Malaysian Journal of Sustainable Environment

ENHANCING PLAY ENVIRONMENTS FOR AUTISTIC CHILDREN IN SPECIAL EDUCATION SCHOOLS: INSIGHTS FROM THE YANGTZE RIVER DELTA REGION

Jingjing Chen — 2025-03-12

This study explores the optimization of spatial and play environments for autistic children in special education schools within the Yangtze River Delta Region of China. Using a combination of the Mosaic Approach and case studies, the research investigates the sensory, cognitive, and social needs of autistic children, focusing on how specific design elements can support their development. Key findings highlight the importance of zoning, layout, sensory-friendly features, and interactive elements in creating effective play environments. The study emphasizes the need for a holistic design approach that integrates these elements to enhance the well-being and engagement of autistic children. Recommendations for policymakers, designers, and educators underscore the significance of collaborative efforts in designing inclusive educational spaces that cater to the unique needs of autistic children.

FACTORS AFFECTING YOUTH’S MOTIVATION TO VISIT BORNEO CULTURES MUSEUM, SARAWAK

IZWANA MD IDERIS@IDRIS — 2025-03-12

The museum has been one of the most visited attractions in every country. Researchers have conducted extensive research on museums, yet they haven't specifically focused on the factors that influence young youths’ motivation to visit them. Hence, the purpose of this study was to examine the factors affecting youths’ motivation to visit museums. The study used a quantitative approach, and the youths from Sarawak served as the unit of analysis. Through non-probability sampling and applied purposive sampling, 388 data samples were collected via an online survey and a face-to-face survey, whereby they were collected from a specific target group between the ages of 18 and 30 in Sarawak. The survey instrument was adopted from previous studies with minor modifications, validated, and pilot tested. A total of 388 usable samples were analysed using descriptive and multiple regression analyses. The result indicated that three predictors (knowledge, enjoyment, and socialisation) significantly affect youth when visiting museums. This study adds to the existing literature on museums and has practical implications for the museum as a whole.

INTEGRATING SOCIO-TECHNICAL SYSTEMS (STS) AND KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT (KM) THEORIES IN BIM-FM CONTEXT: A LITERATURE REVIEW

Nur Aisyah Azmi — 2025-03-12

The integration of Socio-Technical Systems (STS) and Knowledge Management (KM) theories in Building Information Modelling for Facilities Management (BIM-FM) presents a transformative approach to enhancing information delivery and facility operations. This literature review aims to explore the synergistic benefits and inherent challenges of applying STS and KM frameworks within the context of BIM-FM. By examining a wide array of studies, this paper identifies key advantages such as improved collaboration, enhanced operational efficiency, increased adaptability, user-centered design, and sustainability. Additionally, it addresses the challenges faced, including technological interoperability, cultural resistance, and the complexities of managing large-scale data. The review highlights significant gaps in the current research, particularly in the practical integration of these theories, and suggests directions for future studies to bridge these gaps. The findings underscore the potential of STS and KM to drive innovation and improve the overall effectiveness of BIM-FM practices, paving the way for more resilient and adaptive facility management strategies.

