Compact urban form towards sustainable urban development

Rapid urban development in Malaysia during the past two decades has led to urban sprawl in the country. An analysis of the three main conurbations, namely Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Johor Bharu has found that urban growth and built up area development are mostly in the urban fringe or suburban areas which has reduced the function and role of the major settlements of the conurbations. The urban sprawl has negative consequences to the environment. This paper analyzes the phenomenon of urban growth and sprawl in Malaysia. It argues for the need of a more compact urban form in the country. The concepts of Sequential Approach and Smart Growth practiced in the United Kingdom and the United States, respectively, should be adapted in order to achieve the compact urban form and sustainable urban development in Malaysia