Evaluating the Impact of FAMA Initiatives on the Empowerment of Women Agropreneurs within the Rural Transformation Centre of Kelantan: An Analytical Study

  • Khamisah Abd Manaf Universiti Teknologi MARA
  • Sakinah Mat Zin Universiti Teknologi MARA
  • Rosfatihah Che Mat Universiti Teknologi MARA
  • Nik Suhaidi Nik Othman Department of Network Strategy & Planning, TM Technology Services Sdn Bhd. Malaysia
  • Mohamad Rifqy Roosdhani Nahdlatul Ulama Islamic University
Keywords: FAMA, RTC, Women Agropreneurs, Business, Agriculture, Effectiveness

Abstract

This study evaluates the effectiveness of the Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority (FAMA) programs in fostering entrepreneurship among retailers and wholesalers, so-called Agropreneurs, within the Rural Transformation Center (RTC) in Kelantan, Malaysia. Initiated as part of the Rural Transformation Initiative and aligned with the National Blue Ocean Strategy 4, these programs aim to enhance the entrepreneurial capabilities of rural residents through comprehensive training and support systems. The study underscores the need for continuous support and tailored programs that address the specific barriers faced by women in agriculture, aligning with previous research advocating for gender-focused interventions in agricultural development. Utilizing quantitative methods, data were gathered from structured questionnaires distributed to 75 retailers and 8 wholesalers, with analyses conducted using IBM SPSS version 22. Findings reveal a significant improvement in various managerial, financial, and marketing competencies among participants, with average capability scores increasing across all categories. Retailers, in particular, showed marked enhancements in financial management and marketing strategies, reflecting high levels of satisfaction with RTC services and their impact on local employment and business visibility. In contrast, wholesalers exhibited relatively modest improvements, albeit still indicative of positive trends in their entrepreneurial activities. The study underscores the critical role of structured support mechanisms in promoting sustainable economic development and entrepreneurship in rural settings, emphasizing ongoing investment in community-driven solutions for equitable resource distribution and inclusive growth. These results contribute to the growing body of literature highlighting the importance of initiatives that empower local communities and foster economic resilience in rural areas.

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Published
2025-08-10
How to Cite
Abd Manaf, K., Mat Zin, S., Che Mat, R., Nik Othman, N. S., & Roosdhani, M. R. (2025). Evaluating the Impact of FAMA Initiatives on the Empowerment of Women Agropreneurs within the Rural Transformation Centre of Kelantan: An Analytical Study. Information Management and Business Review, 17(2(I), 247-258. https://doi.org/10.22610/imbr.v17i2(I).4601
Section
Research Paper