GIS-Based Spatial Correlation Analysis: Sustainable Development and Two Generations of Demographic Changes

Population growth is a global issue that contributes to the changes in the distribution and concentration of population. Population growth affects the sustainable development of an area from both a social and spatial point of view. To relate the global problem to a local issue, this research investigates one of the Malaysian government policies addressed as the New Economic Policy (NEP) because the policy may be linked to long-term spatial demographic changes in Peninsular Malaysia, particularly in the distribution of people. Back in 1970, the policy was implemented after an unwanted incident on 13 May 1969. Its goals were to eradicate poverty regardless of race and to restructure society by eliminating the identification of race with economic functions. To measure the successfulness of the policy, two indicators that were derived from the goals are the long-term spatial changes of both racial and occupational segregation. The magnitude for both segregations was calculated using the Entropy Index (H). The values were then carried forward to evaluate the relationship between these two variables. The final analysis was conducted using the Local Bivariate Relationships application of a Geographic Information System (GIS) tool. The outputs then reflect the two sustainable goals that are, (i) reduced inequalities, and (ii) sustainable cities and communities in Peninsular Malaysia.