Comprehensive Planning Crucial For Housing Above Train Stations

Building housing above train stations to reduce traffic is complex and demands careful planning, despite being based on proven urban planning concepts like transit-oriented development (TOD).

A thorough strategy is vital, especially since existing Malaysian train stations may lack the necessary structural integrity for high-rise construction, as highlighted by Universiti Putra Malaysia's Faculty of Design and Architecture Deputy Dean Zairul Mohd Noor.


“Noise and vibration can affect the quality of life of residents and construction costs may be higher than conventional projects

“It is also necessary to ensure that projects like this truly target the low and middle income groups so that they do not become luxury projects that are disconnected from the real needs of the people,” he told FMT.

Zairul advocates for pilot programs at strategic locations like KTM Serdang and the Kwasa Damansara MRT station. He emphasized exploring prefabricated volumetric systems and modular construction technology, asserting their capacity to improve construction safety and expedite project completion.

Photo: The Edge Markets.
"Such projects require an implementation team comprising experts from various fields including architects, structural engineers, urban planners and social experts to ensure their effectiveness and sustainability," he was quoted as saying.

Urban and regional planning expert Noor Hashimah Hashim Lim agrees with Zairil, noting that building housing above train stations is feasible but requires detailed planning and design.

In addition to resolving zoning and property ownership challenges, Hashimah stressed the importance of a thorough site suitability analysis that includes assessments of both social and environmental consequences.

"Most importantly, the mentality and behavior of potential residents also need to be taken into account," she says in a FMT report.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim recently proposed that new people's housing projects be developed above public transport stations, as a move to encourage more comprehensive use of the public transport system.

This initiative, according to the Prime Minister, is a strategy to mitigate traffic congestion, though regulatory changes will be required for its implementation.