Community insights into the garden as a space for ecotherapy: a case study of Selangor-Japan Friendship Garden, Shah Alam, Malaysia

According to the National Health and Morbidity Survey 2024, more than one million people, or 4.2% of the Malaysian population, are experiencing mental health issues. The National Strategic Plan for Mental Health 2020– 2025 emphasises the need to improve mental health outcomes through more accessible and preventive approaches. Ecotherapy refers to nature-based interventions or experiences that reconnect individuals with the natural environment to support mental, emotional, and physical well-being. This study aims to identify community insights into the garden as a space for ecotherapy at the Selangor-Japan Friendship Garden in Shah Alam, Malaysia. The garden covers approximately two point four (2.4) hectares, with a traditional Japanese garden concept achieved through specific techniques and principles designed by a landscape architect. The elements of Japanese gardens were associated with restorative and contemplative qualities, establishing visual balance, spiritual depth, and a deep sense of peace, which relate to ecotherapy needs. Objectives of research are to i) identify reasons and expectations of respondents visiting the garden, ii) analyse demographic characteristics in relation to open space use as an ecotherapy function, and iii) evaluate landscape views that contribute to ecotherapy functions. A total of 120 garden visitors were selected as respondents. This study uses questionnaire survey data collected from garden visitors and analyses selected landscape scenes and ecotherapy� related experiences. The study indicated that the Selangor-Japan Friendship Garden has received positive community feedback on psychological, physical, and spiritual aspects. Three (3) key factors emerge from these research findings, offering a more profound understanding of the observed outcomes. The first key factor is respondents’ reasons for visiting the garden; the second is the selected photo that contributes to feelings of ecotherapy; and the third is the age factor. To strengthen the garden’s role, the city council should foster public-private partnerships and promote community involvement to maintain the quality of open space and meet future demand.