PERTANDINGAN ARCA KITAR SEMULA “3D ARTS” SEBAGAI MEDIA PERANTARAAN MEMUPUK SEMANGAT CINTAKAN ALAM SEKITAR

Rosmidahanim Razali — 2025-03-12

Program kitar semula memainkan peranan penting dalam usaha mengurangi masalah pencemaran alam, menjaga sumber daya alam dan membentuk masyarakat yang lebih lestari serta bertangunggjawab terhadap alam sekitar. Kepentingan pertandingan arca kitar semula ini adalah sebagai salah satu inisiatif menggalakkan pengarca seni dari pelbagai peringkat usia menghasilkan karya kreatif dengan menggunakan bahan kitar semula. Selain meraikan seni arca tempatan, program ini juga dapat memupuk semangat cintakan alam sekitar dalam diri setiap individu. Tujuan kajian ini adalah untuk mengenalpasti bahan yang digunakan dan menganalisis makna disebalik karya yang diciptakan. Penyelidikan ini menggunakan kaedah kualitatif dengan pengumpulan data dibuat secara temu bual, dokumentasi dan pemerhatian. Penulis menggunakan data sekunder iaitu melalui buku, jurnal dan laman sesawang bagi membantu penulisan ini. Dari program pertandingan arca kitar semula ini, penulis memilih tiga buah karya arca untuk dianalisis. Pendedahan tentang kitar semula di peringkat awal amatlah penting khususnya di peringkat awal usia. Didikan awal daripada sekolah dan juga ibu bapa adalah tunjang utama dalam proses membentuk jati diri seseorang individu. Tanpa sebarang inisiatif yang dilakukan, kecenderungan kepada masalah pencemaran alam sekitar akan menjadi lebih parah dan mengundang lebih bahaya kepada negara. Kesimpulannya, daripada dapatan penulisan yang diperolehi, penggunaan bahan arca dan makna yang disampaikan mempunyai kesinambungan dengan tema pertandingan. Penglibatan dari semua pihak sama ada Pihak Berkuasa Temptan Perak Tengah, kerajaan negeri, kerajaan pusat dan penduduk tempatan adalah sangat penting untuk bersama-sama berganding bahu menangani masalah isu pencemaran alam.

The recycling program plays an important role in efforts to reduce the problem of environmental pollution, the preservation of natural resources, and the development of an environmentally conscious and sustainable society. The importance of this recycled sculpture competition is one of the initiatives to encourage artists of various ages to produce creative works using recycled materials. In addition to celebrating the art of local sculpture, this program can also foster in each individual a spirit of love for the environment. The purpose of this study is to identify the materials used and analyze the meaning behind the works created. This research uses qualitative methods with data collection made through interviews, documentation, and observation. The author used secondary data from books, journals, and websites to conduct this study. Three sculptures were chosen by the author to be analyzed for this recycled sculpture competition program. Exposure to recycling at an early stage is very important, especially at an early age. Early education from school and also parents is the main pillar in the process of forming an individual's identity. Without any initiative, the tendency to environmental pollution problems will become much worse and dangerous to the country. In conclusion, the result of the finding that has been achieved, the use of waste art bringing its meaning that parallel with the terms and condition of the organizer of the competition. Efforts and cooperation between the local community, the federal government of Perak Tengah, and the state government are crucial in addressing the problem of environmental pollution.

TREE PRESERVATION ORDER (TPO) ACT 172 AND THE PROPERTY OWNERS LAND VALUE: A PRELIMINARY REVIEW

Mohammad Fitry Md Wadzir — 2025-03-12

Trees are vital to our existence that helps balance the demands of the environment and human needs. Due to urban area's rapid development, trees are being cut down and causing environmental problems. The Town and Country Planning Act of 1976 established the Tree Preservation Order (TPO), which the preservation of trees in Peninsular Malaysia. Although this type of restriction is more advantageous to society overall, it negatively affects property values and causes suffering for landowners. Thus, this paper aims to explore the Tree Preservation Order (TPO) and the property owners right regarding land value against Tree Preservation Order that local governments have gazette in accordance with the Town and Country Planning Act of 1976. The purpose of this study is to ascertain the value of Tree Preservation Order (TPO) in urban areas as well as the effects on property owners land value in relation to implementation of Tree Preservation Order (TPO). The literature from journals and publications was extensively read in order to conduct this study. The literature reviews highlight how crucial it is to preserve trees because doing so will lessen their negative effects on the ecosystem and related to the land value can be expounded. This study may widen public and property owner knowledge about the granting of Tree Preservation Orders (TPO) and raise local government awareness of the value of tree preservation and the readiness to provide compensation rights if the public demand it.

THE EFFECTIVENESS OF MODULAR LIVING WALL SYSTEM FOR HEAT REDUCTION A CASE STUDY OF AN URBAN TRANSFORMATION CENTER IN PASIR GUDANG

