Unearthing Study in Asnafs' Large-Scale SMART Paddy-Field (SMART SBBA): An Exploratory Case of Farmers in Yan, Kedah

Abstract

The Asnafs' Large-Scale SMART Paddy Field (SMART SBBA) project is an initiative to consolidate rice paddy land through contract farming through a management system. It is to optimize the use of existing resources and increase the efficiency of planting activities and post-harvest production. The project initiative appears to be successful in helping rice farmers manage their fields systematically and increase the yield of higher-quality rice. SMART SBBA by the Kedah State Zakat Board (LZNK) has the potential to eradicate the poverty rate among asnafs in Kedah, in addition to boosting the local economy. Therefore, this preliminary study is to explore the SMART SBBA project through the experience and involvement of paddy farmers in the first season and the second season. This study applied exploratory and descriptive methods from focus group interview data. Results showed that the farmers were satisfied with the overall SMART SBBA LZNK management. However, most rice farmers face the challenges of agricultural input costs, including the high cost of seedlings, fertilizers, and pesticides, which is a huge obstacle for rice farmers in carrying out rice planting activities.