Social Interaction in Public Open Space - A Lake in Seksyen 7, Shah Alam

Social Interaction in Public Open Space : A Lake in Seksyen 7, Shah
Alam | Nurameir Dzakareea bin Azmi
CERTIFICATION
SOCIAL INTERACTION IN PUBLIC OPEN SPACE: A LAKE IN

SEKSYEN 7, SHAH ALAM
This report has been submitted to the Department of

Architecture,
Faculty
of
Architecture,
Planning
and
Surveying,
University Technology of MARA, to fulfil the requirement of JSB

467/ARK 557 RESEARCH PAPER course.
Prepared by:
Name
NURAMEIR DZAKAREEA BIN AZMI
UiTM No.
2007106147
Programme
Bachelor of Science in Architecture

(Hons.)
Year / Semester
Semester 2 2013 / 2014
Session / Part
12
Faculty
Faculty of Architecture, Planning and

Surveying

DECLARATION
I hereby declare that this research paper and the research to

which it refers are the product of my own work and that any ideas or
quotations from the work of other people, published or otherwise are
fully acknowledged in accordance with the standard academic
practices.
Name
NURAMEIR DZAKAREEA BIN AZMI
UiTM No.
2007106147
This research had been checked by:

Supervisor
Assoc. Prof. Amran Abdul Rahman
Course Coordinator
Pn. Mimi Zaleha Abdul Ghani
_____________________________
Assoc. Prof. Amran Abdul Rahman
____________________________
Pn. Mimi Zaleha Abdul Ghani
____________
Date:
____________
Date:
ii

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
In accomplishing this research paper, I would like to place my

deepest gratitude to the highest level to my supervisor, Assoc. Prof.
Amran Abdul Rahman for his patience in guiding and observing the
progress of my research since the beginning of the project till the end of
it. A special thanks also goes to Pn. Mimi Zaleha Abdul Ghani for the
teaching Research Paper.
Much love and respect to those friendly and cheerful children
who have been really helpful to this research. Not to forget my studio
mates who always been there for me in completing this task. I also
would like to convey my appreciation to the staff and Faculty of
Architecture, Planning & Surveying (FSPU) for providing the best library
facilities to me and other students for us to make full use of. I also
would like to express my love to my beloved family in supporting me in
completing this assignment and for understanding my life as an
architecture student.
iii

ABSTRACT
The objective of this research is to understand housing residents

and visitors interaction among other in an open space by investigating
their activities in a real scenario in a particular research area.
Issues arises in newspaper such as lack of open space,
unmaintained and security flaws, tend to disrupt social interaction that
should occur in this area.
The main methodology that has been applied for this research is
by observing the users or visitors by note taking, sketching and
photography which later on will be analyse.
iv

TABLE OF CONTENT
CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION ................................................ 1
1.1
Statement of the Problem ............................................... 4
1.2
Aim and objectives of research ....................................... 5
1.3
Significant of research .................................................... 6
1.4
Scope and limitation........................................................ 8
CHAPTER 2: LITERATURE REVIEW ...................................... 9

2.1
Residential Building and Housing ................................... 9
2.1.1 Definitions ................................................................. 9

According to the definition in Uniform Building By-Law 1984,
residential building is defined simply as a building or part thereof
designed, adapted or used for human habitation. .............................. 9
2.2
Open Space .................................................................. 11
2.2.1 Definitions ............................................................... 11

2.2.2 Functions ................................................................ 12
2.3
Community and Neighbourhood ................................... 14
2.3.1 Community.............................................................. 14
2.3.2 Neighbourhood ....................................................... 15
2.4
Social Interaction .......................................................... 16

2.5
Conclusion .................................................................... 18
CHAPTER 3: RESEARCH METHOD ..................................... 19

3.1
Introduction ................................................................... 19
3.2
Research Strategies ..................................................... 19
3.2.1 Site visit .................................................................. 19

3.2.2 Literature resources ................................................ 20
3.3
Methodology ................................................................. 21
3.3.1 Method 1: Observation and documentation ............ 21

3.3.2 Method 2: Photography .......................................... 22
CHAPTER 4: DATA ANALYSIS AND FINDINGS ................... 23
4.1
Introduction ................................................................... 23
4.2
Site area ....................................................................... 24
4.3
Site Circulation .............................................................. 29
4.3.1 Vehicular Access .................................................... 29

