Rural Sustainability : An Examination Of The Practice of Sustainable Development Principles in a Rural Community in Malaysia

Abstract

This paper examines the extent to which sustainable development principles are practiced in rural life in Malaysia. The first part of the paper defines the concept and principles of rural sustainability. The second part highlights the findings of a case study on rural sustainability practice of a rural community in Malaysia. These include the practice of recycling and reuse of materials, utilization of electricity, water and chemical substances, mode of transport, diversification of economic activities and social cohesion. The study indicates that the level of awareness and the practice of sustainability principles are still low among rural people. Few measures are suggested to promote greater awareness and the practice of rural sustainability in rural areas.