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Monitoring The Implementation Of State Development Plan Using GIS: The Case of Negeri Sembilan, MalaysiaGIS9 Database Structure The development of GIS9 database involved the routine process of data collection, manipulation, standardization, updating and storing. Based on assessment of the requirement of various stakeholders, the database was designed base on the geodatabase model approach. The database was developed using data from various sources which is channeled through JPBDNS with the support of the other technical departments. The base for GIS9 data development is the lot cadastral map from Department of Survey and Mapping Malaysia (JUPEM), which was further enhanced based on to the layout plans provided by JPBDNS. Other data providers include the local authorities which supplied data concerning the local plans and planning applications, and various technical departments. Data from multiple sources was standardized based on the GIS9 database format and structure. GIS9 database structure was designed to conform to JPBD’s metadata as well as MyGDI data standard (MS1760).  Figure 2: Basic components of GIS9 Database The GIS9 base map was then adapted to include other elements of data. Altogether, there are two sets of database. A total of 12 datasets and 64 feature classes were built for the macro database in GIS9. The database contains generalised data sufficient for state level planning. While the micro database which accommodates detailed data consists 8 datasets and 20 feature classes for each district. GIS9 accommodates geospatial data that allows for presentation of information according to locations and attributes for the whole state of Negeri Sembilan. Development Plans Monitoring System The development plans monitoring system for Negeri Sembilan was developed base on the crucial need for assessment of the progress and effectiveness, as well as, review of development programs and policies. The monitoring framework had considered the issues of coordination, institutional responsibilities and linkages, indicators and timeframe to establish mechanism for measuring performance against targets. The module for development plans monitoring in GIS9 supports the State Town and Country Planning Department in controlling and monitoring development projects. The accomplishment of development targets is evaluated in terms of specific indicators and a particular time frame. The implementation is strongly supported by the GIS9 database which provides the planning information needed through continuous data gathering, updating and, storage.
SPRSN provides means for assessing the accomplishment of the state structure plan (Figure 3). It translates gazetted structure plan policies into achievement and compliance units. The State Structure Plan (RSN) involves the general policies, subject policies and specific strategies. The policies can be translated into qualitative and quantitative form of measurement.  Figure 3: Checking on development compliance to RSN The accomplishment of RSN is measured through the assessment of changes in development scenarios based on evaluation of the outlined strategies through comparison with the key diagram. SPRTD emphasizes on physical planning involving spatial data, location and land use activities of proposed development. It will be possible to check whether land use development in the district complies with the zoning strategies in the district and local plans (RTD) by comparing current land use development with that proposed in the district and local plans. Development projects implementation progress at the district level can be constantly monitored and development control can be carried out more systematically. Data Sharing Framework and Data Accessibility GIS9 was developed primarily for executing the functions of the Department of Town and Country Planning of Negeri Sembilan (JPBDNS) but was meant be extended to support the functions and requirements of all the state technical departments. These include the Land and Mining Department, Agriculture Department, Health Department, Department of Mineral and Geoscience, Police Department, Fire Department, Public Works Department, Waterworks Department, Drainage and Irrigation Department, Forestry Department and Department of Environment. For the time being, GIS9 data is made available to all the state technical departments located within the same building (Wisma Negeri) through the local area network (LAN). The data sharing framework in GIS9 provides a more efficient, more effective, and less expensive method of sharing and coordinating information between stakeholders. GIS9 provides two alternatives for access of its data i.e through the customised user interface and the web.
