This research examines how TOD, as globally circulating planning concept, is mobilised, translated and adapted in Malaysia and Wales. It explores how explicit of TOD in Malaysia and more implicit TOD aligned approaches in Wales. Guided by an ordinary cities perspective and policy mobility frameworks, the study traces how TOD concept travels and is reshaped through institutional, political and transport-planning processes. The research employs a comparative qualitative design combining document analysis with semi-structured interviews involving planners, transport authorities, regional agencies, developers, academics and community actors. Data were analysed through a thematic approach to compare policy actors’ interpretations of TOD, the framing of “best practice”, the institutional and political constraints in shaping translation into practice across the two settings.

Finding reveals contrasting translations of TOD. In Malaysia, TOD is explicitly embedded in within planning frameworks, rail-based development strategies and density incentives. Policy actors often frame TOD through development narratives emphasising intensification and coordinated delivery. However, policy visibility does not necessarily produce mobility alignment as affordability challenges, parking provision, car dependency and first and last mile connectivity continue to shape outcomes. In Wales, TOD is less frequently named, yet TOD aligned principles circulate through Metro investment, active travel, placemaking and regional initiatives. Here, the challenges lies less in policy absence than in coordinating connectivity and development objectives.

The analysis suggest that TOD can move beyond label, not as a fixed model, but as a policy idea reassemble through governance, actors and local mobility systems.