Comparative parameters of travel behavior in medium-sized cities (Case study: Bandung, Indonesia, and Kuantan, Malaysia)

¹ Department of Civil Engineering, State Polytechnic of Bandung, Bandung, Indonesia
² Faculty of Civil Engineering Technolog Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah Lebuh Persiaran Tun Khalil Yaakob 26300, Kuantan Pahang, Malaysia
³ School of Computing and Artificial Intelligence, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Sunway University 47500, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia

^* Corresponding author: linda.aisyah@polban.ac.id

Abstract

The analysis of travel behavior constitutes a fundamental component in urban transportation studies. This study examines Bandung, Indonesia, and Kuantan, Malaysia, as representative medium-sized cities with distinct road network typologies: radial-concentric in Bandung and corridor-based in Kuantan. A systematic literature review was employed to identify ten parameters of travel behavior, which were further evaluated using descriptive comparison, SWOT analysis, and radar chart visualization. The findings indicate that Bandung’s transport system is primarily dominated by paratransit and ride-sourcing services, which provide substantial flexibility and local accessibility. However, the system is constrained by weaknesses in reliability, comfort, safety, and integration with formal modes. In contrast, Kuantan demonstrates relative strengths through its formalized bus system (Rapid Kuantan), which ensures standardized fares, higher comfort levels, and improved safety, although challenges remain in terms of flexibility, last-mile connectivity, and schedule adherence. SWOT analysis underscores complementary opportunities, with Bandung requiring formalization and digital integration of paratransit, while Kuantan could enhance adaptability through feeder and microtransit services. The radar chart highlights a trade-off between flexibility and service quality, confirming that medium-sized cities must balance these dimensions. Overall, the study develops a transferable ten- parameter framework for comparative assessment of travel behavior, contributing to transport planning strategies in rapidly urbanizing contexts.