“I Decided to Exit the Industry”: Exploring Flood Experiences Among Smallholder Farmers in Kelantan, Malaysia
Abstract
Globally, floods stand out as the most destructive natural disaster, posing significant threats to food security, infrastructure, and livelihoods. In Malaysia, regions like Kelantan face annual monsoon floods, impacting communities heavily dependent on agriculture. This study specifically delves into Pasir Mas, Kelantan, aiming to assess how monsoon flooding affects small-scale farmers. The study involved interviews with ten farmers in Pasir Mas, adopting a qualitative approach with descriptive analysis. These farmers predominantly rely on agricultural activities as their primary source of income, with chili cultivation being prominent, and a few engaging in crop rotation practices. The interviews provided a platform for farmers to share their experiences on the challenges posed by floods to crops, infrastructure and livelihoods. The study revealed varied effects of floods on the farmers, with one participant expressing a desire to exit the industry and explore alternative business ventures. The insights from these experiences are crucial, as they pave the way for developing effective risk management strategies and new policies.
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