TASK 9 : KAJANG LOCAL PLAN FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

KKKA 6414 SUSTAINABLE URBAN PLANNING

DISEMBER 2013 LECTURER: PROF DR RIZA ATIQ O.K RAHMAT

NURUL LIYANA RUSMAN SARAH ISMAIL NORAIN SHAHARUDIN

P61498 P65378 P71142

PAGE 1.0 INTRODUCTION 1.1 History of Kajang 1.2 Concept of Development 1.3 Objective 1.4 Cost of Development and Funding 2 2 3 5 5

2.0

MOSQUE AS THE CENTER OF DEVELOPMENT 2.1 Concept of Masjid centered in Kajang 2.2 Relocation and Reconstruction

7 7 8

3.0

APPLICATION OF MIXED-USE DEVELOPMENT 3.1 Concept of Mixed-use development in Kajang 3.2 Affected Area NAKED STREET SHARED SPACES 4.1.Kajang City Center: Naked Street Shared Spaces

9 11 12

4.0

13 14 18 19 20 22 22

5.0

SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM 5.1.Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) System 5.2.Bicycle Renting System 5.3 Multi Storey Parking 5.4 Shuttle Bus System

6.0

RESPONSIBLE LAND USE

22

7.0

WATER QUALITY AND DRAINAGE

8.0

OPTIMIZING SOLAR ENERGY, SPACE AND MATERIALS

9.0

AIR QUALITY

10.0

CONCLUSION

11.0

REFERENCES

1.0 INTRODUCTION 1.1. HISTORY OF KAJANG Kajang, the district capital of Hulu Langat is a town in the eastern part of Selangor, Malaysia. It is located 21 kilometres from Kuala Lumpur. The total population of Kajang has grown rapidly in the past few years, with estimated population growth of 9% per annum which contributes to high population density. Currently, Kajang's population of 342,657 consists of 60.4% Malay, 19.3% Chinese, 9.7% Indians, and 10.6% other ethnic groups. Among Kajang's main population centres are Sg. Kantan, Sg.Jelok, Sg.Ramal, Sungai Chua, Sg. Sekamat, Bandar Mahkota, Jalan Reko, Jalan Bukit, Bandar Sungai Long, Bandar Tun Hussein Onn, Cheras Perdana. Many historical buildings can be found in Kajang where most of the colonialera buildings were constructed around 1920s to 1930s. The architecture of these shophouses is a combination of traditional Chinese and European designs. The

concept of the early development in Kajang seems to loosely resemble our

urban sustainable concept, mixed-use development where people live closer to

work and have easy access to shopping, dining and entertainment. The
ground floor was used mostly for commercial activities and the upper floor as the family living quarter. One of Kajang's landmarks is Stadium Kajang which is situated in the heart of the town. Another landmark is the Kajang Mosque or Masjid Kajang, which is easily recognisable by its bright yellow facade.

Figure 1 The old railway station used to be in front of the convent school and accessible from Jalan Reko.

Figure 2 Kajang in the 1960s

1.2. CONCEPT OF DEVELOPMENT The general idea of our concept is to introduce a sustainable development for Kajang city without compromising the community and future needs. Kajang city is already equipped with basic amenities such as commercial center, housing, government offices, road network, industries and public facilities. It is currently seen to possess high potential for further development. However, from our opinion the development of Kajang city is not properly planned which results in heavy traffic jam, flash floods, pollution, funding shortage and social problems. To redevelop Kajang into a sustainable city, the following suggestions should be taken into account: i. ii. iii. iv. v. vi. vii. viii. ix. Relocating Kajang Mosque Application of mixed-use development Introducing the Naked Street Shared Spaces concept Introducing sustainable transportation system Responsible land use Improvising water quality and drainage Application of renewable energy Optimizing building space and material used Reducing air pollution The overall concept and idea will be sketched on a map of Kajang city center and attached in Appendix A.

Figure 3 The current bus station famously known as "Hentian Kajang"

Figure 4 The current state of Sungai Chua

Figure 5 Jalan Reko which is heading to Bandar Baru Bangi 1.3. OBJECTIVE The objectives to redevelop Kajang into a sustainable city are as follows: i. ii. To stimulate a more effective economic growth. To ensure the physical development of the city is in equilibrium with the environmental needs. iii. iv. To upgrade and improve the social needs of the local community. To implement a modern, competitive and more systematic urbanization.

1.4. COSTS AND FUNDING 1.4.1. Cost of Development Cost of development that will be taken into account is based on the work that will be carried out as follows: i. ii. iii. iv. Demolishing of stadium Relocating Kajang Mosque Upgrading road facilities Upgrading existing structure

v. vi.

