Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this study is to analyze the economic, social and environmental impacts of climate
change on farmers’ livelihoods and adaptive capacity while highlighting specific adaptation strategies in the
local climate context.
Design/methodology/approach – Data were collected using a survey questionnaire and analyzed using
partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). Respondents were selected from seven farmer
organizations (Pertubuhan Peladang Kawasan) located in Kedah, Malaysia.
Findings – The study revealed that farmers perceive the economic, social and environmental impacts of
climate change. These adverse effects of climate change have an impact on their livelihoods as well as their
adaptive capacity. The findings also demonstrated that farmers’ livelihoods mediate the relationship between
economic and environmental impacts of climate change as well as the adaptive capacity of farmers.
Originality/value – Climate change severely affects the agricultural sector as well as farmers’ livelihoods. To
minimize its effect, scientists and policymakers emphasize the improvement of farmers’ adaptive capacity as
well as appropriate adaptation methods. However, there is little research on how climate change affects the
livelihoods of farmers in the context of Malaysia. Therefore, the results of the study will provide a new
perspective for policymakers to formulate a better adaptation policy framework as well as select appropriate
adaptation strategies for sustainable agricultural development.
