By Joseph Wong

Integrated living, a concept that seeks to blend social and private housing within a single development, holds the promise of narrowing the socio-economic divide in Malaysia. Traditionally, the approach to low-cost housing in the country has involved pushing such developments to less desirable areas, often far from city centres and prime land. This practice has inadvertently perpetuated social segregation, leaving lower-income groups marginalised and disconnected from the amenities and opportunities that urban life offers. As Malaysia embarks on a journey to explore integrated living, the nation stands at a crossroads, weighing the potential benefits against the significant challenges.

Historically, the norm in Malaysia has been to build low-cost housing on the outskirts of cities, in areas with low property values. In some cases, developers have even constructed low-cost components in entirely different locations from the main development. This approach, while practical in terms of cost, has effectively created physical and social barriers between different income groups. The result is a stratified society, where the rich and poor live in separate worlds, with limited interaction and understanding between them.

The idea of integrating social housing into private residential developments is often met with scepticism. Critics argue that such integration could lead to the devaluation of property values, especially in high-end developments. There are concerns that mixing different social classes within the same space could exacerbate tensions and lead to further segregation. These arguments, while valid, must be weighed against the potential benefits of creating more inclusive communities.

Bridging the divide

One of the key arguments in favour of integrated living is that it could help bridge the rich-poor divide by providing lower-income groups with access to the same amenities and opportunities as their wealthir counterparts. In a perfect world, integrated living structures would foster social cohesion, allowing people from different backgrounds to live side by side, share common spaces and build relationships based on mutual respect and understanding. This could lead to a more equitable society, where everyone has a stake in the success of their community.

However, the reality is that integrated living is still a relatively new and untested concept in Malaysia. While some developments are beginning to experiment with the idea, it is far from being the norm. One example of this is the emergence of modified versions of integrated housing projects within the city limits of Kuala Lumpur. These projects, while not on par with those in developed nations like the United Kingdom, represent a step in the right direction.

Many experts emphasise that when considering social housing, three key factors must be taken into account: Shelter, protection and a sense of belonging to the community. They note that in Malaysia, there is a cultural emphasis on homeownership, with many young buyers being encouraged by their families to purchase a home as soon as they are financially able. However, for many young Malaysians, particularly those in lower-income groups, the dream of homeownership remains out of reach.

An integrated living concept could offer a solution by providing affordable housing options within developments that also offer access to amenities such as parks, schools and public transportation. This would allow lower-income groups to live closer to the city and benefit from the same conveniences as wealthier residents. However, bridging the rich-poor divide requires more than just building affordable homes on prime land. It also demands government intervention to create policies that promote social integration and ensure that all residents, regardless of income, have access to the same opportunities.

Similar challenges abroad

The challenges of integrated living are not unique to Malaysia. A study by Singapore's Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy found that over 70% of housing in Singapore's central area is private, compared to just 23% in other parts of the island. The study warned that this could exacerbate income-based spatial segregation over time, as residents of public housing may be more likely to take up lower-paying jobs closer to their homes. This, in turn, could lead to a widening income gap and further entrench social divisions.

In Malaysia, there is also the risk that market-driven segregation could lead to the creation of exclusive enclaves, where the wealthy live in gated communities, isolated from the rest of society. This would defeat the purpose of integrated living and could even exacerbate the very problems it seeks to address. To avoid this, developers and policymakers must take a holistic approach, ensuring that integrated living projects are designed in a way that promotes social interaction and fosters a sense of community.

One of the key concerns with integrated living is the potential for envy and resentment, particularly in developments where the social divide is visibly apparent. For example, in some projects, affordable housing units are separated from private residences by physical barriers, such as walls or fences. This creates a stark contrast between the two groups and can lead to feelings of exclusion and inequality.

Despite these challenges, there is a growing recognition that integrated living developments have the potential to create more inclusive communities. In the United Kingdom, for example, social housing is provided at low rents to those who are most in need, with local councils and not-for-profit organisations playing a key role in managing these developments. In contrast, Malaysia's approach has been more focused on homeownership, with programs such as rent-to-own schemes designed to help lower-income groups eventually purchase their homes.

In Malaysia, developers are beginning to explore ways to incorporate social housing into their projects. One such example is Platinum Victory Holdings Sdn Bhd's PV18 Residence, located in Kuala Lumpur. This development offers mid-range housing alongside affordable units, which are housed in separate towers. While the affordable units lack the same facilities as the private residences, they share a similar location, providing residents with access to the city's amenities.

Success hinges on design and management

The success of integrated living projects in Malaysia will depend on how well they are designed and managed. Shared amenities and spaces that encourage social interaction will be key to creating a sense of community and reducing the social divide. UDA Holdings Bhd's Legasi project, located near the Kampung Baru light rail transit station in Kuala Lumpur, is an example of a development that aims to create a more inclusive community. This project includes both affordable and market-priced units, with shared amenities such as a playground, gym  and swimming pool.

As Malaysia moves toward more integrated living developments, the question remains whether this approach can truly bridge the rich-poor divide. Success will depend on careful planning, government support and the willingness of developers and residents to embrace the concept. If done right, integrated living could become a model for social cohesion and inclusivity in Malaysia's urban landscape.

Integrated living holds the promise of creating more inclusive communities in Malaysia. However, it is a concept that is still in its infancy and will require careful planning, government intervention and a willingness to embrace change. As Malaysia continues to explore integrated living as a solution to social inequality, the success of these initiatives will play a crucial role in shaping the future of housing development in the country.

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