Application of geographic information system (GIS) and analytic hierarchy process (AHP) technique to study land use changes in Pendang, Kedah

Abstract

Urbanization process has a significant impact on land use planning. It not only affects major cities but also extends to small towns in rural areas where it has a significant role in providing urban services to rural communities. The expansion of urban areas also resulted in the loss of many agricultural lands as well as forests that are rich in natural resources. In both instances, the land use composition is substantially affected. This study uses a "mixed method approach"combining GIS spatial analysis and AHP technique to study land use changes, identify land use growth parameters, determine land use growth suitability areas and identify the direction of urban land use development. The study area is the town of Pendang, which is the main administrative centre for Pendang District, Kedah. The main findings of the study show that changes were not that significant during the period between 2005 to 2012. However, significant land use changes occurred during the period of 2012 to 2020, especially in agricultural land use, vacant land and even water bodies. These land use changes have contributed to the increase in built-up areas. The direction of development is seen heading north, south and southwest of the study area. Accessibility is a major factor influencing the growth of land use and development direction in the study area.