises
The construction industry is undergoing rapid digital and technological transformation, but Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) often face distinct operational and financial constraints that limit their uptake of Smart Construction Technologies (SCT). Despite government initiatives and growing industry momentum, many SMEs remain hesitant or only partially engaged with SCT. This study aims to identify the key drivers and barriers to SCT adoption among Singaporean SMEs and to propose strategies to overcome these barriers. This study employed a mixed-methods approach - quantitative data were collected via an online survey of construction professionals (53 valid responses: 34 from SMEs and 19 from larger firms) and qualitative data were obtained through semi-structured interviews with three (3) experienced industry practitioners. The survey data collected was analysed using Jeffreys’s Amazing Statistics Program (JASP) for chi-square tests, Shapiro-Wilk normality tests and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests. Interview transcripts were coded thematically to identify the most salient drivers and barriers. The findings reveal that 94% of responding SMEs have initiated SCT adoption, yet full integration into operations is limited. This study identified 15 significant drivers and 13 barriers. Major drivers include financial incentives, regulatory mandates and demonstrable performance gains. On the other hand, key barriers are high costs, resource and skill shortages and practical implementation challenges. Qualitative data confirmed these trends and highlighted SMEs’ conservative culture and survival-oriented mindset as additional factors. These results indicate that while SMEs recognise the potential of SCT, adoption remains partial due to cost, capability and cultural constraints. Addressing these issues through targeted financial support, accessible training and fostering collaborative digital ecosystems can accelerate adoption. By focusing explicitly on SMEs, this study fills a research gap and provides empirical evidence of SME-specific factors in SCT adoption. The actionable insights will help policymakers, industry leaders and technology providers tailor interventions to support SME digital transformation.
Copyright (c) 2026 Rynn Shi Ying Ho, Luke Peh, Sui Pheng Low https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Balancing Tradition and Development: Preserving the Skyline of Kampung Baru Urban Village, Kuala Lumpur
Urban skylines constitute an important dimension of urban identity, functioning not only as visual profiles but also as cultural landscapes where memory, heritage, and development intersect. However, existing scholarship has largely focused on iconic city skylines and high-rise aesthetics, with limited attention to urban village skylines as living heritage environments. This study addresses this gap by examining Kampung Baru, Kuala Lumpur, a historic Malay enclave where traditional houses, mosques, food streets, vegetation, and village-scale streetscapes coexist with surrounding high-rise development. The aim is to investigate how Kampung Baru’s cultural identity, as expressed through its urban village skyline, can be safeguarded within ongoing urban growth pressures. The objectives are (i) to examine how skyline conditions (traditional, mixed, and modern-dominant) and cultural landscape elements contribute to Kampung Baru’s identity, and (ii) to propose integrated preservation strategies balancing heritage conservation with contemporary urban development. Methodologically, the study adopts a convergent mixed-methods design underpinned by convergent triangulation, integrating site observations (VOP1–VOP10), stakeholder interviews (N=4), and a survey (N=55). Data were analysed separately and then integrated to enable cross-validation between spatial conditions, institutional perspectives, and community perceptions, strengthening interpretive reliability. The findings reveal three (3) skyline conditions—traditional-dominant, balanced traditional–modern, and modern-dominant—showing how high-rise development reshapes heritage visibility and cultural continuity. The study recommends height control, preservation zoning, restoration of traditional houses, landscape management, and community-based planning. It reframes the urban village skyline as a living cultural archive and supports heritage-sensitive urban development aligned with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Goal 11 for sustainable cities and communities.
