Journal of Architecture, Planning and Construction Management

EDITORIAL

Prof. Ar Dr. Abdul Razak Sapian — 2025-11-30

Dear All,

Assalamu'alaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh.

Journal of Architecture, Planning and Construction Management (JAPCM), Kulliyyah of Architecture and Environmental Design is one the official journals of International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM), under IIUM Press. It embarked in 2011 and is dedicated to the publication of original articles on the specialized fields of Architecture, Planning, Landscape Architecture, Quantity Surveying, Building Technology and Engineering, Applied Arts and Design, Construction Management and those related to the Built Environment. JAPCM is also the ardent forum for the reports of research that bridged the Built Environment and the Islamic worldview.

Prof. Ar. Dr. Abdul Razak Sapian Editor-in-Chief

QUANTIFYING THE EFFECTS OF LAND-USE CHANGE ON WILDLIFE IN KAPIT REGION, SARAWAK

Irina Safitri Zen — 2025-11-30

This study investigates the impact of forest land-use change on wildlife populations within the Kapit Forest Management Unit (FMU) in Sarawak, Malaysia, between 2011 and 2020. The methodology involved analysing primary forest cover data using GIS-based remote sensing to quantify land-use changes, evaluating wildlife populations and forest loss using correlation analysis, and performing relative abundance analysis coupled with observation on site, particularly in protected areas. Results show a moderate negative correlation (r = -0.48) between forest loss and wildlife population decline, with the highest relative wildlife abundance recorded in 2011 (15.41%). Wildlife abundance subsequently decreased, attributed to habitat degradation and human pressures. Dominant bat species included Cynopterus brachyotis and Penthetor lucasi, each comprising 17.4% of captures, while Dycopterus spadiceus and Kerivoula intermedia showed moderate abundances of 10.9% and 8.7%. Although approximately 20% of the land is designated for conservation, including Baleh Protected Forest, it is insufficient to offset the surrounding impacts of infrastructure development. The findings demonstrate that current Sustainable Forest Management (SFM) practices are inadequate to prevent biodiversity loss. Strengthening conservation policies, enforcement mechanisms, sustainable land-use planning, habitat restoration, and community engagement are essential to balancing production and conservation, and to enhancing ecosystem resilience within the Kapit FMU.

OBSERVATIONAL STUDY ON SHOPHOUSE CONFIGURATIONS ADAPTABILITY IN PENANG, MELAKA, MUAR, AND KUALA LUMPUR: DESIGN PREFERENCES, AESTHETIC APPEAL, AND SOCIAL COHESION

Nur Amalina binti — 2025-11-30

Malaysian shophouses are vital cultural assets, embodying the nation's architectural and socioeconomic history. However, rapid urban development and changing lifestyles threaten their preservation, often prioritising modernisation at the expense of heritage. A critical issue is the lack of empirical research on how design alterations affect user satisfaction and social cohesion, leading to ad-hoc renovations that may erode their historical value while failing to meet contemporary needs. Many modified shophouses struggle to balance functionality, thermal comfort, and community engagement, risking their role as social hubs in urban neighbourhoods. This study investigates these challenges by analysing design adaptations, aesthetic preferences, and social impacts in shophouses across Penang, Melaka, Muar, and Kuala Lumpur. Through observational methods and matrix analysis, it assesses spatial layouts, materials, and user interactions. Findings reveal that hybrid designs—combining heritage features with modern upgrades—are most effective, strategically using double-skin façades, open spaces, and communal corridors to enhance liveability and social cohesion. The study advocates for evidence-based design strategies to ensure shophouses remain sustainable, culturally resonant, and socially inclusive.

