<![CDATA[Kuala Simpang has developed on a low-lying plain directly influenced by the Tamiang and Manyak Rivers, making the city highly susceptible to flooding. The major flood of 21-22 December 2006 produced inundation of approximately 2 m and disrupted settlements, road networks, public facilities, and urban land functions. This study analyzes the post-2006 morphological transformation of Kuala Simpang through the figure-ground, linkage, and place elements across five periods: 2006, 2007, 2012, 2017, and 2023. A qualitative descriptive design was combined with spatial analysis and a diachronic reading of urban change. Data were obtained through field observations, semi-structured interviews, documentation, spatial-planning documents, maps, and historical Google Earth Pro imagery. Spatial features were digitized and compared between periods, then validated using source triangulation, technique triangulation, member checking, and map overlays. The findings indicate that the 2006 flood acted as a major disruption that altered the direction of urban growth. In the figure-ground element, the proportion of built-up area increased from 38% in 2006 to 63% in 2023, while open space declined from 62% to 37%. The initially radial-concentric road network became fragmented in 2007 and subsequently recovered through the reinforcement of secondary roads and the emergence of alternative routes. In the place element, built-up land increased from 45% to 65%, green open space decreased from 42% to 35%, and vacant land declined from 13% to 0%. Settlement growth shifted mainly eastward and southward, particularly toward Bukit Tempurung and parts of Perdamaian, although development along river buffers continued. These results highlight the need to control development on floodplains, protect river setbacks, expand green open space, and strengthen evacuation and alternative-route networks. These measures are essential for establishing a more resilient and sustainable urban structure.]]>
