Urban regeneration issues of Section 13 Petaling Jaya

Abstract

The evolvement of urban regeneration dates back to the 1950s when the idea of urban reconstruction surfaced, strategizing for the reconstruction and extension of older areas of towns and cities..In the perspective of town planners, urban regeneration is a land redevelopment activity meant to enhance areas of less economic use lacking in infrastructure and amenities which are often dilapidated or abandoned. In pursuant to that, this study aims to study the issues on urban regeneration in Section 13 Petaling Jaya by studying the current mechanism practiced for urban regeneration and the key issues pertaining to urban regeneration which will aid in formulating suggestions to improve the present practice of urban regeneration towards a more sustainable future. The study analyzed data collected through research, observation and small focus group interviews of 12 respondents comprising of land owners/tenants of Section 13, government personnels, planning professionals and community representatives forming a comparative analysis between the changes that have taken place in Section 13 before and after the urban regeneration activity in addition to statistical analysis on the opionions and perceptions on those changes and method used. Although it has been analayzed that the mechanism for urban regeneration of Section 13 Petaling Jaya using Rancangan Kawasan Khas Seksyen 13 is in place and effective, it is costly and time consuming to prepare, difficult in getting collective responds and faced coordination issues within the working group. Suitable suggestions focusing to address these issues to further improve the current practice of urban regeneration shall include grant schemes and project bidding, local emphasis focused towards equal benefits, social sustainability and effective consultation.