PLACE ATTACHMENT TOWARDS WATERFRONT IN KANGAR, PERLIS, MALAYSIA

This paper discusses place attachment to Kangar Waterfront in the state of Perlis, Malaysia. A questionnaire survey was conducted with users of the water front to identify the level of attachment, form of engagement and factors that influence the attachment to the waterfront. Field observation was carried out before the survey to examine the physical features of the waterfront and public activities. The study indicates that the level of attachment towards the waterfront is at the lower range. However, the physical features and activities within the waterfront were considered as the attraction of the place that may have encouraged users’ engagement including healthy recreational activities such as exercising and walking. Users had a weaker attachment to the physical elements such as walkway and plants due to accessibility issues and poor image of the place. Improvement regarding safety, comfort and easy circulation for pedestrians could increase the attraction and the frequency of visits to the place, thus positive to the development of stronger attachment. A psychological understanding of a place could develop a new perspective for urban planners and designers in making places, such as the waterfront more attractive and meaningful to the users.