Adaptation towards climate change impacts among highland farmers in Malaysia

Environ Sci Pollut Res Int. 2020 Jul;27(20):25209-25219. doi: 10.1007/s11356-020-08987-8. Epub 2020 Apr 28.

Abstract

This study aims to gain more understanding on highland farmers' adaptation towards the impacts of climate change in Malaysia. Via a multi-stage cluster sampling, this quantitative study has surveyed a total of 400 highland farmers as respondents. The results indicated that the highest climate change-resilient farmers were from Kundasang, specifically among the females, Dusun ethnic group, and those who work side jobs to cover household expenses. Furthermore, recorded factors such as age and years of experience yielded significant negative relationship with adaptation whereas income yielded significant positive relationship with adaptation. The paper concludes with recommendations related to occupational diversification, consistent information disseminations, access to financial assistance, and the need to empower extension officers and local leaders in the hope that a comprehensive approach can help implement any community climate change-adaptation plan.

Keywords: Adaptation; Climate change; Community development; Highland farmers; Malaysia.

MeSH terms

  • Acclimatization
  • Agriculture
  • Climate Change*
  • Farmers*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Malaysia