THE 'Bridge To Coexist' project in Tanjung Bungah, Penang, exemplifies the significance of co-creation in addressing complex challenges.
The initiative, which involves the construction of Malaysia's first residential area canopy bridge, underscores how collective effort and community engagement can lead to innovative and sustainable solutions to environmental issues.
Co-creation involves multiple stakeholders working together to generate ideas and solve problems.
Unlike traditional top-down approaches, co-creation emphasises collaboration, inclusivity and shared ownership.
This method leverages diverse perspectives and expertise, leading to more effective and widely accepted outcomes.
The 'Bridge To Coexist' project began in March 2023 and was completed in February 2024. It was initiated by Langur Project Penang (LPP) and funded by a bank. Supporters and clients of LPP Hub chipped in, too.
The objective was to address the danger posed to dusky langurs by road traffic, which arose because of inadequate tree connectivity in Tanjung Bungah.
Here's how co-creation played a pivotal role in the project's success.
1. Researchers from LPP collaborated with citizen scientists and local residents to gather data on dusky langur activities and movements.
This included detailed behavioural observations and GPS tracking to map critical crossing points.
Environmental assessments were conducted of tree canopy cover and road infrastructure, determining suitable bridge locations. The integration and analysis of data identified key trends and barriers, ensuring the accuracy and effectiveness of the solutions that were developed.
2. Stakeholder engagement involved collaborating with local government officials, community leaders, environmental organisations and residents through community meetings, focus groups and mini-working groups.
This approach included educational outreach, transparent communication and continuous feedback mechanisms to foster a sense of ownership and address local needs.
3. Local residents played a significant role throughout the planning and execution of the project. Their participation in the mini-working groups fostered a sense of ownership and responsibility.
Collaboration continued to be at the heart of the initiative in the final planning, with LPP working closely with a company and contractor on the construction of the canopy bridge.
This phase involved detailed planning to ensure the bridge met safety and functional requirements.
Less than a week after the completion, the dusky langurs made their first move on the bridge.
The 'Bridge to Coexist' project highlights several benefits of co-creation.
First, co-creation brings together diverse perspectives to foster innovative solutions that may not emerge from a top-down approach alone. Integrating scientific research and local knowledge led to a comprehensive understanding of the issue and an effective solution.
Second, there is increased buy-in and ownership. When stakeholders are involved in decision-making, they are more likely to support and advocate for the project.
Third, co-creation promotes solutions that are effective and sustainable in the long run. The focus on creating a safe passage for dusky langurs while fostering human-wildlife coexistence exemplifies the sustainability of co-created solutions.
Fourth, collaborative projects strengthen community bonds and build trust among participants. The project united residents, scientists and officials, fostering a shared sense of purpose.
The 'Bridge To Coexist' project in Tanjung Bungah is a testament to co-creation's power.
By involving diverse stakeholders at every stage, from research and planning to execution, the initiative addressed a critical environmental issue, enhanced community cohesion and promoted sustainable practices.
This project serves as a model for future initiatives, demonstrating that co-creation is not merely a method but a pathway to more innovative, inclusive, and enduring solutions.
The writer is senior training consultant at the National Institute of Public Administration. She can be reached at eminder@intanbk.intan.my