Application new technology/system Build new building The cost is estimated to involved millions. However, with systematic

planning and administration, Kajang is targeted to be a good place for living, working and investment which will increase the citys income and sustain the proposed development. 1.4.2. Funding Method There are 2 types of financial resources that can be used for development purposes: i. Government Funding The funding will be used for the purpose of upgrading the existing building and developing new building for government sector such as police station, offices, relocation of mosque and upgrading road facilities. However, careful and systematic planning is crucial since direct expenditure from government will not generate any profit. ii. Privatisation Using this concept, selected private sectors will be given a portion of land for them to develop based on the development plan by Kajang municipality. Mutual benefits will be discussed and agreed upon. The funding from privatisation is proposed for commercial areas, residential areas and sustainable transportation system. These selected private sectors will take responsibilities with the new developments which will include maintenance for a certain period. It is suggested for a 30 years contract in order to ensure return investment. The cost will involve total development cost, privatisation cost, interest rate and running cost. 2.0 MOSQUE AS THE CENTER OF DEVELOPMENT Mosque as the centre for a city has been applied to most Muslim countries since centuries ago. For example, the mosques in Makkah and Madinah have been built at the center of their city (see Figure 6). The economic and social activities then evolved and expand around both of the mosques.

Al-Masjid e-Nabawi

Figure 6 Al Masjid e-Nabawi in Madinah located at the center of the city. An example of "Masjid centered" concept. We proposed for the mosque in Kajang or as famously known as Masjid Jamek Kajang, to be relocated nearer to the city center (see Figure 7) and develop its function to cover a wider range of activities. Currently, the main perception of mosque from most of the local community is quite limited. Mosque is seen only for religious purposes such as praying, ramadhan and charity events. The new proposed mosque shall serves as a place where Muslims can come together for prayer as well as a center for information, education and dispute settlement.

Figure 7 The proposed relocation of Masjid Jamek Kajang

2.1. CONCEPT OF MASJID CENTERED IN KAJANG Mosque is well known to be closed to Muslim as a place of worship and spiritual reatreat. Our concept of masjid centered is hoped to serve the needs of the current and modern Muslim lifestyles which as stated before, includes center of information, education and dispute settlement. Masjid Jamek Kajang will be relocated at the junction nearer to government offices, business center and new residential areas, about 5 km from the existing location. The mosque will act as a landmark for Kajang city as well as serves its intended purpose. The new mosque is proposed to include as follows: i. ii. iii. iv. v. Prayer halls for Muslim men and women Conference halls Discussion areas or classrooms Child care center A Gallery for Islamic histories

Figure 8 The current Masjid Jamek Kajang 2.2. RELOCATION AND RECONSTRUCTION Masjid Jamek Kajang was built in the 1960s based on the architectural style of Middle East where there are four turrets on each corner beneath the dome of the

mosque and two large domes in front and behind. There are two levels of prayer halls. The building is constructed using concrete bricks and roof tiles. The new mosque is proposed to incorporate the concept of the existing mosque which uses the influence of Middle East in its design. However, a modern approach in the design is needed to ensure the intended functions of Masjid Centered such as stated before can be fully applied. Two different approaches of incorporating the concept of sustainability will be implemented in the reconstruction process which is the energy approach and socio-ecological system approach. i. Energy Approach The original concept of air circulation in the existing mosque is cooling towers and windows. In the energy approach concept, passive cooling techniques are used to cool the indoor environment instead of using air conditioning unit. The simplest techniques to be applied are by using wind towers, courtyard or open top windows to catch the outside dry hot air. ii. Socio ecological system approach The rationale for considering the whole system is based upon the existence of important linkage between society and nature. It is understood that some environmental components are unique and that some environmental processes may be irreversible. Thus, the first step is to reduce the waste from construction in order to fulfil the basic concept of sustainability. Green area is introduced by planting trees along the incoming road, parking areas, and around the building. It is also proposed for small artificial lake or pond to create a calming, recreational and welcoming effect to the mosque. 3.0 APPLICATION OF MIXED-USE DEVELOPMENT According to Jill Grant in the article Mixed Use in Theory and Practice, there are three approaches to mixed use development: i. ii. iii. Increase intensity of land use Increase diversity of land use Integrate segregated uses Basically, the concept of mixed use development is to create a pedestrian friendly environment with a variety of uses that enable people to live, work, play, and shop in one place/within walking distances. It includes several different uses that work together

