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REAWAKENING THE SOUL OF A RURAL TOWNS THROUGH LANDSCAPE-DESIGN ACTIVISM FOR CULTURAL RENAISSANCE BEYOND.

Many rural towns today face the gradual erosion of their cultural identity and uniqueness due to modernization, migration, and lack of meaningful place-making strategies. In the case of geoheritage or culturally rich rural landscapes, this decline often leads to the loss of traditional values, local narratives, and community pride. Despite having strong cultural and ecological potential, these towns are rarely positioned as creative gateways that celebrate both heritage and contemporary identity. Therefore, there is a need to explore how landscape and design activism can reawaken the cultural soul of rural towns, transforming them into vibrant, meaningful, and sustainable places that foster a sense of belonging and cultural renaissance.

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This research has deepened my understanding of the connection between landscape design, ecology, culture, and community in reawakening rural town identity and uniqueness.

I learned that sustainable development goes beyond physical design: it also involves respecting local values and engaging communities in the process.

The study has improved my critical thinking and problem-solving skills, especially in addressing social and environmental challenges.

I have become more aware of the importance of ethical and inclusive planning that benefits both people and nature.

Overall, this research has inspired me to pursue sustainable design approaches that strengthen local identity and ecological balance.

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Dabong brings together culture, history, and craftsmanship, strengthened by its unique rail and transport access. As a gateway town, it not only connects visitors to Kelantan’s natural and cultural treasures but also opens pathways beyond the border to Southern Thailand, creating opportunities for cross-cultural exchange, eco-tourism, and regional trade. It is also home to diverse races and communities, all fluent in the Kelantanese dialect and united by a strong local identity. Blessed with rich natural resources and unique geological landscapes from rivers and caves to the iconic Gunung Stong it stands as both a cultural melting pot and a natural heritage hub.

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These study aspects will support the thesis research process and the outcomes will be use to create a framework for future design developments.

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ROT - RESEARCH OPERATION TEMPLATE - DRAFT

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ROT - RESEARCH OPERATION TEMPLATE - DRAFT

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Geological Society of Malaysia. (2023). Geoheritage and geodiversity of Malaysia. GSM Official Website. https://gsm.org.my/geoheritage-and-geodiversity-of-malaysia/

Isla, F. I., & Samantela, S. (2024). Placemaking and people-making: The interplay between youth activities and the built environment design in a Philippine public park. The Journal of Public Space, 9(2), 109–128. https://www.journalofpublicspace.org/

Kementerian Perpaduan Negara & KEDA. (2023). Dasar dan perancangan luar bandar (DBLP). Putrajaya: Government of Malaysia. https://www.rurallink.gov.my/dasar-pembangunan-luar-bandar-dplb/