Drivers of Residents’ Participation in Urban Neighbourhood Public Space Maintenance

Abstract

Public participation is increasingly recognised as a strategic approach to improving the quality and long-term upkeep of neighbourhood public spaces. Beyond reducing maintenance costs, participation strengthens the relationship between residents and their shared environment, fostering a sense of civic responsibility. However, resident involvement in neighbourhood public space maintenance remains limited in Malaysian urban neighbourhoods, where such responsibilities are typically viewed as the domain of local authorities. This study examines the factors that influence residents’ willingness to engage in the maintenance of neighbourhood public spaces in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. A structural equation model was developed to assess the causal relationships among three key drivers of participation: Personal Motivation, Place Attachment, and Neighbourhood Ties. Findings reveal that Neighbourhood Ties significantly encourage participation, but their influence operates indirectly through the mediating effects of residents’ attachment to place and individual motivation to maintain their surroundings. These results highlight the importance of strengthening social connections and emotional bonds within neighbourhoods to promote collective action in public space stewardship. The study contributes to a deeper understanding of urban resident participation and provides insights for designing community-based maintenance strategies that complement formal public space management in Malaysian cities.