INVESTIGATING THE IMPACT OF PESTICIDE LABELLING INFORMATION ON FARMERS' PESTICIDE USE DECISIONS IN MALAYSIAN AGRICULTURE

Abstract

This research investigates the impact of pesticide labelling information on farmers' pesticide use decisions in Malaysian agriculture. The study aims to examine the relationship between pesticide labelling information and farmers' decisions, explore the influence of farmers' knowledge, attitudes, and practices, and assess whether these factors mediate the relationship between labelling information and decisions. A positivist research philosophy, deductive research approach, and mono-method quantitative design are employed, utilizing surveys with a convenience sample of 100 respondents. The findings reveal a diverse demographic composition of the respondents, with a significant presence of Chinese farmers and a majority having tertiary education. Surprisingly, respondents exhibit a balance between new and experienced farmers. The analysis of research hypotheses indicates a significant relationship between pesticide labelling information and farmers' knowledge, attitudes, and practices, as well as between these factors and pesticide use decisions. However, the study fails to support the hypothesis that pesticide labelling information directly affects pesticide use decisions. Instead, it highlights the mediating role of farmers' knowledge, attitudes, and practices. This suggests that improving farmers' understanding of pesticide-related information and promoting responsible practices may be more influential in shaping their decisions. Overall, this research contributes to academic understanding and practical actions in Malaysian agriculture, offering insights for policy improvements and on-the-ground practices. Future research directions include longitudinal studies, comparative analyses, and behavioural economics principles to deepen our understanding of pesticide decision-making and enhance sustainable agricultural practices in Malaysia.