A review on public participation in local authorities associated with landslide disaster in Selangor

Selangor’s growing population and accelerating economic conditions have resulted in the demand for human settlements. As a result, Selangor development has intruded the highland areas and it was constantly hit with overwhelmed landslide disasters. Landslides are now viewed not only as natural catastrophe but as a massive risk to community that must be managed accordingly. Over the years, issues of public participation in local authorities have grown. There are three issues affecting public participation in local authorities: 1) Lack of social capital, 2) Limited community capacity and 3) Limited time consideration. Improving public participation in local authorities significantly to reduce landslide disaster impacts in Selangor. Local authority as the service provider plays an important role in this especially when it relates to policy decision-making. The aim of this research is to establish public participation framework in local authorities as to reduce landslide impacts in Selangor. This review has two objectives: 1) To investigate factors affecting public participation in local authorities and 2) To suggest strategies to encourage public participation in local authorities. This research employed both qualitative and quantitative method. Questionnaires survey will consist of one group of respondents which is highland area residents while Semi-structured interviews with two groups of respondents: 1) Representatives from Resident’s Association at any Ampang Jaya’s neighbourhood and 2) Representatives from Town Planning Department, Engineering Department & Commissioner of Building (COB) of Ampang Jaya Municipal Council. Public participation is not mandated in the development, construction, or post occupancy stage. In fact, no laws in Malaysia requires public input in slope mitigation or risk reduction works done by the authorities after the development or construction works of the housing schemes are completed. This research sheds light on the importance of public participation in local authorities associated with landslide disaster in Ampang Selangor. This study provides good insights into public participation in local authorities as to reduce landslide disaster impacts in Selangor.