Journal of Surveying, Construction and Property
Journal of Surveying, Construction & Property (JSCP) is a free open access publication that adopts an interdisciplinary, multifunctional approach, and welcomes contributions based on original empirical research and the observations of experienced practitioners. The JSCP is devoted to the publication of original research in the areas of Surveying, Property, Real Estate and Valuation, Building, Construction and Urban Studies. Frequency: Twice a year (June and December) Language: English E-ISSN: 1985-7527 Inquiries: editor_jscp@um.edu.my Indexing: MyCite, Era 2012, EBSCO, Google Scholar, UDLedge Science Citation Index (SciCI) & Focus (Journals and Conference Proceedings)
COPYRIGHT: All rights reserved. No part of this journal may be reproduced, copied, or transmitted in any form or by any means—electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise without proper written permission from the publisher. Any opinions expressed in the articles are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Universiti Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
NAVIGATING INSTABILITY: ADAPTIVE STRATEGIES OF MALAYSIAN CONSTRUCTION FIRMS IN TIMES OF CRISIS
The construction industry is highly vulnerable to macroeconomic fluctuations, with its performance closely linked to national indicators such as Gross Domestic Product (GDP). This study aims to identify effective survival strategies that enable construction firms in Malaysia to withstand periods of economic downturn. Specifically, the research investigates the key factors contributing to economic crises, examines their impacts on construction firms and formulates practical strategies to support contractors during recessionary conditions. A quantitative research design was adopted, utilising an online questionnaire distributed to 450 construction firms’ grades G1-G7, registered with the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) Malaysia. The response rate yielded approximately 30.4%. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics, including mean and the Relative Importance Index (RII) to establish the prioritisation of contributing factors, impacts and survival strategies. The analysis identified nine critical strategies that offered a structured and actionable framework for firms seeking to enhance resilience during economic disruptions. Among the strategies are strengthening client relationships, enhancing financial management, improving operational efficiency, and diversifying markets to support business continuity. The findings provide valuable insights for industry practitioners and policymakers by highlighting the major economic pressures faced by construction firms and presenting strategic measures to mitigate the adverse effects of future economic crises.
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BLOCKCHAIN IMPLEMENTATION IN CONSTRUCTION: AN EMPIRICAL ANALYSIS OF THE BENEFITS IN NIGERIA
Blockchain Technology (BcT) has emerged as a transformative force across various industries, including the construction sector. Stakeholders within the construction industry increasingly recognize its potential benefits in construction processes. This paper examines the benefits of BcT in Nigeria. The study utilized a survey design, in gathering information from questionnaires administered to construction professionals. Statistical tools such as Mean Item Scores (MIS) and Explanatory Factor Analysis (EFA) were used to analyze data from 222 respondents. A Cronbach’s α test was also used to verify the reliability of the instrument. The study found that the adoption and implementation of BcT in the construction industry are low and still in the initial stages. However, BcT should not be disregarded due to its promising outlook. The study also revealed that the top benefits of BcT for construction project performance in an emerging economy include achieving value for money, enhancing transparency in the construction process, intensifying collaboration among professionals, promoting homogeneity and effectiveness in project administration, accelerating infrastructure development, and improving the quality of services. BcT was treated as an autonomous technology in this paper. The paper highlights the need to study the current level of BcT implementation and its immense benefits in modern construction activities within an emerging market.
SPATIAL VISUALIZATION SKILS IN QUANTITY SURVEYING EDUCATION: STUDENTS’ PERCEPTION OF 3D LEARNING ENVIRONMENT
Traditional teaching methodologies reliant on 2D drawings and static diagrams have proven inadequate in conveying complex spatial relationships, hindering students' ability to bridge theoretical knowledge and practical application. To address these deficiencies, this research examines undergraduate students' perceptions of 3D learning tools, emphasizing their impact on enhancing spatial awareness, engagement, and practical proficiency. Data was gathered through a structured online survey targeting Quantity Surveying (QS) students in a Nigerian university, measuring their confidence in interpreting building plans, identifying spatial relationships, and utilizing software tools for measurement. Results indicate significant variation in spatial visualization abilities across academic levels, with senior students displaying higher confidence, attributed to accumulated experience. However, challenges persist in accurately identifying spatial relationships, underscoring a need for enhanced technological integration in teaching. The study reveals a strong preference among students for 3D modeling and virtual reality (VR) tools, highlighting their potential to transform QS education. Despite the promise of 3D learning environment, barriers such as inadequate infrastructure, limited faculty expertise, and insufficient access to technology impede effective implementation. This research advocates for a paradigm shift towards immersive, technology-driven pedagogies to better align QS education with industry demands, thereby fostering competent professionals capable of meeting modern construction challenges.