and share infrastructure, utilities, and public amenities. Compared to single use development, mixed use development is higher in density. There are three basic types of mixed use developments: i. Vertical mixed use buildings It consists of different users within the same building where the lower floors are usually utilized by commercial user and the above floors by residential users. ii. Horizontal mixed use sites Single used buildings on district parcels in a range of land uses within one planned development project. iii. Mixed-use walkable areas It combines both vertical and horizontal mix of uses in an area within an approximately 10 minute walking distance to core activities. In other definition, mixed use developments combined residential, commercial, cultural, institutional or industrial uses where those functions are physically and functionally integrated. Traditionally, human settlements have developed in mixed-use patterns. However, with industrialisation as well as the invention of the skyscraper, governmental zoning regulations were introduced to separate different functions, such as manufacturing, from residential areas. Mixed use development concept comes with many great benefits such as: i. ii. Increase the diversity of housing options, density and household types. Reduce the distances between housing, workplaces, retail businesses, and other destinations. iii. Reduce the dependencies of local communities on private vehicles and increase travel options. iv. v. Creates a more compact environment. Creates a local sense of place where it develops a stronger neighbourhood character. vi. vii. Pedestrian and bicycle-friendly environments that helps in reducing traffic jams. Activates urban areas during more hours of the day.

Figure 9 An example of traditional mixed-use development: residential and retail, pedestrian-friendly street in Bitola, Macedonia.

Figure 10 A traditional building in Kajang city center that can be upgraded and rebranded.

3.1. CONCEPT OF MIXED USE DEVELOPMENT IN KAJANG Currently, the residential areas in Kajang are separated from the commercial and offices areas. Because of this zoning, it contributes to traffic congestion especially during peak hours as most of the local communities will be heading to the city center for working, formal business and shopping. With the application of mixed use development, which combines residential uses, commercial uses and offices, traffic congestion is reduced at a significant level. Besides that, with the incorporation of new sustainable public transportation system, green development and pedestrian friendly concept (which will be explained later in this report), we believe that all of the benefits from mixed use development such as stated before can be achieved. i. Currently, there is a trend developing in Malaysia where the concept of mixed use building is applied. A few of the lower floors are usually occupied by offices/hotels/shopping center and the residential users occupy the above floors. The concept is slowly capturing the publics attention especially from modern, young and futuristic buyers. Indirectly, it helps in strengthening the economic base of a city. We proposed for the same concept to be applied in Kajang city center. The highlight of the concept will be its strong focus on the sustainable design and rebranding the image of Kajang city center into a high profile city. We believe that in the long term, it will improve the development potential of its city center. A few of the sustainable features that can be incorporated are green roof/building to create a green and cooling effect, small recreational areas surrounding the buildings, passive solar design and collected rainwater to be recycled for use within the buildings.

Figure 11 An example of a green rooftop in Monaco.

Figure 12 An example of a mixed use building. The same concept could be applied in Kajang city center especially for Plaza Metro Kajang. Kowloon East In Hong Kong, is a 28-story mixed-use building which contain offices, retail spaces and car park. With green as the theme, the design introduces extensive planting at the car park floors located at the lower portion of the tower.

Figure 13 Mercu Zikay Residence is a new development that will take place in Kampung Baru. It will house a four star hotel with 289 rooms at the lower levels and parking areas as high as 12 storeys. Meanwhile, the upper levels will house 130 units of serviced apartments and two penthouse units. This is also one of the examples of a mixed use building concept that can be applied to Kajang. ii. Another latest trend in the Malaysian real estate scene would be Small Office Home Office (SoHo). It becomes a trend due to the fact that the available land in Klang Valley is becoming scarce with the price increasing at a very fast pace. In order to address the need of service oriented business and young urbanites, property developers resorted to the concept of SoHo. With the recent encouragement from the government of Malaysia who introduced a new kind of flexible working habit, which is working from home, creates a boosting effect to the value of SoHo properties. Furthermore, SoHo has undergone a transformation as the internet has enabled anyone working from a home office to compete globally. Technology has made this possible through email, the World-Wide Web, ecommerce, videoconferencing, remote desktop software, webinar systems, and telephone connections by VOIP. Besides that, SoHo gives the opportunity for home owner a close to city lifestyle with easy access to a

wide range of facilities (which includes groceries, food and beverages, entertainment, shopping, and major expressways) and also the flexibility of working from home. The concept could also be applied in Kajang city center especially to create more business opportunities for young urbanites. We believe that with the involvements of young business entrepreneurs, it could create business diversities that strengthen the economic base of Kajang and transform it into a self-reliance town. The same sustainable concept such as stated before should also be applied. iii. Mixed use development is not complete without an effective public transportation system. It will provide easy access for the public to go from one place to another, reduce traffic congestion, reduce dependencies on private vehicles and reduce air and noise pollution. This topic will be discussed later in this report. 3.2. AFFECTED AREAS The area that will be affected due to this concept is as shown in Figure 14. A few of the existing buildings will be demolished to develop a new high density residential buildings, SoHo and medium density commercial buildings. It will also be equipped with public transport facilities, public amenities at walking distance and recreational areas. However, further visual representation of our proposed development using mixed used concept will be attached in Appendix A.

