Factors influencing sense of security in residential neighbourhood in Johor Bahru

Abstract

Sense of security or the lack of it is increasingly becoming one of the main social issues in modern residential neighbourhoods. This research aims to investigate and evaluate the factors influencing sense of security in residential neighbourhoods of Johor Bahru. It also examines the effect of residential neighbourhood’s distance from the city centre on resident’s sense of security. A questionnaire survey was undertaken as a primary data collection tool. The data were analysed with SmartPLS and SPSS softwares. The SmartPLS was used to evaluate the research questions and construct the research model. Results revealed the appropriateness of designed research model by approving 16 relationships among the research factors. In addition, the research factors associated to economic and demographical background of the research respondents were examined by using SPSS software. The analyses showed the effect of gender, age, income and the distance of selected research study areas (Taman Abad and Taman JP Perdana) to central part of Johor Bahru on sense of security. Finally, the results revealed that residents of residential neighbourhood closer to the city centre feel more insecure compared to residents in farther residential neighbourhoods. The results also revealed that females feel less secure compared to male residents. The sense of insecurity was higher within the higher age groups (50 years and above). Moreover, higher income groups (RM10000/month and above) feel less secure comparing to the residents in lower income groups (below RM1000/month). Urban designers and architects can use the aforementioned results to improve the sense of security in residential neighbourhoods of Johor Bahru by considering the distance of residential neighbourhoods to urban centres and the social composition of residents in terms of gender, age and income status. In closing, the results of this research generally can be helpful in improving the overall quality of life and sense of security in residential neighbourhoods of Johor Bahru.