Copyright (c) 2026 Raziah Ahmad, Alyaa Syahirah Azmi, Rafiuddin Roslan, Nor Zalina Harun https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Secret Corners and Painted Stories: Evaluating the Quality of Street Art Towards Tourists’ Satisfaction in Petaling Street, Kuala Lumpur
Creative expressions, such as street art, are increasingly influencing urban tourism. However, researchers have been slow to explore the role street art plays in tourist satisfaction, particularly in Malaysian contexts like Petaling Street in Kuala Lumpur. This study aims to address this gap by investigating the satisfaction levels of urban tourists based on the quality of street art installations. The focus of the research is on visitors’ perceptions regarding accessibility, experiential value, conveyed meaning or message, and appreciation for artists who contribute to the street art scene. A mixed-methods approach was employed, involving qualitative observational data collection from site visits in a street art environment. Additionally, a structured bilingual questionnaire was used to gather quantitative data from 158 domestic and international urban tourists. Quantitative data analysis was carried out using SPSS v31.0 to apply descriptive statistics, while thematic analysis was used for the qualitative data to uncover key findings. The results reveal that tourists generally perceive the street art in Petaling Street as approachable, culturally engaging and socially relevant (mean=4.08). In particular, street art elements that connect the historical context of the area with meaningful messages received the highest satisfaction ratings from visitors (mean=4.02). The study highlights a notable appreciation for local artists and a strong desire among tourists to learn more about the artists’ histories and motivations. The findings provide actionable recommendations for policymakers, local authorities, and tourism planners, encouraging a more inclusive and artistic approach in urban heritage areas that caters to a diverse range of visitors.
Copyright (c) 2026 Nur Husnina Mohamed Isa, Alamah Misni, Nurhayati Abdul Malek, Mohd Zahid Mohd Salleh, Raja Alya Dalili Raja Jaafar https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Exploring Quantity Surveyors’ Perspective on Implementing Building Information Modelling (BIM)
Building Information Modelling (BIM) has emerged as a pivotal technological advancement in the construction industry, recognise for enhancing integrated and collaborative processes across the project lifecycle to boost productivity, reduce duration and costs, and improve quality and safety. This study explores the perception of using BIM among Quantity Surveyors (QS) and identifies the effectiveness of BIM in QS practices. This also reveals the significant challenges that hinder BIM adoption, primarily the high costs associated with acquiring BIM technology. Despite these challenges, BIM's benefits, including enhanced efficiency in cost appraisal during early project stages and reduced arithmetic errors through automation, are demonstrated. The methodology involved a structured survey distributed among QS in Selangor, Malaysia, which received 331 responses, with 330 valid responses analyse. The findings reveal that despite the significant barriers-particularly the high costs associated with acquiring BIM technology – BIM offers substantial benefits, including enhanced efficiency in cost appraisal during early project stages and reduced arithmetic errors through automation. Furthermore, BIM contributes to improved accuracy in cost estimates and shorter project timelines in both pre-and post-construction phases. The conclusion drawn from this research emphasise that for BIM implementation to increase in Malaysia, there must be a concerted effort from government bodies and industry stakeholders to foster its development, potentially through policy-making, incentives, and educational programme that facilitate easier access and greater affordability of BIM resources. This collaborative approach could significantly contribute to overcoming the current barriers and fully leveraging BIM’s potential to transform the Malaysian construction sector.
