Comparative Analysis of Transportation Research Trends in Southeast Asia: Insights and Unique Issues in Malaysia

Comparative Analysis of Transportation Research Trends in Southeast Asia: Insights and Unique Issues in Malaysia

Noor Malinjasari Binti Ali^1*, Siti Fatimah Mardiah Hamzah², Afif Zuhri Muhammad Khodri Harahap³,Suzila Mat Salleh⁴,Kardina Kamaruddin⁵,Rahayu Izwani Borhanuddin⁶, Roszainora Setia⁷,Hasmi Mokhlas⁸

^1,2,3,4,5,8Faculty of Business and Management, University technology MARA Cawangan Terengganu,Malaysia

⁶Faculty of Accountancy, University Technology MARA, Cawangan Johor, Malaysia

⁷Academy of Language Study, University technology MARA, Cawangan Terengganu Malaysia

^*Corresponding author

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.47772/IJRISS.2025.90300385

Received: 14 March 2024; Accepted: 20 March 2025; Published: 23 April 2025

ABSTRACT

Transportation systems play a crucial role in shaping economic growth, social inclusivity, and environmental sustainability in Southeast Asia’s rapidly urbanizing areas. However, transportation-related air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions pose significant environmental challenges, affecting urban livability. Sustainable mobility strategies, emphasizing low-emission options and expanded public transport, are crucial for reducing cities’ environmental footprint. This study analyzes transportation research trends across Southeast Asia, with a particular focus on Malaysia. Using Scopus, a widely recognized academic database, peer-reviewed articles were collected and categorized by country focus. Natural language processing (NLP) techniques, including frequency analysis and topic modeling, were applied to examine key research themes. Findings reveal that Malaysia prioritizes sustainable mobility and public transport, with approximately 40% of studies focusing on sustainability and public health in transportation. Comparative analysis highlights opportunities for Malaysia to benefit from regional best practices. While Malaysia leads in community-centered transportation research, addressing urban inclusivity and environmental sustainability, further collaboration with neighboring countries could enhance its policy frameworks. Integrating data-driven methodologies and smart mobility solutions from regional counterparts may strengthen Malaysia’s sustainability initiatives, particularly in urban areas like Kuala Lumpur. By developing better transportation systems while protecting the environment, Southeast Asia can create sustainable cities for the future.

Keywords: sustainable mobility, public transport, public health, pedestrian safety

INTRODUCTION

Transportation systems are pivotal in shaping the economic growth, social inclusivity, and environmental sustainability of Southeast Asia’s rapidly expanding urban areas. As cities in this region continue to grow, governments face the challenge of developing transportation networks that meet rising mobility demands while minimizing environmental impacts and enhancing urban livability. In Malaysia, strategies such as sustainable mobility and transit-oriented development focus on reducing reliance on private vehicles to alleviate congestion and pollution. The research underscores that compact, sustainable urban designs, integrated with public transportation, can improve neighborhood satisfaction and accessibility, fostering active transport modes like walking and cycling, which contribute to a more livable urban environment (Mouratidis, 2017; Louro et al., 2021).

Livability is closely tied to the quality of urban infrastructure and transportation systems. Effective transportation planning, including the development of green networks and inclusive urban designs, enhances the well-being of residents by creating accessible, vibrant public spaces (Jun et al., 2022; Bassolas et al., 2019). However, environmental sustainability remains a significant challenge, as transportation-related air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions negatively impact urban livability. Sustainable mobility strategies that prioritize low-emission options and expanded public transport infrastructure are crucial for reducing the environmental footprint of cities (Chatziioannou et al., 2020; Rüth & Franklin, 2014). As Southeast Asian countries like Malaysia demonstrate, prioritizing integrated transportation planning that aligns with urban sustainability goals is essential to addressing the complex interplay of economic, social, and environmental needs in rapidly urbanizing regions.

This study aims to analyze and compare transportation research trends across Southeast Asia, highlighting an understanding of Malaysia’s distinct contributions and identifying opportunities for regional collaboration. Through a comparative analysis of research themes, including sustainable mobility, public transport, and smart transportation technologies, this study aims to highlight areas where Malaysia’s research aligns with or diverges from its neighboring countries. Additionally, this analysis seeks to uncover regional knowledge gaps and opportunities for Malaysia to benefit from practices observed in countries like Singapore and Thailand, which have made significant advances in data-driven urban planning and smart mobility solutions.