To be demolished and developed

The buildings to be demolished, reconstructed and relocated.

The buildings to be upgraded

Figure 14 Major affected areas are located at the heart of the city center. 4.0 NAKED STREET SHARED SPACES Naked Street, Shared Spaces is a concept pioneered by Hans Monderman, a Dutch traffic engineer where, it removes all the things that were supposed to make it safe for the pedestrian such as, traffic lights, railings, signs, road markings, curbs and pedestrian barriers. The concept creates a completely open and even surface on which motorists and pedestrians negotiated with each other by eye contact. Urban areas have become completely focused on the transportation of vehicles through the public space as use of cars increased, than the ability of people to enjoy the space. Thus, shared spaces is seen as more than just a way to design street but about reclaiming the public space from the domination of cars and achieving a better balance between the streets social and movement roles.

Lower vehicle speeds

Fewer accidents and injuries

Benefits of "Naked Street Shared Spaces"

More vibrant and attractive streets

Reduced traffic jams

However, there are concerns been raised about the impacts of the shared spaces on more vulnerable road users such as the elderly, children and people with disability. It is indeed a challenge for traffic engineers to modify the concept of shared spaces and retain the sense of subjective safety for these vulnerable road users, without giving motorists too much confidence about their right of way. New Road, a non-residential street in Brighton, United Kingdom is one of the examples where the concept is implemented (see Figure 15). According to Gehl Architects, New Road has become one of the most popular places in Brighton. Major achievements include 62% increase in pedestrian traffic, 93% reduction in motorised traffic, 600% more staying activity and 22% increase in cycling activity.

Figure 15 An example of the "Naked Street Shared Spaces" concept in New Road, Brighton, United Kingdom.

4.1. KAJANG CITY CENTER: NAKED STREET SHARED SPACES

Figure 16 An aerial view of Kajang city center. Currently, Kajang is faced with massive traffic jam during weekdays especially in the afternoon. It became a big hassle for people who have important business or affairs that need to be settled in Kajang. To make it worse, the city is quite compact in arrangements with the addition of people parking or stopping their vehicles at the roadsides. All of these added up to the existing massive traffic jam where everyone is in a hurry to go somewhere. From our observations, Kajang city center can be considered a compact city. Although the objectives of compact city where it encourages mixed land uses are not fully met, there are high potential to develop the concept of compact city in Kajang. To achieve this idea is to first encourage people to feel comfortable in walking or cycling, and realizing that using private vehicles in such city is not effective. We believe that Naked Street Shared Spaces concept can be the solution for reducing private vehicles in Kajang city center based on the following reasons: i. The new MRT project is proposed to pass through Jalan Besar, which passes through Kajang city center. ii. The existing compact arrangements of its buildings.

iii.

Most of the architectures of the old shophouses are combination of traditional Chinese and European designs built around 1920s to 1930s. We proposed Kajang city center to make use of this history and develop into business areas with heritage values and a relax environment.

iv.

The current daily traffic jam is expected to get worse with new developments around Kajang. The number of private vehicle users in Kajang need to be reduced.

v.

With the new developments around Kajang and in Bangi. Kajang has high potential to develop into higher income business hub. However, the

current image of Kajang (dirty, heavy traffic, polluted air, unpleasant view) did not go hand in hand with its potential. We believe that the concept of Naked Street could change this image.

Figure 17 Massive traffic jam in Kajang city center. (source: http://jebateja.blogspot.com/2010/05/kajang.html)

Figure 18 The MRT project will pass through Jalan Besar, affecting 39 shop owners. (source: http://www.thestar.com.my/)

Figure 19 Inefficient usage of pedestrian sidewalk.

Figure 20 Plaza Metro Kajang located near Jalan Reko (source: http://www.my-rummy.com/Kajang/Hotel/images/Plaza_Metro_Kajang.jpg) However, the biggest issue in the implementation of Naked Street Shared Spaces concept is how to reduce the number of private vehicles into the city? Currently, the idea of using public transportation system is not well accepted among Malaysians due to lack of efficiency and access to public transports. The challenge is to upgrade the system and provide better alternatives for private vehicles users. A few proposed solutions to improve public transportation system and integrate it with the Naked Street Shared Spaces concept are briefly stated below: i. Upgrade the public transportation system by increasing the number of buses, provide shuttle buses/vans, bicycle renting system and etc. ii. Provide a multi storey parking at a convenient location with affordable parking rate and reduce the number of parking spaces around the city. Impose a policy where the parking spaces should be given priority to the elderly, pregnant ladies and people with disability. iii. Impose a policy to limit the number of cars or type of vehicles to enter the city during peak hours.

iv.

Change the current flexible pavement into interlocking blocks so that it becomes uncomfortable to drive.

v.