Copyright (c) 2026 Siti Nur Aishah Mohd Noor, Ahmad Naif Naili Che Maktar, Puteri Sidrotul Nabihah Saarani, Zailawati Khalid, Mohd Khairul Amri Ramly https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Spatial Design Considerations for a Sustainable Electric Vehicle Hub in Kuala Lumpur: A Malaysian Context
Electric Vehicle (EV) infrastructure in Malaysia lacks proper spatial planning that ignores the complex multi-scalar relationships that integrate EV elements into the existing urban fabric. The objective of this study is to generate spatial design approaches for EV hubs that are efficient, effective and intra-operable with transport systems within the broader public and private sectors. As EV uptake continues to grow, there is a serious deficit of critical pre-conditions especially with respect to the effective deployment of a range of EV related facilities such as charging stations, battery swapping systems, and maintenance facilities which are critical and central to the achievement of the successful transition to electric mobility. The research establishes the spatial parameters required to enable the establishment of economically and environmentally sustainable EV hubs considering the Return of Investment (ROI), the support of the public sector and the partnership of the private sector. Looking at various components of the EV, the study also suggests how tackling the issues of spatial design can help remove some of the significant barriers to infrastructure and encourage the widespread use of EV technologies. Also, evaluation of spatial designs and integration of the EV system with other systems for the user experience of the EV users and the ICE users is conducted. Finally, this study hopes to lessen the ecological impact of EVs by integrating green building concepts and sustainable energy
Copyright (c) 2025 Muhammad Haziq Yahya , Azri Ibrahim, Muhammad Yasin Ramadhan Zahari, Dzul Fadli Asraf Dzul-Kifli, Abdul Qayyum Zainul https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Empowering Community Participation in Urban Redevelopment Through Habermas’ Communicative Action Theory
Urban redevelopment is a well-established practice aimed at addressing community needs while fostering economic growth. However, limited access to information and weak cooperation often hinder meaningful community participation. Although numerous studies have examined community involvement in urban development, few focus specifically on redevelopment contexts, where displacement and long-term socioeconomic implications intensify the need for genuine community participation. This paper addresses this gap by developing a conceptual framework to empower community participation in urban redevelopment, serving as a guideline for local agencies and stakeholders. Decision-making in urban redevelopment frequently overlooks community input, despite its direct impact on residents’ lives. Grounded in Habermas’ Theory of Communicative Action, the proposed framework emphasises creating communicative spaces for planners to actively listen to community voices, build trust, and facilitate consensus among diverse stakeholders. Through an Integrative Literature Review (ILR) as a method, a conceptual framework was developed by synthesising previous studies and integrating theoretical perspectives. The framework contributes to theoretical discourse by integrating Habermas’ communicative principles into urban redevelopment, offering policy-oriented insights for planners and local authorities to promote more inclusive, transparent, and equitable decision-making processes. Future research may empirically validate this framework within specific redevelopment contexts.
Copyright (c) 2026 Shazni Awang Samat, Khalid Zanudin, Yusfida Ayu Abdullah, Haslina Hashim, Nur Auni Ugong https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Integrating Smart City Technologies in Urban Heritage Conservation: A Sustainable Revitalisation Framework for Malaysian Cities
This study examines the integration of smart city technologies into the conservation and sustainable revitalisation of urban heritage areas in Malaysia. Focusing on the The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) World Heritage cities of George Town in Penang and Malacca, the research addresses the persistent challenge of balancing modernisation pressures with the protection of cultural significance and historical identity. A mixed methods design was adopted, comprising a stakeholder survey of 120 residents, business operators, visitors, and heritage professionals, 15 semi structured interviews with heritage managers, local authority officials, and community leaders, and field-based observations conducted within the two historic precincts. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data were thematically coded with QSR NVivo (NVivo) software to identify institutional, social, and technological patterns. The findings indicate that digital tools such as Geographic Information Systems, Internet of Things (IoT) sensors, and mobile heritage applications are gradually complementing traditional conservation practices by enhancing heritage monitoring, curatorial accuracy, and visitor interpretation. Stakeholders acknowledged the potential of these technologies to improve decision making and strengthen community engagement, although overall public awareness and digital literacy remain moderate. Technical skill gaps, fragmented governance structures, and concerns regarding authenticity were identified as ongoing barriers to effective implementation. In response, the study proposes a Sustainable Heritage Revitalisation Framework that integrates four (4) interdependent components, namely Preservation, Digitalisation, Community Engagement, and Governance Integration, to guide heritage rich cities in strategically deploying smart technologies. This framework addresses a critical gap in existing smart city models, which frequently underemphasise cultural heritage as a core dimension of urban innovation. The study offers practical guidance for policymakers, planners, and heritage practitioners seeking to align technological innovation with conservation imperatives and community values. It contributes to Malaysia’s national smart city agenda and to global efforts under Sustainable Development Goal 11.4 by demonstrating how culturally attuned smart technologies can advance inclusive, resilient, and sustainable urban revitalisation.
