Independent Oil Palm Smallholder Participation and Technology Transfer

Abstract

Food supplies in the agricultural sector rely heavily on small farmers. Technology transfer in the agricultural sector is crucial to ensure the livelihoods of small farmers and thereby guarantee stable food supplies. To meet this need, the palm oil guidance and advisory centre, managed by the Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB), has assumed responsibility for the transfer of technology through formal and informal training. This study seeks to assess the participation of independent oil palm smallholders in the transfer of oil palm cultivation technology. This study consulted 275 independent oil palm smallholders in Teluk Intan, Perak, and Saratok, Sarawak, both in Malaysia. The survey form is used to obtain smallholder information, involvement in TUNAS programmes and technology transfer competencies. The findings show that the technology transfer capabilities by TUNAS officers are outstanding and the smallholders’ participation in the programme is encouraging.