Adoption of Technologies and Innovations for Sustainable Rice-Paddy Farming in Kelantan

Abstract

Paddy production is an important sector for the country as it ensures food security. The National Agrofood Policy (NAP), 2011–2020, emphasises the importance of increasing domestic rice production to ensure an adequate rice supply. Meanwhile, NAP 2.0 (2021–2030), which is expected to be launched in 2021, will focus on addressing issues of productivity, production costs, and dependence on the labour force. This policy will include efforts to modernise the agricultural sector in line with the development of technology and the Industrial Revolution 4.0. Integrated agricultural technologies of a “high-tech” nature will be integrated into the sectors below NAP 2.0 as part of the emphasis on technology and applications. Rice production is a nation’s staple food source, so adopting advanced technology in agricultural production is crucial, especially in developing countries like Malaysia. In addition to ensuring the sufficiency of the national food supply and its sovereignty, consistent yields and returns can also improve the living standards of current rice entrepreneurs as well as attract new ones, especially from the younger generations. Therefore, this study was conducted to assess the level of acceptance of technology and innovation among rice farmers in Kelantan. Using SmartPLS analysis, the sample size is 45 farmers in Kelantan. As a result of the study, it was found that farmers are generally eager to adopt MARDI and KADA technology and innovations.