Affordable housing alternatives in George Town World Heritage Site: what we have and what is possible

Abstract

ABSTRACT Affordable housing is vital in ensuring the inclusiveness of a city. However, urbanization and gentrification have exacerbated the gap between housing availability and housing affordability. Many factors have contributed to the displacement of local communities in George Town World Heritage Site (GTWHS), with rental spike and the repeal of the Control of Rent Act, among others. Through a survey with 318 samples, this study investigates affordable housing alternatives and its administration in GTWHS of Penang state, Malaysia. Policy recommendations are suggested to improve the diversity of affordable housing options and to conserve the historic city’s intangible living heritage.