READINESS OF RURAL COMMUNITY IN SARAWAK TOWARDS SMART RURAL DEVELOPMENT
Socioeconomic disparities can hinder a country’s development progress. Evidently, in Malaysia, there is a gap in the socioeconomic development between West and East Malaysia. Consequently, the government had initiated efforts to enhance development strategies by incorporating rural East Malaysian areas into the 12th Malaysian Plan (12MP). While the government has introduced strategies to address development gaps, smart rural development remains absent from policies. Additionally, there is a lack of research on the readiness of rural communities in Sarawak for smart rural initiatives. This paper aims to assess Sarawak's rural communities' readiness across social, economic, environmental, resource, and technological domains. The case study involves two villages in Marudi, Sarawak, and was studied using questionnaires and interviews, involving 266 respondents. The analysis indicates that both villages are not ready in terms of its economic aspect. However, they show promising readiness in the environmental, technology, and resources aspects, suggesting favourable conditions for the adoption of smart rural initiatives. Moreover, the communities in both villages demonstrate strong social readiness, indicating a high level of support for smart rural. Overall, neither village is fully prepared for smart rural development. It is hoped that this study can be useful for the local government to note which areas to improve or focus on for the rural community to become a smart rural community.
RURAL FOREST COMMUNITIES’ DEPENDENCY ON THE NATURAL FOREST ECOSYSTEM
For developing countries, the benefits that forests bring to their people are incredibly significant, especially true for rural communities that are often made up of forest communities and indigenous people. With the continuous forest floor depletion by mass production of forestry commercialisation which juxtaposed with the reliance of the rural communities towards the forest; the paper aims to dissect the issue using localised case studies as it enables a clearer view into how local-level resources are used by related communities that moves in smaller units. Adopting a multiple case study approach, this exploratory paper contributes significantly to understanding the extent to which communities depend on forest ecosystems for their livelihoods. It provides a contextual account of rural income sources while also highlighting the employment opportunities that forests can generate. The exploration of this subject matter enables the possibility of extending the forest and/or the natural resources’ conservation value, especially for the forest communities. Findings show how the diversification of economic activities is important for livelihood sustenance. Lack of control over land rights and over-commercialisation of activities from external forces can be impact rural economies and cause them to fall deeper into poverty due to scarcity of resources.
AN ANALYTICAL REVIEW ON INITIATIVES FOR A SUSTAINABLE CAMPUS OPERATION IN MALAYSIAN PUBLIC HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS
Sustainability in higher education has become a global imperative. Understanding the successful implementation of campus operation initiatives is pivotal to the transition to sustainable practices. Sustainability becomes a critical priority for higher education institutions as they strive to align their operations with environmentally friendly practices. This research aims to review the current sustainable initiatives implemented in Malaysian public Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), specifically focusing on their campus operations. Thus, the research methodology employed in this paper utilised the bibliometrics approach, involving retrieving written publications from the Scopus database and document analyses from each institution. An exhaustive literature review facilitated the identification of eight key areas encompassing the sustainable campus operation initiatives. The findings unveiled that buildings, air & climate, energy, food, grounds, transportation, waste management, and water management were pivotal components driving the attainment of a sustainable campus operation. Nevertheless, in pursuing sustainability, it is noteworthy that only a few public HEIs in Malaysia have embraced these initiatives. The progress towards sustainable development in Malaysian higher education institutions still needs to meet the target outlined in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Hence, it is recommended that the adoption of sustainable practices across all HEIs in Malaysia be increased by enhancing the level of awareness, allocating resources, and consistently monitoring to bridge the current gaps.
IDENTIFYING THE INDICATORS OF LIVEABLE COMMUNITY: A SYSTEMATIC LITERATURE REVIEW
Sustainability in higher education has become a global imperative. Understanding the successful implementation Liveability is a buzzword describing a community's satisfaction with city living. With the pressure of urban development and the complexities of the interests and aspirations of the community, the translation of the liveability concept into concrete proxies is more demanding than ever. Against the background, this paper has two objectives: 1) to identify the assessment tool used to measure the liveable community and (2) to examine the indicators and sub-indicators used in the liveable assessment tool. Using the PRISMA standard, this paper conducted a systematic literature review. After screening 3,800 articles from electronic databases (WoS, Scopus, Science Direct, and Emerald Insight), the study included about 20 articles. After referring to the reference list of selected papers, the researchers had only 27 papers in this systematic literature review. Three dimensions - social, economic, and environmental - were used to divide the indicator of a liveable community. This study focuses on the indicators within each dimension that contribute to developing liveable communities. Future research should investigate and identify context-specific indicators for assessing liveability in specific locational or geographic areas.