THE ADOPTION OF VALUE MANAGEMENT BY QUANTITY SURVEYING FIRMS IN MALAYSIA

Atikah Zanuddin — 2025-11-30

Quantity Surveyors (QS) are well-positioned to promote Value Management (VM) in construction projects due to their cost expertise. However, their knowledge and awareness of VM are insufficient, and they often confuse it with cost-cutting. Despite VM's introduction in Malaysia in the early 1980s, its adoption has been limited. The technical application of VM within Quantity Surveying (QS) firms in Malaysia remains unclear, necessitating further investigation. This research aims to determine VM adoption by QS firms, identify the obstacles, and propose strategies to overcome the obstacles. Data was collected through a questionnaire survey of 32 respondents from 32 QS firms in Malaysia. The findings reveal that VM adoption by QS firms in Malaysia is generally low. The obstacles include time constraints due to VM's lengthy process, client reluctance to fund VM services, designer reluctance to adopt VM, and a shortage of trained VM professionals. Strategies to overcome these obstacles include educating clients and decision-makers about VM's importance, making VM knowledge accessible, and improving VM curricula in higher education institutions.

SYSTEMATIC LITERATURE REVIEW: CITY BRANDING AND CITY IMAGE IN SUPPORT OF THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE IMAGE OF THE AGRO-TOURISM AREA AND BUNG KARNO MEMORABILIA IN BLITAR CITY, INDONESIA

Titik Poerwati — 2025-11-30

This study aims to conduct a systematic literature review on the concepts of city branding, city image, and city identity, and how these three elements can support the development of the image of agro-tourism areas in Blitar City. With the increasing interest in agro-based tourism, it is essential to understand how effective branding can enhance the attractiveness and identity of the region. The methodology employed in this research involves a comprehensive literature analysis, gathering and evaluating various relevant studies. This review encompasses multiple aspects, including successful branding strategies, public perceptions of city image, and the factors that shape city identity. The findings indicate that the integration of city branding and the development of agro-tourism image can create positive synergies, enhance tourist appeal, and strengthen local identity. The results of this study are expected to provide recommendations for stakeholders in Blitar City in designing more effective branding strategies and developing policies that support the growth of the agro-tourism sector. Thus, this research not only contributes to academic literature but also offers practical guidance for sustainable tourism development in the region.

CULTURAL PRESERVATION MEETS MODERN DESIGN: INVESTIGATING THE IMPACT OF TRADITIONAL WOODCARVINGS ON NATURAL VENTILATION IN HUNGARY

Noor Roziana Binti Abdul Rahim — 2025-11-30

This study investigates the integration of traditional woodcarving panels to enhance natural ventilation (NV) and thermal comfort in modern architecture. Focusing on Szombathely, Hungary, the research employs wind analysis, microclimate assessment, and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations to assess the effect of woodcarving designs on airflow and indoor comfort. The panels derived from Hungarian cultural motifs were analysed using Free Area Ratio (FAR) values of 46.57% and 44.85%. Simulation results revealed air velocity improvements of up to 2.2 m/s inside living spaces, indicating significant passive cooling benefits. The findings highlighted the potential of integrating cultural craftsmanship with contemporary architectural design to promote sustainable, energy-efficient buildings honouring local heritage.

MAPPING TYPOLOGY OF OUTDOOR PLAYSCAPE FOR PRESCHOOL: CASE STUDY OF GOVERNMENT AND PRIVATE KINDERGARTENS IN KLANG VALLEY

Nur Amirah Binti Nordin — 2025-11-30

The research maps the typology of outdoor playscapes in preschools, with an explicit focus on government and private kindergartens in the Klang Valley. The present study develops a map of the design and quality of outdoor playscapes in government and private kindergartens located in the Klang Valley, exploring how regulatory and economic factors influence the quality of play. Through a secondary resources approach, the research investigates the outdoor spatial layouts, relevant layout plans, and the types of play equipment supplied. The research explores how these design elements influence the functionality and overall character of the playscapes. Results show that most government kindergartens adhere to local authority guidelines, and their outdoor spaces are well-planned to facilitate active play, socialisation, and child development. In contrast, private kindergartens focus more on financial benefits, usually resulting in less thoughtful spatial arrangements and play equipment choices. Investing in outdoor facilities that appeal to children may not be the best practice for child development. The study develops a design framework that ensures well-organised outdoor settings, integrates different play equipment, and facilitates holistic development. It advocates more informed design practices beyond financial considerations, paving the way for public and private institutions to create nurturing, developmentally appropriate outdoor play spaces for young children.

