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Home > JOURNAL > Vol. 2 (2013) > Number 2

 

Abstract

The history, growth and development of New Village (NVs) in Malaysia are common issues of discussion. The actions of relevant authorities to deal with the persistent problems of NVs have seldom been comprehensive and successful. This paper explores issues that appear to challenge NVs in their present form and to examine whether such challenges will contribute to the growth of NVs or to their stagnation.
Several issues and possibilities concerning NVs are raised and preliminary findings are extrapolated to place the dilemma of the NVs in perspective. Issues of polities, liveability and sustainability are discussed in relation to the future of NVs in this country. The current national housing policy has to divert sufficient attention to address issues concerning the liveability of NVs. The long term neglect of NVs can result in negative political repercussions for the ruling coalition government. As attested by recent electoral votes, the discontentment with living conditions in the NVs is refelcted in the inhabitants' voting behaviour and shift of support to the opposition parties. For the ruling coalition to arrest their declining popularity in the NVs, there is a need for the relevant authorities to revitalize new villages and improve the quality of homes and living environment arising from demographic, social and economic changes. It is clear that national development plans should take into account the future of NVs in a comprehensive and more balanced perspective.

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