LOST WATERWAYS, SHIFTING IDENTITIES: ROAD INFRASTRUCTURE AND THE MORPHOLOGY OF COASTAL VILLAGE SETTLEMENTS IN KUCHING
This paper focuses on how infrastructural planning and urban expansion of Kuching has impacted the growth, social fabric, and cultural identity of the riverine coastal villages in its vicinity. The villages we studied are Sejingkat, Buntal, Bako, and Muara Tebas. Each village's development was shaped by surrounding land-use activities, like factories, ports, educational institutions, or rainforest tourism. Through historical analysis, spatial mapping, and in-depth interviews with village chiefs, we explore the significance of waterways and embedded road networks in shaping the settlement patterns, and their subsequent growth trajectories. The results of our analysis highlight the intricate relationship between ongoing planning policies, socio-economic activities, infrastructure, and cultural identity in these coastal communities. We propose strategies for integrating local participation, existing cultural landscapes and values into future planning efforts, with the aim of preserving the identity of coastal village settlements while ensuring their sustainable development in Kuching. Ultimately, we call for a more holistic approach to road infrastructure development and sectoral planning, to minimize negative impacts for the local communities.
SOCIO-ECONOMIC IMPACT ASSESSMENT (SEIA): BALANCING BETWEEN THE DEVELOPMENT AND A DECENT LIFE IN BUKIT RAJA, KLANG, SELANGOR
This study provides an insightful exploration of the practical implementation of Socio-economic Impact Assessment (SEIA) as a valuable tool during the implementation of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). The primary aim of this SEIA is to ascertain and evaluate the potential socio-economic and cultural impacts of proposed changes on the lives and circumstances of people. The study was conducted within a 5 km radius from the proposed plant location situated at Kawasan Perindustrian Bukit Raja, Klang, District of Klang, Selangor Darul Ehsan. This paper examines the detailed demographic background of respondents, property ownership, infrastructure and basic amenities availability, level of awareness and knowledge of the proposed project, perceptions towards the proposed project, and perceptions of impacts on health and safety, aesthetics and culture, basic utilities, and amenities, as well as an assessment of the level of acceptability. The research utilized a quantitative method through a cross-sectional study using surveys. The study found that more than 90.0% of respondents believe the proposed project will be beneficial to them. However, several significant issues were highlighted by the respondents, such as traffic congestion with 43.0%, increased noise pollution (29.0%), and elevated air/dust pollution is the most concerning the respondents with 54.0%. Therefore, it is crucial for any development project to implement a mitigation plan to minimize socio-economic impacts. SEIA is essential for gathering and engaging with relevant stakeholders regarding any development. The SEIA aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11, which focuses on making cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable.
CONTRACTORS’ PERSPECTIVE ON THE MATURITY LEVEL OF GREEN BUILDING PRACTICES IN THE SARAWAK CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY
High carbon emission alerted different stakeholders to look into sustainable practices and green building is one of the initiatives. Despite the efforts from various parties, the maturity level of green practices in Malaysia is still low compared to the developed countries. This study aims to investigate the maturity level of green building practices and factors influencing such practices in the Sarawak construction industry from contractors’ perspective. Semi-structured interviews with five contractors with experiences in green building projects were conducted. Content analysis was employed to analyse the collected data. The findings revealed that the interviewees were aware on the existence and benefits of green building practices but not taking initiatives to get involved. Hence, the results indicated that the maturity level of green building practices in Sarawak construction industry is still at the low level. The results showed that the key factors that affect the maturity level are cost and limited market demand. This study could serve as a basis and provide greater insights into the adoption of green building practices in the Sarawak construction industry.
