Urban Poverty and Housing.
SOCIOLOGY AND POLICY PRACTICES
IN CONTEMPORARY ISSUES
Edited by:
Muhamad Fadhil Nurdin
Centre for Socioglobal Studies
Padjadjaran University
Foreword by:
Dr. Arry Bainus MA
Dean, Faculty of Social and Political Sciences
Padjadjaran University
2015
SOCIOLOGY AND POLICY PRACTICES
IN CONTEMPORARY ISSUES
© 2015 Muhamad Fadhil Nurdin et.all.
First Published May, 2015
Published By
Penerbit Samudra Biru (Member of IKAPI)
Jomblangan Gg. Ontoseno Blok B No 15 Rt 12/30
Banguntapan Bantul Yogyakarta Indonesia 55198
Telp. (0274) 9494 558
E-mail/FB: psambiru@gmail.com
ISBN: 978-602-9276-55-8
All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reprinted or
reproduced or utilised in any form or by any electronic,
mechanical, or other means, now known or hereafter
invented, including photocopying and recording, or in any
information storage or retrieval system, without permission in
writing from the publishers.
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Sociology and Policy Practices in Contemporary Issues
CONTENTS
Contents .............................................................................................
Acknowledgement ..............................................................................
Foreword ............................................................................................
Introduction .......................................................................................
Chapter 1
Globalizing Information Technology:Issues and
Challenges in Contemporary Indonesia’s Democracy
Muhamad Fadhil Nurdin, Ari Ganjar Herdiansah
and Wahyu Gunawan ............................................
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
iii
ix
xi
xiii
1
ASEAN Community 2015: A New Human Resources Paradigm
Muhamad Fadhil Nurdin, Arry Bainus and Ali Maksum ........................................................................
15
Communication Strategy through Media Education: An Efort to Achieve Harmony and Sustainability in Indonesia-Malaysia Relations
Muhamad Fadhil Nurdin, Fitaha Aini, Tofan Rakhmat Zaky and Forina Lestari ................................
27
Sociology and Policy Practices in Contemporary Issues
iii
Chapter 4
Indonesian Culture Heritages in the 21St Century
Muhamad Fadhil Nurdin, Tia Devianti and R. A.
Tachya Muhamad ....................................................
Chapter 5
Crafting Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal:
Role of Nepalese Political and Welfare Institutions
Bala Raju Nikku, Pradipta Kadambari, Pranita
Bhushan Udas and Muhamad Fadhil Nurdin ...........
Chapter 6
Chapter 7
Urban Poverty and Housing
Chapter 8
Mohd Haizzan Yahaya and Muhamad Fadhil Nurdin..........................................................................
Human Traicking
Syarif Muhidin Abdurahman and Muhamad Fadhil
Nurdin ...................................................................
iv
77
93
101
Youth and Crime
Kumarashwaran Vadevelu, Muhamad Fadhil Nurdin
and Wahyu Gunawan ..............................................
Chapter 10
53
Indonesian Broadcasting Policy: Achieving Educated and Civilized Society for Social Welfare
Fitaha Aini & Muhamad Fadhil Nurdin ..................
Chapter 9
39
Concluding Remarks ..........................................
Sociology and Policy Practices in Contemporary Issues
107
125
LIST OF CONTRIBUTORS
Ali Maksum, is a Ph.D candidate at the Centre for Policy Research and
International Studies (CenPRIS), Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang. His
current project is about the Indonesia-Malaysia relations from defensive
realism perspective. He has written articles have been published in such
publisher as Kajian Malaysia: Journal of Malaysian Studies, Springer (ISI),
Indonesia national newspapers and conferences.
Arry Bainus, Ph.D is a senior lecturer at Department of International
Relation Padjadjaran University. He recived his doctoral degree in University
of Indonesia. He focuses his studies on issues arround national security
and defence, including political study on Indonesian Army. Now he is a
dean at Faculty of Social and Political Science Padjadjaran University
Ari Ganjar Herdiansah, Ph.D is a lecturer at Department of Sociology
Padjadjaran University. In 2014 he received his doctoral degree in political
sociology at University of Malaya, Malaysia. His main academic concerns
are political sociology of Islamic society, political communication, and the
politics of community.
Bala Raju Nikku, MSW, Ph.D is a Visiting Sr. Lecturer, Social Work
ProgramSchool of Social SciencesUniversiti Sains Malaysia (USM)&
Member at Large, International Association of Schools of Social Work
(IASSW) Founding Director, Nepal School of Social Work.
Sociology and Policy Practices in Contemporary Issues
v
Fitaha Aini, MA, is a communication lecturer in Indonesia. She has
published book and journals in the ield of communication and media. In
2013, she published her irst book entitled Kebebasan Akhbar MalaysiaIndonesia. She completed her study in Science University of Malaysia
(Persuasive Communication) in 2008 and University of Malaya (Media
Studies) in 2011. Her previous research was evaluation of communication
programs (2009-2014) and formulation of communication policy
(2015-2019) in Indonesia under the Ministry of National Development
Planning.
Forina Lestari, M.Sc. obtained B.Sc.Eng. (ITB, 2006), MSc in Housing,
School of Housing, Building and Planning, University of Science Malaysia
(USM, 2008).Lecturer at Indonesian Institute of Technology (ITI). She
has published a book: Alam Takambang Jadi Guru: Merajut Kearifan Lokal
dalam Penanggulangan Bencana di Sumatera. Consultant and expertise at
Directorate of Rural and Urban Afairs, Indonesia National Development
Planning Agency (Bappenas) and Directorate General of Spatial Planning,
Ministry of Public Works(2013), Directorate General of Regional
Development Assistance, Ministry of Home Afairs and Expert, Deputy of
the Area Development, Ministry of Public Housing (2012), Expert Staf,
Commission V (Infrastructure), he Indonesian House of Representatives
(DPR, 2011).Junior Expert, Directorate of Rural and Urban Afairs,
Indonesia National Development Planning Agency (Bappenas, 2010).
Kumarashwaran VadeveluMSW is a Ph.D scholar at the Social Work
Programme, School of Social Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia. His
current Ph.D studies regarding social support system among youth who
identiied as transgender women dealing with HIV/AIDS issues. Currently,
he’s working as an outreach worker with AIDS Action and Research Group
(AARG), Universiti Sains Malaysia under the programme of Needle and
Syringe Exchange Program (NSEP) which is dealing with the drug user
community.
Mohd. Haizzan Yahaya MSW is Ph.D scholars from University Sains
Malaysia. He is currently researching on Urban Poor Housing and being
supervised by Dr. Muhamad Fadhil Nurdin and associate professor Dr.
Azlinda Azman.
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Sociology and Policy Practices in Contemporary Issues
Muhamad Fadhil Nurdin, MA and Ph.D. from University of Malaya.
He is a leturer at Departement of Social Welfare (1982-2011) and
Departement of Sociology (2011-present), Head Departement of Sociology
in Faculty Social and Political Science, Padjadjaran University (2014present). Visiting Associate Professor at University of Malaya (2008) and
Visiting Associate Professor at Univerisiti Sains Malaysia (2012- present).
Syarif Muhidin, Prof. Dr., obtained his Ph.D. from University
of Pedjadjaran (UNPAD) Bandung (1997), Master of Science from
University of Wales (1979), Diploma in Social Policy & Administration
from University College of Swansea (1977). Currently, he is Visiting Senior
Lecturer at Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM), prior as Visiting Lecturer at
Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), 2010-2012, and formerly as the Head
of Research Institute of University of Langlangbuana (UNLA), last he is a
Honorable Member (Dewan Kehormat) of the Institute for Social Work
Sertiication of Indonesia (2012-up to the present).
Tahcya Muhamad, R. A. Drs. MSi is a senior lecturer at Department
of Sociology Padjadjaran University.He is expert in sociology of family and
rural community.