4.3.2 Pedestrian............................................................... 30
4.3.3 Softscape and hardscape ....................................... 31
4.3.4 Exercising areas ..................................................... 34
4.4
Conditions and assumptions ......................................... 42
4.5
Observation .................................................................. 43
vi

CHAPTER 5: CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION...... 46

Bibliography ........................................................................... 47
Newspaper Articles................................................................ 56
vii

LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1: Seksyen around the site ...................................................... 23
Figure 2: Location plan. ..24
Figure 3: Entrances and pedestrian walkways .................................... 25
Figure 4: First entrance near Persiaran Dato Menteri ........................ 26
Figure 5: Walkways near the main road ............................................. 26
Figure 6: Second entrance near Jalan 7/1F ........................................ 26
Figure 7: Pedestrian walkways with no proper pavements ................. 26
Figure 8: Third entrance from below the site ...................................... 26
Figure 9: Parking and access points ................................................... 27
Figure 10: Vehicular access to the site .............................................. 29
Figure 11: Pedestrian flow and walkways.30
Figure 12: Concrete pavements.......................................................... 32
Figure 13: Floodlight ........................................................................... 32
Figure 14: Concrete bin ...................................................................... 32
Figure 15: Benches ............................................................................. 32
Figure 16: Distribution of benches ....................................................... 34
Figure 17: Exercising areas ................................................................. 35
Figure 18: Info panel area 1 ................................................................ 36
Figure 19: Exercising area 1 ............................................................... 36
Figure 20: Info panel 2 ........................................................................ 37
viii


Figure 30: Plan section A-A ................................................................ 40
Figure 31: Plan section B-B ................................................................ 40
Figure 32: Section A-A ........................................................................ 41
Figure 33: Section B-B ........................................................................ 41
ix


CHAPTER 1:
INTRODUCTION
Nowadays, public open space in housing is essential in every

housing development. Government even implement this need in law
and regulation. In Uniform Building By-Laws (1984), open space need
to be provided in relation to a lot size and setbacks. The open space
shall not be altered or roofed.
Recently, many city councils in Malaysia become consciously
aware the needs of open spaces. Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) took
measures in upgrading open spaces facilities and applying to gazette
some 380 areas as open space around the city. DBKL also asked
developers to allocate at least 10 percent of each development as open
space instead of it being scattered within the development (New Straits
Times, 2012). Recently, DBKL launched a new campaign, Go Green
Car Free Morning. The campaign is 1.5km car-free zone loops for two
hours every first Sunday of the henceforth. This initiative give residents
around Kuala Lumpur a temporary open space and to promote a
healthy lifestyle in form of exercise by walking or cycling, minimizing
diabetes and obesity suffered by many Malaysians. (New Straits Times,
2014). A well maintain amenities is important for residents to enjoy their
open spaces. Penang Municipal Council (MPPP) aware this issue,
1

respond by upgrade their open spaces with the installation of solarpowered lamps, new exercise equipment, and also planned to install a
roof over the multipurpose plain which would enable residents to carry
out their activities even during heavy rain. Petaling Jaya City Council
(MBPJ) meanwhile wants to implement a project called PJ Community
Green Corridor Plan, based on the city-in-a-garden concept to ensure
the wellbeing of the surrounding community and also to promote green
consciousness. (New Straits Times, 2013).
Research over the past decade focusing on previously neglected
aspects of open space quality has provided recognition of the social,
psychological, and economic benefits of open space. Research has
been carried out on open spaces such as play streets, community
gardens and town trails. (Zube, E. H., & Moore, G. T., 1991).
According to Ahmad Zamil (2012), there are two main
compositions of open space design concept. The two components are
softscape and hardscape.
Enrique Garcia et. al. (2004) gathered many crucial points from
other researchers in maintaining an integration community. It has an
impact and responsible in health and wellbeing of an individuals
(House, Umberson, & Landis, 1988; Umberson, 1987); family
functioning (Cochran, Larner, Riley, Gunnarsson, & Henderson, 1990;
2

