Urban planning and the challenges of neoliberal globalisation in Malaysia

• Main Authors: Hamdan, H. (Author), Leh, O.L.H (Author), Marzukhi, M.A (Author)
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Malaysian Institute Of Planners 2017
• Subjects: Neoliberal globalisation; Planning; Policies; Practice; Urban settlements
• Online Access: View Fulltext in Publisher; View in Scopus

 Popularly referred to as an Asian Tiger, planning for economic development has been a significant feature in the Malaysian planning system. This reflected the historical junctures that transform Malaysia economy from agricultural potential to industrial capabilities. The rapid industrialisation that can be linked to neoliberal ideology has caused people to migrate from rural to urban area that echoed the emergence of urban settlements. However, this transformation has produced social and environmental instability, as a result of capital accumulation. Accordingly, this study conducted in-depth interviews and documents analysis, with the objective to develop understanding of how neoliberal globalisation rationalises the emergence of urban settlements in Malaysia through its policies and planning practice. The Nvivo10 was used to define categories and synthesise the ideas from the interview data and planning policy documents. This paper is expected to contribute to deepening knowledge of the emergence of urban settlements particularly in the urban planning field under the pervasive discourse of neoliberal globalisation.