Tia Devianty, S.IP., MPA, is a PhD candidates at Universitas
Padjadjaran, and a master’s degree graduate from Public Policy, Faculty
of Public Policy and Management, Flinders University, Australia. Now,
a lecturer at Ahmad Yani University, Bandung - from september 1996 –
present Teaching, Researching, and Public Servicing.Current Researches are
mainly about Capacity Building For Decentralization (2008-now).
Tofan Rakhmat Zaky, S.Ip MA is a researcher at the Department of
International and Strategic Studies, Universiti Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur.
He is activist in Art Movement in Malaysia.
Wahyu Gunawan is aPhD candidate at Padjadjaran University and a
senior lecturer at Department of Sociology Padjadjaran University. He is
eager in engaging on community development particularly in rural areas.
Sociology and Policy Practices in Contemporary Issues
vii
Has background in rural government studies and sociology, he now expert
in sociology of government in rural community.
viii
Sociology and Policy Practices in Contemporary Issues
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Alhamdulillah. hanks to Allah SWT, whom with His willing giving
me the opportunity to complete this book entitled Sociology and Policy
Practices in Contemporary Issues. he publication of this book would
not have been possible without the guidance and knowlwdge wich I
have acquired from my honourable professors; Professor A.D Saefullah University of Padjadjaran and Professor Abd. Hadi Zakaria - University of
Malaya. I would also like to dedicate this book to my beloved wife, Tuty
Tohri and our lovely children Tofan Rakhmat Zaky, Forina Lestari, Fitaha
Aini and Tamal Arief Ihsan - their support in my life.
he publication of this book would not be possible without the assistance
and cooperation that we have received over the years from the many
individuals and organization in various parts of the world. In particular, we
wish to thank our team, all authors - Department of Sociology Padjadjaran
University and Universiti Sains Malaysia. Specially thanks especially to Ali
Maksum for his excellent assistance during the editorial process of this
book. Dr. Arry Bainus the Dean of Faculty of Social and Political Sciences,
Padjadjaran University.All of my Masters-PhD students and colleagues at
Padjadjaran University as well as USM whom I would like to thanked for
providing continuous support towards my success.
Wassalam.
Muhamad Fadhil Nurdin
Sociology and Policy Practices in Contemporary Issues
ix
x
Sociology and Policy Practices in Contemporary Issues
FOREWORD
Dr. Arry Bainus, MA
Dean, Faculty of Social and Political Sciences
Padjadjaran University
I would like to express my sincere wishes to Muhamad Fadhil
Nurdin, PhD as Head Department of Sociology Faculty of Social and
Political Sciences Padjadjaran University for his great dedication and
success in completing this book titled “Sociology and Policy Practices
in Contemporary Issues”. his is a very interesting and important book
which I personally feel able to impart more knowledge to the many
academics, not only from sociology and political ields, but also from other
ields as well. he various issues addressed in this book are in fact very
much current issues that is happening around the globe, which need to be
understand and scrutinize for better intervention.
I am really honoured to be given the opportunity to give a foreword
to this special book. It is hoped that this book able to generate more
discussions and awareness on quest for searching for the more relevant
solutions to all social, political and economic issues occurring around us
today.
I would like to congratulate all chapter contributors for sharing their
ideas and knowledge, which I am sure able to set platform for more writers
to venture into the highlighted issues. I sincerely hope that more of this
book kind will be published in the near future.
hank you.
Wassalam.
Bandung, 2015
Sociology and Policy Practices in Contemporary Issues
xi
xii
Sociology and Policy Practices in Contemporary Issues
INTRODUCTION
In the Name of God, the Most Gracioeus, the Most Merciful
his book provides a thematic issues and challenges in the new era,
Sociology and Policy Practices in Contemporary Issues. he main
objective is to present an integrated analysis of how the discipline of
sociology can contribute to our wider understanding of the variety of
social and political issues, practices and insttitutions approachs, policies
and philosophy wich exist in our society and countries. his explanatory
chapters expected to examine and understand as well as ofer choices for
human beings in the dinamics world to build a human harmony.
his book depart from the point of view that sociology is as applied
social and political sciences can contribute to the development of human
life through many perspectives; political and international strategy,
culture, history, communi-cation, poverty and social probles. he various
theme have been selected are discussed from social fenomena to policy
directions.
In the irst chapter, focus on the Information Technology (IT)
developments that more increasingly integrated in almost every social aspect
have shaped Indonesia’s contemporary democracy. Chapter two, ASEAN
Community 2015 and discusses the dilemma of Indonesian workers
especially those who categorized as illegal in Malaysia. Both countries have
recognized their positive contribution whether for Malaysia or Indonesia.
It was undeniable that all sectors in Malaysia especially construction and
plantation were using Indonesian workers services. At the same time,
Indonesia also indirectly obtained advantages through the remittance
which totally contribute to the national economic development. However,
what happened in Malaysia is illegal workers were arrested and treat as a
criminal. It should be stopped and substituted by the constructive policies
which could give beneits to the both countries. Indonesia and Malaysia
Sociology and Policy Practices in Contemporary Issues
xiii
and the countries in ASEAN should build strong partnership in all sectors
especially migrant workers which seen obtain small attention. Facing the
ASEAN Community 2015 both countries should prepare as maximize as
possible by empowering all aspects including migrant workers. By take
positive action towards migrant workers both countries indirectly has
contribute to the development of “Ummah.”
In the thrird chapter discusses communication strategy through media
education: an efort to achieve harmony and sustainability in IndonesiaMalaysia relations - concludes a guidance should be provided to the public
so that they can be more critical and wise in dealing with any negative
news. A critical community is a community who is able to diferentiate the
written and hidden message of writing. A wise community is the one who is
not provoked by provocative and negative news. Indonesian and Malaysian
should be aware that each of them has had a signiicant contribution one
to another. A good example can be seen through the assistant of Malaysian
people in the disaster recovery process in Indonesia and the existence
of Indonesia migrant workers in the Malaysia’s economic development.
However, Indonesia-Malaysia rela-tions is always changing and tend
to lead to conlict situations. he role of media and media educationis
importantas a communication strategy to implement the problem solving
modelin understanding the global situation and the public policies who
are based theory of cultural conlict and acculturation. Chapter fourth,
the author emphasized Indonesian Culture Heritages in the 21St Century.
his section concludes that hird World back to dig the philosophical values
that are in each country. For instance, the basic values of the Indonesian nation is
relected in the ive principles of Pancasila namely the divinity in God Almighty,
humanity, unity and nationality, deliberation and social justice for all people.
he problem is how to translate basic values into the concept of development
and preserve cultural heritage. Apparently, the third world thinkers have to work
harder to formulate a philosophical values - ideological cultural heritage as part of
the great nations of the world.herefore, the cultural heritages is an essential
economic asset in facing the escalation of human development.
In the chapter ifth takes up the theme of crafting federal democratic
Republic of Nepal: role of Nepalese political and welfare institutions.
Nepal is one of the least developed, post conlict recovery countries going
through a series of transitions and eforts of nation building. his chapter
concludes that the citizen mobilisation that took place over a period of time
due to the experiments with democracy building in Nepal in the past sixty
years should be sustained, to further ensure the vibrancy and consolidation
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Sociology and Policy Practices in Contemporary Issues
of democracy, resulting in crafting a uniied republic out of a multi ethnic
Nepal. Chapter six explores the broadcast media industry and the role model
or best practice in the broadcast media industry. his concept is suitable
due to it contains freedom which is up-to-date without abandoning the
values of religion, culture and national spirit. Overall, Indonesia requires
an (endogenous) big push to strengthen and institutionalize the use of
research product for design and implementation of public policies. his
will be a crucial factor in determining the success of the welfare policies
that the government is currently designing.
