Social definition of spatial design from policymaker for low income group's housing in Malaysia

Abstract

After 60 years of housing development for low-income groups, there are still criticisms from academia regarding the quality of housing space. Therefore, this study aims to examine the manuscripts of policymakers related to housing policy to understand how policy brief to designers. This study uses a content analysis method by involving housing policy documents published for public reading. This study has successfully brought together three main themes that reflect the desire of Policy Makers to deliver their services in providing housing stock for the B40 group in Malaysia. The findings of the study have shown that theoretically, the recorded housing policies are made in the abstract which needs to be refined its understanding by the designer as a reference for designing. The social interpretation from Policymakers is likely to have rendered housing for the B40 group underperforming to the suitability of housing design with the social patterns of the occupants. The statements in the policy do not seem to encourage designers to produce innovative designs in addressing occupancy problems. As a result, this study conveys concerns over the influence of Policymakers at risk of being seen as weak by designers in producing housing that truly meets the Government's aspirations in providing quality housing. Therefore, this study suggests that the statements adopted by policymakers need to be improved so that it is clearer to be adhered to by designers to create quality housing in achieving the Government's aspiration to provide sustainable and livable housing.