Despite the tremendous achievement in economic development over the past four decades since independence, Malaysia is facing a problem of environmental degradation at a rapid pace. In searching for Malaysian approach to alter this trend, this thesis is written against a background of concern for a balanced development in economy and social wellbeing and simultaneously preserving the environment. The aim of the study is to identify an alternative approach in managing the local environment for health, starting from a value position of regard for local knowledge and abilities, and for scientists and administrators working together with local knowledge and abilities, and for scientists and administrators working together with local communities in their natural settings. Findings from this study offer a range of lessons for those who wish to integrate local and scientific knowledge. The research approach proved capable of documenting the separate realities of the place-based and the knowledge-based communities within a common interpretative framework. The place-based communities held realistic interpretations of their capacity to contribute to local sustainable development, distinct from one another and also distinct from the same events as perceived by the scientific community. The conclusion is drawn that each needs the other for any effective local application of scientific findings or government support. Finally, this has not been a study of top-down or bottom up but from the 'inside-out' with a small study of the 'outside-in.' It offers another perspective and an extra set of tools or strategies for the professionals' community to work with local communities in their environmental management for health. The desired outcome would be for the local communities to contribute as a full partner to the dominant scientific studies in designing local management strategies. / Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:ADTP/181670 |
| Date | January 2002 |
| Creators | Sahani, Mazrura, University of Western Sydney, Hawkesbury, College of Science, Technology and Environment, School of Environment and Agriculture |
| Source Sets | Australiasian Digital Theses Program |
| Language | English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Source | THESIS_CSTE_EAG_Sahani_M.xml |
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