EXPLORING STUDENT EXPERIENCES WITH PRODUCT LINE-UP ANALYSIS IN INDUSTRIAL DESIGN CURRICULUM

Julaila Abdul Rahman — 2025-11-30

Product Line-Up Analysis (PLA), a traditional marketing tool used to evaluate and optimise product portfolios, offers a systematic approach to identifying consumer preferences and market trends. This study examines the integration of an enhanced, quantitative PLA method into the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) industrial design curriculum, framed within the context of the New Product Development (NPD) process. The research involved 14 final-year Industrial Design students from the AAD Department, KAED, enrolled in the BAAD 4201 Final Year Project (Industrial Design), Semester 2, 2024/2025. The study employed two methods: a studio-based PLA conducted during Weeks 1–3, where students analyzed 50–80 product samples to extract key design features and quantify their prevalence using percentages, and a survey to gather students' experiences and feedback. A three-part questionnaire addressed students' backgrounds, PLA experiences, and reflections, with responses analysed using data analysis software to generate descriptive statistics. The findings indicate that students found PLA valuable for enhancing analytical thinking, understanding product variations, and aligning design decisions with market insights. However, challenges such as unfamiliarity with the method and the need for additional instructional support were also noted. This study highlights the potential of PLA as a quantitative pedagogical tool that bridges academic learning and real-world design practice.

DELPHI ANALYSIS IN FORMULATING A FRAMEWORK FOR POLICY AND PLANNING DEVELOPMENT OF OIL POLLUTION ON COASTAL WATER IN THE WEST COAST OF SABAH

Phemela Koh — 2025-11-30

Effective management of marine oil pollution is essential for meeting the Sustainable Development Goals in Sabah's West Coast regions. This study employed the Delphi method, systematically gathering expert opinions through multiple rounds of questioning. Participants included government officials, industry experts, academics, and other stakeholders. Over three rounds of structured questionnaires, 76.47% of respondents identified land-based operations as the main source of pollution (standard deviation: 0.44), and the same percentage agreed that marine biology is the most affected receptor (standard deviation: 0.59). The panel reached a 94.12% consensus on the importance of policies to prevent oil pollution (standard deviation: 0.24). These results provide valuable guidance for Sabah, supporting improvements to the current framework and aiding the development of effective strategies for preventing and remedying oil pollution.

ADDRESSING VULNERABILITY AND ENHANCING RESILIENCE IN COASTAL AREAS: A SYSTEMATIC LITERATURE REVIEW

Rahmatyas Aditantri — 2025-11-30

Coastal areas are regions that are susceptible to hazards due to the impact of climate change. In adapting to the vulnerability condition, it is necessary to understand the adaptive strategy which can enhance resilience in coastal areas. This study examines the integration of vulnerability and resilience in coastal areas to inform adaptive strategies in disaster management. Through a systematic literature review, the study highlights four key gaps: the integration of local knowledge and longitudinal studies, the impact of socio-economic factors, an interdisciplinary approach and technology innovation, and community-based approaches.

THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN RESIDENTIAL LAND COVER CHANGE AND URBAN POLICY IN MALANG CITY: CASE STUDIES AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Kevie Desderius — 2025-11-30

This study aims to analyse the relationship between changes in residential land cover and urban policy dynamics in Malang City. With rapid population growth and increasing urbanisation, demand for residential land has surged. The methods used in this study are spatial analysis of satellite imagery and a qualitative approach to evaluate policies implemented by local governments. The results of the study show that changes in residential land cover in Malang City are closely related to existing spatial planning policies that are often not aligned with the community's need for decent housing. In addition, recommendations are offered to improve integration between land-use planning and settlement policies, creating a more sustainable urban environment that is responsive to social dynamics. This research is expected to contribute to the development of more effective urban policies in the future.