BUILDING INFORMATION MODELLING AND RISK IN INDUSTRIALISED BUILDING SYSTEM PROJECTS: A SCIENTOMETRIC REVIEW
The scholarly exploration of Building Information Modelling (BIM), risk management, and Industrialised Building System (IBS) research has expanded rapidly, reflecting the construction industry’s increasing reliance on digital and prefabricated technologies. Despite this growth, there remains a fragmented understanding of how research in these areas has developed over time, including dominant themes, influential contributors, and methodological trends. This study addresses this gap through a scientometric review of 1,153 publications retrieved from the Scopus database between 2010 and 2025. Using VOSviewer and Scopus analytical tools, publication trends, document types, co-authorship networks, and keyword co-occurrence were systematically examined to provide a structured overview of the field. The analysis reveals a steady increase in scholarly output, particularly after 2015, indicating rising global interest in technology-driven risk management and prefabricated construction methods. Journal articles constitute the majority of the literature, followed by conference papers and reviews, reflecting the evolution of research dissemination. Geographical and citation analyses show that countries such as China, Malaysia, and the United Kingdom dominate the field, while highly cited authors provide conceptual and methodological foundations for emerging studies. Keyword analysis highlights recurring themes of safety, process optimization, digital innovation, and project management. Despite the rapid expansion of literature, persistent gaps remain, including limited empirical validation, uneven adoption across industry contexts, and the lack of standardized methodologies. By mapping these patterns and gaps, this scientometric review offers a critical lens on the evolution of BIM, Risk, and IBS research, providing scholars and practitioners with actionable insights on knowledge trends, collaborative networks, and potential directions for future investigation. Overall, this work supports informed decision-making and fosters the development of rigorous, context-sensitive research agendas in construction studies.
DIVERGING PERSPECTIVES ON ENERGY PERFORMANCE GAPS IN GREEN BUILDINGS: AN EMPIRICAL STUDY OF INDUSTRY EXPERTS
Green buildings continue to underperform in actual energy use compared to predicted values, revealing persistent energy performance gaps. This study explores the differing perspectives of industry experts on the root causes of and its strategies in this issue. A structured survey was administered to 278 respondents and analyzed using Relative Importance Index (RII) and Kendall’s W to measure agreement across three expert subgroups: those uninvolved in green buildings, involved but uncertified, and certified facilitators. Results reveal consistent rankings for major factors such as occupant awareness and leadership commitment but also highlight nuanced differences in how subgroups perceive organisational versus technical contributions. This study informs tailored energy management interventions and highlights the value of expert diversity in shaping sustainable building strategies.
COMPREHENDING DISASTER RISK MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES: A REVIEW OF BUILD BACK BETTER AND BUILD BETTER BEFORE
The rising frequency and intensity of climate emergencies, coupled with their amplified disaster impacts, result in substantial human and economic costs. There is a deficiency in effective strategies for disaster risk management to address this destructive phenomenon. The effectiveness of Build Back Better (BBB) remains uncertain, exhibiting limitations in its implementation, especially in developing and least developed countries characterized by unique socioeconomic and societal vulnerabilities. Research on the concept of Build Better Before (BBBf) is limited, and its potential to address deficiencies in disaster risk management in underdeveloped contexts is scarce. Therefore, there is an urgency to investigate the effectiveness and applicability of these approaches and highlight the optimal option for specific contexts. The study conducted a systematic literature review following PRISMA guidelines to achieve this objective. Fourty papers were analysed regarding BBB and BBBf in recent literature (2017-2024). The literature suggests that the BBBf approach presents a viable alternative with various comparative advantages, including economic efficiency, support for bottom-up approaches, and increased involvement of local governments. The emphasis on community resilience and costeffectiveness in the BBBf initiative enhances its viability for community adoption, promoting long-term sustainability, especially in contexts characterized by financial challenges, societal vulnerabilities, and governance complexities.
THE IMPACT OF SOCIAL SPACES IN RESIDENTIAL NEIGHBOURHOOD DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC: URBAN FARMING INTO A SELF-SUFFICIENT COMMUNITY
The announcement of Malaysia's first coronavirus (COVID-19) case in January 2020 triggered a nationwide lockdown on March 18, significantly affecting food supply chains and exposing the weaknesses of non-self-sufficient economies. This study critically explores residents' perceptions of social spaces in Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan during the pandemic through a mixed-method approach. It combines photographic documentation and a questionnaire survey to assess the impact on residents’ quality of life. Insights from a semi-structured interview with representatives of PLAN Malaysia in Negeri Sembilan, revealed that the design of social spaces is intended to enhance cost efficiency while alleviating the burden on local authorities. Results indicated that majority of the respondents experienced significant stress during the pandemic, driven by anxiety, job loss, and livelihood challenges while many emphasized the importance of effective space allocation and varied options within residential neighborhoods. These findings imply that strategically designed social spaces and zoning practices are key to developing self-sufficient communities in residential areas. Future research agenda should prioritize on the long-term implications of diverse social space designs for community well-being and self-sufficiency in the post-pandemic landscape.