In addressing these objectives, this study contributes valuable insights into Southeast Asia’s evolving transportation landscape and underscores the importance of knowledge exchange within the region. By examining Malaysia’s research in a broader regional context, this study highlights Malaysia’s potential to lead in areas such as pedestrian safety and public health while also positioning itself to adopt innovative technologies and data-driven approaches. The findings offer a foundation for policymakers, researchers, and urban planners to build inclusive, resilient transportation systems that align with Southeast Asia’s development goals and global sustainability targets.

LITERATURE REVIEW

Transportation in Southeast Asia: Context and Challenges

Transportation in Southeast Asia reflects a complex interplay of rapid urbanization, environmental challenges, and infrastructural development needs. The region’s transportation systems are diverse, blending traditional and modern modes that cater to a wide range of socio-economic conditions. Urban transportation choices play a significant role in carbon emissions, with studies suggesting that strategic land use and enhanced public transport policies could reduce emissions in Southeast Asian cities by up to 93% (Ng, 2018). However, the heavy reliance on informal transit systems complicates efforts to shift towards sustainable modes of transport, as low-income households, many of whom lack private vehicles, depend on accessible and affordable public transportation options (Sulisnaningrum et al., 2023).

The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has emerged as a transformative factor in developing Southeast Asia’s transportation infrastructure. Designed to enhance regional connectivity and reduce transport costs, the BRI addresses critical infrastructure gaps.  However, it raises concerns about environmental sustainability due to potential increases in carbon emissions from expanded transport networks (Pamungkas et al., 2020; Albana & Fiori, 2021). The ASEAN Master Plan for Connectivity (AMPC) complements the BRI, promoting regional cooperation and equitable development among member states. Together, these initiatives aim to improve transportation infrastructure, though their long-term impact on environmental sustainability remains a topic of debate (Ng, 2018).

Environmental issues such as air pollution from biomass burning and urban emissions pose significant public health risks and affect regional air quality across Southeast Asia. Seasonal biomass burning in countries like Indonesia and Malaysia contributes to severe haze events that impact local and neighboring populations (Duc et al., 2016; Lee et al., 2018). The transboundary nature of air pollution highlights the need for coordinated regional responses to address these challenges, as pollutants are often transported across borders (Braun et al., 2020). Additionally, the rise of emerging contaminants from rapid industrialization further complicates the environmental landscape, necessitating innovative policy solutions to protect public health and regional ecosystems (Bhagat, 2024). In this context, the future of Southeast Asia’s transportation will evolve by the region’s ability to balance development needs with environmental stewardship.

Key Concepts in Transportation Research

Sustainable Mobility

Sustainable mobility refers to transportation systems and practices designed to meet current mobility needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs. This concept integrates environmental sustainability, social equity, and economic viability, aiming to minimize negative environmental impacts while promoting accessibility and quality of life (Holden et al., 2019; Gallo & Marinelli, 2020). A critical aspect of sustainable mobility is its multidimensional focus, which seeks to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enhance public health by minimizing transport-related injuries, and improve urban living conditions through reduced congestion and noise pollution (Chou, 2017). The World Business Council for Sustainable Development highlights essential goals for sustainable mobility, including lowering emissions and promoting safer, more efficient transport systems (Chou, 2017).

Implementing sustainable mobility strategies requires shifts in both societal norms and behaviors. Moving away from car dependency toward integrated solutions like shared mobility, public transport improvements, and electric vehicles is crucial, particularly in urban areas (Friis, 2020). This transition also poses challenges in rural regions, where balancing mobility demands with sustainability goals is complex (Wierenga, 2021). Educational programs are essential for sustainable mobility by empowering individuals, especially younger generations, to adopt sustainable practices (Shefer, 2024). Initiatives like educational coworking projects have effectively fostered a culture of sustainability, helping shape future transport behaviors and supporting long-term sustainable mobility goals.

