Housing the urban poor through strategic networks: A cross-case analysis

This study uses the network perspective to explore how political, business, and social actors collectively address the housing needs of the urban poor in Malaysia. A multiple-case study approach was used to compare strategies to resolve sustainable housing issues across three urban states in Malaysia. The findings were drawn from interviews with actors in the housing industry supported by online media and public reports. The twenty participants consisted of policymakers, housing developers, civil citizens, and social interest groups. The findings reveal that the state government's authoritative strategy may lead to inefficiencies and eventually accelerate network changes. The adoption of a collaborative strategy using strategic networks, however, aids in meeting the growing demands of urbanites' housing needs. Collaboration also aligns with the conflicting interests of diverse actors. Understanding how strategic and issue-based nets are formed and maintained may help business, political and social actors strategize in a highly regulated market.