Perceptions of Urban Agriculture (UA) Practices Among Malaysian Urban Dwellers: An Exploratory Study in Klang Valley

Abstract

Urban agriculture (UA) programs have experienced a significant rise in demand in Malaysia, particularly during and after the Covid-19 pandemic. Various initiatives by both governmental and non-governmental organizations have aimed to enhance public participation in UA practices. These efforts focus on raising awareness and highlighting the benefits of UA, such as lowering the cost of living for urban residents, providing access to safe and high-quality food, and strengthening social connections within urban communities. Studies indicate that understanding perceptions of an initiative or event is crucial for promoting its adoption. This forms the rationale for conducting the study, which aims to identify influential dimensions affecting perceptions of UA practices among urban settlements in Klang Valley, Malaysia. The study employed the Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) method. An in-person survey was conducted among 875 respondents from various areas within Klang Valley were interviewed using a structured questionnaire. The results reveal that perceptions of UA practices are shaped by six key factors: social and health impact, quantity and quality, environmental impact, economic impact, dietary preferences, and land utilization. These findings provide valuable insights for policymakers to develop effective strategies, particularly in designing promotional campaigns to enhance participation in UA, especially among urban dwellers in Malaysia.