Milardo, 1988; Pierce, Sarason, & Sarason, 1997); adolescent

development (Cotterell, 1996); competence in old age (Antonucci &
Akiyama, 1997; Rein & Salzman, 1995), family caregiving in chronic
illness (Biegel, Sales, & Schulz, 1991); or adaptation to chronic illness
and disability (Lyons, Sullivan, Ritvo, & Coyne, 1995). Attachment to a
community also produces a willingness to contribute to its maintenance
(Kasarda & Janowitz, 1974; Sampson, 1988), which suggests that
individuals with higher levels of community attachment are more likely
to provide support to others (Haines, Hurlbert, & Beggs, 1996).
Introducing a public green space in housing area, can offer broader
social benets as meeting places that give a shared focus to diverse
communities and neighbourhoods (Germann-Chiari and Seeland, 2004;
Martin et al., 2004) and this give a positive effect in physical and mental
well-being of people in the community (Ulrich et al., 1991; Takano et al.,
2002; Jackson, 2003).
United Nations Research Institute for Social Development (1994)
stated that the ongoing issues with murders or assaults, and increasing
numbers of the poor are not primarily a quantitative one, but also
qualitative changes in the way people are related to each other. There
is increasing evidence that residents of urban neighbourhoods with
poor living conditions and few environmental amenities for restoration

display more symptoms of chronic stress and poor health independent

of the individual characteristics of resident (Van den Berg et al, 2006).
The need of proper open spaces are apparent in Malaysia.
Current issues regarding this can be seen in newspaper and internet. In
Subang Jaya, residents are protesting against the zoning of an open
space to residential area in the Subang Jaya draft local plan. They fear
the land which they have been using for recreation may be developed
(NST, 2012). Unused open spaces can lead a rubbish dump, leading to
monkeys and strays feed as happens in Kamunting. Recently, residents
of Kuala Ampang gathered at the MPAJ Kuala Ampang field to show
their appreciation to the local authorities for reclaiming their open space
for public use (NST, 2014).
1.1
Statement of the Problem
The lack of open social space model and precedents makes

difficult for housing owners or developer to integrate an appropriate
space for interaction in contemporary housing design. The relation
between inside (building) and outside (surrounding) is vital to make
good design thus give building users full benefit of the site.

The lack of understanding in social interaction design had led to

loss of the community and the neighbourhood values. The benefit of
softscape and its complementary hardscape in daily life slowly
disappear if there are no relationship between inside/outside of the
buildings.
1.2
Aim and objectives of research
The purpose of the study is to identify and understand the design

aspects of public open spaces in surrounding housing scheme and to
see how these open spaces function in terms of social interaction and
environmental benefit in housing development. From the investigation,
it is expected to educate and raise awareness to public users and
professionals regarding the significance of social interaction in public
open space. In line with the aim, the objectives of the study are listed
below:
To establish the level of awareness among public, professionals

and designers
To sort out the fundamental concept of social interaction space

and its elements

To establish sort of guidelines for proper public open spaces in

the residential area
1.3
Significant of research
In terms of social interaction, this study would reveal the

connection among residents specifically in open space within and
around neighbouring residential areas. The data from this research will
be used to improve the way open spaces are design in an effort to
provide a better living environment and social interaction for the
community.
Generally, social interaction is very important to bring stability to
community. People interact with others through many social cues,
including those determined by facial expression, eye contact, gesture,
tone of voice, and temperament. These social cues are vital for people
as to make certain they are attaining mutual understanding.
Communication between people can be greatly interrupted if there is
minimal social information. (Sproull & Kiesler, 1986; Preece & MaloneyKrichmar, 2003). Yap Yin (2008) in his paper stated that the importance
of maintaining close social bond which encompasses national unity and
integration is an important social agenda needed for a successful

transformation of the Malaysian society both economically and

politically.
Factors which could affect residential satisfaction, such as
defects in the physical structure of the housing, lack of well-maintained
public facilities, and poor social and physical environment could
adversely affect the achievement of greater social integration. (Hashim,
A. H., 2003).
Studies conducted (Richard M. R. et al, 2009) collectively point
to the positive impact of being outdoors and around natural elements on
subjective vitality, above and beyond the effects of physical activities or
social interactions that can take place in natural settings. Being
outdoors encourage people to interact more with others and get more
exercise (Furnass, 1996) and most outdoor activities which involve
social interactions have a wealth of positive effects on individuals
(Cohen, Gottlieb, & Underwood, 2000; Ishii-Kuntz, 1990).
This research will help to provide a better understanding on the
way housing and open spaces in a particular area or section are design
to promote better communal living environment. Hopefully, this
research will also benefit future researcher who wish to conduct similar
investigation.