Copyright (c) 2026 Muhammad Hafiz Abd Razak, Nor Suzylah Sohaimi, Sharif Shofirun Sharif Ali, Mohd Rizal Safar, Tomo Inoue https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Comparative Analysis of Sustainable Strategies in Tivoli Greencity, The Garigate Park, Sege Park, and Madrid Nuevo Norte Using Sustainable Rating Tools
This research paper evaluates the role of sustainable rating tools in urban development through a comparative analysis of four (4) certified sustainable projects: Tivoli GreenCity in Belgium, Garigate Park in Bulgaria, Sege Park in Sweden, and Madrid Nuevo Norte in Spain. Certified under frameworks such as Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED), Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Methodology (BREEAM), and Civil Engineering Environmental Quality Assessment and Award Scheme (CEEQUAL), these projects demonstrate different approaches to sustainability in urban planning and implementation. As cities face increasing challenges related to climate change and resource management, sustainable rating tools have become important mechanisms for guiding environmentally responsible urban growth. Data were collected from official planning documents, sustainability reports, and secondary sources, and analysed using qualitative content analysis supported by a comparative matrix framework. The assessment focused on key sustainability dimensions, including energy performance, material use, water management, green infrastructure, and community-oriented planning. The findings indicate that Garigate Park shows strong performance in material sustainability and health-focused design, Tivoli GreenCity emphasises energy efficiency, while Sege Park and Madrid Nuevo Norte demonstrate strengths in community engagement and land-use integration. The study highlights how contextual, regulatory, and planning factors influence sustainability priorities, offering insights for future sustainable urban development.
Copyright (c) 2026 Muhammad Haziq Yahya, Mohd Hafiz Mohammad Zin, Azlan Ariff Ali Ariff Ali Ariff, Muhamad Syariz Niza Salehhuddin https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Challenges in Implementing Urban Green Space: A Review
Urban green spaces refer to established area within urban area, such as parks, garden, and open spaces. These spaces play a crucial role in promoting environmental sustainability, providing opportunities for leisure activities, and enhancing the general well-being of urban residents. The architecture of a “dense city” has disadvantages since it promotes crowded regions, reduces the amount of urban green space, and exacerbates the urban heat island effect. In the post-pandemic era, heightened awareness of health and well-being has reinforced the importance of accessible green space within communities. Therefore, this study systematically analysed existing literature to investigate the obstacles encountered while constructing green spaces within urban environments and the implementation strategies related to urban environments. The challenges are categorised into three (3) primary domains: Social and Health, Environment and Economy. This study provides insights into the difficulties faced by Urban Green Spaces (UGS) and offers suggestions for enhancing the city’s planning and management of green areas.
Copyright (c) 2026 Hafizah Ti Morni, Asmah Alia Mohamad Bohari, Farrah Zuhaira Ismail https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Assessing the Disclosure of Green-Rated Properties in Real Estate Investment Trust Portfolios
The increasing global emphasis on sustainability has brought heightened attention to how Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) incorporate environmentally responsible practices into their property portfolios. This study conducts a content analysis on the disclosure of green-rated buildings within REIT portfolios, focusing on how such information reflects sustainability commitments and communicates its value relevance to investors. Employing a qualitative content analysis approach, the research systematically reviews the 2023 audited annual reports of all 19 publicly listed Malaysian REITs. The analysis identifies the presence and levels of certification across four (4) key rating tools: Malaysia’s GreenRE and Green Building Index (GBI), along with internationally recognised standards such as Singapore’s Green Mark and the U.S.-based Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED). The findings reveal diverse patterns of adoption and disclosure, reflecting varying degrees of commitment among REIT managers. The study offers meaningful insights for investors by enhancing their understanding of REITs’ sustainability commitments, enabling more informed and responsible investment decisions aligned with ESG principles and long-term value creation.
