Experts warn Malaysia’s quick-fix street redesigns may pose long-term safety risks due to heavy traffic, climate and maintenance challenges
PETALING JAYA: Quick-fix street redesigns promise safer neighbourhoods, yet Malaysia’s heavy traffic and harsh climate could turn temporary measures into long-term hazards.
Universiti Teknologi Mara Civil Engineering Faculty senior lecturer Dr Nor Azmi Bakhary said materials such as flexible bollards and modular kerbs are suitable for short-term pilot projects but may not withstand Malaysia’s environmental and traffic conditions over time.
“Malaysia experiences heavy rainfall, high ultraviolet exposure and frequent heavy vehicle loads. Under such conditions, the durability of interim materials may be limited, making them unsuitable as permanent structural solutions.”
His remarks come amid growing interest in “interim design”, an approach that uses low-cost, semi-permanent materials to quickly test changes to street layouts before permanent works are carried out.
This allows local authorities to refine designs based on public feedback.
However, Nor Azmi emphasised that interim measures require proper regulatory oversight.
“Temporary street measures can sometimes fall into regulatory grey areas. Although they may be approved as pilot initiatives, they are not always clearly addressed within existing Public Works Department road design standards.
“A thorough technical review and risk assessment are essential to ensure safety and legal compliance.”
He also warned that while interim installations may appear cheaper upfront, maintenance costs can accumulate.
“These materials are more prone to damage and displacement. Frequent repairs and replacements may ultimately reduce any initial cost savings,” he explained.
Beyond durability and cost, Nor Azmi highlighted operational concerns.
Lane narrowing, kerb extensions and modular dividers, if not carefully designed, could obstruct surface drainage during heavy rainfall.
They may also affect emergency vehicle access and utility maintenance if clearances are not properly planned.
“If a project is intended purely as a trial, interim solutions are practical and valuable. However, if long-term implementation is already certain, it may be more cost-effective to construct permanent infrastructure from the outset when life-cycle costs are considered.”
He said as local authorities continue exploring flexible approaches to overcome funding constraints, lengthy approval processes and public resistance, flexibility must not come at the expense of engineering standards and long-term resilience.
The Sun Malaysia
