Factors influencing choosing a mass rapid transit system for sustainable development: using the stimulus-organism-response model

Purpose As one of the most important financial centers in Southeast Asia, people in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, are dealing with issues like noise pollution, traffic jams and air pollution. After more than a decade of delays, in 2024, the city will run the first line of a mass rapid transit (MRT) system, which is becoming more and more well-liked by youth and supporting sustainable urban development. This study is one of the very first studies in Vietnam to examine the habits of urban youth on MRT and personal mobility using the stimulus-organism-response (SOR) theory. Design/methodology/approach Infrastructure, transportation services, environmental consciousness, trip characteristics and employment characteristics are the primary stimulation variables. The response variables concentrate on the utilization of MRT and personal transportation and the organism variables include travel experience and personal opinions. An online survey was sent to over 500 early adopters of the MRT since December 22, 2024. Partial least squares structural equation modeling techniques were used to test hypotheses. Findings Results show that attitude and travel experience and trip features, infrastructure, environment and employment characteristics indirectly influence the choice of MRT and private vehicles. There is a notable indirect impact on the utilization of public transportation when travel experience serves as a stimulus variable. In order to lessen reliance on private vehicles for traveling to work, urban planning stakeholders should give priority to the construction of mixed-use districts that connect residential neighborhoods with public transportation hubs. Originality/value This study is one of the very first studies in Vietnam to examine the habits of urban youth on MRT and personal mobility using the SOR theory.