Challenges in the Implementation of Green Home Development in Malaysia: Perspective of Developers

Abstract

The construction industry is the main contributor to Malaysian economic growth. One of the main sectors to be highlighted by the Government is housing sector. The population in Malaysia is increasing year by year, thus the demand for houses also rises significantly. However, the fulfilment of basic needs for people normally gives the adverse impacts to the environment. Green home concept is introduced with a purpose to create an acceptable standard of living as well as to preserve nature from destruction, whilst to promote efficiency of energy, water and other natural resources. The study aims to identify current level of awareness and understanding regarding the Green Home concept, together with identifying the challenges that contribute to lack of initiatives in implementation of green home development. This study utilizes the qualitative methodology utilising interviews with housing developers operating in Klang Valley. 20 respondents were interviewed with a semi-structured interview. This study found that level of awareness and understanding on green home concept among construction players and public is low to moderate level. However, it shows improvement in terms of its implementation with all respondents agreed that cost factor is greatest challenge to its implementation. Other challenges identified from the study are low awareness and understanding among construction players and public, low demand for green home, and lack of Government enforcement and initiatives. The study is eventually intended to enhance and improve the sustainable practice in Malaysian’s construction industry.