EVALUATING THE WALKABILITY OF OLD TOWN IN SIBU, SARAWAK, MALAYSIA, THROUGH THE ASSESSMENT OF PEDESTRIAN WALKWAY QUALITY

Abstract

Walkability is essential for healthy, sustainable cities and resident well-being. This study evaluates pedestrian walkway quality in Sibu town. In total, on-site observations, satellite maps, and photos were used to analyse the connectivity, comfort, and safety of 21 streets. The results based on the scale of walkability developed in this study showed that Sibu's old town has an average score of walkability, which may deter the use of pedestrian walkways. The findings revealed that pedestrian walkways in old town Sibu have an intermediate level of comfort and safety, but their connectivity exceeds 82%. Safety concerns plagued 20% of these streets being walkable. Although most pedestrian walkways were wide and clean, the pavement quality, shading, and resting spots remained problematic. Sibu's old town has a 65% walkability rating from our scale of study. These findings can help urban planners enhance pedestrian walkways' connectivity, comfort, and safety to improve walkability.