M ECANISMOS PARA LA INVESTIGACIÓN Y EL DESARROLLO (R&D)

The following section discusses the characteristics associated with the diversity and selection of open space. Aspect discussed was the use of open space and diversity of activities, selection of products sold by hawkers and the variety of open space users.

6.8.4.1 The Diversity of Open Space Users Influence the Choice of Places to Visit

Users are essential elements in generating commercial activity and their diversity. Density and diversity users support the vitality of the place, contribute to the attraction and attachment. Results showed that mixing people from all races and diverse backgrounds to become one of the powerful features in open space (KW and LW). Thus, the ability of

162 open space to accommodate the needs and desires of users and the choices offered to a variety of economic backgrounds and socio-culture is necessary for the continued engagement.

The diversity of function and user role affect the diversity of activities in open space. This is consistent with the opinion of Dolbani (2000) from Bentley et al. (1985) that a variety of land uses, people, events, and experiences provide a mixture of perception where different users interpret the place differently and take different meanings. It was explained that the type of activity in open space is influenced by the characteristics of the user who occupied the open space. KW more strongly associated with the Malays and Indians Muslim, while LW gives more to the mix all ethnic backgrounds as well as foreign tourists.

Table 6.36: Diversity.

ACTIVITIES KW LW

Criteria Performance Indicators Rating

(1-5) Total average % Rating (1-5) Total average % DIVERSITY The level where offers diversity and choice

01 Various people and background 4

22/35 (62%)

5

19/35 (54%) 02 A variety of cultural expressions 3 3

03 A variety of products sold 1 1 04 The mixture of old and new 3 2 05 Mixture, artificial and natural

landscape

4 3

06 Various taste, sound, and smell 3 2 07 Various food and restaurants 4 3

Total 35 22 3.14 19 2.71

Measurement rating

5: very successful - 4: successful - 3: fairly successful - 2: unsuccessful - 1: very unsuccessful

Table 6.36 shows the results to place diversity (KW=3.14 and LW=2.71). However, LW considered very positive regarding diversity and backgrounds of people even rated as less successful in providing a diversity of choice for users. Survey findings can be explained that LW is much visited by tourists from abroad because Lumut is a gateway to Pangkor

163 Island. In summary, the results of this study show that diversity, choice, and mix of activities are important factors in ensuring the vitality of open space.

6.8.5 Transaction

The transaction is the main function of the open space; it has crucial influence in how it responds by respondents. The following section discusses the role economic activities and socio-culture interaction in promoting attachment, and factors interconnected.

6.8.5.1 Social and Cultural Interaction

These observations indicate the result of social interaction and culture established through personal interaction, economics transaction and socio-cultural. This is consistent with the argument Montgomery (1998) which states that the transaction based on the economic activity of the city and provides a space for social and cultural transactions through friendship, events, and occasions, that affect the shape of the attachment. Findings from interviews show that there is special attachment function between traders and street hawkers because of interaction with each other, and due to the long period of involvement in the same area. The frequency of direct interaction very clear when asked about their familiarity with the area. Most respondents recognize and interact with their fellow traders and well recognized.

The interaction of ethnic groups and cultures together enhanced and supported by religious and cultural activities (KW) as the Friday prayers and the occasional religious celebrations or cultural celebrations. In this situation, community and association with people who live in the area. Social attachment and culture can improve the level of comfort in open spaces. Shuhana (2004) emphasized the role of social transactions called 'hospitality' be reflected in welcoming visitors and users of open space and community

164 interaction in an open space in a way that would cause a sense of community and support the place attachment. Concluded that the open space is not only intentionally involve people to meet the requirements but also have a role in connecting them with other users occupying the area. Table 6.37 shows the results evaluation of the transaction (KW: 3.40 - 68%, LW: 2.80 - 56%), in which KW has been rated as more successful in transactions compared to LW.

Table 6.37: Transaction.

ACTIVITIES KW LW

Criteria Performance Indicators Rating (1-5) Total average % Rating (1-5) Total average % TRANSACTIONS The intensity of business, information, communication and social interaction

01 Center services and activities 4

17/25 (68%)

3

14/25 (56%) 02 Street hawkers/night market 5 4

03 Sales in the open space and the night market

3 2

04 Advertisement in open space 2 2 05 Social events and culture 3 3

Total 25 17 3.40 14 2.80

Measurement rating

5: very successful - 4: successful - 3: fairly successful - 2: unsuccessful - 1: very unsuccessful

Observations show that the buying and selling activities exist in open space. The economic transactions contributed to the revival of activity in the open space that can be seen in the activities of buying and selling a variety of foods and products. Respondents attached to the place because of its opportunities for business and employment. Cultural and social interaction is reflected in ethnic and religious unity.