In the heart of Kuala Lumpur, a quiet revolution is taking root, quite literally. Community gardens in public housing estates are transforming underutilized urban spaces into vibrant, resourceful ecosystems that benefit residents and the environment alike. A recent study published in the BIO Web of Conferences (which translates to the “International Conference on Biological Sciences”) sheds light on how these grassroots initiatives are fostering resilience, health, and informal governance among low-income communities.
Led by Mohd Sharif Shahida from the Department of Horticulture and Landscaping at Universiti Malaysia Sabah, the research explores the lived experiences of long-term gardeners at PPR Intan Baiduri. The findings reveal that community gardening provides retirees and low-income residents with a sense of routine, emotional well-being, and opportunities for informal economic participation. “Gardening has given me a purpose,” shares one participant, highlighting the emotional and psychological benefits of engaging with nature.
These community gardens function as micro-level bioresource systems, repurposing reserve land, composting household waste, and leveraging institutional collaborations with agencies such as the Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) and Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB). Participants organize planting cycles, maintain shared infrastructure, and co-manage resources, all while navigating labor constraints and fluctuating participation.
The study underscores the value of cross-sector partnerships in enhancing sustainability and reducing food waste. As Mohd Sharif Shahida notes, “Community gardening is not just about growing vegetables; it’s about growing communities and fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility.”
The conceptual framework positions community gardening as a socio-ecological innovation linking informal care practices with broader urban resilience and development goals. The paper offers concise policy recommendations to integrate community gardening into health, housing, and food security agendas, showcasing its potential to empower low-income communities and strengthen urban bioresource governance.
For the energy sector, this research highlights the potential for community gardens to contribute to urban sustainability efforts. By composting household waste and repurposing land, these initiatives can reduce the burden on municipal waste management systems and potentially lower energy consumption associated with waste disposal and transportation.
Moreover, the study suggests that community gardens can serve as models for other urban areas looking to enhance their resilience and sustainability. As cities around the world grapple with the challenges of rapid urbanization and climate change, the lessons learned from PPR Intan Baiduri could inspire similar initiatives elsewhere.
In the broader context, this research could shape future developments in urban planning, public health, and environmental policy. By recognizing the multifaceted benefits of community gardening, policymakers and urban planners can create more inclusive and sustainable cities. For the energy sector, this means exploring opportunities to integrate community-driven initiatives into broader sustainability strategies, ultimately contributing to a more resilient and equitable urban future.