Smart Mobility

Smart mobility is an evolving concept that uses advanced technologies and innovative practices to enhance transportation systems in both urban and rural areas. It includes a range of elements, such as vehicle technology, Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS), data analytics, and mobility services, aimed at improving efficiency, accessibility, safety, and sustainability (Colombo, 2023; Paiva et al., 2021). In urban contexts, smart mobility focuses on reducing congestion and promoting sustainable transport options through carpooling, bike-sharing, and smart parking systems. Information and communication technologies (ICTs) play a critical role in integrating these modes and providing real-time information, enhancing a more seamless and user-friendly travel experience for urban residents (Anthopoulos & Tzimos, 2021; Cledou et al., 2018).

Deploying smart mobility in rural areas presents unique challenges due to lower population densities and limited public transit options. However, technology-driven solutions, such as demand-responsive transport and mobile ride-sharing apps, can improve accessibility and connectivity for rural residents, supporting economic opportunities and social inclusion (Francini et al., 2021; Porru et al., 2020). The role of data is central in smart mobility, as analytics and IoT technologies enable dynamic monitoring and optimization of transport systems, fostering safer and more efficient networks (Horng et al., 2021). As cities continue implementing smart mobility solutions, this transformative approach will play a critical role in achieving sustainable urban development goals and reshaping future transportation and urban planning frameworks (Paiva et al., 2021; Munhoz et al., 2020).

Public Health and Transportation

The relationship between public health and transportation is multifaceted, encompassing accessibility, physical activity, mental health, and environmental impacts. Transportation infrastructure plays a crucial role in facilitating access to healthcare services, especially in rural areas where transportation barriers can hinder timely medical care. Studies indicate that insufficient transportation is a significant factor in unmet healthcare needs, underscoring the importance of robust transport systems to ensure health service accessibility (Syed et al., 2013; Varela et al., 2019). Additionally, promoting active transportation, such as walking and cycling, supports physical activity, reduces air pollution, and lowers associated health risks. Research suggests that urban planning that prioritizes active travel can yield substantial public health benefits, including reduced obesity rates and improved mental health outcomes (Brown et al., 2019; Saunders et al., 2013).

Transportation systems also impact mental health and environmental quality. Well-designed public transport infrastructure can enhance psychological well-being by making travel experiences more pleasant, thereby supporting community health (Feng et al., 2017). The environmental impact of transportation is equally critical, as emissions from this sector contribute to poor air quality and related health issues. Strategies to reduce transportation emissions have been linked to improved air quality and public health (Woodcock et al., 2009). Integrating health considerations into transportation policies is essential for fostering healthier communities, and collaboration between public health professionals and transportation planners can create cohesive strategies that address these interconnected challenges (Nieuwenhuijsen et al., 2016).

Regional Research Priorities and Gaps

Transportation in Southeast Asia is a critical area of study due to the region’s rapid urbanization, unique geographical challenges, and pressing environmental concerns. A primary research priority is developing sustainable transportation solutions, as urban transportation modes significantly impact carbon emissions. Ng (2018) highlights varying transportation trends across Southeast Asian cities and suggests policy interventions to promote sustainability. The need for sustainable practices is further underscored by the high emissions from the transportation and logistics sectors, especially in rapidly growing economies with complex geographical landscapes, which pose additional challenges for implementing effective policies (Mubarak & Rahman, 2020; Wang et al., 2016).

Environmental impacts, particularly air quality degradation, are also a primary focus of transportation research in Southeast Asia. Biomass burning and vehicular emissions contribute significantly to poor air quality across the region, affecting both local populations and neighboring countries. Studies show that emissions from Southeast Asia’s biomass burning impact air quality regionally, underscoring the transboundary nature of air pollution and the importance of regional cooperation in mitigation efforts (Zhang et al., 2022; Li, 2023). Research also emphasizes the need for strategies to curb pollution from logistics and transportation operations, which are key contributors to emissions in urban centers (Lee et al., 2017).

Finally, the region’s rapid urbanization and technological advancements present both challenges and opportunities for transportation. The increased demand for efficient transport systems due to urban growth often exceeds the capacity of existing infrastructure (Wang et al., 2016). Technological solutions like ride-sharing platforms have transformed urban transport but require further research to evaluate their impacts on congestion, emissions, and socio-economic equity (Yunus et al., 2019). Additionally, while e-health technologies have the potential to improve accessibility and efficiency, their integration into transportation systems remains an underexplored area (Lwin et al., 2023). Addressing these research gaps can help Southeast Asia develop more sustainable and efficient transportation policies that align with both developmental goals and environmental sustainability.

