Placemaking involves transforming spaces within developments into vibrant, engaging areas for the well-being and social connectivity of residents.

Creating vibrant spaces for people to thrive is the way forward

Placemaking is an evolving concept in Malaysia's property industry but it is quickly becoming a vital component of modern development. It involves transforming spaces within townships or developments into vibrant, engaging areas that promote the well-being, happiness and social connectivity of residents and visitors. More than just a design trend, placemaking fosters a sense of identity and belonging within a community, turning ordinary spaces into places people can truly call home.

Gone are the days when property development was solely about constructing towering buildings. Today, developers are expected to create livable, interactive environments that cater to the lifestyle needs of modern residents. Successful placemaking takes the form of lively parks, theme parks, pet-friendly zones, buzzing food and beverage areas, and even Instagram-worthy venues - each designed to bring people together and enhance their daily experiences. But placemaking goes beyond the physical. It is about cultivating a community spirit, where people feel connected not only to their surroundings but also to each other.

As placemaking gains momentum, it has redefined the expectations in the property industry. Developers are no longer judged solely on the number of units sold or the price per square foot but on how well they can build communities. Communal spaces, walkability, and accessibility have become just as important as luxury finishes and cutting-edge architecture. Placemaking has shifted the focus from structures to experiences, promising a more vibrant, inclusive future for Malaysia’s urban landscape.

For developers, placemaking is about thoughtful design, innovative solutions, and intentional planning. It’s not just about creating spaces - it is about making places that people cherish. In recognizing the importance of placemaking, we assess developers based on key criteria:

• Concept and vision: Developers are awarded points for the originality and objectives behind their placemaking projects. What is the “big idea” driving the design? How does the concept stand out and appeal to the target audience? Developers must demonstrate the unique selling points (USPs) that residents appreciate and value most.
• Execution and realisation: This evaluates how well the placemaking vision is brought to life, focusing on design planning, architectural features, and the strategies used to implement them. It’s not just about having a good idea; it’s about making that idea a reality through creativity and innovation.
• Branding and marketing: In today’s competitive property market, awareness is everything. Developers are judged on their branding and marketing strategies, assessing how well they have communicated the placemaking concept to the public and the impact this has had on the success of the project.

Placemaking Ingenuity rankings

In the RM1bil and above category, Sime Darby Properties Bhd emerged as the top performer, scoring an impressive 9 out of 10 for their exceptional placemaking efforts. Their innovative approach to creating engaging, livable spaces has set a new standard in the industry.

In the below RM1bil category, Sunsuria Bhd leads the pack with a score of 8.5 out of 10. Their thoughtful, community-centric designs have resonated with residents, earning them top marks for their placemaking ingenuity.

As Malaysia continues to evolve, placemaking will play a critical role in shaping the cities and communities of tomorrow. Developers that embrace this forward-thinking approach will not only create spaces where people live - they will build places where people thrive.

Ranking by Placemaking Ingenuity

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