GIS as new approach and method in preparing and implementing the development plan in Malaysian planning system

Abstract

Malaysian planning methodology has changed over the years as emphasis has shifted from producing plan, which described a state of affairs expected of some future date, to one which acknowledged the continuous and cyclical nature of planning. Thus planning should be based on the identification of needs and goals, the formulation and evaluation of alternative courses of action and monitoring of adopted programmes. By tracing the evolving view of planning, this paper will discuss the development of Geographical Information Systems (GIS) as a new tool and approach for planning in Malaysia. Using examples from current GIS implementation projects namely the Application of GIS for Klang Valley Region (AGISwlk) and GIS for Negeri Sembilan (GIS9), this paper will discuss GIS development and application for plan’s preparation and monitoring of urban development. A well-integrated and comprehensive database is part of the important elements that could determine the ultimate success of GIS application in plan making. The application indicates that the functionality of GIS can be enhanced by adding new model and analytical tools to existing system and by using the GIS toolkit to the best effect. Consequently, it will be used to assist decision-making, taking into account among other things, the current scenarios of the proposed development, physical constraint and future impacts. The paper will also discuss various modeling and spatial analysis techniques appropriate for different stages and form of planning which will integrate GIS and other information system for plan generation and plan evaluation such as Spatial Multi-Criteria Evaluation. Lastly, the paper will address the potential development of web-based GIS for monitoring the implementation of development plan and for project monitoring.