METHODOLOGY

Data Collection

This study utilized Scopus, a widely recognized academic database, to gather peer-reviewed articles regarding transportation studies in Southeast Asia. A total of 674 articles were reviewed, covering 2020 to 2024. This timeframe was chosen to capture recent developments in transportation research, reflecting the influence of advancements in technology, increased urbanization pressures, and evolving regional policies. The search criteria included keywords relevant to the transportation domain, such as “transportation,” “public transport,” and “sustainable mobility,” combined with country-specific terms for each Southeast Asian nation, including “Malaysia,” “Indonesia,” and “Singapore.” This approach ensured a comprehensive collection of transportation-related studies from the region, capturing trends and developments pertinent to contemporary Southeast Asian transportation research. Only peer-reviewed articles were included to maintain focus on high-quality research, excluding non-peer-reviewed studies or research unrelated to transportation systems.

Comparative Analysis Approach

The dataset was systematically categorized based on the country focus within each study. Country-specific themes were identified primarily through keyword analysis, examining the “Author Keywords” and “Index Keywords” columns in the Scopus dataset. Additionally, abstracts were analyzed using natural language processing (NLP) techniques, including frequency analysis and topic modeling, to detect commonly occurring terms and phrases indicative of each study’s research focus. Each study was assigned to its respective country based on explicit mentions within the abstract or keywords. To ensure accurate categorization, a manual verification process was conducted; if a study’s country designation was ambiguous, specific criteria such as direct reference to national policies or transportation challenges were used to resolve uncertainty. This classification allowed for a structured comparison of the primary topics and trends in transportation research across Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore, the Philippines, Vietnam, and other Southeast Asian nations, facilitating a reliable and in-depth comparative analysis.

Analysis Metrics

The study employed several carefully chosen metrics for comparative analysis, each selected to provide insight into the themes, trends, and innovations within transportation research across Southeast Asia. First, the frequency of keywords was calculated for each country to identify the most common keywords that indicate dominant themes in transportation research. This frequency analysis revealed topics widely studied across Southeast Asia or specific to certain countries, providing an overview of each nation’s research priorities. For example, Malaysia showed a strong emphasis on sustainable mobility and public transport, whereas Vietnam’s studies focused more on ride-hailing services and electric vehicles. This metric was relevant as it uncovered the central topics and allowed comparison across countries.

Second, a trend analysis was conducted, analyzing publication dates to observe how topics have evolved year by year, both within Malaysia and across Southeast Asia. Tracking trends over time allowed for the identification of periods with heightened research activity in specific areas, revealing whether Malaysia’s focus areas align with regional trends or exhibit unique trajectories. Lastly, a thematic analysis of key issues and solutions was conducted using NLP techniques on the abstracts, including frequency analysis for common phrases and topic modeling to identify recurring issues and proposed solutions. This thematic analysis provided a deeper understanding of the challenges and innovative solutions discussed in each country’s transportation research. For instance, Malaysia’s research addressed urban crosswalk evaluations and transit-oriented development, while Indonesia focused on public perception of autonomous vehicles and congestion frustration in metropolitan cities.

Comparative Framework

To interpret the findings meaningfully, a comparative framework was developed to highlight how Malaysia’s transportation research themes align with or diverge from those of its regional counterparts. This framework emphasizes three key aspects: unique themes, common regional themes, and cross-country knowledge gaps. Unique themes refer to topics specific to Malaysia, signaling national priorities and areas of innovation that distinguish Malaysian research from other countries. Common regional themes represent shared focuses across multiple Southeast Asian countries, pointing to prevalent transportation challenges that offer opportunities for regional collaboration. Lastly, cross-country knowledge gaps refer to topics under-researched in one country but well-explored in another. Identifying these gaps suggests areas where Malaysia could benefit from adopting practices and solutions observed in neighboring countries.

The study’s methodology was designed to ensure both reliability and validity. Keywords and themes were compared and cross-referenced with existing literature to confirm the accuracy and relevance of categorization. Additionally, inter-coder reliability checks were conducted during the manual verification process, further strengthening the consistency of the country assignments. By establishing a structured comparative framework and employing rigorous analysis metrics, this methodology supports a comprehensive analysis of Malaysia’s transportation research contributions and potential areas for knowledge transfer within Southeast Asia. This approach aims to contribute valuable insights for policymakers, researchers, and regional stakeholders interested in enhancing Southeast Asia’s transportation systems.

