Strategies for Oil Palm Smallholders to Improve Their Livelihood: A Qualitative Study

Abstract Oil palm is widely cultivated for its high yield of edible oil. While Malaysia is known for large-scale oil palm production, Sarawak stands out for its numerous smallholder plantations. In this region, smallholders play a vital role in both subsistence farming and cash crop agriculture, though they face challenges in maintaining productivity and improving livelihoods. This study investigates the strategies oil palm smallholders in Sarawak, Malaysia, use to enhance their livelihoods. A qualitative approach was employed, using semi-structured interviews with fifteen smallholders in Sri Aman, Sarawak, selected through snowball sampling. Thematic analysis identified key strategies adopted by these farmers. Findings show that smallholders improve their livelihoods through replanting, crop diversification, engaging in additional farming activities, and seeking support from relevant authorities and organizations. These strategies help smallholders sustain plantation performance despite challenges. This study provides important insights into how smallholders navigate the oil palm sector, emphasizing the need for targeted support to bolster their livelihoods and the overall sustainability of small-scale plantations.