Determinants of Resident Satisfaction in Public Housing: A Case Study of Program Perumahan Rakyat (PPR) Paya Nahu, Malaysia
Abstract
This study examines resident satisfaction within the Program Perumahan Rakyat (PPR), a primary government initiative in Malaysia designed to provide the B40 low-income group with affordable and sustainable housing. As housing is recognized as a fundamental human right essential for social and economic stability, evaluating the success of such public programs through the lens of resident well-being is critical for future urban planning. The purpose of this research is to assess the level of satisfaction among residents regarding their living conditions and the facilities provided under the program. Guided by Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, the study focuses on three key dimensions: physical characteristics of the housing unit, safety needs, and social needs. Data was collected from 212 residents at PPR Paya Nahu, Kedah, using a quantitative approach. The findings indicate that while all variables correlate positively with resident satisfaction, the physical characteristics of the house—such as unit size, layout, and ventilation—emerge as the most influential factors. Conversely, safety needs recorded the lowest satisfaction levels, highlighting significant concerns regarding security and criminal activity in the area. This research contributes a holistic, need-based model to the literature on public housing, offering a structure for policymakers and managers to design more effective interventions that balance physical functionality with security and community cohesion.
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