Provide shady pedestrian sidewalk.

5.0 SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM Contrary to general understanding, sustainable transportation system is not just about encouraging people to use public transport. It is about the effectiveness and efficiency of the system and how it impacts the environment. It includes vehicles, energy, infrastructure, roads, railways, airways, waterways, canals, pipelines, and terminals.

Develop safe, reliable and economical transportation choices. Improve air quality

Decrease household transportation costs

Reduce greenhouse emissions

Goals of sustainable transportation system

Promote public health Reduce traffic jams

Reduce our nations dependence on oil

Short term goal

Focused on incremental improvement in fuel efficiency and vehicle emissions controls.

Long term goal

Migrating transportation from fossil-based energy to other alternatives such as renewable energy and use of other renewable resources.

According to the Department of Transport, Planning and Local Infrastructure of Victoria State Government, a sustainable transportation system should: i. Meet the social and economic needs of the present without compromising future generations' ability to meet their own needs. ii. iii. iv. Protect the environment, locally and globally in the short and long term. Provide and promote lower carbon transport options. Be safe and support improved health and well-being. The department is also moving towards a more sustainable transportation system by focusing on three major areas: i. Shaping a more efficient city, where people live closer to their work, schools, services and shops. ii. iii. Making it easier for people to use more sustainable forms of transport. Improving the environmental efficiency of transport activity and the transport fleet. Kajang Municipal Council could adopt the concept of sustainable transportation system as stated above to implement it in the Kajang urban renewal project. Currently, public transportation modes that are available in Kajang are bus, taxi and train. Rangkaian Pengangkutan Integrasi Deras Sdn Bhd (RapidKL), Cityliner (bus between Kajang and Seremban) and Bas Mini are the bus operators in Kajang. KTM Komuter is

a commuter train service through Kajang by Rawang-Seremban Route and stop at Kajang Komuter station. In 2010, under one of the National Key Economic Areas (NKEA) and Government Transformation Programme (GTP), the federal government have announced to improve the public transport system by building a Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system in the Klang Valley where Kajang is included in this system with nine stations within the Kajang Municipal Council (MPKj) area. Out of this nine, three would be at the Kajang town centre. It began construction in June 2011 and full operation is expected to commence in 2016. A general representation of our proposed concept for Kajang new sustainable transportation system is enclosed in Appendix A. 5.1. BUS RAPID TRANSIT (BRT) SYSTEM The MRT project is believed to reduce the traffic congestion in the Kajang city center. However, since the MRT will only be passing through the main road, MPKj needs to find an alternative system to improve its other modes of public transportation (bus and taxi) that will circulate its service in the city center area. Bus Rapid Transit System (BRT) such as implemented in Curitiba, Brazil is a good example of an inexpensive and fast transit service. Its aim is to combine the capacity and speed of a light rail or metro system with the flexibility, cost and simplicity of a bus system. The 5 elements in BRT are as follows: i. Right-of-way This system has been done in Kuala Lumpur in which the buses and taxis have their own lanes. Shah Alam could implement this system starting from residential areas outside the city going in. ii. A busway alignment in the center of the road Its own busway alignment can avoid curb-side delays. However, major upgrading works need to be done if this element is implemented. Nevertheless, it can certainly be done according to stage, starting from the areas currently experiencing new development. iii. Stations with off-board fare collection This will reduce boarding and alighting delay related to paying the driver. Rapid KL is currently practicing this system by implementing MyRapid Card, rapidpass and Token.

iv.

Bus stop platform level with the bus floor Levelling the bus stop platform level with the bus floor will reduce boarding and alighting delays caused by steps. Buses should also be equipped with ramp to ease passengers with disabilities during boarding and alighting. Examples of the bus stop platform level are shown in Figure 21 and 22.

v.

Bus priority at intersections Giving the priority to buses at the intersection could avoid intersection signal delay.

Figure 21 The bus stop designed as a tube. It unique design speeds up the flow of embarkation and debarkation because it happens at level. (source: http://greatergreaterwashington.org/post/5001/lessons-from-a-southamerican-bus-rapid-transit-system/)

Figure 22 The bus stop platform level with the bus floor (source: http://www.urbanhabitat.org/node/344) 5.2. BICYCLE RENTING SYSTEM Bicycle renting system could provide many benefits to Kajang city centre. They offer convenient mobility for many types of urban trips, promote healthy lifestyle and reducing private vehicles in the city centre. Furthermore, by reducing private vehicles, it can help with reducing traffic congestion and accidents, road and limited parking facility problem and reducing air pollution. A typical bicycle renting system that is practised in many countries nowadays usually consists of bicycles stored in a network of automated stations with bicycle redistribution and maintenance programs (see Figure 23). Bicycle may be rented at one station and returned to another. Stations with automated self-serve docking systems that can accommodate up to 5-20 bikes are located at major destinations and transportation centres, spaced at about 300m apart. Use is free or inexpensive for short periods (typically first 30 minutes). This allows urban residents and visitors to use the bicycles without needing to purchase, store and maintain the bicycles. Kajang Municipal Council could offer private companies with advertising rights on the bicycles and stations in exchange with providing bicycles for the project.

