Public participation in conservation of heritage area in Johor Bahru City Centre : a study of the level of awareness and understanding

Abstract

Land use activities and new skyscrapers in urban areas are jeopardizing the value of heritage area. Despite vigorous programmes and enforcement carried out by Johor Bahru City Council, conservation efforts remain a challenge. This is due to lack of conservation of heritage area awareness and understanding. This study was specifically conducted to evaluate the local public’s level of awareness, level of understanding, and experiences and perception that causes lack of public participation in the conservation plan in the perspective of awareness and understanding. This survey was conducted on 142 respondents. Results indicated that the level of awareness and understanding of general conservation concept is high but level of awareness and understanding of the conservation of heritage area in Johor Bahru City Centre plan is low. Factors like age, gender and educational background have no significant impact on willingness to participate in the conservation programme.