BUILDING ORIENTATION EFFECTS ON HVAC ENERGY PERFORMANCE: EDUCATIONAL BUILDING ANALYSIS IN CHINA'S HOT-SUMMER-COLD-WINTER ZONE
This study investigated the impact of building orientation on HVAC energy consumption in educational buildings within China's hot summer and cold winter (HSCW) climate zone. Through EnergyPlus simulations of a representative teaching building in Chongqing, this research analysed heating, cooling, and total HVAC energy consumption patterns across 24 different orientations. The results demonstrate that building orientation significantly influences energy performance, with the south-facing orientation (180°) achieving optimal energy efficiency at 58.55 kWh/m², while the west-facing orientation (270°) exhibits the highest consumption at 63.01 kWh/m², representing a 7.62% variation. The study reveals that maintaining the building orientation within ±15° of due south can effectively optimise year-round energy performance, particularly in regions with significant seasonal variations. Furthermore, the findings indicate distinct seasonal patterns, with south-facing orientations demonstrating superior winter performance through optimal solar gain while requiring careful solar control strategies during summer. This study provides quantitative evidence to support the development of specific orientation design guidelines for building energy standards, offering practical insights for architects and urban planners in creating energy-efficient educational facilities in HSCW climate zones.
UNVEILING PROJECT MANAGERS’ COMPETENCIES IN GREEN VS. NON-GREEN CONSTRUCTION USING THE CRAWFORD INTEGRATED MODEL
The construction industry is undergoing a transformative shift toward sustainability, driving the need for specialized competencies among project managers in green construction projects. This study explores the critical differences in competencies required for managing green construction projects compared to non-green construction projects, using the Crawford Integrated Competency Model. Through an in-depth analysis, the classification matrix highlights the similarities and differences across competencies essential for effective project management in the green construction sector. The finding serves as a diagram for understanding the comprehensive skill set necessary for project managers operating in this specialized field, facilitating a clearer understanding of how knowledge, skills, and attitudes intersect in green construction project management. By identifying the core competencies required, this study provides a framework for professional development and training programs tailored to project managers in the green construction industry, ensuring that they possess the necessary attributes to succeed in the evolving landscape of sustainable building practices.
PRESERVING CULTURAL VALUES THROUGH POCKET PARKS IN AN URBAN ENVIRONMENT: A NARRATIVE REVIEW
Modern urban areas face difficulties maintaining their cultural values due to their rapid growth. The purpose of this review is to synthesize existing research on how the roles of pocket parks can contribute to preserving the cultural values within an urban environment. A thorough search of databases specializing in pocket parks and cultural values was conducted. This study employs a narrative review of scholarly publications to evaluate how pocket parks, which are small, accessible green spaces, contribute to preserving cultural values in urban environments. The findings reveal how pocket parks play a role in preserving cultural values such as identity and authenticity by providing a public space that can offer artistic value and cultural expression. Additionally, with the preservation of cultural values, these parks also reinforce the sense of belonging that further enhances equity through placemaking, which can honour diversity while maintaining the unique identity of the community. Compared to past research, this study presents thorough evidence of literature from a diverse viewpoint, highlighting the roles of pocket parks that are significant towards cultural preservation in an urban environment. The findings advocate for designing policies that leverage small-scale interventions to balance cultural preservation with equitable development in rapidly transforming cities.
A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW: UNDERSTANDING ENVIRONMENTAL DRIVING FACTORS OF HERITAGE BUILDING DEGRADATION
As the realm responds to nature's will, environmental factors are often cited as threatening the heritage building's wholeness and genuine character. Evolution in this research field has discussed various fractions of elements into these factors. Inevitably, this Systematic Literature Review (SLR) aims to comprehensively understand the extent and nature of environment, such as humidity, temperature fluctuations, pollution, and biological growth, that influence heritage buildings' degradation. Focusing on scholarly articles between 2020 and 2024 from reputable databased of Scopus and ScienceDirect, adhering to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) framework and systematic review of the filtered articles, the study found the contributed insights of the key area. The findings are categorized around three main themes: (1) Environmental and Climatic Impacts, (2) Material-Specific Degradation Mechanisms in Heritage Buildings, and (3) Diagnostic and Preventive Technologies for Heritage Building Preservation. The review reveals that moisture and temperature as the main environmental factors causing material decay, show up the cracking, erosion, and biological growth. Air pollution hastens chemical degradation, whereas natural disasters cause immediate and widespread loss in structural integrity. This paper calls underlining interdisciplinary collaboration to respond to environmental challenges ensuring the structural integrity of heritage buildings for future generations.