1.4
Scope and limitation
In this investigation, the research will be focusing on social

interaction issues at a small lake located in Seksyen 7, Shah Alam.
Some primary spots of open spaces in the neighbouring areas are also
selected to observed the inter relationship amongst these spaces.

CHAPTER 2:
LITERATURE REVIEW
This chapter discusses on the topic by looking various resources

from articles, books and websites. In this way the writer is able to
further enhance the understanding of the topic and all terms involved in
this study.
This is also to utilise and share acceptable or recognised
studies/writings, so that the argument or explanation would not be
purely based on individual standing but rather more inclined to an
academics.
2.1
Residential Building and Housing
2.1.1 Definitions
According to the definition in Uniform Building By-Law 1984,

residential building is defined simply as a building or part thereof
designed, adapted or used for human habitation.
Housing is a composite commodity (in the sense of Gary Becker)

that fulfils several human needs. The major need is dwelling, but having
9

a social space to interact and socialize with family and friends, or to be

able to reach a desired social status, might be some reasons for which
individuals demand some housing services. Thus, from a social point of
view, housing is more than a dwelling unit and its objective
characteristics, since it also provides security, privacy, neighbourhood
and social relations, status, community facilities and services, access to
jobs and control over the environment. (Vera-Toscano, E., & AtecaAmestoy, V. 2008).
In housing areas, the house and the exterior spaces are
interconnected physically and socially (Aziz, A. A. Et al., 2011). The role
of physical environment in affording interactions cannot be undermined
in improving residents attachments to housing (Brandon, Hirt &
Cameron, 2008; Huang, 2006). Having neighbourhood environment of
these positive potentials encourages one to invest time, social and
physical resources to generate meaningful attachment to the
community, and local social support (Boyce, 2006; Mee, 2009).
Architectural characteristics of the dwellings (S. Brown, et al., 2009),
appropriated outdoor space enclosures (Al-Homoud & Tassinary,
2004), and outdoor semi-private spaces (Williams, 2005) also affect
social interaction and social support among neighbours.
10

2.2
Open Space
2.2.1 Definitions
Open space, as defined by the Town and Country Planning Act

1976 (Act 172) means whichever land that is enclosed or open, that is
specified or reserved to be specified wholly or in part as a public
botanical park, public park, public sports and recreation field, pedestrian
walkway or as a public area (JPBD, 2000).
According to Ministry of Urban Wellbeing, Housing and Local
Government (2013), the open spaces and planting of trees are taking
into account under the Draft Local Plan, towards realising The Beautiful
Garden Nation vision which has become the guiding principle in the
formulation of the National Landscape Policy.
Leading
property
developers
in
Malaysia,
continuously
incorporate sustainability in all of their developments by introducing

environmental friendly approaches such as the Green Action Plan and
Green Trail. These measures took early in planning phase until the
construction phase and also follow the Green Building Index (GBI)
assessment criteria. One of the GBI primary focus is to improve the
quality of human life via existing or in construction buildings. Under heat
island principles in GBI Township Tool and GBI Residential New
11

Construction (RNC) Tool, open space is describes as land that is

enclosed or open that is specified or reserved to be wholly or in part as
a public botanical park, public park, public sports and recreation field,
pedestrian walkway, dedicated cycleway or as a public plaza. The open
space is a combination of hardscape and softcape. Greenspace is
defined as open space that is having predominantly softscape
landscaping in nature.
Urban designer, Marilyn Myers (1975) defined open space as
land and/or water area with its surface open to the sky, consciously
acquired or publicly regulated to serve conservation and urban shaping
function in addition to providing recreational opportunities. The value of
urban open space can also be considered with regards to the specific
functions it provides. For example, the Bureau of Municipal Research in
Toronto (1971) lists these functions as the nature function, urban
design function, economic function, social retreat function, and outdoor
recreation function.
2.2.2 Functions
Open green spaces usually function as corridors for fresh air

supply and facilitate good air circulation in general. It enhances the
recreational quality for the public and the overall image of a place
12

