Mediating role of place identity in the relationship between place quality and user satisfaction in waterfronts: a case study of Penang, Malaysia
Journal of Place Management and Development
ISSN: 1753-8335
Article publication date: 30 June 2021
Issue publication date: 13 April 2022
Abstract
Purpose
One major challenge for urban planners and policymakers is how to strengthen and establish connections between humans and the environment. Evidence suggests that the physical characteristics of the environment enhance both place identity and user satisfaction. This study aims to investigate the mediating role of place identity in the relationship between place quality and user satisfaction in two waterfronts in Penang, Malaysia. However, only few studies have examined the impact of place quality on user satisfaction in waterfronts as natural outdoor recreation spaces.
Design/methodology/approach
A sample of 300 users was analysed via structural equation modelling, and results show that place quality is a second-order construct with three main dimensions.
Findings
These results support the theoretical findings in the literature that associate high place quality and place identity with user satisfaction. These results also support the mediating role of place identity in the relationship between place quality and satisfaction and can help policymakers create inclusive and attractive waterfronts that catalyse place identity and user satisfaction.
Originality/value
Place quality is an essential need for urban life with significant and extensive effects on the lives of residents nowadays. Organising physical activities can help attract more users to waterfronts and consequently increase their level of satisfaction. Local authorities, non-governmental organisations and local communities should also help in monitoring and maintaining the waterfronts.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The authors would like to thank Universiti Sains Malaysia for financially supporting this research under Short Term Grant (NO. 304/PPBGN/6315315).
Citation
Isa, M.I., Hedayati Marzbali, M. and Saad, S.N. (2022), "Mediating role of place identity in the relationship between place quality and user satisfaction in waterfronts: a case study of Penang, Malaysia", Journal of Place Management and Development, Vol. 15 No. 2, pp. 130-148. https://doi.org/10.1108/JPMD-08-2020-0083
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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