Copyright (c) 2026 Nurin Iyazi Raman, Nor Nazihah Chuweni, Andrea Blake https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Safety Challenges in Optimising IBS Precast and Lifting Machinery: Insights from Malaysian Construction Stakeholders
This study examines the challenges associated with optimising Industrialised Building Systems (IBS) and lifting Machinery that impact safety within the Malaysian construction Industry. To optimise the IBS precast, a comprehensive strategy is required for both the concrete processing area and the line processing area, such as the Rebar processing area. Developing hypotheses about the impact of optimisation is aided by the ongoing adoption of underlying ideas, such as Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DfMA), in the context of safety challenges. The primary objective is to identify any safety concerns with IBS precast goods and the lifting apparatus in the IBS prefabricated processing area. Eight people in Selangor and Johor responded to semi-structured interviews after twelve invitations were sent out for a preliminary survey and collected by using snowball sampling. The results and findings that concentrate on the theme in the safety issues are Material Handling Hazard, Standardisation & Operation Capacity, and Lifting Machinery Safety Gap, which have consequences for worker safety training for the IBS precast products and lifting machinery operations.
Copyright (c) 2026 Muhamad Yusof Abdullah, Ani Saifuza Abdul Shukor, Rohana Mahbub https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Interior Design Practice: Project Management Competency Framework
Currently, a role for a creative or visually appealing interior designer has also includes project management. One of the project's primary roles is for the interior design manager is to successfully deliver to the client. Additionally, project managers are measured for their capability to deal with day-to-to-day activities as well as projects. This study shares the required competencies project managers and interior designers to qualify as a project manager in the field of design. This paper examines the 27 competencies required of an interior project manager and highlights the value of competence in these three areas: functional, contextual, and behavioral. Competence as a project manager is assessed using questionnaires. The review and data collection of the results later helps support competency skills, which then diminishes the value of competency activities. From the analysis of the results, it follows that the project validity of the manager's knowledge increases project efficiency. Following the findings, new guidelines are implemented to further and more generally define the nature of the research.
Copyright (c) 2021 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Recreational Participation of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Nature recreation is the recreation which require engagement with natural environment and settings. Previous research proven that recreation is important for people including the disabilities, towards achieving the quality of life. However, little is known about the development of recreation for People with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD. Thus, this research aimed to determine the effectiveness of nature recreation for children with ASD in a family with the objectives were to compare the changes in development of children with ASD in a family before and after participating in the nature recreation, and to identify the most preferable nature recreation activity for children with ASD in a family. A set of questionnaire surveys were distributed to a focus group called ‘Autism Malaysia’. This study showed, nature recreation can benefit children with ASD (aged from 0 to 12 years) and it is important for children development (social, intellectual, emotional and also physical). The children with ASD have positive changes in terms of communication and sociability components. However, for the physical behaviour, it showed the opposite findings; more risk and sign of ASD after participating in nature recreation. The result for each child may vary depending on the factors and nature recreation may not help to cure the ASD children completely. However, this study may help the family and caretaker of the children with ASD to use the nature recreation as the early intervention for their growth development. This research may help the planning development process in line with the Sustainable Development Goal which is social inclusion.
Employability Forecast Among Construction Management from The Employer’s Perspective in Malaysia Construction Industry
The tertiary education institutions in Malaysia are facing increasing demands from employers and stakeholders to ensure the graduates to be equipped with relevant skillset needed to secure a placement in the industry. The question arises, what are the skillsets required by employers contribute to the research gap which led to a comprehensive understanding on the expectation of employers towards the graduate’s employability. This study determined the employers' perspective skills by referring to five (5) field of employment consist of Developer, Contractor, Consultant, Supplier and Entrepreneur which consume of 57 (38%) respondents from 150 questionnaires distributed both on-site and on-line survey using random sampling technique. The content was referred on the program offered by Bachelor of Science in Construction Management, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM). An exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was conducted using six (6) main categories of courses on hard skill to achieve the objective one and seven (7) soft skills to accomplish objective two. The finding indicates Project Management, Measurement and Estimating and Legal Study knowledge of hard skill critically required, whilst, interpersonal and communication soft skill is crucially needed. Those skills reveal as the fundamental knowledge in handling a construction works. In summary, this study able to facilitate the gap between graduates’ skills and employers’ expectation by providing a sufficient guidance platform referring to the respective field of employment as well as provides a significance implication to the educational institutions to align the program outcome toward the needs of the industry.
