The essential role of social mediation in the development of smart cities

Abstract

Social mediation can play a significant role in promoting harmony in smart cities. Smart cities are designed to enhance the quality of life of their residents, and social mediation can help address social and community-related issues that are integral to achieving this goal. The paper therefore introduces a model of social mediation training organized in collaboration with the Ministry of National Unity, Malaysia. The training involved one hundred fifty (150) community leaders who received coaching from a team of trainers from the International Islamic University Malaysia. The objective of this paper therefore is to elucidate the theoretical and practical aspects of the training. To achieve the objective, the authors adopted a qualitative approach and refer to online and printed resources. Data was also gathered via observational methods and from the participants’ feedback. Data analysis involved content and thematic analysis. It is learnt that more community mediators need to be trained using the model as it is part of effective social capitals management and governance of smart cities. In addition, there is a strong demand from the community mediators for ongoing training on social mediation to enhance their skills and confidence thereby contributing to the restoration of harmony within the communities of smart cities