INTEGRATING HEALTH DISASTER RISK MANAGEMENT INTO URBAN RESILIENCE IN MALAYSIA: BARRIERS, PRACTICES AND CONSTRUCT VALIDATION

`Ainatul Fathiyah Abdul Rahim — 2025-11-30

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted critical vulnerabilities in Malaysia's urban health systems and disaster risk management, particularly in responding to complex health emergencies in densely populated areas. This study examines barriers and current practices of Health Emergency and Disaster Risk Management (Health-EDRM) within the context of urban resilience. A quantitative survey was conducted among 179 practitioners across multiple agencies. Descriptive analysis identified key barriers, including overwhelmed healthcare capacity (M = 3.29, SD = 0.957), low public compliance (M = 3.20, SD = 0.925), and insufficient resource allocation (M = 3.13, SD = 0.985). Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was used to assess the reliability and validity of the key constructs. The validated constructs, such as governance, risk assessment, preparedness, capacity building, and recovery demonstrated strong internal consistency and sampling adequacy. These findings highlight systemic gaps in current practices and provide empirical evidence that existing Health-EDRM approaches remain insufficient to address the complexity of urban disasters. By validating these constructs, this study lays the groundwork for an integrated framework to guide policymakers and practitioners in strengthening governance, multisectoral collaboration, and preparedness for future health emergencies.

LEGIBILITY OF REGENERATED ALLEYS AS SOCIAL SPACES: THE CASE OF KUALA LUMPUR COMMERCIAL DISTRICT

Hammou Harizi — 2025-11-30

Alley regeneration has emerged as a crucial strategy for revitalising urban areas that are in decline. This study specifically examines how the legibility of regenerated alleys impacts user engagement and social interaction within the Bukit Bintang commercial district of Kuala Lumpur. It combines quantitative analysis with behavioural observations to assess both spatial functionality and user engagement. To achieve this, correlation and multinomial regression analyses were conducted based on on-site questionnaire surveys involving 695 respondents who had visited the regenerated alleys. Systematic physical and behavioural observations were conducted to gain a comprehensive understanding of the existing issues, spatial functionality, and activity patterns within these alleys. The study revealed a moderate correlation between the legibility of an alley and the social interactions of its users. While visual elements positively affect social interaction, they show a lower standardised coefficient. In contrast, a clear structure demonstrates a much stronger relationship, indicated by a higher standardised coefficient. This finding strongly suggests that a clear structural layout has a significant impact on social interaction. By emphasising clear structural layouts alongside visually appealing elements, urban planners can create more engaging public spaces that effectively foster social interaction among users.

TWO WATERFRONTS, TWO STORIES: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF TANJUNG CHALI AND THE MELAKA RIVERFRONT

Mohd Amirul Hussain — 2025-11-30

Urban heritage waterfronts are essential elements for shaping place identity, preserving historical narratives and memories, and supporting local tourism development. This study compares two heritage waterfronts in Malaysia, namely Tanjung Chali in Alor Setar and the Melaka Riverfront in Melaka, to evaluate the role of physical landscapes, conservation policies, and the implications of development for heritage sustainability. Tanjung Chali reflects Kedah’s early identity as a traditional trading hub, yet it has received comparatively less attention in conservation efforts. In contrast, the Melaka Riverfront has undergone rapid transformation through conservation and commercialisation projects, making it an iconic world heritage-based tourism destination. The study employs document analysis, historical maps, secondary data, and field observations to identify the similarities, differences, and key challenges faced by both waterfronts. The findings reveal that although both sites share historical value and strategic riverfront locations, differing management approaches have produced divergent development trajectories: the Melaka Riverfront emphasises the commercialisation of heritage, whereas Tanjung Chali remains localised and underdeveloped. This article underscores the need for a balanced management model that reconciles conservation and development, thereby offering policy recommendations to strengthen Tanjung Chali’s potential as a sustainable heritage destination without compromising its original identity.