Impact of Land Administration on Private Housing Delivery in Lagos, Nigeria
Previous studies on impact of land administration on housing delivery had only examined impact of some of the functions of land administration on housing delivery and not impact of the four functions of land administration on housing delivery. This study filed this gap by examining the impact of the four functions of land administration on private housing delivery in Lagos, Nigeria. The study population is members of Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria (REDAN). The population size is 1400 and systematic random sampling technique was employed to have a sample size of 140. 120 questionnaires were retrieved and reliable for analysis. Data gathered were analyzed through descriptive statistics, tables, mean and multiple regressions. Findings from the study revealed that reduction in quantity produced is the most prominent impact of land tenure, delay in time of housing delivery is the impact of land use and land development and change in location of property is the most prominent impact of land taxation. Also, the most prominent problem of land administration is lack of computerized land administration system. The study established that land administration has significant impact on private housing delivery. It was recommended that bureaucracy that surrounds land administration should be reduced in order to reduce associated time and cost. Also, the land administration system should be computerized for easy land administration services.
Visitors’ Preferences on Seasonal Accommodation for the Rainforest World Music Festival
Sarawak Cultural Village (SCV) is an award-winning open-air living museum of Sarawak has been the host to the three days annual Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) since 2005. Every year, thousands of visitor flock to SCV grounds to experience the rich Sarawak culture, live performances and celebrations that it offers. Due to its popularity, each year the number of visitors increases with regulars and newcomers. This has created a spike in accommodation demands for the area of Santubong. Unfortunately, the growth of visitors is not supported by adequate desired accommodations within the area. Thus, the objectives of this paper are to identify an ideal seasonal accommodation type and desired basic facilities required during RWMF. Quantitative analysis is incorporated in this research through collection of data gathered from online survey. Set of questionnaires was distributed to the former visitors seeking their views on the seasonal accommodations and facilities preferred. Based on the results of the data collected, it provided some understanding on the seasonal accommodations and facilities that are suitable for RWMF. This finding consequently could help provide a feasible and practical solution towards the spike demand for accommodation facilities during the RWMF.
Development of Sustainable LSP-Bricks Using Local Industrial Wastes
Uncontrolled infrastructure development may produce excessive carbon emission and scarcity of natural resources. The reuse of waste materials in general promotes material ecology and the cradle-to-cradle concept. The utilisation of industrial waste in the development of advanced materials promoting the extensive research on sustainable building components. The main objective of this research is to investigate the potential of utilising local industrial waste, Solid Waste Fly Ash (SwFA) and Paint Sludge (PS) as target material in replacing laterite soil that is non-renewable natural resources. Standard industrial size bricks were fabricated consist the combination of Laterite Clay, SwFA and PS (LSP) at 50:25:25 ratios. The results for engineering and environmental properties were within the acceptable of engineering standards and performances. This test result suggests potential used of SwFA and Paint Sludge as substitute to clay for unfired brick. This will certainly contribute to the recycling of SwFA and industrial sludge (Paint Sludge and possibly others) and hence to minimise the impact of these by-product to the environment if send to landfill. The manufacture of unfired bricks can exploit locally available waste materials and can be used in certain applications of low load bearing situation. This research also suggests innovation and enhanced waste management and contribution towards the concept of green building components.
