Factors Influencing the Implementation of Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) Among Independent Palm Oil Smallholders in Selangor
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.36877/mjae.a0000681Abstract
Palm oil is one of the most important agricultural commodities in Malaysia, and independent smallholders play a critical role in the sector’s output and rural livelihoods. However, their productivity remains constrained by partial and uneven implementation of Good Agricultural Practices (GAP), despite long-standing efforts by public agencies to promote these practices. This study investigates the factors influencing the implementation of GAP among independent oil palm smallholders in Selangor. A cross-sectional survey was conducted between January and March 2019 using a structured, interviewer-administered questionnaire. A total of 120 usable responses were obtained from a simple random sample of independent smallholders drawn from a list provided by MPOB TUNAS. Implementation of GAP was measured as a composite score derived from five Likert-type items covering key practice domains, while age, perceived finance, labour, time, and knowledge were measured using single items. Descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression were employed to analyse the data. The results show that finance is the only variable with a statistically significant positive effect on the implementation of GAP, while age, labour, time, and knowledge are not significant predictors. These findings suggest that financial constraints are a more binding barrier to GAP implementation than basic knowledge or time-related limitations. The study provides empirical evidence to support more targeted extension strategies and financial support mechanisms, such as grants, soft loans, or cost-sharing schemes, to enable independent smallholders to implement GAP and strengthen the sustainability of Malaysia’s palm oil sector.
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