The integration of digital technologies in urban landscape design: a study on Malaysia’s progress and potential

Digital technologies are increasingly becoming ubiquitous tools in the design of modern-day urban spaces, allowing for new mechanisms of designing, managing, and maintaining public green areas. Technologies such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Building Information Modelling (BIM), digital twins, drone mapping, augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and parametric landscape modelling are increasingly used to maximise ecological performance, community engagement, and spatial efficiency in urban landscape design. Thus, this research identifies how digital technologies are leading to climate-resilient, sustainable, and people-oriented landscape solutions. The research discovers key gaps, challenges, and opportunities by contrasting these global strategies with Malaysia’s existing urban landscape practices. The study uses quantitative methods, including literature review and insights from landscape architecture practices and academia, to conceptualise a framework for how Malaysia can integrate digital technologies into its urban landscape design. Findings from 36 respondents indicate that while awareness of tools like GIS and BIM is high, the practical adoption of advanced technologies such as AR/VR and smart irrigation remains limited. Nonetheless, digital technologies show strong potential to enhance design quality, improve environmental resilience, and enrich the daily experience of urban green spaces.