Figure 23 An example of a bicycle renting system in Hangzhao, China (source: http://jimsbikeblog.files.wordpress.com/2011/02/bike-rental-system-inhangzhou.jpg) This system is currently being implemented in George Town, Penang, concentrated in the inner city of George Town where it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are few bicycle rental centres that provide all sorts of bikes including mountain bikes, classical bikes, family bikes as well as tandem bicycles at an affordable and reasonable price. Each bike rental is inclusive of a map, bicycle helmet and a light set. It is currently a popular mode of transport among the tourists. 5.3. MULTI STOREY PARKING Every day, Kajang city centre receives many people from outside Kajang or its own that needs to do businesses or settle their matter in Kajang city centre. Thus, it is expected for many private vehicles to come in and out at regular intervals and cause heavy traffic jam. To implement the use of public transportation at a large scale as discussed before might require some time for the people to get used to. Furthermore, it is expected that people outside of Kajang will bring their own private vehicles and will face with difficulties in finding appropriate parking spaces, once the parking spaces are reduced along with the implementation of Naked Street Sharing Spaces concept.

By providing a multi storey parking at a suitable location, people can park their vehicles at an affordable and reasonable price outside of the city centre. Public transportation such as bus, shuttle bus, taxis and public bicycles should be provided outside or at walking distance from the building. Kajang Municipal Council could introduce a pass such as being done by MyRapid (rapidpass Tempatan, rapidpass Integrasi, rapidpass Pelajar Bas, etc) for the people who uses the multi storey parking to ease their access in the city centre by public transports.

Figure 24 The Kowloon East In Hong Kong. The lower levels of the buildings are car parks. We could apply the same concept of "greening effect" to the proposed multi storey parking. 5.4. SHUTTLE BUS SYSTEM A shuttle bus service is a type of public transport that is designed to quickly transport people between two points, normally without any intermediate stops and with high frequency of trips. Such services are often designed to serve specific customers, such as hotels, attractions, park and ride routes or airport bus services. This type of service can be offered from the multi storey parking building to the main locations in the Kajang city centre.

6.0 RESPONSIBLE LAND USE

At river reserve area (along Sungai Chua), we propose to construct pedestrian sidewalk with railing (where it is necessary for safety purposes) using the River Front Development guideline. The Riverfront Development has reclaims the banks of the Sungai Langat, making the entire stretch of river publicly accessible. This project provides five kilometers of uninterrupted pedestrian promenade on each bank and public direct access to the water. The Sungai Langat Riverfront development will enhance the distinctive character of Kajang, significantly improving the quality of life for residents and enhancing Kajangs value as a destination for new employers, institutions, investment, education opportunities, and tourism. River cruise could also be provided for people to enjoy bot riding, possibly with similar concept that have been implemented in Sungai Melaka. However, the awareness to feel responsible for the sustainability of the river from the local community is very important to ensure that the development achieved its intended purposes.

Figure 25 River cruise along Sungai Melaka.

Figure 26 An example of river beautification. It is also proposed for developing a public park along the river reserve area. The p arks design and management should take into account recreational requirements of all target age-groups. Different age-groups have different motives to visit the park and different interests in activities that they are going to undertake. Trees and shrubs will be planted along the river to provide shade, clean air and beautify the surrounding. The new development will include a row of shop lot facing the river and the famous Satay Kajang will be relocated here. There will be other local restaurants serving foods as the community enjoy the surrounding environment.

Figure 27 This is an example of people enjoying their food while others enjoy their boat riding. It represents our concept interpretation. Next to the row of shops is the local community farm where most of the local vegetables will be planted to be sold at the local wet market. The intended area is currently a free space area and since it is river riparian, it is suitable for farming activities. We propose to construct a Recycle Center in the farm which uses barter system. The local community could send their unused/recyclable material to the center and be given a voucher to get fresh vegetables from the farm, bus tickets, tokens for bicycle renting, etc. To maximise the production of the vegetables, smart gardening practices like vertical farming and hydroponic farming will be adopted. Hydroponics farming is where plant roots are suspended in a liquid growing medium instead of soil.

Figure 28 Hydroponic farming

Figure 29 Vertical farming to increase the farm production Furthermore, we propose to construct sustainable restaurants that have the following criterias: i. ii. Uses herbs and vegetables harvested from their own gardens. Practices composting the leftover foods (transforming natural waste into a soil enhancer) and also makes use of companies that collects and recycles used cooking oil to convert into renewable fuel. iii. Use LED energy efficient lights, energy efficient hand dryers, solar panels and biodegradable to-go containers. iv. Use rainwater harvesting for flushing toilets and watering the plants.