A BIBLIOMETRIC ANALYSIS ON CULTURAL ECOSYSTEM SERVICES ASSESSMENT STUDIES: TRENDS, INSIGHTS AND FUTURE IN A DECADE

Nurul Akmaniza Mohd Nasir — 2025-11-30

Cultural ecosystem services (CES) refer to intangible benefits derived from human interactions with their surrounding environment, such as recreational opportunities, aesthetic value, cultural heritage, and spiritual value. While attention is increasing towards CES, the growing fragmentation of methodologies, varied geographical distribution, and the lack of standardised assessment remain significant challenges for its integration into urban planning strategies. This paper aims to analyse global research trends in CES assessment and valuation between 2015 and 2025 and to formulate the future direction of CES assessment studies to enhance human-environment interaction. This study employed bibliometric analysis using BiblioMagika and VOSviewer to visualise the recent trends and patterns in CES assessment studies, based on a review of 173 journals from the Scopus database. The findings reveal that CES studies have received considerable academic attention over the decade, especially after 2020, and have mostly come from developed countries such as Germany and the United States, and more recently from China. However, regions with rich biodiversity are still underrepresented, such as Southeast Asia countries. Key themes include social media analysis, participatory spatial mapping, urban green space, and urban green infrastructure, which show their credibility in shifting the world's attention towards urban sustainability.

BIBLIOMETRIC ANALYSIS AND CRITICAL REVIEW OF THE ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE ADOPTION FACTORS IN CONSULTING QUANTITY SURVEYING FIRMS

Norazrina Binti Mohd Aini — 2025-11-30

AI adoption will help Malaysian construction organisations, including Consulting Quantity Surveying (CQS) firms, cope with challenges and increase productivity. However, AI adoption by CQS firms faces adoption issues in Malaysia. Existing AI adoption studies discuss barriers in developed countries. Applying these studies' results in developing countries such as Malaysia is inappropriate, as construction industry practices and properties differ. Also, there is limited attention to factors affecting AI adoption. Existing studies on AI adoption in Malaysia are limited, and the stages of AI adoption have not been rigorously studied. The first objective of the study is to explore and categorise the factors of AI adoption and provide in-depth insights into the different AI adoption stages. The second objective is to identify 62 factors that affect the four stages of AI adoption and group them into four clusters. This study applied Systematic Literature Review (SLR) to identify and classify factor clusters based on the Diffusion of Innovation Theory and Technology Organisation Environment (TOE). The identified cluster of factors can be useful to decision-makers for conducting analyses of AI adoption stages and for formulating adoption strategies, by providing facts and observations within organisations. The review observes that factors affecting AI adoption stages vary across regions, due to governmental pressure, cultural differences, practices, and demographics.

CREATIVE GIFT WORKSHOP AS A PLATFORM FOR ENTREPRENEURAL EMPOWERMENT

Julaila Abdul Rahman — 2025-11-30

This study adopted a practice-based qualitative approach to explore creative gift-making as a platform for skill development and entrepreneurial empowerment. The problem addressed is the lack of structured, hands-on platforms that embed entrepreneurial values within university students’ learning experiences. A total of 22 undergraduate students from different kulliyyahs at IIUM Gombak, Selangor, participated in a creative gifting workshop focusing on chocolate and flower arrangements in gift boxes. The objectives were: (1) to document the step-by-step process of creative gift-making, (2) to evaluate students’ achievement and progress throughout the activity, and (3) to identify students’ feedback and reflections. The research employed three methods: 1) photo documentation of each stage, 2) trainer-led observation and 3) a student feedback survey. The triangulated method provided a holistic understanding of the workshop’s effectiveness in enhancing technical skills, creativity, and entrepreneurial readiness through practice-based learning. This study demonstrates the potential of creative gifting workshops as a replicable model for entrepreneurship education and student empowerment in higher learning institutions.