In the chapter seven related with poverty phenomena. However,
these historical problems did not result in serious poverty under the well
planned economic system. he number of poor people inherited from
the previous period was also relatively small. In addition, the struggle of
urban poor communities in Malaysia for housing and land rights is closely
related to the development and history of the country. After the British
colonial period, Malaysia’s priority was to develop its economy by focusing
on the manufacturing and export industry in urban areas. his resulted
when people from rural areas migrating from village to the city, in search
of opportunities and to ill the workforce demand. Most of the urban
migrants would build their own house near the manufacturing factories,
because the surrounding lands were unoccupied and unused. With hard
work and their own resources they would clean the area (wilderness) and
build houses; this would encourage the development in the area and hence
they are known as urban pioneers.
In chapter eigth focus on human traicking, issues and Challenges.
Human trafcking has become global issue and problem. he researchers
concluded that the relevant region is suspect as illegal and such region
is indicated as human traicking (if the elements of coercion and sexual
exploitation are met). he challenges of the government has the right and
responsibility to provide all the protections to its citizen inside as well as
outside the country. here is still optimistic that emphasizing spiritual values
in the public administration and services will enhance the performance
of the government. Finally, the latest chapter nine concern onyouth and
crime as social problem. However, the Malaysia’s social policies makers
can make this recommendation as a guide in outlining or implement a
rehabilitation program for youths involved in crime. At the same time
and hopefully this research will also beneit the school management and
Penang Welfare Department in using this research to improve existing
rehabilitation programs in these institutions. In addition, through this
Sociology and Policy Practices in Contemporary Issues
xv
research, it is expected that the people of Malaysia be aware especially in
spending the time with their children or less able to prevent their children’s
involvement in crime. Finally, researchers expect this research can provide
as important reference material for dealing with negative behavior such as
criminal involvement among adolescents in Malaysia.
his book examines the social and political fenomena in the broader
“Sociology and Policy Practices in Contemporary Issues” perspective. It
is compiled from travelers and knowledge experiences in international
seminars, talks and forum of researchers, supervisions and other discussion
with my professors and colleagues, PhD and Master students. hat
experiences, together with their personal values and interests extremely
inluence to all authors in this book. Personally, I hope that those who
engage and read this book will obtain fruitful knowledge. All errors are the
author’s responsibility.
Wassalam.
Muhamad Fadhil Nurdin
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Sociology and Policy Practices in Contemporary Issues
Chapter
7
Urban Poverty and Housing
Mohd Haizzan Yahaya and Muhamad Fadhil Nurdin
READERS GUIDE
his chapter discuss on the major
concern on urban poverty, housing needs
and housing issues in Penang, Malaysia.
Issues on homeownership, policies, and
program had been addresses. In addition,
some feedback from the high lever person
related to housing industries had been
reviewed and been discussed in this
paper too. From the perspective of social
work, a better policy, and program need
to be implement. his is important in
order to ensure the evolution of housing
development in Penang will it in the
Penangites for a short term and even for
the long term period.
Urban Poverty and Housing
93
URBAN POVERTY
Poverty can be measured by normative boundaries that cause feelings
of inadequacy compared and lead distribution to the poor and the rich
(Chamhuri Siwar and Mohd, Halah Piei, 1988). Whileurban poverty
is divided into absolute poverty, relative poverty and extreme poverty.
Absolute poverty is a condition of households who are unable to achieve
an income that can cover basic their needs. Relative poverty is also a group
income inequality in a society and a condition of a household who are
unable to reach at least half of the Poverty Line Income (PLI) to cover
basic living. PGK set by the government of RM 350 in 1989 and RM405
in 1993, which did not distinguish urban and rural areas. his is due to the
area has a diferent cost of living (Mohd Taib Dora, 2000; Ragayah, 2006).
he poverty line in the country at this point is set at income levels below
RM720 per month (Borneo Post, 2010). Urban poverty is at 2.4% in 1985
and decreased to 0.3% in 2002 (Chamsuri Siwar, 2005). According to the
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Tan Sri Nor Mohamed (at
the time), the poverty rate among the population living in urban areas in
the country is around 2% and extreme poverty was at 0.3%.
Statistics shows that 7% of the country’s population lives in urban
areas (Utusan Malaysia, 2010). Urban poverty is a serious issue with the
number of households in the city is increasing (Chamhuri Siwar, 2005).
Urban areas particularly housing issues, especially the problem of housing
in slum areas and residents of low cost is a common problem faced by the
poor and low-income families in the city. he active group is estimated at
47.7%, ie 35.0% of men and 12.7% women from 158 families (Mohd.
Taib Dora, 2000). In addition, the group remains categorized as those
who are physically handicapped, elderly and inirm prolonged sufering.
Disability factor is one of the reasons of poverty (Townsend, 1979).
HOUSE POVERTY
he deinition of house poverty cannot be stated precisely because of
it is subjective term. However, poverty is usually associated with a lack of
income, the hardship and the inability of individuals and households to
meet basic daily needs and in the case of ownership of a house, particularly
for middle-income earners. Between the deinition of poverty by the
experts, Specker (1993) states that poverty included; (1) Lack of physical
facilities for a normal life, (2) Harassment and high health risk, (3) A
security risk and ability economic and social life are closely related thereto,
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Sociology and Policy Practices in Contemporary Issues
(4) Lack of income resulting hardships and (5) Lack of social life which
can be demonstrated by social alienation, marginalization in the political
process, and the low quality of educators.
While Charles Booth deines poverty as someone living in diicult
conditions to meet the needs of adequate living (Holman, 1978). his
deinition describes the relationship between poverty and the inability to
meet the minimum requirements for ownership of housing or maintaining
physical eiciency to meet basic needs. Poverty is deined as a condition
that income insecurity, lack of quality basic needs, housing and disability
in the ownership of productive assets such as maintaining good health,
dependency and lack of help, their antisocial behaviour (anti-social
behaviour), lack of network resources to get a life the good, the lack of
infrastructure and remoteness, as well as disability and separateness (Poli,
1993).
Urban poverty is said to occur because of the poor less exposure to
resources and basic amenities such as housing and education, low income
and have had to deal with the low of rising prices, and lack of knowledge
and information about government assistance (Trends 1980: 10 -12; Mohd
Taib Dora, 2000). his situation makes the occurrence of so-called ‘social
exclusion’ is believed to be the main reason for the existence of poverty. If
these issues can be overcome in marginalization, urban poverty is believed
to be triumph over (Mohd Taib Dora, 2000).
In the meantime, the housing is deined as a series of homes that are
consolidated in a residential area. In the housing element, there are several
sub-elements with all its physical facilities such as the provision of clean
drinking water, a place of worship, landills, there is electricity, telephone,
roads connecting residential areas to the main road, and functioning as
it should. In residential areas, people live in groups and carry out social
activities with each other.
he concept is said to be healthy when the house; (1) Meets the basic
physical needs such as lower temperature than the air outside of the house,
adequate light, ventilation, comfortable, and noise level are between 4555 dB.A, (2) Meeting the needs of human nature, (3 ) Protecting the
occupants of transmission of infectious diseases that have water supply,
waste disposal infrastructure and sewerage regular and eligible health and
(4) Protecting the occupants of the possibility of accidents and ire hazards,
strong foundation of the house, toxicity free, and even from the threat of
traic accidents (Sanropie, 1992; Anwar, 1996).
Urban Poverty and Housing
95
From the stance of Islam, translated as residential housing concept
that characterized Islam when it was established on the basis and aims
to encourage comprehensive Islamic way of life and can be practiced.