Figure 30 An example of a restaurant that planted their own vegetables.

Figure 31 Cape Town, South Africa, the Moyo Restaurant and Urban Farm: Uses solar panels and planted their own vegetables.

7.0 WATER QUALITY AND DRAINAGE

Storm water runoff is excess precipitation that flows into water bodies and local storm sewer systems largely due to the prevalence of hard surfaces, such as impervious concrete. It is a large quantity of water that would ordinarily be absorbed into the ground in the natural environment. Storm water runoff collects pollutants, chemicals and debris as it flows over paved surfaces and into water bodies. It also causes erosion, decreases groundwater recharge and alters aquatic environments. By practicing rain water harvesting system for every house and offices, the storm water can be used for flushing toilets and watering plant.

Figure 32 Integrate the infrastructure with green environment to reduce storm water runoff. There will be no open channelled drainage in the proposed development. For landscaping purposes, swale or Mulden Rigolen system will be used throughout the new development of Kajang where the rainwater is channelled into the grassed-over hollow as in Figure 33 and 34. The water seeps into the gravel-filled underground storage basin beneath. Furthermore, rain garden is also proposed to be constructed at the intersection of every swale.

Figure 33 An example of a swale.

Figure 34 An example of a swale. A rain garden is a garden which takes advantage of rainfall and storm water runoff in its design with selected types of plants. Usually, it is a small garden which is designed to withstand the extremes of moisture and concentrations of nutrients, particularly Nitrogen and Phosphorus that are usually found in storm water runoff. Rain gardens are sited ideally close to the source of the runoff and serve to slow the velocity of storm

water as it travels downhill, giving the storm water more time to infiltrate and less opportunity to gain momentum and erosive power.

Figure 35 A graphical representation of the rain garden system. On the surface, a rain garden will look like an attractive garden as in Figure 36. It may support habitat for birds and butterflies, a formal landscape amenity or incorporated into a larger garden as a border or as an entry feature.

Figure 36 An example of a rain garden concept from the surface.

8.0 OPTIMIZING SOLAR ENERGY, SPACE AND MATERIALS

Government, private and NGOs offices are proposed to be relocated in multi storey buildings that apply the same concept of Urban Transformations Centre (UTC) such as UTC Kuala Lumpur. It is a one-stop centre that brings together multiple government and private agencies under one roof for the convenience of the public. This building with modern architectural concept will be the new landmark for the Kajang city center. Next to this building will be a multiple storey parking building. Meanwhile, on the other side of the main road, will be high rise residential buildings. People that are affected by the new development will be given a house/apartment unit based on their affected land area. It is proposed that at minimum, they will get one house/apartment unit and some of them may be provided with 3 houses/apartment units. The construction of the new buildings and houses in this new Kajang city will use the energy efficient concept as EU practices: i. Large windows to let in sufficient daylight, high ceilings for better air circulation and optimized layout to make the best use of available space. ii. Situate the house to take advantage of prevailing breezes. Not only are these breezes valuable for cross-ventilation in the house, but they can make screenedin rooms and porches more comfortable. iii. Installation of solar panel in every new building constructed.

Figure 37 Solar panels will be installed at every house and offices. Sustainable buildings improve lives by providing healthier environments through the use of non-toxic building materials, efficient mechanical systems and access to day light

and views to the outside world. The construction of these buildings should also practice sustainable working environment that minimize the effects of construction to the public. i. Use materials and systems that simplify and reduce maintenance requirements, require less water and energy, power saving energy bulb, minimal or toxic free, cost-effective and reduce life-cycle costs. ii. Concrete that uses ground granulated blasted slag (an industrial waste) to replace cement, resulting in a reduction of the concrete carbon footprint by 3040% of CO2.. iii. Water-based paints that have no volatile organic compound which harm human health. iv. v. Reinforcing bars made of 100% recycled steel. Water Appliances with highly efficient fittings, fixtures and appliances, smart water metres that inform consumers of their consumption, and smart metres to identify leakage across the system. vi. Washing machines, shower heads, etc. should be as water efficient as possible and toilets should have variable flushes. vii. Smaller, compact houses that are located near to working areas, public transportations and community services to reduce fuel consumption and money. viii. Houses are clustered closer together, leaving more open space for residents to enjoy and to preserve the natural landscape. ix. Rooftop gardens can also be used for food production such as simple container gardening while providing green roofs. For the existing houses and shop lot that will be maintained as they are, the proposed development will involve in introducing energy efficient appliances and renewable source of energy.