(Rusli, 2009). Open spaces have significant importance in the life of the
settlements. The areas with high green-coverage rate have ecological
and environmental importance. These green spaces can improve the
urban climate, abate the urban heat-island effect by their ecologicalbalancer function and reduce environmental damages. Through their
social importance, the open spaces can help the residents in adjusting
to the healthy lifestyle.
By their aesthetic importance, they determine the characteristic
of the settlements, help to improve the built-up character of the cities
(Balogh and Takacs, 2011). Furthermore, green spaces can offer
broader social benefits as meeting places that give a shared focus to
diverse
communities and
neighbourhoods (Germann-Chiari and
Seeland, 2004; Martin et al., 2004). Bell et al. (2008) and Weldon et al.
(2007) believe it offers many benefits such as increasing in social
activity, improving community cohesion, developing local attachment
and lowering crime levels. A study by Cohen et al. (2008) found there
was a positive association between neighbourhood features such as
parks and collective efficacy or the ability of residents to interact
positively.
13

2.3
Community and Neighbourhood
2.3.1 Community
Poplin (1979) described community as the place where people

maintain their homes, earn their livings, rear their children and carry on
most of their life activities. Long and Hutchins (2003) defined
community as a grouping of up to several thousand households whose
occupants share common experiences and bonds derived from living in
the same locality. Rozilah et al. (2008) concluded community definition
as persons or people living within the same geographical area, carrying
on their social interactions and activities with one or more common ties
and shared values.
Residents
are
accustomed
to
communicate
with
other
community residents under the name of own community and interact

within their own communities. At the same time, community residents
establish a community defence system and have a clear sense of
belonging and community feeling. (Lele Zhao, 2009)
14

2.3.2 Neighbourhood
De Chiara et al. (1984) defined neighbourhood as a residential

area with homogenous characteristics of a size comparable to that
usually served by an elementary school. According to De Chiara et al.
(1984) again, good neighbourhood at least provides with basic public
facilities requirements for sustaining and enhancing the existing
communities who live in the area. One characteristic that can extract
from that is the area would be at least 10 percent allocated for open
space and recreation.
Stuart Cameron et al. (2010) regarded neighbourhood is of
importance to urban social cohesion at two levels. Firstly, there is the
relationship and interaction between neighbourhoods, and the question
of whether socio-spatial divisions between neighbourhoods undermine
social cohesion. Secondly, there is the dynamic of social interaction
within the neighbourhood and the cohesiveness of neighbourhood
social bonds.
The design of a neighbourhood may provide both opportunities
for and constraints on who the individuals interact with and where they
interact (Fleming et al, 1985).
Bunnell, T. (2004) explained that neighbourhood units are
designed to promote increased social contacts and neighbourly
15

interactions which sadly are rapidly eroding in our pursuit of material

progress.
The need for health benefits, comfort and relaxation from
residential green space either private green space and semi-public
such as street trees, public green area within housing neighbourhood
will be much important and the planting development or planting
program should give more attention. (Yunos, M. Y. M., & Saring, Z. M.
Z. M., 2012).
2.4
Social Interaction
In sociology, interaction refers to dynamic actions between two

or more actors (Latour, 1996).
Social interactions refer to particular forms of externalities, in
which the actions of a reference group affect an individuals
preferences. The reference group depends on the context and is
typically an individuals family, neighbours, friends or peers. Social
interactions are sometimes called non-market interactions to emphasize
the fact that these interactions are not regulated by the price
mechanism (Scheinkman, 2008).
16

In late 1930s, Wirth (1938) in his essay feared the loss of social
interaction when he predicted the demise of community with increasing
urbanization. Later in early post-modernity era some researcher such
as Maran and Rodgers (1975), identified that social interaction is a key
element of community. Keane (1991) who research in community
formation also stated the importance of social interaction in forming a
solid community.
According to Fleming et al. (1985), social interaction is enhanced
by the presence of three variables;
1. Opportunity for contact;
2. Proximity to others; and
3. Appropriate space to interact.
17

2.5
Conclusion
Open space is a necessity in neighbourhood area to promote a

healthy social interaction among residents. The quality of an open
space is important for it to function as a community catalyst.
18

CHAPTER 3:
3.1
RESEARCH METHOD
Introduction
This chapter gives the idea to accurate the description of the

methodology, procedures to obtain data and information, and
management to undertake a study within the period specified.
Researcher has studied a few of examples from previous researcher in
order to identify research design used in this research.
3.2
Research Strategies
3.2.1 Site visit
This investigative strategy is very important, as to get direct

impression of the case area and to fully execute research procedures.
The site was chosen for its suitable functions and satisfactory definition
of open public space in residential area. The nature of this research is
qualitative study, thus direct observation need to be included.
19

