The Oil Palm Industry and Sustainable Development Goals Agenda: Evidence from the Socio-economic Profiles of Smallholders in Johor, Malaysia

Abstract

The agricultural literature have debated issues related to environmental, social and economic implications of agricultural production in relations to achievement of sustainable development goals (SDGs). The role of oil palm in catalysing smallholders out of poverty, ensuring food access, quality education and as vital SDGs have been a critical subject of recent literature. While the search for framework integrating these SDGs remains a major concern. This study endeavours to develop a framework of interactions between SDGs by exploring the link between socio-economic factors of oil palm smallholders in Johor with relevant SDGs. Primary data comprising of socio-economics factor of oil-palm smallholders in Johor, Malaysia was collected through well-structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse social and economic condition of the smallholders and extent of SDGs achievement. Furthermore, t-test and correlation analysis were used to examine the relationship between selected socio-economic profiles and SDGs. Findings indicate that smallholders have attained considerable number of SDGs including SDG1 (No poverty); SDG 2 (Zero hunger); SDG 4 (Quality education) and SDG 5 (Gender equality). Their average income was above national and international poverty line. Over 90% of smallholders attained  at least primary education. Women engagement was up to 10% and comparatively the women performed better in terms productivity and income.