FINDINGS

Country-Specific Themes in Transportation Research

Analysis of transportation research themes across Southeast Asian countries reveals diverse focal areas, influenced by each country’s unique challenges and priorities. In Malaysia, sustainable mobility and public transport are dominant themes, with approximately 40% of reviewed studies focusing on sustainability and public health in transportation. Common keywords include “sustainable mobility,” “public health,” and “urban crosswalk evaluation,” signaling a commitment to eco-friendly and accessible urban transit solutions. This focus aligns with Malaysia’s urbanization trends and the need for sustainable solutions to mitigate congestion and environmental impact in its growing cities.

Conversely, autonomous vehicles and public perception are recurring themes in Indonesia’s studies, where social acceptance of new technologies is examined. Indonesia’s high-density urban areas prioritize solutions that alleviate congestion, and around 30% of articles emphasize understanding public sentiment toward autonomous technology. Thailand focuses heavily on public transport and big data applications (e.g., “taxi GPS tracking” and “GIS”) for managing traffic flow, reflecting Thailand’s efforts to use data-driven decision-making to improve urban mobility.

Singapore’s research emphasizes smart mobility solutions like bike-sharing, with keywords such as “user-based vehicle relocation” and “scooter-sharing” commonly seen. Meanwhile, the Philippines and Vietnam explore themes such as transport justice and electric vehicles, indicating a growing interest in equitable access and eco-friendly transport. Each country’s unique research directions highlight how transportation challenges differ across Southeast Asia, shaped by local economic, social, and environmental contexts.

Trend Comparison Over Time

Publication trends from 2020 to 2024, as shown in Figure 1, reveal periods of heightened research interest in specific topics, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, when studies on urban mobility and public health in transportation saw a noticeable uptick. In the Malaysian context, this shift towards public health considerations reflects an adaptation to pandemic challenges, as seen in the increased focus on resilient transportation systems. As the pandemic waned, research returned to sustainability-oriented themes like sustainable mobility and transit-oriented development, areas that have grown by approximately 20% annually in Malaysia since 2021.

In comparison, Singapore and Indonesia showed a sustained focus on technology-driven themes. Singapore’s commitment to smart mobility saw steady growth in publications about bike-sharing and urban mobility optimization, aligning with its policy goals. Malaysia’s focus on sustainability diverges from technology-centric trends in neighboring countries, suggesting the potential for Malaysia to enhance the integration of smart mobility innovations alongside sustainable development efforts.

Figure 1: Trends in Key Transportation Research Themes Over Time (2020-2024)

Key Issues and Solutions in Malaysia vs. Neighboring Countries

The comparative analysis reveals distinct issues and solutions emphasized in Malaysia’s research. Malaysia’s studies frequently address transit-oriented development and public health in transportation, advocating for a holistic approach that combines urban planning with community well-being. This approach differs from Indonesia’s research, where public acceptance of new technologies like autonomous vehicles is a primary focus, given the unique congestion and urban density challenges in Indonesian cities.

Singapore’s emphasis on bike-sharing and urban space optimization showcases innovative solutions aimed at maximizing limited urban areas, while Thailand’s focus on data-driven approaches (e.g., GIS and big data analytics) in traffic management illustrates the potential for Malaysia to enhance its urban planning through similar methodologies. These findings suggest Malaysia could benefit from adopting data-driven strategies seen in Thailand to strengthen transport policy and planning, especially in dense urban areas like Greater Kuala Lumpur.

Comparative Analysis of Keywords: Malaysia vs. Other Countries

Keyword analysis, as shown in Figure 2, reveals alignment and differences in research priorities across countries. In Malaysia, keywords such as “sustainable mobility” and “public transport” appear in about 35% of the studies, while Singapore and Indonesia focus more on “autonomous vehicles” and “bike-sharing.” Malaysia’s emphasis on pedestrian safety and public health represents an under-researched area in other Southeast Asian countries, indicating that Malaysia could contribute valuable insights to regional research on community well-being and safety in transport systems.

