ENCAPSULATES THE MALAY SETTLEMENTS

Abstract

This study delves into the resilience of Malay settlements—specifically Kampung Sayong, Kampung Morten, Kampung Balik Pulau, and Kampung Duyong—as they face the challenges of rapid urbanization and environmental changes. By comparing these communities, this research summarises the different ways they adapt to modernity and protect their cultural heritage and distinctiveness. The findings reveal a strong commitment among residents to preserve their heritage, engage in community conservation efforts, and diversify their economic activities, which aligns with SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities and SDG 15: Life on Land. Nonetheless, the Malay community also faces serious problems in the urban landscape that affect development, particularly in understanding the impact of the growing landscape and land grabbing, which hampers their way of life and cultural practices. Active participation in governance and decision-making processes emerges as a crucial factor in fostering resilience, as it allows residents to feel a sense of ownership and adaptability in the face of change, echoing the principles of SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions. Looking to the future, the study highlights the importance of preserving Malay identity and encouraging intergenerational knowledge transfer, ensuring that these communities can thrive sustainably and contribute to SDG 4: Quality Education. The knowledge from this research extends understanding of culture and cultural resilience and points to the need for partnership in cultural development, suggesting a positive prospect for Malay people on their journey in a constantly evolving context.