Planning analysis is imperative to ensure that development is well-controlled and comply with the policies and guidelines, both at the state and local level. The application for analysis was developed to facilitate JPBDNS in organising data for analysis and retrieving analysis results when needed, for the purpose of monitoring development, preparation of development plans as well as development control. The comprehensive database constructed has made it easier for modeling and analysis based on predetermined criteria which is required in the formulation and review of development plans, such as identifying ‘potential areas for development’. The GIS9 customised system and user interface was developed to ease and make data accessible to all level of users in JPBDNS. It serves as an executive information system for data display and organisation for analyses purposes. GIS9 interface is equipped with several security features to prevent unnecessary exploitation and corruption of data. Access of information through the web is less time consuming and reduces the need for manpower, apart from enables smooth management and administration flow across government agencies. The GIS9 web-based application was designed to enable dissemination of information both via intranet and internet.  Figure 4: Public’s Interactive Maps Application Generally, the modules developed include the main page, articles, stakeholders, login, activities and public’s interactive maps. The main page provides brief information on GIS9 apart from access to the GIS9 database and applications for stakeholders and the public. GIS functions such as zoom in, zoom out, pan, full extent and identify were provided to assist user to retrieve the required information. The web application was developed and updated in stages based on the updating of information in the database. For the time being, the application is attached to the JPBDNS ‘server’ and made accessible to all departments within the building of Wisma Negeri. For smooth and effective implementation of GIS9, institutional arrangement is essential for directing implementation and monitoring proper and timely execution of the plans. To facilitate co-ordination of development effort at state and district levels, respective development committees at various levels were proposed. Apart from system development and maintenance, preparation of the human resources is also crucial. Programmes were outlined for users to acquire the appropriate knowledge and skills. These include series of workshops and trainings to ensure smooth technology transfer to users apart from receive feedbacks to further enhance the components wherever appropriate for effective system implementation. The training modules prepared also serve as a supporting factor to GIS9 capacity building which cover various aspects including competency, infrastructure, procedures and resources essential for overall implementation. DISCUSSION The distinctive feature of GIS9 that was developed for the purpose of monitoring the implementation of the state development plans is that it is capable of operating on two distinct levels of planning – the state and district level. The database was constructed through collaboration and data sharing effort from various government departments and agencies. GIS9 also provides updating facilities and interactive data display. In addition, the monitoring system developed to cater for both the state and district levels make it possible to evaluate the success of plan implementation. The development of Geographical Information System for Negeri Sembilan (GIS9) is apparently a significant contribution to the planning field and conventional planning practice especially in the aspects of development management and implementation as the prepared data can be utilised for development programmes studies/reviews both at the state and local levels. On the other hand, the implementation of GIS9 helps reduces the cost of RSN/RTD studies and preparation due to data availability. It was developed as a planning support system to consider alternative spatial development strategies as well as visualise development potentials. It enables smooth process of development management and implementation due to the data-sharing framework adopted. It can be used by various departments/agencies for the purpose of data updating and enhancement due to common data structure/format. However, management and maintenance are the key activities in the implementation of GIS9. Among the important aspects of management and maintenance of GIS9 include the preparation of hardware and software for handling large pools of accumulating data as well as system configuration and network capabilities for supporting data sharing procedures between technical departments and data quality and security control. Although at this stage GIS9 was considered successful in its implementation, several issues need to be addressed. These include the difficulty in translating all the user’s requirement and integrating the data sets from various agencies. Data from multiple agencies consist of different levels of accuracy and needs to be systematically organised so that the information can be shared with other related agencies. The aspect of data standardization across departments should be given due attention including in terms of data format, database structure, as well as the guidelines applied. All in all, acquiring and updating of data tends to be the biggest challenge in the implementation of GIS9 as it influences the accuracy of data. Data availability would very much depend on the cooperation from all stakeholders involved either at the state or local level. In addition, the understanding and commitment from all staffs involved in the use of GIS data in all technical departments would very much help speed up the process of acquiring and updating of GIS9 data. CONCLUSION Monitoring is a continuous process that involves data collecting and analysis and subsequently comparing plan’s implementation expected results. The findings from analysis of monitoring and evaluation form the basis for establishing key goals and targets, adjusting strategies and making them effective and efficient. With its powerful capacity for spatial data management, analysis, and visualization by using GIS as its core, GIS9 provides new tools for more efficient and effective planning and monitoring, especially with support of the interactive and user-friendly interface developed to ease the use of the sophisticated system without the need for advanced technical skills. The implementation of GIS9 has contributed to raising recognition of the importance of vertical integration of the developed and maintained datasets at regional and local levels. The adopted data sharing framework serves as a strong basis for extension of GIS development as well as integration and coordination in all state and local agencies involved in ensuring the success of the implementation of the state development plan. Acknowledgements The authors would like to thank the Department of Town and Country Planning of Negeri Sembilan, and State Government of Negeri Sembilan for the permission to use the materials presented in this paper. References
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