Shakir M. Al-Awqati ¹, M. Norsida ², Bashir G. Muktar ¹

Affiliations
1 Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) 43400, MY
2 Department of Agriculture Technology, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) 43400, MY

Abstract

Objectives: The research seeks to identify the perceived social and economic impact of the KTR program conducted by RISDA on rubber smallholder farmers, specifically identifying their socio-economic characteristics and their perceived level of effect of KTR program on their socio-economic development. Methodology: This study used logic model approach and surveyed 341 rubber smallholder farmers using stratification sampling, located in Perak, Pahang, Selangor and Negeri Sembilan due to their position within the highest production regions. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics. Findings: Revealed the majority (98.2%) were of Malay ethnicity, 59.8% were males, and 39.1% were 51-60 years of age. It was also revealed that 45.5% were full time tappers, while 23.5% engaged in farming activities and tapping. The perception on the impact of KTR program showed that 47.2% of respondents perceived positive social impact, while 56.3% perceived positive economic impact on their lives. Applications: This indicates that a large segment of these smallholders believed and physically sensed that KTR program has benefited them positively, thus ready to accept any intervention from RISDA. Further indication, that more support and promotion are required to sustain such programs.

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