Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) for sustainable urban growth in Alor Setar: site-scale landscape design strategies for walkability and liveability towards resilient communities

Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) has emerged as a vital planning approach to support sustainable urban growth by integrating land use, transportation, and pedestrian-oriented environments. In Alor Setar, Kedah, rapid urban development remains largely car-dependent, resulting in reduced walkability, limited liveability, and sunderutilised public spaces. This study aims to evaluate the potential of TOD in promoting sustainable urban growth in Alor Setar by identifying key walkability and liveability elements and formulating integrated landscape architecture design strategies. The research adopts a qualitative descriptive approach, focusing on Terminal Bas Shahab Perdana as the case study. Data were collected through systematic on-site observations using structured walkability and liveability checklists, and the findings were analysed thematically using ATLAS.ti 24 software. The results indicate that while the study area demonstrates moderate to good performance in terms of pedestrian connectivity, greenery, and public space usability, several deficiencies remain, particularly in pathway continuity, crossing safety, shading provision, seating distribution, and traffic buffering. These shortcomings limit pedestrian comfort, safety, and overall urban experience. The study concludes that integrating landscape-based design interventions such as continuous shaded walkways, improved pedestrian safety measures, enhanced public spaces, and green infrastructure can significantly strengthen both walkability and liveability within the TOD framework. The findings provide valuable insights for planners and designers to guide people-centred, resilient, and sustainable TOD development in mid-sized Malaysian cities.