DEVELOPMENT OF AN INSTRUMENT TO INVESTIGATE THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE RISKS RELATED TO EMPLOYERS’ AND CONSULTANTS’ CONTRACTUAL RESPONSIBILITIES AND CONTRACTORS’ WORK PROGRESS, CONSIDERING PROJECT CHARACTERISTICS AS A MODERATOR
There is a lack of studies examining the risks faced by contractors related to the non-adherence to contractual responsibilities by employers and consultants, and how project characteristics influence the impact of these risks on the contractors’ work progress. Due to the absence of a suitable survey instrument in past studies, this paper aims to introduce a valid survey to investigate the relationship between the risks related to the employers' and consultants’ contractual responsibilities and contractors’ work progress, and the moderating effect of project characteristics. A 43-item survey instrument was developed based on the PAM Contract 2018, past studies, and insights from industry experts. The instrument was validated through a qualitative approach (expert judgment) and a quantitative approach (content validity index). The validation method adopted in the study ensures that the items included in the proposed survey are clear and appropriately represent the key variables (employer-related risks, consultants-related risks, project characteristics, and contractors’ work progress). The final 40-item survey instrument has an average content validity index of 0.951, indicating excellent content validity. This paper presents the procedures adopted for developing and validating the survey instrument. The findings of this paper are valuable for future researchers in developing survey instruments.
A NARRATIVE REVIEW TO ACHIEVE NET-ZERO ENERGY HOMES IN MALAYSIA
Malaysia is heavily reliant on fossil fuels for electricity production but aims to reduce carbon emission intensity by 45% by 2030 and achieve net zero carbon emission by 2050. As residential buildings are one of the major energy consumers, achieving net-zero energy in homes is essential. This paper reviews the development of Net-Zero Energy Homes (ZEHs) globally and evaluates their relevance to Malaysia’s tropical climate. A narrative review approach was used to examine ZEH definitions, energy consumption factors, and green retrofitting strategies. The findings highlight the need for tailored policies and design standards suited to the local climate and socio-economic conditions. Recommendations are proposed to guide future development and policy actions for achieving energy-efficient residential housing in Malaysia.
THE IMPORTANCE OF URBAN DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR TRANSIT-ORIENTED DEVELOPMENT, THE CASE OF THE UNIVERSITY BELT, MANILA CITY
The University Belt, known for its agglomeration of educational institutions, faces rapid urbanization, rising population densities, and poverty rates. With the National Building Code of the Philippines outdated and the Manila Zoning Ordinance baseless due to the lack of a Comprehensive Land Use Plan, the University Belt showcased increased developments, converting low-population, low-building-density areas into unregulated high-population, high-density areas with condominiums, apartments, lodging, and commercial establishments. Without action, the University Belt and its urban development will become even more uncontrolled. The research argues that an Urban Design Guideline will regulate development and redevelopment in the study area and foster control. Thus, this paper seeks first to understand the urban growth and development trend that led to the current condition of the University Belt, determine why the University Belt continues to promote an uncontrolled and unregulated neighborhood despite having governing policies for architecture practitioners, and synthesize architecture practitioners' insights on the governing urban development control policies to highlight the possible need for Through foot and windshield surveys, GIS mapping, a careful study of available datasets, and a survey, the site's context was fully understood and analyzed. In this research, a stratified random sampling approach using a normal distribution with 397 architecture practitioners in the study area found that those who observe urban development controls lack the confidence and relevance to follow it. This research emphasizes the importance of an Urban Design Guideline because it will consolidate all issues of compatibility, frequency, specificity, and harmony of applicable urban development controls in the University Belt to create a high-quality, livable environment ready for transit-oriented development.
EXPLORING DWELLING OVERCROWDING MEASURES: OBJECTIVE APPROACHES AND PERCEIVED CROWDING
Dwelling overcrowding is a complex issue not only measured by standard guidelines but also by subjective perceptions of crowding. It extends beyond physical dimensions to encompass human factors such as psychological and social experiences. While intervention policies often focus on addressing spatial constraints, integrating objective approaches with subjective measures can provide more effective and holistic solutions, especially in sustainable housing intervention. This study aims to address the complexity of dwelling overcrowding by reviewing existing objective approaches and exploring perceived crowding as a complementary measure. The methodologies used for this study are literature searches and review analysis, guided by standard guidelines from multiple countries. A comprehensive literature search with selection criteria focusing on overcrowding measures, contributing factors, and housing policies. The literature was categorized into three key themes: objective measures of overcrowding, perceived crowding as a subjective measure, and intervention strategies. Findings highlight the importance of integrating objective and subjective measures in housing policies to address both physical and experiential aspects of overcrowding. This study provides the foundation for evidence-based policy recommendations. Future research should test the variables through real-world case studies to assess factors influencing overcrowding and the effectiveness of proposed housing interventions.
