Farmers’ Perception of Good Agricultural Practices (Gap) on Rubber’s (Hevea Brasiliensis) Production in Malaysia: Case Study of Kuala Ketil Kedah

Abstract

This study examines farmers perception on good agricultural practices (GAP) on rubber's production. The purpose of this study is to identify the strength of relationship between the GAPs factors and rubber production. The data collection process was created by distributing the questionnaire form to the 114 smallholders of Kuala Ketil, Kedah. Data collected has been analysis using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS). This study can determine which factors among harvesting, fertilizing, landscape conservation, and mechanization that is being important to the farmers and obviously can affect the production of the rubber itself. This paper shows that the farmers perception on GAPs elements are significantly has positive moderate strength relationship on rubber production. The mechanization is proven to be the dominate factors in increase the rubber production. The findings indicate that the state Agency in Kedah need to pay attention in raising the important of GAP among smallholders, and the agency should introduce the motorize tapping machine to boost the rubber production.