The Housing Behavior of Malaysian Apartment Residents

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore the housing behaviors of Malaysian apartment residents by investigating their space usage. During February 2019, 14 apartment units in Kuala Lumpur, Putra Jaya, Shah Alam, Petaling Jaya, and Klang were surveyed via interviews, observations, and measurement. Based on the author’s previous research, housing behavior was classified into personal activities, family activities, service activities, and social activities. The analysis yielded the following results. The bedroom, along with the living room and dining room, was the primary place for personal activities. The living room and dining room served as a major space for family and social activities. The dining room, in particular, served as a space for a variety of functions such as dining, studying, working, entertaining guests, and family gatherings. The yard is a unique space in Malaysian apartments for laundry as well as a second cooking space (wet kitchen). According to the findings of the study, families were satisfied with their apartment living environment; however, improvements to the comparatively tiny yard space and the security of the entrance were required.