Page 725 - Proceedings Collega2023

EXPLORING THE ROLE OF SOCIAL SPACES IN PRESERVING
TRADITIONAL SETTLEMENTS AND FOSTERING SOCIAL CAPITAL

1
Nor Zalina HARUN*
2
Nur ‘Adilah HASSAN
1 Institute of Malay World and Civilization (ATMA), The National University of Malaysia, Selangor,
Malaysia
2 Kajian Dasar IKRAM (KADRI), Selangor, Malaysia
1 nzalina@ukm.edu.com
2 nuradilahhassan6@gmail.com

ABSTRACT

Traditional settlements are characterised by a physical environment that includes social spaces
that are distinct and hold significant value in comparison to other settings, hence reflecting the local
identity and indigenous wisdom. However, the uncontrolled impact of modernization on traditional
settlements poses a significant risk to the physical environment, perhaps leading to the disappearance of
social spaces that have long contributed to the sustainability of social capital. Therefore, this study uses a
qualitative approach through semi-structured interviews and non-participant observation to elucidate the
interrelationships of social spaces in fostering social capital sustainability in Kampung Pulau Duyong, Kuala
Terengganu, Malaysia. The results showed that social spaces such as jetty and warung foster social capital
at three levels of ties, which are: (1) bonding social capital, (2) bridging social capital and (3) linking social
capital. In this regard, social spaces have their own influence and significance on the local community. The
study suggests that the aforementioned phenomenon can be attributed to the recognition of social space
as a pivotal conduit for promoting integration and bolstering social cohesiveness within the local
community. Finally, this study presents empirical findings that demonstrate how the existence and
organisation of social spaces inside a traditional settlement are indicative of the indigenous wisdom and
customs of early inhabitants in preserving their social sustainability.

Keywords: social capital; social sustainability; social spaces; local identity; traditional settlement;
indigenous wisdom

International Conference on Local Wisdom of the Malay Archipelago (COLLEGA 2023) Page - 712 -