Features such as outdoor ornaments, domes, the verses of Al-Quran or
Islamic geometric motifs are not the only criteria that will make the design
of a dwelling house were “un-Islamic” or not. But there are some other
aspects. Among the aspects emphasized in Islam housing concept are; (1)
he existence of a clear boundary between the living room and family
room, so “privacy” can be guaranteed and can be maintained especially
by the women. While each bedroom can be access by women without
having to go through the main sections of the house, (2) he existence of
two ways in and out, one for adults and another speciically for residents,
especially women, (3) he need for a sheltered space for women doing
outdoor activities without causing any discomfort, (4) Orientation houses
built must take into account the direction so as to provide maximum
space for prayers in congregation and avoid activities in a bathroom
can be done with respect for the direction, (5) Each family home has a
minimum recommended three bedrooms.On the hadith of Muhammad
S.A.W. relating to isolate bed (boys and girls), this three-bedroom home is
a necessity for the people. his is based on the hadith of the Prophet which
commands its followers to detach bedroom between the sons and daughters
when they reached 10 years old, (6) here is a sheltered space for women,
work space and interaction for women and the position and orientation
of restrooms, (7) he concept of Islamic style housing also urged local
authorities are responsible for approving the application development
encourages developers to integrate features based on the Islamic way of life
in the design of a house (Buang, 2004).
herefore, home ownership should be based on a sound understanding
of the people afected as with the principles of respect, protection and
fulillment of the rights of their needs. he rights include the right to
social, cultural rights, and economic rights. hus, a strategy needs to be
formulated and welfare of the people and held in its strategy to increase
homeownership rates for middle-income earners in the state of Penang,
especially in the Northeast and Southwest regions.
HOUSING NEED
Housing is a need to most of the peoples. In this, social welfare, social
development, and home ownership is very important so that each individual
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Sociology and Policy Practices in Contemporary Issues
or family can have a decent home to live in a shelter and in accordance
with human values (Sirat et al., 1999; Razali Agus, 2001; Mahamud
& Hussein, 2002; Aini Haji Idris & Siwar eds., 2003; Md Sani @ Abd
Rahim, 2007; dan Tan, 2008). In building a house, legislation, policies
and programs aimed and need to be look on at housing development to
enhance the capacity of human dignity and social functioning (the people)
and delegated prosperity for all, especially those individuals or families
who are unable in home ownership. In the long run (from time to time) it
should be a responsibility of the policy formulation and implementation
of programs to provide a home for the disabled in accordance with the
conditions and requirements. hus, the issues related to the housing for
middle-income earners in Penang, Malaysia can be seen as follows:
First, homeownership numbers for many middle-income earners are
still not at satisfactory level based on the standard of living in Malaysia,
especially in Penang. In general, the provision of housing by the private
sector already meet the needs of high-income groups ie. RM8,000/month
($2580/month) and above. his assertion is supported by Mr. Stuart
MacDonald, Director of Urban and Environment, Penang Institute (oral,
January 9, 2013). his situation is driven by the market price of a house
in Penang where it is a way too expensive compared to market price of a
house in other states in Malaysia. According to the Valuation and Property
Services Department of the State of Penang, the price of a two-storey
terrace house in Penang (in the North East and South West) in 2009, the
cheapest priced is at around RM598,880.00, while the three-storey semidetached houses priced around RM1,318,880.00 to RM1,762,000.00.
Minimum price bungalow sold in 2008 and 2009 is RM1,516,250.00.
he apartment and condominiums built for sale at prices ranging from
RM185,000.00 to RM761,000.00 per unit.
he efectiveness of the current policies set out by the Penang State
Government, ‘One Family, One Home’ which was introduced on 14th
December 2013 and the policy of ‘Building People’s Housing’, which
covers at least 18,000 units of afordable housing through the implementing
agency Penang Development Corporation (PDC) is seen with no minimum
positive impact on middle-income earners. his is seen by an application
to have a house managed by the Penang State Housing Division and PDC
keep on increasing from year to year (Oicer of the Housing Division of
the State of Penang, oral, March 24, 2014). Furthermore, according to
Assistant Administrative Oicer Housing Unit State of Penang, housing
ownership is dominated only by a number of high income earners (Oral,
Urban Poverty and Housing
97
January 11, 2013). Relatively, it will lead to unhealthy property business
activities too. If this situation did not being addressed, it is feared that it
will lead to the changes of landscape of the original Penangaite, especially
the middle incomers doubtless will be marginalized and squeezed by rapid
residential development that only emphasizes luxury home buyers.
In addition, program for middle-income earners in Penang are at
alarming. Currently, the National Housing Policy (DRN) and the Penang
State Housing Policy is focused on the low-incomers. he DRN policy
developed by the Ministry of Housing and Local Government (the ministry)
at the beginning of 2013 on Core 1 is “Provision of Adequate Housing By
Special Requirements hose who need it”. In Penang, the average income of
Penangaite (RM5,055.00, year 2012) is above of national average income
where it is at RM3,250. So in this, it seems that the national policy does
not applicable to be match up in Penang as in speciic.
Nevertheless, the issue of urban poverty has attracted the people of
Penang and also researchers in recent years. Issues on housing in big cities,
included Penang is not something unusual emblazoned on the major
newspapers front page, forums and scientiic conferences at national
level. According to Bernama (2012), he Trade Union Congress in the
Civil Service (Cuepacs) found that about 60 percent of middle-income
civil servants unable to own a house ownership near to their workplace in
large cities. Beside, only in rural areas ofers such afordable homes priced
not exceeding Rm300,000, while many civil servants working in the city
(Yatim, 2012). his situation drives most middle-income civil servants had
only aford to rent or occupying low cost housing apart from alternatives
to occupy government housing (quarters) are extremely limited (Bernama,
2012).
Essentially, there is no documented research done (to date) on home
ownership for middle-income earners in Penang with problematic
situations, especially in the Northeast and Southwest regions from the
point of view of social work knowledge and input. herefore, a study
is important and relevant to the current situation to get a true picture
of the problems and issues of the target groups, service systems, policies
and existing programs to take place and the importance of the need to
be implemented in order to increase homeownership rates for moderate
income earners in Penang.
On the other hand, from the perspective of social work, the issue of
home ownership for the middle-income group is closely related to the social
98
Sociology and Policy Practices in Contemporary Issues
structure, coping strategies, and social work practice in the housing sector.
Intervention model in this study is important in enhancing the ability
to solve problems and overcome, also correlates with providing system
resources, services, and opportunities to promote efective operations,
and thus contribute to the development and improvement of social policy
(Pincus & Minahan, 1973), particularly on the issue of home ownership
for middle-income earners in the state of Penang.
REFERENCES
Abdullah Mohd. Said.2003. Prosedur Dan Pelaksanaan Penilaian Dampak Sosial.
Dlm. Mohd Razali Agus.(pnyt.).Penilaian Dampak Sosial. Kuala Lumpur: Utusan Publications.
Ahmad Hidayat Buang, 2004. Fatwa di Malaysia. Kuala Lumpur. Jabatan Syariah
dan Undang-Undang, APIUM.
Aini Haji Idris, Nor & Chamhuri Siwar [eds]. (2003). Kemiskinan Bandar dan
Sektor Tidak Formal di Malaysia. Selangor: Penerbit UKM (Universiti
Kebangsaan Malaysia).
Akhbar Utusan Malaysia.Kuala Lumpur: 19 Ogos 2010.
Azwar, A. (1996). Pengantar Ilmu Kesehatan Lingkungan. Jakarta : Mutiara Sumber Widya.
Bernama.(2012). Ramai penjawat awam tidak mampu miliki rumah sendiri CUEPACS.Diakses daripada http://cuepacs.blogspot.com/ 2012/ 05/
ramai-penjawat-awam- tidak -mampu-miliki.html.
Chamsuri Siwar, 1994, “Poverty Proile in Malaysia: Findings from Ten
Districts in Peninsular Malaysia”, dalam Jamilah Ariin (eds.) Poverty
Amids Plenty,Pelanduk Publication, Petaling Jaya.
