Public housing by definition is communal living. While individual apartment units may be treated as private space, large aspects of the property represent shared spaces requiring shared responsibilities and civic mindedness amongst residents. The proximity and shared facilities necessitate frequent interaction among residents. Hence the intensity of social relations, how residents interact with space, and the sense of ownership over place have an impact upon the quality of life in public housing. In this section we highlight the spatial dimension of public housing and how social dynamics and urban design are implicated in the production of liveability.
4.1. In the dense environment of public housing, individuals are brought into close proximity, creating opportunities for positive interactions that can foster a sense of community—but also increasing the risk of friction and conflict. The close proximity of people from diverse backgrounds creates a dynamic environment where interactions can lead to meaningful connections and shared experiences, contributing to a sense of belonging and camaraderie. However, this same proximity can also amplify differences and tensions, potentially leading to conflicts arising from varying values, beliefs and lifestyles.
4.2. Common spaces and facilities within public housing complexes, such as lifts, corridors, and walkways, serve as vital arteries that ensure the smooth functioning of residents’ daily lives. These communal areas act as connectors of the community, akin to roads and pathways, facilitating movement, connectivity, and interaction among residents. As indispensable components of the built environment, these spaces play a pivotal role in enhancing residents’ quality of life and must be diligently maintained and cared for to sustain the vitality and functionality of the public housing ecosystem.
4.3. Common spaces, however, have become unsanitary and unhygienic spaces posing public health concerns. Think City conducted a qualitative assessment of common spaces as part of the KDS. In all the sample public housing sites common spaces such as lift lobbies, corridors, courtyards, recreation grounds and play areas have been observed to be degraded to different degrees by indiscriminate littering and waste disposal issues. Visually they appear unsightly often with pervasive rodent infestations, marked by droppings and evidence of nesting, by the built-up of dirt, damp and grime, and by the deterioration of physical infrastructure arising from poor maintenance. It is not uncommon to encounter foul odour emanating from different spaces reflecting the variety of odoriferous sources and hygiene status within the complex structure.
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6.11. Political interference has been one factor impeding management effectiveness. Officials also point to the interference of actors with political influence in undermining the effective operation and upkeep of public housing. Because of its high population density, politicians have viewed public housing as an important source of voters. Hence, they are tempted to position themselves as the 'protectors' of residents and assert their influence over decision making. Officials have shared many examples when their attempts at enforcement have been thwarted by such political encroachments. More seriously, political interference has become an obstacle for the effective collection of rent. For example, DBKL reports that arrears in rental collection have reached an estimated RM60 million. To further illustrate how this issue is prevalent outside K2K study area, the Seremban Municipal Council reports rental arrears of RM2.03 million from two public housing schemes under its purview, while the KPKT reported accumulated rental arrears of RM 12 million from two of its public housing sites 38 39 The failure to systematically collect rent not only negatively impacts upon the financial sustainability of public housing but undermines the trust relationship between residents and management, promoting resentment to an already stressed community.