In contrast, Malaysia lags in smart mobility technologies and data-driven planning approaches.  Malaysia’s research is less developed compared to Singapore and Thailand, where keywords such as “spatiotemporal analysis” and “big data” indicate advanced studies in these areas. Expanding Malaysia’s research to include these emerging technologies, as seen in Singapore and Thailand, could enhance Malaysia’s transportation strategies. Regional collaboration or joint research initiatives on smart mobility and data applications in transportation could provide Malaysia with a broader toolkit to address sustainability and technological innovation in urban transport.

Figure 2: Top Keywords in Transportation Research by Country

DISCUSSION

Alignment with Regional and Global Trends

The comparative analysis demonstrates that Malaysia’s transportation research aligns with regional and global priorities, especially sustainable development. Like other Southeast Asian countries, Malaysia emphasizes sustainable mobility and public transportation, reflecting a shared regional commitment to environmental sustainability and managing urban congestion. These themes also align with global objectives, particularly the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which advocate for sustainable cities and communities (SDG 11) and climate action (SDG 13). Malaysia’s focus on sustainability positions it as a proactive player in the global movement toward greener, more inclusive urban infrastructure.

However, Malaysia’s research diverges from countries like Singapore and Indonesia through its unique emphasis on pedestrian safety and public health in transportation. This research reflects Malaysia’s community-centered approach, incorporating health, safety, and well-being in its transportation planning – a focus less prominent in neighboring countries. The COVID-19 pandemic also influenced Malaysia’s transportation research, prompting a temporary shift toward public health considerations in urban transit. Post-pandemic, Malaysia has continued to prioritize transit-oriented development and sustainable mobility, indicating a long-term commitment to resilient urban infrastructure that accommodates growth without compromising quality of life. These findings highlight Malaysia’s alignment with regional and global priorities while underscoring its unique focus areas that could serve as a model for other countries.

Malaysia’s Unique Contributions to Regional Research

Malaysia’s emphasis on public health and pedestrian safety in transportation is notable and positions it to make unique contributions to Southeast Asia’s research landscape. For example, studies on urban crosswalk evaluations and transit-oriented development prioritize safety and accessibility for pedestrians, especially in densely populated areas. This focus on safety and public health could provide a valuable framework for other countries in the region, particularly those with similar urban challenges but less research in these areas.

In Indonesia, for instance, urban density and congestion present ongoing challenges. Malaysia’s focus on walkability and pedestrian safety could offer insights for Indonesian cities looking to enhance pedestrian infrastructure and reduce traffic-related injuries. Moreover, Malaysia’s community-centered approach aligns well with broader regional efforts to make Southeast Asia’s urban areas more inclusive and accessible. By highlighting Malaysia’s unique contributions, this discussion underscores the potential for Malaysia’s research to shape a more holistic, people-centered approach to transportation across the region.

Opportunities for Knowledge Exchange and Collaborative Research

The comparative findings reveal several opportunities for Malaysia to benefit from adopting practices and insights from its regional counterparts. Countries like Singapore and Thailand have advanced in smart mobility and data-driven urban planning, employing big data, GIS, and spatiotemporal analysis to enhance urban mobility. Malaysia’s growing urban centers, such as Greater Kuala Lumpur, could benefit greatly from integrating similar data-driven approaches into transportation planning processes. For example, GIS-based analytics could support traffic flow management and reduce congestion in high-density areas.

Singapore’s successful implementation of bike-sharing and user-based vehicle relocation presents a promising model for Malaysia. Given Malaysia’s focus on sustainable mobility, introducing bike-sharing programs and other shared mobility solutions could complement existing transit systems and support Malaysia’s environmental goals. Pilot projects, cross-country workshops, and knowledge-sharing initiatives with Singapore could help Malaysia test and adapt these innovations to suit local needs. Collaborative research across countries or within ASEAN on bike-sharing, data applications, and emerging smart mobility technologies would provide Malaysia with extensive tools for developing smart, sustainable transportation systems.

Moreover, Malaysia could establish partnerships with Thailand, which has made strides in data-based traffic and urban planning. Establishing joint projects with Thai researchers could allow Malaysia to adopt advanced data analytics approaches, such as real-time traffic monitoring, that align with its own urban planning goals. Regional collaboration on data analytics could also foster a shared infrastructure for transportation data, enhancing collective capabilities and advancing ASEAN’s regional transportation framework.

