Spatial Modelling of Migration Decision-Selectivity in the Klang Valley Region, Malaysia

Abstract

In the era of global urbanization, migration phenomena—particularly urban-to-urban migration—is one of the key drivers of urban development. This has led to a higher demand for spatial-social and spatial-economic activities, tremendously spurring the changes in demographic, size, and urban socio-economics. However, many researchers agree that this phenomenon is quite difficult to understand, particularly destination choices, due to complexity in migration behavioral factors. Inspired by this, this article attempts to demonstrate the capability of the ‘MGP model', the so-called ‘migration potential model'—a GIS-based multicriteria decision analysis approach, which incorporates migration decision-selectivity factors—for spatial migration modelling in the Klang Valley, Malaysia. Empirically tested, the MGP model, intended to be an advanced approach in migration analysis, GIS, and MCDA applications that provides urban planners with information about the areas that will be the centers of potential migration, will look at locations and expected levels. Finally, this article concludes with a discussion on the advantages of the MGP model, particularly for urban planning purposes and suggestions for further research.