TOWN PLANNERS PERCEPTIONS OF SPORTS FACILITIES AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT: A CASE STUDY OF 13 STATES MAIN SPORTS FACILITIES IN MALAYSIA

Sport is defined as recreation and is considered as the symbol of developed degree of a country and economic development. However, globalisation and dramatic growth of urbanisation highlight the importance of sport and sports facilities in cities. On the other hand, there is a recent trend in some countries to build sports facilities not only for their intended sporting purpose but also for the twin aim of stimulating urban areas. In Malaysia, sports and sports facilities have improved rapidly over the past years. There is also currently tremendous interest in sports and a wave of sports investment. This research aims to examine town planners‟ perceptions of sports facilities and urban development focusing on the main sports facilities at State level in Malaysia. It is based on quantitative research via postal questionnaire survey and key informant interviews. The research reveals new trend of sports investment and sports facilities construction started in the mid-1990s. The findings of this research elaborate new considerations for town planners to determine the type of local environment for a new sports facility. Further, it may assist to review and provide specific guidelines and principles for sports facilities in Malaysia to follow the global trend in the future.