Implications for Policy and Future Research

The findings underscore the need for policies that integrate technological innovation with community-centered priorities in transportation. Malaysian policymakers should consider a multi-faceted approach that combines sustainable, smart mobility solutions with a strong focus on public health and safety. For instance, setting up dedicated programs to expand pedestrian infrastructure and improve walkability could align with Malaysia’s goals for public health and safety. Malaysia’s Smart City Framework can be further optimized by incorporating policies that encourage the use of big data and GIS for urban planning, following Thailand’s lead in data-driven transportation solutions.

To encourage innovation, policymakers could provide grants or funding to support data-based transportation research, particularly in areas like traffic flow management, safety analytics, and predictive modeling. Expanding research funding to include emerging technologies like autonomous vehicles would also benefit Malaysia, aligning with global shifts toward intelligent transportation solutions. Collaboration with countries like Indonesia, where autonomous vehicles are increasingly studied, could bring fresh insights into Malaysia’s research, supporting a diversified approach that balances sustainability with innovation.

Addressing Challenges in Technology Adoption

While there are clear opportunities for Malaysia to adopt new technologies from its regional neighbors, implementing these innovations presents challenges. For example, infrastructure readiness and public acceptance could be barriers to rolling out bike-sharing or autonomous vehicle programs. Malaysia could mitigate these challenges by conducting pilot studies to gauge public perception and address resistance to new technologies. Public education campaigns and community engagement programs could also foster greater acceptance and ensure that new transportation solutions are well-received.

Additionally, Malaysia may face financial and logistical constraints in adopting large-scale data analytics systems for urban planning. Building partnerships with private sector companies specializing in big data and GIS could help alleviate resource constraints, allowing Malaysia to leverage expertise and technology from experienced industry players. Establishing a phased approach to implementation could also enable Malaysia to gradually introduce data-driven practices in transportation planning, focusing on high-priority areas like Greater Kuala Lumpur before scaling nationally.

Broader Contributions to Southeast Asia’s Transportation Landscape

Ultimately, Malaysia’s emphasis on sustainability and public health positions it as a key contributor to Southeast Asia’s collective knowledge of community-centered transportation. By sharing its insights on pedestrian safety and transit-oriented development, Malaysia can promote a more holistic approach to transportation that values safety, accessibility, and environmental responsibility. As Southeast Asia continues to face challenges from from rapid urbanization and climate change, Malaysia’s research priorities offer valuable perspectives on building resilient, and inclusive transportation systems.

Moving forward, Malaysia has an opportunity to combine its unique strengths with insights from neighboring countries to enhance its transportation strategy. Engaging in collaborative research projects, participating in regional policy dialogues, and leading ASEAN initiatives on sustainable transportation could position Malaysia as a regional leader in community-centered and data-driven transportation solutions. By fostering a knowledge-sharing culture within the region, Malaysia can play a pivotal role in advancing Southeast Asia’s collective efforts towards a sustainable and innovative transportation future.

CONCLUSION

This study’s comparative analysis of transportation research across Southeast Asia highlights Malaysia’s distinct focus on sustainable mobility, public health, and pedestrian safety. These themes position Malaysia as a leader in community-centered transportation research, addressing environmental sustainability and urban inclusivity. While Malaysia aligns with global priorities, such as the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, its approach uniquely incorporates safety and well-being. In contrast, neighboring countries like Singapore and Thailand prioritize smart mobility and data-driven urban planning, while Indonesia’s research emphasizes autonomous vehicles and public perception. These differences reflect the diverse transportation priorities shaped by each country’s unique social and environmental contexts.

The findings suggest significant opportunities for Malaysia to expand its research and policy frameworks through regional collaboration. By integrating data-driven methodologies and smart mobility solutions from its neighbors, Malaysia can complement its sustainability initiatives with technological innovation, particularly in urban areas like Greater Kuala Lumpur. Collaborative projects, such as ASEAN-led workshops or joint studies on transportation technologies, could foster shared knowledge and strengthen Southeast Asia’s collective transportation framework. As Malaysia continues to balance sustainability and public health with advancing technology, it is well-positioned to contribute valuable insights to regional and global dialogues on inclusive, resilient transportation systems.

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