Holman, R. 1978: Poverty: Explanation of Social Deprivation. London: Martin
Robertson.
Mohd Taib Dora (2000). Peminggiran Sosial: Keluarga Melayu Termiskin Bandar,
Skudai, Johor Darul Ta’zim. Penerbit Universiti Teknologi Malaysia.
Pincus A & Minahan, A, 1973, Social Work Practice, Peacock, Itasca.
Urban Poverty and Housing
99
Ragayah Mat Zin, 2002.he Financial Crisis and Its Impact on Poverty and
Inequality in Malaysia.Institute of Malaysian International Studies.
Working Paper.
Razali Agus, Mohd.,2001. Perumahan Awam di Malaysia: Dasar dan Amalan.
KualaLumpur: Utusan Publications and Distributors Sdn. Bhd.
Sanropie D. (1992).Pedoman Bidang Studi Perencanaan Penyehatan Lingkungan Pemukiman. Jakarta : Departemen Kesehatan R.I.
Townsend, P. 1979. Poverty in United Kindom.Penguin Books Ltd. Middlsex.
Spicker, 1995, Social Policy: hemes and Appproaches,Prentice Hall,London.
Yatim.N (2012).Tangani kenaikan harga rumah.Utusan Malaysia.
Diakses daripada http://www.utusan.com.my/utusan/Rencana/ 20120921/
re_06/ Tangani-kenaikan-harg a -rumah.
100
Sociology and Policy Practices in Contemporary Issues
IN CONTEMPORARY ISSUES
Edited by:
Muhamad Fadhil Nurdin
Centre for Socioglobal Studies
Padjadjaran University
Foreword by:
Dr. Arry Bainus MA
Dean, Faculty of Social and Political Sciences
Padjadjaran University
2015
SOCIOLOGY AND POLICY PRACTICES
IN CONTEMPORARY ISSUES
© 2015 Muhamad Fadhil Nurdin et.all.
First Published May, 2015
Published By
Penerbit Samudra Biru (Member of IKAPI)
Jomblangan Gg. Ontoseno Blok B No 15 Rt 12/30
Banguntapan Bantul Yogyakarta Indonesia 55198
Telp. (0274) 9494 558
E-mail/FB: psambiru@gmail.com
ISBN: 978-602-9276-55-8
All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reprinted or
reproduced or utilised in any form or by any electronic,
mechanical, or other means, now known or hereafter
invented, including photocopying and recording, or in any
information storage or retrieval system, without permission in
writing from the publishers.
ii
Sociology and Policy Practices in Contemporary Issues
CONTENTS
Contents .............................................................................................
Acknowledgement ..............................................................................
Foreword ............................................................................................
Introduction .......................................................................................
Chapter 1
Globalizing Information Technology:Issues and
Challenges in Contemporary Indonesia’s Democracy
Muhamad Fadhil Nurdin, Ari Ganjar Herdiansah
and Wahyu Gunawan ............................................
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
iii
ix
xi
xiii
1
ASEAN Community 2015: A New Human Resources Paradigm
Muhamad Fadhil Nurdin, Arry Bainus and Ali Maksum ........................................................................
15
Communication Strategy through Media Education: An Efort to Achieve Harmony and Sustainability in Indonesia-Malaysia Relations
Muhamad Fadhil Nurdin, Fitaha Aini, Tofan Rakhmat Zaky and Forina Lestari ................................
27
Sociology and Policy Practices in Contemporary Issues
iii
Chapter 4
Indonesian Culture Heritages in the 21St Century
Muhamad Fadhil Nurdin, Tia Devianti and R. A.
Tachya Muhamad ....................................................
Chapter 5
Crafting Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal:
Role of Nepalese Political and Welfare Institutions
Bala Raju Nikku, Pradipta Kadambari, Pranita
Bhushan Udas and Muhamad Fadhil Nurdin ...........
Chapter 6
Chapter 7
Urban Poverty and Housing
Chapter 8
Mohd Haizzan Yahaya and Muhamad Fadhil Nurdin..........................................................................
Human Traicking
Syarif Muhidin Abdurahman and Muhamad Fadhil
Nurdin ...................................................................
iv
77
93
101
Youth and Crime
Kumarashwaran Vadevelu, Muhamad Fadhil Nurdin
and Wahyu Gunawan ..............................................
Chapter 10
53
Indonesian Broadcasting Policy: Achieving Educated and Civilized Society for Social Welfare
Fitaha Aini & Muhamad Fadhil Nurdin ..................
Chapter 9
39
Concluding Remarks ..........................................
Sociology and Policy Practices in Contemporary Issues
107
125
LIST OF CONTRIBUTORS
Ali Maksum, is a Ph.D candidate at the Centre for Policy Research and
International Studies (CenPRIS), Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang. His
current project is about the Indonesia-Malaysia relations from defensive
realism perspective. He has written articles have been published in such
publisher as Kajian Malaysia: Journal of Malaysian Studies, Springer (ISI),
Indonesia national newspapers and conferences.
Arry Bainus, Ph.D is a senior lecturer at Department of International
Relation Padjadjaran University. He recived his doctoral degree in University
of Indonesia. He focuses his studies on issues arround national security
and defence, including political study on Indonesian Army. Now he is a
dean at Faculty of Social and Political Science Padjadjaran University
Ari Ganjar Herdiansah, Ph.D is a lecturer at Department of Sociology
Padjadjaran University. In 2014 he received his doctoral degree in political
sociology at University of Malaya, Malaysia. His main academic concerns
are political sociology of Islamic society, political communication, and the
politics of community.
Bala Raju Nikku, MSW, Ph.D is a Visiting Sr. Lecturer, Social Work
ProgramSchool of Social SciencesUniversiti Sains Malaysia (USM)&
Member at Large, International Association of Schools of Social Work
(IASSW) Founding Director, Nepal School of Social Work.
Sociology and Policy Practices in Contemporary Issues
v
Fitaha Aini, MA, is a communication lecturer in Indonesia. She has
published book and journals in the ield of communication and media. In
2013, she published her irst book entitled Kebebasan Akhbar MalaysiaIndonesia. She completed her study in Science University of Malaysia
(Persuasive Communication) in 2008 and University of Malaya (Media
Studies) in 2011. Her previous research was evaluation of communication
programs (2009-2014) and formulation of communication policy
(2015-2019) in Indonesia under the Ministry of National Development
Planning.
Forina Lestari, M.Sc. obtained B.Sc.Eng. (ITB, 2006), MSc in Housing,
School of Housing, Building and Planning, University of Science Malaysia
(USM, 2008).Lecturer at Indonesian Institute of Technology (ITI). She
has published a book: Alam Takambang Jadi Guru: Merajut Kearifan Lokal
dalam Penanggulangan Bencana di Sumatera. Consultant and expertise at
Directorate of Rural and Urban Afairs, Indonesia National Development
Planning Agency (Bappenas) and Directorate General of Spatial Planning,
Ministry of Public Works(2013), Directorate General of Regional
Development Assistance, Ministry of Home Afairs and Expert, Deputy of
the Area Development, Ministry of Public Housing (2012), Expert Staf,
Commission V (Infrastructure), he Indonesian House of Representatives
(DPR, 2011).Junior Expert, Directorate of Rural and Urban Afairs,
Indonesia National Development Planning Agency (Bappenas, 2010).
Kumarashwaran VadeveluMSW is a Ph.D scholar at the Social Work
Programme, School of Social Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia. His
current Ph.D studies regarding social support system among youth who
identiied as transgender women dealing with HIV/AIDS issues. Currently,
he’s working as an outreach worker with AIDS Action and Research Group
(AARG), Universiti Sains Malaysia under the programme of Needle and
Syringe Exchange Program (NSEP) which is dealing with the drug user
community.