Low Altitude Photogrammetry for Urban Road Mapping
To manage road over the country, geometry data of road is needed for decision making and project well management. The primary data is usually contributed by field technical support persons, such as surveyor, engineer, and others for conventional method of survey. For the sake of life safety, a study aims to carry out mapping work with unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) platform and photogrammetry-based method. This study proposed an urban road mapping with optimal flight parameter, sensor parameter and GCP distribution by flying low for detail texture acquisition of road. The primary product of photogrammetry based is accurate digital orthophoto model (DOM) and digital elevation model (DEM). The flight parameters, sensor/image parameter of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) including focal length effectiveness (10.26mm and 3.61mm), image end lap percentage (90%, 80%, and 70%), Ground Scale distance (GSD) (3cm, 2cm, and 1cm), and ground control point (GCP) distribution setup (pyramid square-, square-, and linear-based networks) were outlined. In this study it was found that longest focal length 10.26mm is suitable for road mapping. 70% end lap with 1cm GSD or 25m altitude is the best parameter. By increased and well distribute GCP over the project area, accuracy increased by 1% of position. Optimal network of GCP is pyramid based network. Photogrammetry-based mapping was an accurate method for detail road mapping by proposed result above.
Modernization of Traditional Malay House in Heritage Village of Malacca
Traditional Malay house is undergoing a lot of changes and threatened by modernization where its function, form and structure are affected. A lot of traditional Malay houses today are not considered as original vernacular houses where they are transformed and modernized into mixed design types between traditional and recent modern design. This paper aims to clarify modernization and alteration done, and new internal usage of selected four traditional Malay houses in two heritage villages: Kampung Banda Kaba and Kampung Sidang Seman, in Malacca. Interviews and field investigations were carried out at the selected houses that chosen based on the existing of original structure such as rumah ibu, rumah dapur and raised floor. Findings showed that all four traditional Malay houses had created a new usage style where the owners had altered and extend their houses based on their current needs and lifestyles.
Incorporation of Building Information Modelling (BIM) in Malaysian Higher Education Institutions: A Review
Building Information Modelling (BIM) is initiated for the sake of managing construction projects effectively and efficiently. However, the adoption of BIM in Malaysian construction industry is still low because of lack of awareness among professionals and Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) undergraduates. This paper aims to evaluate the current adoption of BIM in syllabus among higher education institutions (HEIs). The methodology of this paper is based on literature review regarding BIM syllabus adopted in HEIs. The findings reveal that BIM in Malaysia is still lagging in practice and literature taught for academic aspects respectively compared to other developed countries such as United Kingdom and Lithuania. From the current adoption of BIM in Malaysian HEIs syllabus, it can be concluded that fully stand-alone BIM module in Malaysian HEIs is crucial which consequently hampering the production of high-quality BIM expertise that master in methodology and 3D modelling skills.
The Potential of Carbon Footprint Reduction of a Mid-Rise Residential Building in Sarawak
Carbon emission is released into the atmosphere as the result of various activities due to rapid urbanisation and thus contributed to global warming and climate change. The government has taken various initiatives to reduce the impact, including from the construction industry in order to support the carbon footprint reduction of 40% as pledged by the Prime Minister. Various strategies, such as the Malaysian Carbon Reduction and Environmental Sustainability Tool (MyCREST), have been established to promote green building development in Malaysia. Recent studies suggested that the selection of sustainable materials can reduce the overall carbon emission of a building, but the cost has been identified as the main barriers. This paper aims to analyse the potential of carbon footprint reduction by using sustainable material in mid-rise residential building and subsequently to evaluate the cost implication. The impact of the conventional and the selected sustainable materials was assessed using data from the MyCREST tool while the data for cost analysis were taken from various sources of cost data such as JKR Rates online (RATOL), JKR Sarawak Schedule of Rates (SOR), and previous research. The results show that the sustainable materials such as 30% of Blast Furnace Slag (BFS) concrete mixture, Aerated Autoclaved Concrete (AAC) block, and recycled steel roof truss has the potential to reduce the carbon emission. The findings also show that sustainable materials are slightly cheaper than the conventional materials except for the AAC block and clay roof tiles. Therefore, the potential of carbon emission reduction approach by using MyCREST as a guideline tool can assist in the reduction of the environmental impact of buildings.