LED STREET LIGHTING IN MALAYSIA: PERFORMANCE EVALUATION AND BARRIERS TO IMPLEMENTATION

Siti Nur Aida Nabihah Mohd Ishak — 2025-11-30

Street lighting plays a critical role in enhancing city aesthetics and minimising accidents and injuries by providing crucial illumination in public spaces, especially at dawn and dusk. However, Malaysia's street lighting system faces challenges related to energy efficiency, sustainability, and technology integration, as traditional lighting technologies are known for high energy consumption and light pollution. Thus, recognizing these issues, this paper is prepared with the objective to present the outcome of comparative study between the present conventional streetlights and the newly emerging technology of light-emitting diode (LED) with specific reference to energy and performance efficiency. The study employed a qualitative research strategy that in compasses of semi-structured interview with professionals that have established knowledge, skills, and experience actively engaged in streetlight projects in Malaysia. The study outcome revealed that the LED is deemed appropriate to enhance the visibility as compared to the present conventional streetlights. The adoption of LED street lighting in Malaysia presents a strategic move toward achieving national sustainability goals, offering enhanced energy and performance efficiency compared to conventional systems. Despite higher initial costs, LEDs contribute to reduced energy consumption, lower environmental impact, and improved urban infrastructure—aligning directly with Malaysia’s green agenda and the global targets of SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).

PROFESSIONAL BODIES’ PERSPECTIVES ON CORRUPTION DEFINITIONS, RISKS AND MITIGATION IN THE MALAYSIAN BUILT ENVIRONMENT SECTOR

Noor Suzilawati Rabe — 2025-11-30

The built environment sector is central to Malaysia’s national the built environment sector is a critical driver of Malaysia’s economic growth and societal development, yet it is widely recognised as highly susceptible to corruption. This study examines corruption risks and mitigation strategies within the sector from the perspective of professional bodies. Employing a qualitative approach, semi-structured interviews were conducted with six senior representatives from key professional bodies, which were the Board of Architects Malaysia, Board of Engineers Malaysia, Board of Quantity Surveyors Malaysia, Land Surveyors Board, Board of Town Planners Malaysia, and the Institute of Landscape Architects Malaysia. Participants were selected based on their extensive professional experience and positions of authority within their organisations, ensuring informed insights on governance, ethics, and sectoral practices. Findings indicate that corruption is multi-dimensional, occurring at all stages in the built environment, from tendering to construction and post-contract compliance. Tendering was identified as the stage most prone to integrity risks, driven primarily by large financial transactions, procedural ambiguities, and social pressures. While respondents believe that professionals are generally not the main actors in corrupt practices, they operate within a system that can enable misconduct, highlighting the importance of ethical awareness and institutional guidance. Professional bodies play a crucial role in promoting integrity, through mechanisms such as ethics-based examinations, professional development programmes, whistleblower policies, and collaborative initiatives with the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission. Despite their limited statutory authority, these bodies contribute significantly to safeguarding public interest and reinforcing ethical standards. The study concludes that effective corruption mitigation by the professional bodies requires integrated governance across project stages, strengthened professional ethics, and continuous collaboration between professional bodies and regulatory authorities. These findings provide practical implications for policymakers, professional bodies, and practitioners, offering insights into corruption risks and strategies to enhance transparency, accountability, and professional integrity in Malaysia’s built environment sector.

DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT CHALLENGES IN CREATING CHILD-FRIENDLY MASJID: PARENTAL PERSPECTIVES FROM MALAYSIA

Aniza Abu Bakar — 2025-11-30

The masjid should be an inclusive and welcoming space for all, including children as integral members of the jam?‘ah (congregation). In Malaysia, while acceptance of children in masjids has improved, many parents still face challenges related to design inadequacies, management gaps, and social attitudes. This study aims to explore parental experiences and identify the key design and management challenges in creating child-friendly masjids. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with twelve parents who regularly bring their children to the masjid. The interviews were transcribed, translated, and analysed using NVivo 12 through a deductive thematic approach to categorise emerging challenges. Findings indicate that parents’ struggles cluster into three interconnected domains: physical – inadequate spatial layout, lack of child zones, and poor safety features; social – negative perceptions and intolerance among some congregants; and management – inconsistent policies, weak supervision, and insufficient facilities. Despite these obstacles, parents remain dedicated to introducing their children to religious life, underscoring a strong commitment to nurturing faith and communal belonging. The study concludes that effective masjid design must integrate child-friendly features such as designated yet visually connected zones, safe circulation, and acoustic treatments, complemented by responsive management and community engagement. These strategies can enhance the masjid’s function as a nurturing space for families, reinforcing its role as both a spiritual and social hub. These findings contribute to developing inclusive design and management guidelines that promote holistic community participation.