EXAMINING HOUSING EXPERIENCES OF URBAN REFUGEES IN KLANG VALLEY, MALAYSIA
Malaysia has hosted refugees without a formal refugee policy or legal framework for many decades. The absence of adequate accommodation and reception facilities for refugees and asylum seekers, coupled with insufficient housing during their transitional period before resettlement, presents significant challenges. These "living in limbo" conditions exacerbate uncertainty, violence, and insecurity in refugees' lives. This paper aims to examine housing experiences of urban refugees in the Klang Valley. The research involved a survey of 196 refugees, predominantly from Sudan, Somalia, Yemen, Afghanistan, and Myanmar residing in Klang Valley. The findings provide critical insights into the housing experiences of refugees in Malaysia. The findings found that Refugees are satisfied with the building services, unit design, provision of kitchen and laundry spaces, and basic facilitates. Satisfaction level is also quite significant in terms of building cleanliness and maintenance. However, they indicated significant discrimination in securing rental accommodations, as landlords are reluctant to lease properties to refugees. Additionally, many refugees encounter difficulties due to frequent rent hikes. The insights gained from this study can assist stakeholders in addressing these challenges and enhancing the management and support provided to the refugee community, paving the way for further exploration and implementation of effective solutions.
IMPACT OF THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC ON URBAN DEVELOPMENT: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW
The COVID-19 pandemic gradually became prevalent globally in early 2020, affecting multiple aspects of lifestyle, transportation, and politics, and hitting the world economy hard. Due to the large population and economic activity densities, urbans are more vulnerable to more dangers. The influence of COVID-19 on urban areas is therefore widespread. The authors reviewed the literature after the first confirmed cases in Wuhan, China, to present a comprehensive evaluation of studies on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on urban development. The results show that studies on the impact of COVID-19 on cities are mainly related to five main topics, namely (1) environmental quality, (2) social impact, (3) economic impact, (4) urban residents, and (5) urban planning and management. While this shows the diversity of the research agenda, the first theme dominates, whereas the others remain relatively under-researched with little systematic research. This paper also has five more suggestions that can be used in planning and designing cities after COVID to help them grow in a way that is sustainable. Overall, the available research indicates that the COVID-19 crisis offers governments and planners a powerful chance to better respond to future emergencies and disasters and to promote sustainable and healthy urban development.
CASE-BASED LEARNING AND TEACHING EXPERIENCES ABOUT PEOPLE MANAGEMENT IN CONSTRUCTION BUSINESSES
In the modern advanced construction industry, students are required to engage in active learning and critical thinking to deliver defect-free outputs and ensure user satisfaction. Case-based learning is an approach that fosters active learning among students. The aim of this research is to present the educational experiences of students and the teaching advances by the educators involved in case-based learning assignments. 155 students enrolled in the people management course received information on theories and their application at construction sites. Case-based learning and teaching were implemented to fulfil the course objectives, focussing on ongoing projects, site defects and the fraud triangle theory as the scope of the case. Students conducted semi-structured interviews with the site personnel, transcribed the recordings and analysed them by referencing the brief notes provided by the educators. The findings indicate that the students exhibited better performance in the learning environment. Case-based learning enhanced their research skills, communication, collaboration, ethical values, engagement and continuous improvement. The findings also show that the significance of appropriate teaching materials and efficient team teaching in case-based teaching is paramount. These elements are essential for creating an engaging learning environment that supports qualitative educational approaches and thereby improves student learning outcomes.
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CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES OF IMPLEMENTING ICT SYSTEMS IN OFFICE BUILDING MAINTENANCE IN KUALA LUMPUR
Maintenance is crucial for any building throughout its entire lifespan. The primary goal of building maintenance is to maintain all components and facilities in their original and functional condition to ensure continuous efficient operation. The widespread adoption of maintenance software has paved the way for more efficient communication within maintenance management, improving the effectiveness and efficiency of maintenance activities. Previous research has highlighted several challenges in the implementation of Information and Construction Technology (ICT) systems in maintenance management. This study aims to explore the key challenges associated with the use of ICT systems in maintenance management, with a specific focus on office buildings in Malaysia. A qualitative approach was adopted for this study, involving semi-structured interviews. A total of five interviewees were selected from three (3) office buildings. The findings show that two types of ICT systems—the Building Automation System (BAS) and the ARCHIBUS system—were utilised in the maintenance management of the three office buildings. This study identifies various issues and challenges that arise when implementing these ICT systems, including a lack of professional expertise in operating the systems, inaccurate information, risks of connection loss, time consumption, limitations in capability, cybersecurity threats, and financial constraints. Common issues faced across different management teams and ICT systems include a shortage of qualified personnel, time inefficiencies, and limitations in system capabilities. These challenges must be addressed promptly to enhance the efficiency and value of ICT systems in maintenance management. Effective building maintenance in office buildings is essential to ensure that all services and facilities operate smoothly and to prevent any potential downtime.