Azmiah Abd Ghafar — 2025-03-12

In urban areas, humans' thermal comfort is a crucial concern related to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Living wall system (LWS) can be used as a climate mitigation measure to improve temperature at an outdoor building. Studies on LWS' thermal performance of plant species are still scarce, especially for tropical countries. As such, this study aimed to investigate the cooling potential of vegetation with specific plant characteristics. An experimental study of the LWS was undertaken in the industrial city of Pasir Gudang, Malaysia. Four plant species, Philodendron burle-marxii, Phyllanthus cochinchinensis, Nephrolepis exaltata and Cordyline fructicosa 'Miniature', were evaluated in 4-metre (width) x 1-metre (height) of LWS. The study was carried out continuously for three months, from January until March 2019. The data were then analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistic 24. The findings revealed that Philodendron burle-marxii demonstrated the best cooling capacity among the tested plants as it caused its surrounding temperature to be 2.85 ^oC during the daytime. It was shown that the broader leaves and higher leaf area index value of the species gave a good response to air temperature reduction in the outdoor environment. Meanwhile, Phyllanthus cochinchinensis was the most efficient species as it obtained the highest reduction of surface temperature with an average of 6.17 ^oC. This study also confirmed that dense branching and multi-stemmed plants influence the lowering of surface temperature with a smaller leaf and higher leaf area index value. In brief, the combination of a higher leaf area index with several plant morphology is recommended for temperature reduction through the different abilities of plant species.

ASSESSMENT TOOL FOR BEST PRACTICES OF CONSTRUCTION WASTE MINIMISATION

Noor Rizallinda Ishak — 2025-03-12

A rise in residential construction projects to meet housing demand has inevitably generated substantial amounts of waste. Ineffective waste management and illegal dumping have worsened this problem. This research aims to develop an assessment tool for best practices of construction waste minimisation. The objectives are: 1) To identify criteria and indicators for best practices in waste minimisation, 2) To determine the best practices indicator, and 3) To develop an assessment tool. The study was conducted in Klang Valley which has the highest number of residential. A mixed-method approach was used, combining qualitative and quantitative methods. For the first objective, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 11 construction practitioners such as Site Engineers and Site Managers. By using thematic analysis the results revealed 44 best practice indicators. For the second objective, a questionnaire survey was distributed to 153 construction practitioners in the Klang Valley area focusing on residential projects. The survey was analysed using descriptive analysis and the Relative Important Index (RII) to develop an assessment tool. The analysed results were ranked with the RII. The top rank was "Effective communication on-site" and the lowest was "Appointment of labour just for waste management". Then, the ranking and indicators were used to calculate the weightage for best practices of construction waste minimisation. The weighted scores were grouped into “Excellent,” “Good,” “Fair,” and “Poor”. The assessment tool provides a performance percentage chart. In conclusion, the assessment tool, provides ratings and performance charts, to guide contractors in improving waste management strategies and setting performance benchmarks.

THE LAYOUT AND FACADES DECORATION OF HUIZHOU TRADITIONAL HOUSES UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF NEO-CONFUCIANISM IN THE 19TH CENTURY

Yao Zhang — 2025-03-12

This paper investigates the relationship between Zhu Xi's neo-Confucianism and the layout and building facade decoration of three 19th-century buildings in Huizhou The aim is to understand the philosophical thought of Neo-Confucianism embodied in Huizhou architectural design. The objective of this study was to provide designers with a new perspective on Huizhou vernacular architecture. Zhu Xi's Neo-Confucianism was the official philosophy of the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties in China. Hongcun Village in Huizhou is Zhu Xi's hometown and a world cultural heritage site. Neo-Confucianism profoundly influenced Huizhou's architectural design. Space syntax was used to analyze the architectural plan. Field investigation, photography, drawing, and literature review were used to analyze the decoration of three Hongchun buildings facades and the design philosophy of Huizhou architecture. The study found that the layout of Huizhou buildings attaches importance to the privacy and tranquillity of the elderly, reflecting filial piety. The decoration of the building facades expressed the three aspects of Neo-Confucianism (filial piety, benevolence and etiquette) through a large number of carved patterns and painted patterns. Neo-Confucianism has influenced the ideology of the Huizhou people. These ideologies are also reflected in the architectural design of Huizhou, and these design methods also influence the lifestyle of the next generation.