Figure 38 Logo that recommended the brand as energy saving appliances.

9.0 AIR QUALITY

Reducing air pollution will improve the quality of life for everyone. Reducing air pollution often means using less fuel and energy which indirectly save money. The main source of pollution in the Kajang city center is from road traffic. By using public transportations, sustainable house system and providing more green areas, it could help in improving the state of air quality in Kajang city center.

Figure 39 Cycling in the Naked Street area.

Figure 40 We want the local community to be able to enjoy the air and environment while still be living in a busy city.

Figure 41 An example of a tram that passes through the city, reducing the dependencies of the public to private vehicles. In turn, the air will be less polluted. Contrary to popular belief, indoor air quality can actually be more polluted than outdoors. Pollutants range from toxins, such as asbestos and formaldehyde found in building materials to allergens such as mold, mildew, fungus, bacteria, and dust mites. The negative effects of these pollutants may cause health problems upon initial exposure or even many years later. However, there are several measures that can be taken to improve the indoor air quality: i. Choose ventilation system that removes dirt, dust, moisture, humidity, and pollutants. ii. Select materials, such as those without formaldehyde, limit off-gassing, have minimal or no toxic properties and do not shed dust or fibre.

iii. iv.

Use the exhaust fan over the stove to remove gases like carbon monoxide. Use fans in the bathroom to remove water vapors that can cause molds to grow.

Figure 42 Source of the poisonous asbestos that can be found in a home.

Figure 43 The local community should be exposed to the importance of planting more trees around their house.

10.0

CONCLUSION

Although there are many cities that could be taken as an example to redevelop Kajang into a new sustainable town, several factors have to be taken into consideration because not all concepts could be implemented in Kajang. This is to ensure that the development is in line with the existing environment. Major factors are as follows:
i.
ii.

Funding from the government and private sector with mutual benefits. Kajang is a readily exist city with its own identity. New development that requires major changes need to take this identity into consideration. Take the proposed riverfront development for example, the river need to be cleaned first which requires major funding and cooperation from local community to preserve the natural environment of the river.

iii.

New development need to integrate with current development. For example, the architectural feature of the new buildings and landscape cannot feel out of place.

iv.

Educate the local communities about the importance of ecological development and sustainable living.

v.

Proper and careful planning is needed in order to ensure the local community are included in the new development and suitable for long term goals. We believe that if our proposed plan for Kajang is successfully implemented,

Kajang will be the first city in Malaysia that implements Local Agenda 21 as a whole. Our hope is for Kajang to also develop into one of the tourist destination due to the river beautification and riverfront development. Besides that, we believe that the city could serve as an eye opener for other new developments in Malaysia while educating the people in the importance of sustainable living.

11.0

REFERENCES
i. ii. iii. iv. http://kajangtown.blogspot.com/ http://kajangtown.blogspot.com/ www.lonelyplanet.com http://www.thestar.com.my/story.aspx?sec=central&file=%2f2011%2f3%2f15% 2fcentral%2f8239893 v. vi. vii. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Kajang_Town_Main_Junction.jpg http://www.my-rummy.com/Kajang/Hotel/images/Plaza_Metro_Kajang.jpg http://greatergreaterwashington.org/post/5001/lessons-from-a-south-americanbus-rapid-transit-system/

viii. ix.

http://www.urbanhabitat.org/node/344 http://jimsbikeblog.files.wordpress.com/2011/02/bike-rental-system-inhangzhou.jpg

x. xi. xii.

http://jebateja.blogspot.com/2010/05/kajang.html San antonio river curitiba

E1, E2, E3: To demolish existing building and be replaced by residential apartment, mix concept,energy saving appliances, Naked street, Mulden-Rigolen, rain garden, parking space 0.8 ratio, kindergarten, open space for chidren, G: To construct Recycle center, use Batter System; people send their recycle item and be given a voucher to get vegetable from farm

URBAN RENEWAL CONCEPT : KAJANG

X
F: Farm: local vegetable as well as fruits. Hydroponics + vertical farming A: To demolish existing building and be replaced by government, private and NGOs offices in multi storey building; concept of Urban Transformations Centre in Malaysia (UTC)

E2

E1

B: To demolish existing building and be replaced by multiple parking

D
C: To construct pedestrian path 5km for people to enjoy bot riding and surrounding. Plant more trees to give shade.A row of restaurant including famous satay kajang will be placed here. Restaurants using fresh/raw material from the farm.

1. Brand outlet 2. Upgrade existing buildings 3. Naked Street Shared Spaces concept Upgrade Metro Kajang Plaza Shopping complex + 5 star hotel

D: To demolish existing building and be replaced by mosque

Brand outlet Upgrade existing buildings Naked Street Shared Spaces concept Energy efficient buildings solar panels, energy efficient appliances, etc