Adoption of the System of Rice Intensification (SRI) for Sustainable Rice Farming in Malaysia

Abstract

Purpose: The global issue of food security has prompted greater emphasis on the adoption of sustainable agriculture and agroecological practices. The System of Rice Intensification (SRI) is a widely advocated agricultural practice aimed at increasing rice production while simultaneously mitigating environmental impacts. However, there is a paucity of research investigating the socio-economic factors that influence the adoption of SRI. This research was therefore conducted to understand the SRI adoption in Malaysia in comparison with the conventional rice cultivation approach.Research Method: This study selected farmers using simple random sampling and census sampling for the two farming methods. For the conventional approach, 140 paddy farmers were chosen, whereas 50 were selected for SRI practice. This study used census sampling to identify respondents for SRI from the states of Kedah, Kelantan, and Sabah due to the small sample size and population. Data analysis employed the Benefit-Cost Ratio and Logistic regression to understand factors influencing SRI adoption.Findings and Values: The study demonstrates that SRI practice considerably reduced input usage and enhanced yields, generating higher net returns and profits almost double those of the conventional technique, and therefore investment in SRI is more viable and profitable. Econometric results indicate that experience, educational level, land size, access to irrigation and environmental conditions significantly influence SRI adoption compared with the conventional technique. The study concludes by recognising the existing gaps in knowledge regarding both SRI and conventional methods.