Since this research started, total site visits conducted were 6

times, in the morning and evening hour time frame. The visit required to
walk around the site, photographing and document the area.
3.2.2 Literature resources
The writer has also scouted for information regarding the related
topics through literature sources such as books, documentations and
websites regarding the targeted area. Literature sources are concrete
and reliable information sources for the subject of study.
Mostly, the books and journals which refer here are in electronic
format and can be easily access from internet. Sources are ranges from
government department websites, local and foreign universities, Google
scholar site, and independent sites. Current issues, research and
related article can be found from online and offline newspapers, such
as The Star, New Straits Times and Bernama, and also reliable
magazines such as Time and Newsweek.
20

3.3
Methodology
3.3.1 Method 1: Observation and documentation
The focus is to make an observation on the interactions which

take place in specific time and conditions. Observation provides
flexibility to guide this research study.
In parallel, documentation can be done with observation.
Document can be taken by taking note and write provide the same
flexibility as observation.
First, observation was carry out by tracking the number of
users/visitors to the site by taking note. By doing this, the highest and
lowest access points of people enter the access points can be
determined. Next, documenting activities of user/visitor involve inside
the site after they had entered. Possible collective activities in this area
are jogging/running around the track, exercising around the equipment
area and sitting on benches. The data will be recorded by taking note
and sketch on a copy of site plan.
21

3.3.2 Method 2: Photography
Still and moving photography became the principal mode of

documentation, representation (Prosser, J., & Loxley, A., 2008).
This will be carry out by using digital camera. Documenting with
photography method can be applied anytime and from different views.
The suitability of this method makes observation more thorough and
fast. By using this method, research can be more close reading as indepth scrutiny and treating the visual as problematic. Photography
enable research more flexibility, for example documenting while walking
and capture in action activities. For this research, photography divide by
two categories. First the static photos, capturing photos of site areas
and surrounding objects. In this category, photos of possible social
interaction spaces will be collected for analysis. Second category
capture the activities and interaction involve around the site areas.
Documenting start with tracking visitor path upon arriving, when
possible social interaction take place and until visitors leave the site.
These photos will be used as a narrative in the analysis stage.
22

CHAPTER 4:
4.1
DATA ANALYSIS AND FINDINGS
Introduction
The area which research was conducted is in section 7

residential area. This area of research is in between section 7 and
section 6. This area surrounded primarily by bungalows in section 7,
medium cost housing blocks in section 6, different kind of facilities.
Most of the residents are family and students.
Figure 1: Seksyen around the site
23

Just like most residential area in Shah Alam, section 7 and

section 6 areas are covered with greeneries and green open spaces.
Basically, all areas are well shaded, to give residents a natural
environment. The red circle indicate the research area, surround by
nearest sections. All this sections are designated for low to medium rise
residential and low density commercial.
4.2
Site area
Figure 2: Location plan
24

Location plan above shows the relation between the site

research and the surrounding areas around. From this we can see the
open space serves for mainly for Seksyen 6 and Seksyen 7. The
location wise; near the road made people easy to travel there by
walking. From the plan, the main lake of Shah Alam; Tasik Shah Alam,
is located far from people from Seksyen 6 and Seksyen 7.
Figure 3: Entrances and pedestrian walkways
25

Fig. 4: First entrance near Persiaran Dato

Menteri
Fig. 6: Second entrance

near Jalan 7/1F
Fig. 5: Walkways near the

main road
Fig.7: Pedestrian walkways

with no proper pavements
Fig. 8: Third entrance from below of the site
26

There are three entrances to access into this lake indicated by

red circle on the site plan above. These entrances are only limited to
people and link by stairs. The first entrance can be access from east of
the site which is from a main road, Persiaran Dato Menteri. The second
and third entrances are both located west, near Jalan 7/1F. A proper
pedestrian walkways (showed by green line above) with pavements and
shaded trees only provided along Persiaran Dato Menteri.
Figure 9: Parking and access points
27

People usually park their vehicle along this road (indicated by the
yellow line) because there are no proper parking space could be
provided and it is near the entrances. The only convenient entrance
directly. To enter inside this area, visitors need to pass this access
points (indicated by the green circle) by walking down stairs. Some
people warm up around this point after entering the site before started
jogging or exercising. They would encounter other visitors passing by,
frequently welcome them with smiles and greetings. People from the
same neighbourhood commonly have a short talk together.
This layout design has provided the residents or visitors to have
spontaneous or coincidental meeting place, thus allowing to have
opportunities to communicate. This seems to have fitted well as
suggested by Fleming et al. (1985) suggesting, access point areas can
serve as an appropriate space for contact indirectly.
28