Mohd. Haizzan Yahaya MSW is Ph.D scholars from University Sains
Malaysia. He is currently researching on Urban Poor Housing and being
supervised by Dr. Muhamad Fadhil Nurdin and associate professor Dr.
Azlinda Azman.
vi
Sociology and Policy Practices in Contemporary Issues
Muhamad Fadhil Nurdin, MA and Ph.D. from University of Malaya.
He is a leturer at Departement of Social Welfare (1982-2011) and
Departement of Sociology (2011-present), Head Departement of Sociology
in Faculty Social and Political Science, Padjadjaran University (2014present). Visiting Associate Professor at University of Malaya (2008) and
Visiting Associate Professor at Univerisiti Sains Malaysia (2012- present).
Syarif Muhidin, Prof. Dr., obtained his Ph.D. from University
of Pedjadjaran (UNPAD) Bandung (1997), Master of Science from
University of Wales (1979), Diploma in Social Policy & Administration
from University College of Swansea (1977). Currently, he is Visiting Senior
Lecturer at Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM), prior as Visiting Lecturer at
Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), 2010-2012, and formerly as the Head
of Research Institute of University of Langlangbuana (UNLA), last he is a
Honorable Member (Dewan Kehormat) of the Institute for Social Work
Sertiication of Indonesia (2012-up to the present).
Tahcya Muhamad, R. A. Drs. MSi is a senior lecturer at Department
of Sociology Padjadjaran University.He is expert in sociology of family and
rural community.
Tia Devianty, S.IP., MPA, is a PhD candidates at Universitas
Padjadjaran, and a master’s degree graduate from Public Policy, Faculty
of Public Policy and Management, Flinders University, Australia. Now,
a lecturer at Ahmad Yani University, Bandung - from september 1996 –
present Teaching, Researching, and Public Servicing.Current Researches are
mainly about Capacity Building For Decentralization (2008-now).
Tofan Rakhmat Zaky, S.Ip MA is a researcher at the Department of
International and Strategic Studies, Universiti Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur.
He is activist in Art Movement in Malaysia.
Wahyu Gunawan is aPhD candidate at Padjadjaran University and a
senior lecturer at Department of Sociology Padjadjaran University. He is
eager in engaging on community development particularly in rural areas.
Sociology and Policy Practices in Contemporary Issues
vii
Has background in rural government studies and sociology, he now expert
in sociology of government in rural community.
viii
Sociology and Policy Practices in Contemporary Issues
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Alhamdulillah. hanks to Allah SWT, whom with His willing giving
me the opportunity to complete this book entitled Sociology and Policy
Practices in Contemporary Issues. he publication of this book would
not have been possible without the guidance and knowlwdge wich I
have acquired from my honourable professors; Professor A.D Saefullah University of Padjadjaran and Professor Abd. Hadi Zakaria - University of
Malaya. I would also like to dedicate this book to my beloved wife, Tuty
Tohri and our lovely children Tofan Rakhmat Zaky, Forina Lestari, Fitaha
Aini and Tamal Arief Ihsan - their support in my life.
he publication of this book would not be possible without the assistance
and cooperation that we have received over the years from the many
individuals and organization in various parts of the world. In particular, we
wish to thank our team, all authors - Department of Sociology Padjadjaran
University and Universiti Sains Malaysia. Specially thanks especially to Ali
Maksum for his excellent assistance during the editorial process of this
book. Dr. Arry Bainus the Dean of Faculty of Social and Political Sciences,
Padjadjaran University.All of my Masters-PhD students and colleagues at
Padjadjaran University as well as USM whom I would like to thanked for
providing continuous support towards my success.
Wassalam.
Muhamad Fadhil Nurdin
Sociology and Policy Practices in Contemporary Issues
ix
x
Sociology and Policy Practices in Contemporary Issues
FOREWORD
Dr. Arry Bainus, MA
Dean, Faculty of Social and Political Sciences
Padjadjaran University
I would like to express my sincere wishes to Muhamad Fadhil
Nurdin, PhD as Head Department of Sociology Faculty of Social and
Political Sciences Padjadjaran University for his great dedication and
success in completing this book titled “Sociology and Policy Practices
in Contemporary Issues”. his is a very interesting and important book
which I personally feel able to impart more knowledge to the many
academics, not only from sociology and political ields, but also from other
ields as well. he various issues addressed in this book are in fact very
much current issues that is happening around the globe, which need to be
understand and scrutinize for better intervention.
I am really honoured to be given the opportunity to give a foreword
to this special book. It is hoped that this book able to generate more
discussions and awareness on quest for searching for the more relevant
solutions to all social, political and economic issues occurring around us
today.
I would like to congratulate all chapter contributors for sharing their
ideas and knowledge, which I am sure able to set platform for more writers
to venture into the highlighted issues. I sincerely hope that more of this
book kind will be published in the near future.
hank you.
Wassalam.
Bandung, 2015
Sociology and Policy Practices in Contemporary Issues
xi
xii
Sociology and Policy Practices in Contemporary Issues
INTRODUCTION
In the Name of God, the Most Gracioeus, the Most Merciful
his book provides a thematic issues and challenges in the new era,
Sociology and Policy Practices in Contemporary Issues. he main
objective is to present an integrated analysis of how the discipline of
sociology can contribute to our wider understanding of the variety of
social and political issues, practices and insttitutions approachs, policies
and philosophy wich exist in our society and countries. his explanatory
chapters expected to examine and understand as well as ofer choices for
human beings in the dinamics world to build a human harmony.
his book depart from the point of view that sociology is as applied
social and political sciences can contribute to the development of human
life through many perspectives; political and international strategy,
culture, history, communi-cation, poverty and social probles. he various
theme have been selected are discussed from social fenomena to policy
directions.
In the irst chapter, focus on the Information Technology (IT)
developments that more increasingly integrated in almost every social aspect
have shaped Indonesia’s contemporary democracy. Chapter two, ASEAN
Community 2015 and discusses the dilemma of Indonesian workers
especially those who categorized as illegal in Malaysia. Both countries have
recognized their positive contribution whether for Malaysia or Indonesia.
It was undeniable that all sectors in Malaysia especially construction and
plantation were using Indonesian workers services. At the same time,
Indonesia also indirectly obtained advantages through the remittance
which totally contribute to the national economic development. However,
what happened in Malaysia is illegal workers were arrested and treat as a
criminal. It should be stopped and substituted by the constructive policies
which could give beneits to the both countries. Indonesia and Malaysia
Sociology and Policy Practices in Contemporary Issues
xiii
and the countries in ASEAN should build strong partnership in all sectors
especially migrant workers which seen obtain small attention. Facing the
ASEAN Community 2015 both countries should prepare as maximize as
possible by empowering all aspects including migrant workers. By take
positive action towards migrant workers both countries indirectly has
contribute to the development of “Ummah.”
In the thrird chapter discusses communication strategy through media
education: an efort to achieve harmony and sustainability in IndonesiaMalaysia relations - concludes a guidance should be provided to the public
so that they can be more critical and wise in dealing with any negative
news. A critical community is a community who is able to diferentiate the
written and hidden message of writing. A wise community is the one who is
not provoked by provocative and negative news. Indonesian and Malaysian
should be aware that each of them has had a signiicant contribution one
to another. A good example can be seen through the assistant of Malaysian
people in the disaster recovery process in Indonesia and the existence
of Indonesia migrant workers in the Malaysia’s economic development.
