FACTOR INFLUENCING THE ADOPTION OF SMART FARMING TECHNOLOGY: THE ROLE OF TECHNOLOGY AWARENESS AS MODERATOR

• Main Author: SHARON NOTIAZILA, ALI
• Format: Thesis
• Language: English; English; English
• Published: UNIMAS 2024
• Subjects: H Social Sciences (General)
• Online Access: http://ir.unimas.my/id/eprint/45178/3/DSVA_SHARON%20NOTIAZILA.pdf; http://ir.unimas.my/id/eprint/45178/4/Thesis%20DBA_Sharon%20Notiazila%20-%2024%20pages.pdf; http://ir.unimas.my/id/eprint/45178/11/Thesis%20DBA_Sharon%20Notiazila.ftext.pdf; http://ir.unimas.my/id/eprint/45178/

The adoption of Smart Farming Technologies (SFT) is essential for improving food security, especially for farmers. Challenges such as population growth, geopolitical tensions, low productivity and lack of knowledge hinder the widespread use of SFT, particularly in regions like Sarawak. This study identifies the factors influencing farmers' acceptance to adopt SFT, using the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) framework with technology awareness as a moderator. Through a quantitative survey of 330 farmers in various regions of Sarawak, key determinants like performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, facilitating conditions, and technology awareness were identified. Data analysis using PLS-SEM revealed that while farmers are inclined to adopt SFT, significant barriers remain, particularly related to performance expectancy and social influence. The findings suggest that addressing these barriers can help the Sarawak government and stakeholders develop suitable technologies and policies to enhance food security. Ultimately, this could lead Sarawak to achieve sustainable food security and become a net food exporter by 2030, contributing to economic development.