4.3
Site Circulation
4.3.1 Vehicular Access
Figure 10: Vehicular access to the site

The area is connected with Shah Alam backbone primary road,
Persiaran Dato Menteri and backbone primary road, Persiaran
Kayangan thus vehicular can be easily access.
The red line indicate the secondary road, which connected to
Persiaran Dato Menteri, the main road. This road serves as an access
to tertiary road, indicate by yellow line, to go to the research area,
indicate by green colour.
29

4.3.2 Pedestrian
Figure 11: Pedestrian flow and walkways
Pedestrian walkways are generally safe and provided along

vehicular road. The walkways are shaded with greeneries and well
taken care. The plan above shows the designated pedestrian
walkways, indicated by blue line. The walkways are provided until the
entrance points.
30

The yellow arrows indicate flow of visitors coming to the

walkways following the pedestrian path. But in order from people from
Seksyen 6 to access this lake via walking, they need to cross the main
road (indicated by red line).
4.3.3 Softscape and hardscape
According to Huzeima Hussain (2010), softscape is soft

landscape which is defined as living plants and horticultural elements.
Hardscape is the manmade elements that complement the garden
design.
The softscapes of this area are filled with trees for shading, and
grasses. The ground are well maintained, covered around the lake
mostly with cow grass and maintained under Shah Alam Municipal
Council (MBSA). The hardscape area is around exercising and jogging
track, covered with concrete pavement.
31

Figure 12: Concrete pavements
Figure 13: Floodlight
Figure 14: Concrete bin
Figure 15: Benches
32

MBSA provide basic street furniture to the park. Many concrete

bin were put to keep the surrounding clean. Six floodlight can be seen
to promote activities and as security for visitors during night hours.
Lots of benches can be found in this site along the running track
on which several people may sit at the same time or to take a quick
break. The distance between benches are about 1.5m to encourage
people in social interaction. Map below shows the benches distribution
around the site. Mainly, benches are distributed in pairs except at
access point area where three pair of benches.
All the facilities provided are in good conditions. MBSA put a lot
of effort to maintain the area well.
33

Figure 16: Distribution of benches
4.3.4 Exercising areas
There are six exercising area around the lake. These area are
well equipped with different exercising equipment.
34

2
6
Figure 17: Exercising areas
All of these areas are covered with concrete and bricks

pavement. The 1, 2, and 3 exercising area are about 5m width and 7m
long. The number 4 area is the smallest with 5m width and 5m long. It is
because less people gather around here and far from entrances.
People use this area only for exercising and the area is fit only for
exercising equipment. Area number 6 is the largest. The area covered
are 7m width and 9m long. It is near the entrance and main road.
35

The area number 1 is near an entrance point. This should be a

good place be a social interaction activities. Visitor can refer to the
instruction panel to perform exercising with the equipment there. The
condition of equipment is good but the pavement possibly covered with
water after rain. This prevent full usages of the area.
Fig. 18: Info panel area 1
Fig. 19: Exercising area 1
The area number 2 is nearest to entrance point. Visitors often

gather here to warm up because only light exercising equipment can be
seen here and this make the area feel much more spacious and open.
The pavement are good with no defects compare to area number 1.
Spacious green area around make it suitable for social activities.
36

Fig. 20: Info panel 2
The area number 3 is near to the third entrance. Visitor often

miss this entrance because it is almost hidden. The area is beside area
number 2 and lightly covered by trees. The condition is almost the
same as area number 1.
37

Area number 4 is the farthest area from entrance and other

exercising areas. The area only is only 25m but fully covered by trees.
Small forest can be seen behind this area. The forest make
environment around more comfortable.
The area number 5 is in between number 4 and 6. This is the

most open area in the site; lack of trees around except behind
exercising area. The exercising equipment are for low type of exercises.
Visitors often use this equipment as a temporary seating.
38

The area number 6 is near to entrance point and main road. This
the largest exercising area in the site. Almost every day most senior
citizens gather around to practise tai chi together in this area.
39

