CHALLENGES IN DEVELOPING A SUSTAINABLE LIVING ENVIRONMENT FOR THE POOR IN BATAM

Abstract

This research purposes to show how building a sustainable living environment for the poor may be an effective method of resolving the housing problems faced by many developing country cities. Although many recommendations have been made to provide solutions to unsustainable living environment, the increment of slums worldwide never ceases. These slums usually have unsustainable living environment. The research uses Batam as a case study to probe into the reasons for unsustainable living environment of the poor. Three methods were used to determine the issues. Through the issues, three challenges were revealed. Based on these challenges, twelve recommendations were made to Batam Government and the poor. The twelve recommendations made are unique for Batam. Of all the recommendations, 2 recommendations can be considered as fresh concepts in developing recommendation for sustainable living environment. The first is “Removal of Subsidies and Increasing Services Approach”, and the second is “Skills Development for Employment”. These recommendations can be applicable to other areas worldwide which have similar problems as in Batam with regard to poor living conditions. This research study has revealed the very basic reasons for unsustainable living environment; economy, environmental management and education.