DETERMINATION OF LAND USE AND LAND COVER CHANGE IN FIREFLY ECOTOURISM AREAS USING LANDSAT IMAGES: A CASE STUDY OF SUNGAI SEPETANG, PERAK

NOR SHAFIKAH IDRIS — 2025-03-12

Changes in land use and land cover (LULC) are a method that facilitates the understanding of the physical and human interactions within the natural environment, thereby promoting sustainable development. The objective of this study was to determine the changes in LULC surrounding the firefly ecotourism area in Sepetang River, Perak, from 2002 to 2020. This was accomplished by utilising Landsat multitemporal satellite images and identifying the factors that influence the changes in the mangrove area. The LULC modifications were determined using the maximum likelihood classifier technique. In 2002 and 2020, the classification accuracy of LULC was 82.4% and 81.2%, respectively, with Kappa statistics of 0.81 and 0.80. The results showed a 22.06% decrease (122.52 hectares) and a 4.47% increase (24.99 hectares) in mangrove areas. The mangrove areas were converted to a variety of land uses, such as oil palm (32.7%), forests (32.3%), settlements (9.25%), barren land (8.99%), rivers (6.8%), swamp (6.11%), urban (1.67%), paddy (1.25%), water bodies (0.77%), and road (0.09%). The total area of mangroves that were lost over the course of 18 years was 317.21 hectares, while the area of mangroves that were rehabilitated was 23.05 hectares. The results of this study demonstrate that the integration of remote sensing technologies will be advantageous for the monitoring and conservation of the firefly population in mangrove habitats.

IMPLEMENTATION OF ECO-PESANTREN THROUGH GREEN BUILDING CONCEPT AT PESANTREN MODERN INSHAFUDDIN, BANDA ACEH, INDONESIA

Cut Nursaniah — 2025-03-12

Green building is the key to reducing negative impacts on the environment, as well as playing a role in encouraging environmental awareness and producing environmentally friendly behaviors. It is important to review the building facilities at Pesantren Modern Inshafuddin (PMI) to support the activities and implementation of eco-pesantren, so that they can become an example of an environmentally friendly Islamic boarding school model. This research aims to see the potential and formulate strategies for improving building quality and environmentally friendly practices to support the Eco-pesantren concept at PMI. Data collection techniques were by using observation methods, questionnaires, interviews and documentation. The research method uses Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats (SWOT) analysis techniques. The research results show that PMI has potential strengths and opportunities in terms of development to support the implementation of the eco-pesantren concept. Strategies that can be implemented are: 1) carrying out plans to repair and increase the quality of buildings in order to achieve environmentally friendly building concept standards, such as providing rainwater storage, providing used water waste treatment for recycling, greening the PI environment, utilizing renewable energy, and re-providing waste banks; 2) empowering all students in environmentally friendly practices in daily activities to increase awareness and realize environmentally cultured character; 3) utilize existing land to support the implementation of the Eco-pesantren concept for planting activities, such as creating a living pharmacy garden as an area for teaching materials and environmental practice and creating biopore wells to manage rainwater.

THE EFFECTS OF GENDER AND EDUCATION LEVEL ON ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS: FINDINGS FROM THE LENS OF COMMUNITY IN SEREMBAN

Marni — 2025-03-12

This present study examines the effects of gender and level of education on environmental awareness in Seremban, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia. Specifically, this study aims to identify the level of environmental awareness amongst the community in Seremban and to determine the significant difference in environmental awareness based on demographic factors namely gender and level of education. Data was collected through a structured questionnaire from 231 respondents. The statistical techniques used in this study are Descriptive statistics, T-test, and One-way ANOVA to achieve the research objectives of the study. The finding of this study has revealed that the level of environmental awareness among the community in Seremban is high in which majority of the communities are aware of environmental awareness. Besides, results from independent t-tests and one–way ANOVA also have confirmed that there is a significant difference between gender and level of education towards environmental awareness.

FACTORS AFFECTING LOCAL COMMUNITIES’ SUPPORT FOR ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY IN TAMAN NEGARA PAHANG, KUALA TAHAN MALAYSIA

KATE YNG TEH — 2025-03-12

Local support for protected areas management is increasingly viewed by conservationists as an important determinant of success of many environmental sustainability efforts. As such, this paper presents data from a case study of local people living in villages of Kuala Tahan within the boundaries of the Taman Negara Pahang, Malaysia. In-depth interviews and non-participant observations were used to examine contributing factors that influence perceptions of local communities on environmental sustainability activities surrounding the national park. The collected data were analysed using thematic analysis. Overall, the positive impact of the park establishment was better perceived than the negative ones, mainly because the tourism development surrounding the park created more income and employment opportunities for the local people. Other reasons for liking the park include appreciation of nature, improvements of local infrastructure and culture, community environmental knowledge and awareness, and good park-people relationship. In contrast, tourism incurred high cost of living and this being the most negative aspects mentioned by the informants. This paper suggests exploring local communities’ perspectives by taking into account their needs and opinions should become a management priority of the national park in order to identify effective environmental sustainability strategies.

