Application of the node-place model to explore the spatial development of KL Sentral in Malaysia

The basic principle of railway development is that a railway station is not merely a node where people change modes of transport but also a place where spatial concentrations of high-value activity in and around station areas are recognised. This paper aims to assess the spatial development of KL Sentral using the node-place model introduced by Luca Bertolini. KL Sentral was chosen as the case study of transit-oriented development in Malaysia to evaluate the station's spatial performance by balancing the node and place value of the station, besides using the TOD index. Direct observation was also conducted in KL Sentral to observe passengers' movement patterns and activities, including in the station building and surrounding areas within an 800-metre radius. The result of this study provides theoretical support for node- place value and TOD performance indicators for KL Sentral. It facilitates comparability among other stations and assists decision-making and actions in developing Malaysia's railway stations.