Civil Engineering Infrastructure and Land Development: Issues in the Technically Difficult and Poor Ground Condition in Malaysia

摘要

Intensive housing and land development in Malaysia since the last four decade has resulted in the depletion of suitable and cheap spot. This kind of land can now only be found in the area far away from the cities. However, most people choose to be near or not too far from the cities. This has led to the exploration of the less desirable area such as hillside, swampy land, ex-mining land, low lying land, and soft ground areas near the rivers or sea. A study of completed development in the mentioned areas reveal that there are less than adequate guidelines, laws or policies to ensure development in these areas are given proper attention in term of safety and environmental provisions. This paper discussed issues related to civil engineering infrastructure and systems in the planning, design and construction of housing in the difficult and less desirable areas. It is finally concluded that the compulsory involvement of engineers in the planning stage of development in the less desirable area is vital. This is to ensure adequate safety and environmental provisions are included in the layout and design.