However, Indonesia-Malaysia rela-tions is always changing and tend
to lead to conlict situations. he role of media and media educationis
importantas a communication strategy to implement the problem solving
modelin understanding the global situation and the public policies who
are based theory of cultural conlict and acculturation. Chapter fourth,
the author emphasized Indonesian Culture Heritages in the 21St Century.
his section concludes that hird World back to dig the philosophical values
that are in each country. For instance, the basic values of the Indonesian nation is
relected in the ive principles of Pancasila namely the divinity in God Almighty,
humanity, unity and nationality, deliberation and social justice for all people.
he problem is how to translate basic values into the concept of development
and preserve cultural heritage. Apparently, the third world thinkers have to work
harder to formulate a philosophical values - ideological cultural heritage as part of
the great nations of the world.herefore, the cultural heritages is an essential
economic asset in facing the escalation of human development.
In the chapter ifth takes up the theme of crafting federal democratic
Republic of Nepal: role of Nepalese political and welfare institutions.
Nepal is one of the least developed, post conlict recovery countries going
through a series of transitions and eforts of nation building. his chapter
concludes that the citizen mobilisation that took place over a period of time
due to the experiments with democracy building in Nepal in the past sixty
years should be sustained, to further ensure the vibrancy and consolidation
xiv
Sociology and Policy Practices in Contemporary Issues
of democracy, resulting in crafting a uniied republic out of a multi ethnic
Nepal. Chapter six explores the broadcast media industry and the role model
or best practice in the broadcast media industry. his concept is suitable
due to it contains freedom which is up-to-date without abandoning the
values of religion, culture and national spirit. Overall, Indonesia requires
an (endogenous) big push to strengthen and institutionalize the use of
research product for design and implementation of public policies. his
will be a crucial factor in determining the success of the welfare policies
that the government is currently designing.
In the chapter seven related with poverty phenomena. However,
these historical problems did not result in serious poverty under the well
planned economic system. he number of poor people inherited from
the previous period was also relatively small. In addition, the struggle of
urban poor communities in Malaysia for housing and land rights is closely
related to the development and history of the country. After the British
colonial period, Malaysia’s priority was to develop its economy by focusing
on the manufacturing and export industry in urban areas. his resulted
when people from rural areas migrating from village to the city, in search
of opportunities and to ill the workforce demand. Most of the urban
migrants would build their own house near the manufacturing factories,
because the surrounding lands were unoccupied and unused. With hard
work and their own resources they would clean the area (wilderness) and
build houses; this would encourage the development in the area and hence
they are known as urban pioneers.
In chapter eigth focus on human traicking, issues and Challenges.
Human trafcking has become global issue and problem. he researchers
concluded that the relevant region is suspect as illegal and such region
is indicated as human traicking (if the elements of coercion and sexual
exploitation are met). he challenges of the government has the right and
responsibility to provide all the protections to its citizen inside as well as
outside the country. here is still optimistic that emphasizing spiritual values
in the public administration and services will enhance the performance
of the government. Finally, the latest chapter nine concern onyouth and
crime as social problem. However, the Malaysia’s social policies makers
can make this recommendation as a guide in outlining or implement a
rehabilitation program for youths involved in crime. At the same time
and hopefully this research will also beneit the school management and
Penang Welfare Department in using this research to improve existing
rehabilitation programs in these institutions. In addition, through this
Sociology and Policy Practices in Contemporary Issues
xv
research, it is expected that the people of Malaysia be aware especially in
spending the time with their children or less able to prevent their children’s
involvement in crime. Finally, researchers expect this research can provide
as important reference material for dealing with negative behavior such as
criminal involvement among adolescents in Malaysia.
his book examines the social and political fenomena in the broader
“Sociology and Policy Practices in Contemporary Issues” perspective. It
is compiled from travelers and knowledge experiences in international
seminars, talks and forum of researchers, supervisions and other discussion
with my professors and colleagues, PhD and Master students. hat
experiences, together with their personal values and interests extremely
inluence to all authors in this book. Personally, I hope that those who
engage and read this book will obtain fruitful knowledge. All errors are the
author’s responsibility.
Wassalam.
Muhamad Fadhil Nurdin
xvi
Sociology and Policy Practices in Contemporary Issues
Chapter
7
Urban Poverty and Housing
Mohd Haizzan Yahaya and Muhamad Fadhil Nurdin
READERS GUIDE
his chapter discuss on the major
concern on urban poverty, housing needs
and housing issues in Penang, Malaysia.
Issues on homeownership, policies, and
program had been addresses. In addition,
some feedback from the high lever person
related to housing industries had been
reviewed and been discussed in this
paper too. From the perspective of social
work, a better policy, and program need
to be implement. his is important in
order to ensure the evolution of housing
development in Penang will it in the
Penangites for a short term and even for
the long term period.
Urban Poverty and Housing
93
URBAN POVERTY
Poverty can be measured by normative boundaries that cause feelings
of inadequacy compared and lead distribution to the poor and the rich
(Chamhuri Siwar and Mohd, Halah Piei, 1988). Whileurban poverty
is divided into absolute poverty, relative poverty and extreme poverty.
Absolute poverty is a condition of households who are unable to achieve
an income that can cover basic their needs. Relative poverty is also a group
income inequality in a society and a condition of a household who are
unable to reach at least half of the Poverty Line Income (PLI) to cover
basic living. PGK set by the government of RM 350 in 1989 and RM405
in 1993, which did not distinguish urban and rural areas. his is due to the
area has a diferent cost of living (Mohd Taib Dora, 2000; Ragayah, 2006).
he poverty line in the country at this point is set at income levels below
RM720 per month (Borneo Post, 2010). Urban poverty is at 2.4% in 1985
and decreased to 0.3% in 2002 (Chamsuri Siwar, 2005). According to the
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Tan Sri Nor Mohamed (at
the time), the poverty rate among the population living in urban areas in
the country is around 2% and extreme poverty was at 0.3%.
Statistics shows that 7% of the country’s population lives in urban
areas (Utusan Malaysia, 2010). Urban poverty is a serious issue with the
number of households in the city is increasing (Chamhuri Siwar, 2005).
Urban areas particularly housing issues, especially the problem of housing
in slum areas and residents of low cost is a common problem faced by the
poor and low-income families in the city. he active group is estimated at
47.7%, ie 35.0% of men and 12.7% women from 158 families (Mohd.
Taib Dora, 2000). In addition, the group remains categorized as those
who are physically handicapped, elderly and inirm prolonged sufering.
Disability factor is one of the reasons of poverty (Townsend, 1979).
HOUSE POVERTY
he deinition of house poverty cannot be stated precisely because of
it is subjective term. However, poverty is usually associated with a lack of
income, the hardship and the inability of individuals and households to
meet basic daily needs and in the case of ownership of a house, particularly
for middle-income earners. Between the deinition of poverty by the
experts, Specker (1993) states that poverty included; (1) Lack of physical
facilities for a normal life, (2) Harassment and high health risk, (3) A
security risk and ability economic and social life are closely related thereto,
94
Sociology and Policy Practices in Contemporary Issues
(4) Lack of income resulting hardships and (5) Lack of social life which
can be demonstrated by social alienation, marginalization in the political
process, and the low quality of educators.
While Charles Booth deines poverty as someone living in diicult
conditions to meet the needs of adequate living (Holman, 1978). his
deinition describes the relationship between poverty and the inability to
meet the minimum requirements for ownership of housing or maintaining
physical eiciency to meet basic needs. Poverty is deined as a condition
that income insecurity, lack of quality basic needs, housing and disability
in the ownership of productive assets such as maintaining good health,
dependency and lack of help, their antisocial behaviour (anti-social
behaviour), lack of network resources to get a life the good, the lack of
infrastructure and remoteness, as well as disability and separateness (Poli,
1993).
Urban poverty is said to occur because of the poor less exposure to
resources and basic amenities such as housing and education, low income
and have had to deal with the low of rising prices, and lack of knowledge
and information about government assistance (Trends 1980: 10 -12; Mohd
Taib Dora, 2000). his situation makes the occurrence of so-called ‘social
exclusion’ is believed to be the main reason for the existence of poverty. If
these issues can be overcome in marginalization, urban poverty is believed
to be triumph over (Mohd Taib Dora, 2000).
