Defensible Space Concept to Prevent Criminal Action in Kampong Watugong: Micro-Spatial Morphology and Street Corridor Elements

186 - 198

Abstract

The increasing crime rate in Malang City, Indonesia, is influenced by migrant movement, lack of security features, and low community engagement. Kampong Watugong is a dense informal settlement in a university district inhabited mostly by students. The diversity of the population and the permeability of the three main roads make this area vulnerable to criminal acts, particularly motorcycle theft and robbery. This research aims to investigate the defensible space elements in Kampong Watugong to understand the potential for improving environmental security through built environment intervention. The research method used is descriptive qualitative with a case study approach. Data were collected through field observations using the walkthrough technique and interviews with the head of the village. The analysis was conducted by comparing the existing conditions of three main corridors (Watugong Street, Kerto Rahayu Street, and Kerto Sentono Street) against Newman's four defensible space elements: territoriality, natural surveillance, image, and milieu. The results show that most streets do not yet meet all aspects of defensible space. The main weaknesses were found in the image and milieu aspects, which have not been maximally planned to provide a sense of security. As a solution, this study proposes physical improvements such as adding CCTV points, security posts, speed bumps, lighting, and transparent yet tall fence designs. Non-physically, policies for portal access hours and community activities are needed to increase intimacy among residents. The study concludes that proper spatial planning and user behavior are crucial in anticipating the frequency of criminal incidents in dense settlements.