Empowering young palm oil smallholders: A local wisdom module to support Sustainable Development Goals

Rosniza Aznie Che Rose, Shahira Azura Elias, Enok Maryani, Sumarmi Sumarmi, Shine Pintor, Fateen Nabilla Rasli

Abstract


This study investigates the socio-economic implications of declining palm oil fruit prices on the livelihoods of Felda settlers, while proposing a strategic framework to empower young smallholders through the application of local wisdom. Anchored in the theories of community resilience and sustainable agriculture, the research aims to develop a culturally grounded local wisdom module that addresses the vulnerabilities of smallholder communities and supports the achievement of SDG 1 (No Poverty) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth). Using a quantitative design, data were collected from 234 settlers in Felda Palong 6, Gemas, Negeri Sembilan through structured surveys and supported by field observations. Findings reveal that 82 percent of respondents experienced income reductions exceeding 30 percent, and 67 percent reported a substantial decrease in purchasing power. Despite these challenges, 54 percent adopted adaptive financial behaviors such as increased savings and frugal expenditure. The study highlights the potential of local knowledge, rooted in collective values and traditional practices, as a community-based resilience mechanism. The development of a youth-oriented empowerment module grounded in local wisdom addresses a critical gap in rural development discourse that often sidelines culturally embedded knowledge systems. These findings provide theoretical and practical contributions towards integrating indigenous knowledge into sustainable development strategies for the palm oil sector.

 

Keywords: Economic resilience, local wisdom, motivation, palm oil smallholders, SDGs, SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth)


Keywords


Economic resilience, local wisdom, motivation, palm oil smallholders, SDGs, SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth)

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