The state intervention in achieving a quality urban living standard: A case study of rehabilitation of squatters’ colony in Kuala Lumpur

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present how the state government can successfully intervene in providing better quality of urban living standard in Malaysia.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper approaches the issue of state intervention by using a case study of a former squatters’ colony area in Bandar Baru Sentul in the capital city of Kuala Lumpur.

Findings

The paper establishes that for many decades the governance of Kuala Lumpur has played an active role in designing and implementing a wide range of housing policies to eradicate squatters’ settlement in the city, consequently fulfilling the aspirations of low‐income people to become part of the home owning democracy.

Practical implications

This paper attempts to encourage public policy makers and local authorities to undertake a more active role in providing better quality of urban living standard through the establishment of strong institutional capacity.

Originality/value

The paper provides information on how the state government provides a range of mixed policies to rehabilitate squatters’ colonies in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Citation

Nor Azriyati Wan Abd Aziz, W., Rosly Hanif, N. and Ahmad, F. (2008), "The state intervention in achieving a quality urban living standard: A case study of rehabilitation of squatters’ colony in Kuala Lumpur", International Journal of Housing Markets and Analysis, Vol. 1 No. 4, pp. 337-351. https://doi.org/10.1108/17538270810908632