Geospatial and socio-spatial mapping for landscape resource planning and cultural heritage preservation in Malaysia

• Main Authors: Nizarudin, Norhanis Diyana, Zakariya, Khalilah, Ibrahim, Putri Haryati, Md Jani, Haza Hanurhaza, Abu Bakar, Aniza, Tukiman, Izawati, Mohd. Hussain, Mohd. Ramzi, Baharuddin, Zainul Mukrim
• Format: Proceeding Paper
• Language: English
• Published: Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences Prince of Songkla University, Pattani Campus 2023
• Subjects: G Geography (General); GE196 Sustainable living
• Online Access: http://irep.iium.edu.my/109953/7/109953_Geospatial%20and%20Socio-spatial%20Mapping%20for%20landscape%20resources.pdf; http://irep.iium.edu.my/109953/

Rapid pace of urbanisation has brought forth a pressing concern – the potential attrition of landscape resources and cultural heritage attributes that define the nation's identity. Proper planning strategies for future development and preservation of the sites are pivotal to be observed for the longevity of the national landscape assets. In response, this study unveils the transformative potential of geospatial and socio-spatial mapping as dynamic solutions for preserving local landscape resources and cultural heritage attributes information for a better-informed decision-making. This study combines a multifaceted methodology through GIS-based mapping and cultural mapping to comprehensively map and document natural, cultural, and social attributes across five selected towns in Peninsular Malaysia. The mapping outputs are then scored by using overlay analysis, suitability analysis, and content analysis to evaluate the spatial-based conditions of the landscape resources and cultural heritage assets in the studied areas. The study revealed that both spatial mapping approaches yield detailed spatial maps that help to visualise the evaluation of site potentials and threats towards achieving balanced socio-environmental planning. Through the fusion of geospatial and socio-spatial mapping, an effective strategy arises to systematically safeguard landscape resources and cultural heritage amidst modernisation, facilitating wellinformed decisions for future sustainable development.