EXPLORING SHAH ALAM CITY COUNCIL’S COMMITMENT TOWARDS A LOW-CARBON CITY

Farah Nadia Azhar — 2025-03-12

Shah Alam, the economic hub of Selangor has undergone rapid urbanization over the years. As a result, it has led to a significant increase in carbon emissions in the city. In response to meeting the global vision for the Sustainable Agenda, Shah Alam City Council (MBSA) has established the Low Carbon City Action Plan which promotes sustainable urban development. This paper explores Shah Alam City Council's commitment through its initiatives and strategies in achieving a low-carbon city. It employs a qualitative analysis through semi-structured interview of MBSA personnel. The result showed that Shah Alam City Council (MBSA) had implemented numerous initiatives through its action plan which is analysed through the urban environment, urban infrastructure, urban transportation, and buildings. However, the lack of financial support and participation by the elderly hinders the full capabilities of a low-carbon city development.

ADAPTIVE REUSE OF COLONIAL HOUSES INTO CAFÉS IN BANDA ACEH

cut dewi — 2025-03-12

Aceh was one of the areas that experienced Dutch colonisation between 1873 and 1942. This period of Dutch rule was a significant one for the people of Aceh. The Dutch colonial period in Aceh is evidenced by the surviving relics of government bureaucratic buildings and colonial-style residences that were successfully established. The Dutch architectural heritage has been designated a cultural heritage in Banda Aceh. However, in accordance with the progression of time and the growing necessity for additional space, a considerable number of colonial-era residential structures have been dismantled. Presently, the only remaining vestiges of colonial-era residences are government-owned buildings. One method of preserving a building is through adaptive conservation, which involves reusing the building while making interior and exterior changes and maintaining the original shape and structure. Two cafés in Banda Aceh City have been created through the adaptive reuse of colonial residential houses. Two coffee houses, Café T36 Coffee and SOBA Café, are situated in the vicinity of Taman Sari. The objectives of this research are to identify and examine the implementation of the concept of adaptive reuse in colonial residential buildings that have been converted into cafés. The study was conducted using a descriptive qualitative method based on the philosophy of postpositivism, with data source triangulation techniques (on-site observation and in-depth structure interview) and theories that aim to analyse various perspectives. The findings demonstrate that the primary structural components, such as the frame and exterior facade, are preserved, while the interior and installation have been modified to align with the new functional requirements. The incorporation of historical elements, such as those reflective of the colonial architectural style, within the interior design can effectively convey the past. This can be achieved through the use of furniture styles, materials, floor patterns, wall ornaments, and ceiling designs that evoke the colonial era. In terms of spatial configuration, one of the most significant alterations is the creation of a more expansive public area to accommodate commercial activities.

BEYOND THE MENU: UNRAVELLING THE FACTORS BEHIND RESTAURANT SELECTIONS

Nurbaidura Salim — 2025-03-12

This study investigates determinant factors in restaurant selection while dining out in Ipoh city. Through a structured questionnaire survey administered to 100 respondents, data was collected on various factors including price, ambiance, service, food quality, location and dietary preferences. Statistical analysis techniques including regression analysis and correlation analysis, were employed to identify the significant factors influencing restaurant selection and explore the relationship between these factors. Findings revealed that price, food quality and social media influence are the most influential factors in costumers’ restaurant selection decisions. Additionally, demographic variables such as age and income were found to significantly influenced costumers’ preferences of restaurants. This research provides valuable insights for restaurateurs and marketers in tailoring their offerings to meet costumers’ demands effectively. The implications of these findings extend beyond the scope of this study, offering further exploration into the dynamic landscape of restaurant selection behavior.