EXPLORING GREEN FINANCING AND ITS CHALLENGES IN MALAYSIAN REAL ESTATE PROJECT
This paper aims to explore the landscape of green financing adoption in Malaysia's real estate sector and its challenges for sustainable real estate development. It attempts to uncover the challenges of incorporating green finance into real estate projects and comparing the challenges faced by the local players with the global players. The results will allow recommendations to be made for successful green financing in Malaysia. The examination of Malaysia's present green finance adoption is made through a qualitative approach. Interviews were conducted with real estate developers and local financial organisations for the achievements of the main objectives. The findings found that the challenges faced by stakeholders in the implementation of green finance in real estate in Malaysia such as the lack of consistency in defining green terms, public awareness of green financing and projects, profitability uncertainty, limited green finance initiatives, longer green finance processes, and a lack of green efficiency data. In order to address these challenges, several recommendations were suggested which include standardising terminology, raising public awareness, providing financial incentives, improving funding accessibility, streamlining procedures, and strengthening data collection and transparency. Thus, the findings provide the potential to pave the path for widespread adoption of green financing in Malaysia's real estate sector by overcoming constraints such as restricted rules and incentives.
DISCOVERING PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES PHYSICAL BARRIERS IN ACCESSING HEALTHCARE-BUILT ENVIRONMENT
Several studies have highlighted the dissatisfaction of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) with the facilities and services in various built environments, yet limited research has focused on the healthcare-built environment. This study aims to identify the physical barriers faced by PWDs in accessing healthcare facilities in Malaysia. A qualitative approach was employed, involving semi-structured interviews and the analysis of complaint records. Four hospital engineers were selected through purposive sampling, and data from the facility management complaint database were extracted. Content analysis was conducted using Microsoft Word and Excel. Findings revealed that PWD toilets had the highest frequency of breakdowns and complaints, highlighting them as a key area for improvement. While breakdowns in most facilities were reported as low to moderate (2-10 times per month), issues with covered walkways were also noted, indicating broader accessibility concerns. PWD-related complaints were relatively low, reflecting their minority status in the population. The identified barriers related to maintenance, access to information, building use, and facility provision, impacting safety, accessibility, and overall ease of use. Establishing comprehensive data will help stakeholders understand physical barriers and develop strategies for improvement, ensuring equal access to healthcare facilities for PWDs. Future research on maintenance policies and their impact on PWDs is essential for fostering a more inclusive healthcare environment.
LANDSCAPE AND PLANNING INTEGRATION TOWARDS A BETTER PUBLIC OPEN SPACE IN CHERAS RESIDENTIAL NEIGHBOURHOOD
Urban settlements are inherently incomplete without the strategic design of public open spaces, which are essential for enhancing the quality of life and providing numerous social, health, environmental, and economic benefits to residents. In Kuala Lumpur, rapid urbanization and inadequate residential planning have led to a decline in the quality of public open spaces, negatively impacting residents' well-being. This situation highlights the critical need for a comprehensive approach to public open space design that addresses these issues and fosters community engagement and vitality. This study investigates the current state of public open spaces in Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, specifically focusing on Taman Mutiara Barat and Taman Taynton View. By analyzing the physical characteristics, social dynamics, and environmental factors of these areas, the study aims to propose design criteria for improving these spaces. Ultimately, the goal is to create vibrant and inclusive public open spaces that enhance the quality of life for residents of Cheras.
EVALUATING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF EXISTING LEGAL INSTRUMENTS ON ENHANCING WOMEN’S RIGHTS TO LAND AND PROPERTY IN JOS, NORTH CENTRAL NIGERIA
There exists a persistent gap in landownership rights between men and women in Nigeria which is greatly influenced by cultural and traditional practices that discriminate against women. Despite all global, regional and national efforts to enact legal instruments, the signing and ratification of international agreements and the passage of laws which seek to protect the rights of women, by granting them equal land and property rights as their male counterparts, women in Nigeria still face discrimination over land and property ownership. This study was conducted in Kwang village, Jos south of Plateau state, Nigeria using a qualitative approach. Data were obtained using interviews and the respondents were selected using purposive sampling. Cultural practices which are patriarchal that favour the male above the female were the major barrier to women’s rights to land and property. The majority of the women are not aware of the existence of legal instruments and non-implementation of such policies in the country is the reason for that. The study recommends strong political will to enforce the enacted gender-related laws and the need for awareness and advocacy campaigns within the society to create enlightenment on the need to incorporate women in inheritance sharing and land decision-making.