INTRODUCING NETWORKS IN PLANNING: AN EXAMPLE FROM LANGKAWI

Abstract

This article introduces networks as a potential technique in participatory planning and implementation activities, including community activities, social events, projects, and conference events. This recommendation is backed by findings of some networks-like characteristics indicated in past and present work relationships between relevant government and private stakeholders in a study of a few Langkawi Geopark activities. The findings were obtained from an analysis of some geopark activities and interview data given by various public and private stakeholders. The relationships had led to the successful completion of various geopark activities. This article argues that the relationships have the potential to be developed into effective networks of relationships in future geopark activities. Therefore, relevant authorities, policy makers, managers, administrators and planners could consider developing existing stakeholder relationships into actual networks in their future consultation programmes with all stakeholders. This could be achieved by using networks as a technique in planning and development.