The lake surrounded by jogging track varies in width. The

pathway are about 1.5m to 3m width and 200m long. The width is
comfortable enough for two to three people to walk. People from
opposite direction can interact with each other when walking.
The exercising areas suitable for collective kind of activities.
Family with children frequently use this spots as resting place or playing
board games. Teenagers and adults commonly use this as their
chatting place or sharing ideas about exercising techniques.
Fig.30: Section A-A
Fig. 31: Section B-B
Section A-A shows cross section of the site. The west side is
higher and steeper compare to east side. Because of this, visitors can
enter the site only two stair of entrances. This make visitors flow
concentrated along the entrances. The height differences between
inside and outside the west side park is about 9m. The staircases
provide steel railing for safety, but with no shading device.
40

Figure 32: Section A-A
Figure 33: Section B-B
41

4.4
Conditions and assumptions
From early assumption, all kinds of people are expected to use

this area as their exercising or relaxing place in a specific time. The
peak time is usually in morning and evening. The lowest users are in
afternoon because of Malaysia hot weather and no shading provided.
The exercise equipment areas are potential for social activities
other than exercising. Most people need help to properly use the
equipment. Since there is no playground, children play around this
area.
42

4.5
Observation
Observation is suitable because of this subjective topic related in

observing human behaviour and social interactions. The interpretative
approach and symbolic interactionism in this method are needed to
tackle this research.
The criteria for this method; natural setting, natural event and
natural behaviour, make an observation the appropriate technique to
apply.
Along observation on site, the main parameters are listed so
data can be categorised and analysed. The main parameters are;
1. type of users (children, young adult, middle age, senior
citizen)
2. access to site (walking, bicycle, motorcycle, cars)
3. time (morning, afternoon, evening)
4. space of interaction (site access, jogging track, exercising
areas)
43

Upon observation, visitors mostly came during morning time

between 8.00 am and 10.00 am. Weather factor played a crucial role in
determine visitors count. Visitors come here during morning and
evening, avoid coming on afternoon. In evening, they usually come
between 5.00 pm to 7.00 pm.
All types of visitor were come on this site; children, young adult,
middle age, and senior citizen. The local people can be seen coming by
walking from their neighbourhood to this site. People from seksyen 6
especially coming from east and people from seksyen 7 from west.
People from other neighbouring area can be identified. Most of them
came with car or motorcycle.
Young adult who came here were primarily to perform exercise.
They can be seen with proper jogging suits and perform all sorts of
exercise with the equipment. Some of them prefer exercise alone,
identified by wearing earphone running along jogging track.
Middle age visitors came with their families or children. They
tend to come in the evening, probably after working all day. The need to
escape from long stressful day and spend time together with family
usually the reason for their visit.
Children usually come with their parents. While parents
exercising, most children playing around the park. They played in the
44

exercising areas because the exercising equipment intrigue them and

they use the equipment as tools for playing. When parents bring their
children, they played together well and parents interacting each other,
talking and sit together. Because of limited flat ground, the activities
only limited around this area and small closed activities.
Senior citizen visitors usually doing brisk walk and slow jog
around the track. They seldom seen to use exercising equipment areas
except to rest and did stationary exercises. While doing this they
interacting with other visitors.
Other potential spaces of interaction is the access points, where
visitor come in. Visitors tend to warm up around this, before jogging or
doing other activities. Visitors greeted and talked to each other while
warming up. The sense of welcoming into the site is strong because of
this three points of access. They also interact while walking down to
site. While on jogging track, visitor can be seen interact with smiles,
greeting and brief talking. This small interaction encourage people to
come exercising and be a part of this site community. This is true
because during observation, it can be seen that most visitors know
each other even though they came from different neighbourhood.
45

CHAPTER 5:
CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION
Based on the data collected, it was clearly showed an open

space in should be incorporate into residential are. By lots of
references, articles and research, an open space is a primary need for
a community in every neighbourhood. This area act as social gathering
place, to go outside from the social barriers of private residential.
Open space without proper facilities leads to unused area. It also
can be a potentially dangerous for children in the neighbourhood and
visitors; therefore continuous maintenance from city council are
essential. Security measures such as proper lighting and parking need
to be considered. In this research area, the site is well maintained to
provide maximum comfort for public use.
To implement an open space in design stage, various basic
parameters as stated in previous chapter should be noted. There is a
need of further studies on the situation within other areas in order to
receive more critical data analysis.
46

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57

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