Assessment on the recreational participation and satisfaction among low-income residents in Kuala Lumpur

Abstract

Dissatisfaction with living condition in an urban low-income neighbourhood, and many of the associated issues, can be traced to the apparent inability to meet the basic need of its inhabitants. In an urban situation, one of the fundamental components of the people’s well-being is the feasibility to recreational opportunities regardless of the socio-economic status. Evidence on health issues related to low-level of participation in physical and recreational activities are more prevalent among lower income, less educated, and unemployed populations compared to higher income individuals. Although it has been discussed around the globe, very few were found in Malaysia. The main aim of this study is to assess the neighbourhood park as recreational resource in low-income housing. This study presents the assessment of two aspects which are in terms of the recreational participation and satisfaction among the low-income community. Four (4) neighbourhood parks in low-income housings located within Kuala Lumpur were selected as the study sites. Data were collected through survey questionnaire from 253 park users. Additionally, this study also provides valuable assessment by four expert panels in the related fields using an existing Quality Neighbourhood Park Criteria. Findings from the recreational participation highlighted that non-working group such as students and housewife as the main users in the park. This study also found that women and senior adults from the age group above 50 years old as the potential users and should be given consideration to encourage their participation in recreational activities. Another significant finding is that, the participants indicated that safety and immoral activities are found to be among the main reasons people to disengage from participating in recreational activities in the neighbourhood. In overall satisfaction, it is summarized as fairly satisfied with every component except, towards the park and recreational facilities. Broken and poor maintenance of park facilities are found to be the main reason of dissatisfaction among the participants. However, the main concern or suggestion from the participants is mainly related to the improvement of program and activities in the park. Finally, based on the expert panel assessment, it can be concluded that the neighbourhood parks in the low-income housing has the advantages in terms of good accessibility, however, the facilities, choice of materials and the appearance of the park has major room for improvement. These findings provide a foundation for an improved understanding on the participation of low-income community in recreational activities which can assist in future improvement. Insight gained from this study would be useful for researchers, parks and recreation practitioner, authority seeking to improve the living quality from the recreational aspects among the low-income communities in Malaysia.