Walking into the future: Why car-free living is on the rise
When it comes to how they live, one thing is crystal clear—Gen Z is all about walkable neighbourhoods and easy access to public transportation.
Photo for illustrative purposes only. Photo: Canva
They are all about convenience, sustainability and living with purpose.
And when it comes to how they live, one thing is crystal clear—they are all about walkable neighbourhoods and easy access to public transportation.
But why? What makes them choose to ditch the car keys and opt for their sneakers, bicycles or public transit cards instead?
Here’s why:
CONVENIENCE OVER COMMUTING
Let’s talk about convenience.
Who has time to sit in traffic for hours or spend a chunk of their day looking for parking?
Not Gen Z.
Walkable neighbourhoods mean they can grab coffee, run errands and meet friends without needing to get into a car.
It’s all about getting things done on the go, and hey, it's pretty chill when everything is within walking distance.
No more stressing about long commutes or crowded parking lots.
According to Anis Mustafa, 21, who lives in TTDI, even though she owns a car, she loves living in her neighbourhood where most things are within walking distance.
“We have a sundry shop, a coffee shop, a florist and a laundrette near my house.
If I can help it, I would just walk to these places rather than drive into town,” she said.
Anis added that if she wanted to go to KL, she also preferred travelling by MRT or LRT.
“For me, it’s way better than being stuck in a jam."
"But since I am alone, it’s pretty convenient to do."
"I would understand if someone with a family or small children would prefer driving, though,” she said.
SUSTAINABILITY IS A BIG DEAL
If there’s one thing that defines Gen Z, it’s their drive to create a better future.
They are the generation that has climate change on their minds, and they’re not just talking about it—they are acting on it.
Walkable neighbourhoods and public transportation are eco-friendly options that reduce carbon footprints.
Choosing to walk or take the bus over driving means less pollution, fewer traffic jams and a healthier planet overall.
They are not just thinking about today; they are thinking about tomorrow too.
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION IS A LIFELINE
Let’s not forget that not everyone has access to a car.
Public transportation opens up the world for so many, making it easier to get to school, work, or meet friends.
Trains, buses and even bikes are part of the urban ecosystem that keeps cities moving.
For Gen Z, it’s not just a way to get from point A to point B—it’s a way to build a more connected, accessible world.
According to student Eqram Eshal, 17, travelling on public transport allows him to optimise his travel time by checking out his social feeds, catching up on a podcast or just zoning out to music.
“It’s actually quite cool because I can have alone time.
"Although many of my peers have cars, I still prefer taking public transport."
"Sometimes I feel it’s more aesthetic, and I like to imagine I’m in an indie movie,” he said.
Also, let’s be real—cars are expensive.
Between insurance, petrol and maintenance, the costs add up quickly.
For many Gen Zs, especially students or those just starting out in their careers, it’s simply not a smart financial move.
Walkable neighbourhoods and public transportation give them the freedom to save money and invest in what really matters—like experiences, travel, and, of course, future goals.
A BETTER QUALITY OF LIFE
Living in a walkable neighbourhood means people are more likely to be outside, get fresh air and even sneak in a little exercise without hitting the gym.
It’s better for mental health too—being around parks, coffee shops and bustling streets adds a certain vibe that simply can’t be experienced when cooped up in a car all the time.
Plus, walkable neighbourhoods tend to have more community spaces, making it easier to connect with people and build relationships in real life.
Brand executive Lisa Khalil, 26, said that not owning a car and being able to walk or take public transportation means freedom.
“It means we can make our own decisions, go where we want, when we want, without relying on someone else to drive us. It’s the ultimate form of autonomy,” she said.
THE SHIFT TOWARDS SMART CITIES
Gen Z is not just using public transportation—they are pushing for better infrastructure too.
They want smart cities with real-time apps that tell them when the next bus is coming, where to find the nearest bike share, or how to avoid traffic jams.
Technology has reshaped the way people move, and they’re all for it.
Former Malaysian Institute of Planners president and town planner Ihsan Mokhtar said cities that prioritise walkability and smart transportation options are shaping a future where urban living isn’t just about surviving—it’s about thriving.
“Walkable neighbourhoods and public transportation aren’t just trends—they’re the future.
"Leading the charge for greener cities, more accessible spaces, and a lifestyle that reflects our values is the way to go,” he said.
So, next time you think about hopping in the car, consider taking a stroll or catching the bus instead.
It’s good for the planet, good for your wallet, and good for your overall vibe.
Who knew that walking to the coffee shop could feel so revolutionary?
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