In the meantime, the housing is deined as a series of homes that are
consolidated in a residential area. In the housing element, there are several
sub-elements with all its physical facilities such as the provision of clean
drinking water, a place of worship, landills, there is electricity, telephone,
roads connecting residential areas to the main road, and functioning as
it should. In residential areas, people live in groups and carry out social
activities with each other.
he concept is said to be healthy when the house; (1) Meets the basic
physical needs such as lower temperature than the air outside of the house,
adequate light, ventilation, comfortable, and noise level are between 4555 dB.A, (2) Meeting the needs of human nature, (3 ) Protecting the
occupants of transmission of infectious diseases that have water supply,
waste disposal infrastructure and sewerage regular and eligible health and
(4) Protecting the occupants of the possibility of accidents and ire hazards,
strong foundation of the house, toxicity free, and even from the threat of
traic accidents (Sanropie, 1992; Anwar, 1996).
Urban Poverty and Housing
95
From the stance of Islam, translated as residential housing concept
that characterized Islam when it was established on the basis and aims
to encourage comprehensive Islamic way of life and can be practiced.
Features such as outdoor ornaments, domes, the verses of Al-Quran or
Islamic geometric motifs are not the only criteria that will make the design
of a dwelling house were “un-Islamic” or not. But there are some other
aspects. Among the aspects emphasized in Islam housing concept are; (1)
he existence of a clear boundary between the living room and family
room, so “privacy” can be guaranteed and can be maintained especially
by the women. While each bedroom can be access by women without
having to go through the main sections of the house, (2) he existence of
two ways in and out, one for adults and another speciically for residents,
especially women, (3) he need for a sheltered space for women doing
outdoor activities without causing any discomfort, (4) Orientation houses
built must take into account the direction so as to provide maximum
space for prayers in congregation and avoid activities in a bathroom
can be done with respect for the direction, (5) Each family home has a
minimum recommended three bedrooms.On the hadith of Muhammad
S.A.W. relating to isolate bed (boys and girls), this three-bedroom home is
a necessity for the people. his is based on the hadith of the Prophet which
commands its followers to detach bedroom between the sons and daughters
when they reached 10 years old, (6) here is a sheltered space for women,
work space and interaction for women and the position and orientation
of restrooms, (7) he concept of Islamic style housing also urged local
authorities are responsible for approving the application development
encourages developers to integrate features based on the Islamic way of life
in the design of a house (Buang, 2004).
herefore, home ownership should be based on a sound understanding
of the people afected as with the principles of respect, protection and
fulillment of the rights of their needs. he rights include the right to
social, cultural rights, and economic rights. hus, a strategy needs to be
formulated and welfare of the people and held in its strategy to increase
homeownership rates for middle-income earners in the state of Penang,
especially in the Northeast and Southwest regions.
HOUSING NEED
Housing is a need to most of the peoples. In this, social welfare, social
development, and home ownership is very important so that each individual
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or family can have a decent home to live in a shelter and in accordance
with human values (Sirat et al., 1999; Razali Agus, 2001; Mahamud
& Hussein, 2002; Aini Haji Idris & Siwar eds., 2003; Md Sani @ Abd
Rahim, 2007; dan Tan, 2008). In building a house, legislation, policies
and programs aimed and need to be look on at housing development to
enhance the capacity of human dignity and social functioning (the people)
and delegated prosperity for all, especially those individuals or families
who are unable in home ownership. In the long run (from time to time) it
should be a responsibility of the policy formulation and implementation
of programs to provide a home for the disabled in accordance with the
conditions and requirements. hus, the issues related to the housing for
middle-income earners in Penang, Malaysia can be seen as follows:
First, homeownership numbers for many middle-income earners are
still not at satisfactory level based on the standard of living in Malaysia,
especially in Penang. In general, the provision of housing by the private
sector already meet the needs of high-income groups ie. RM8,000/month
($2580/month) and above. his assertion is supported by Mr. Stuart
MacDonald, Director of Urban and Environment, Penang Institute (oral,
January 9, 2013). his situation is driven by the market price of a house
in Penang where it is a way too expensive compared to market price of a
house in other states in Malaysia. According to the Valuation and Property
Services Department of the State of Penang, the price of a two-storey
terrace house in Penang (in the North East and South West) in 2009, the
cheapest priced is at around RM598,880.00, while the three-storey semidetached houses priced around RM1,318,880.00 to RM1,762,000.00.
Minimum price bungalow sold in 2008 and 2009 is RM1,516,250.00.
he apartment and condominiums built for sale at prices ranging from
RM185,000.00 to RM761,000.00 per unit.
he efectiveness of the current policies set out by the Penang State
Government, ‘One Family, One Home’ which was introduced on 14th
December 2013 and the policy of ‘Building People’s Housing’, which
covers at least 18,000 units of afordable housing through the implementing
agency Penang Development Corporation (PDC) is seen with no minimum
positive impact on middle-income earners. his is seen by an application
to have a house managed by the Penang State Housing Division and PDC
keep on increasing from year to year (Oicer of the Housing Division of
the State of Penang, oral, March 24, 2014). Furthermore, according to
Assistant Administrative Oicer Housing Unit State of Penang, housing
ownership is dominated only by a number of high income earners (Oral,
Urban Poverty and Housing
97
January 11, 2013). Relatively, it will lead to unhealthy property business
activities too. If this situation did not being addressed, it is feared that it
will lead to the changes of landscape of the original Penangaite, especially
the middle incomers doubtless will be marginalized and squeezed by rapid
residential development that only emphasizes luxury home buyers.
In addition, program for middle-income earners in Penang are at
alarming. Currently, the National Housing Policy (DRN) and the Penang
State Housing Policy is focused on the low-incomers. he DRN policy
developed by the Ministry of Housing and Local Government (the ministry)
at the beginning of 2013 on Core 1 is “Provision of Adequate Housing By
Special Requirements hose who need it”. In Penang, the average income of
Penangaite (RM5,055.00, year 2012) is above of national average income
where it is at RM3,250. So in this, it seems that the national policy does
not applicable to be match up in Penang as in speciic.
Nevertheless, the issue of urban poverty has attracted the people of
Penang and also researchers in recent years. Issues on housing in big cities,
included Penang is not something unusual emblazoned on the major
newspapers front page, forums and scientiic conferences at national
level. According to Bernama (2012), he Trade Union Congress in the
Civil Service (Cuepacs) found that about 60 percent of middle-income
civil servants unable to own a house ownership near to their workplace in
large cities. Beside, only in rural areas ofers such afordable homes priced
not exceeding Rm300,000, while many civil servants working in the city
(Yatim, 2012). his situation drives most middle-income civil servants had
only aford to rent or occupying low cost housing apart from alternatives
to occupy government housing (quarters) are extremely limited (Bernama,
2012).
Essentially, there is no documented research done (to date) on home
ownership for middle-income earners in Penang with problematic
situations, especially in the Northeast and Southwest regions from the
point of view of social work knowledge and input. herefore, a study
is important and relevant to the current situation to get a true picture
of the problems and issues of the target groups, service systems, policies
and existing programs to take place and the importance of the need to
be implemented in order to increase homeownership rates for moderate
income earners in Penang.
On the other hand, from the perspective of social work, the issue of
home ownership for the middle-income group is closely related to the social
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structure, coping strategies, and social work practice in the housing sector.
Intervention model in this study is important in enhancing the ability
to solve problems and overcome, also correlates with providing system
resources, services, and opportunities to promote efective operations,
and thus contribute to the development and improvement of social policy
(Pincus & Minahan, 1973), particularly on the issue of home ownership
for middle-income earners in the state of Penang.
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