Through the project, farmers are linked directly to the potential markets. In many cases, rural producers in Malaysia have problems accessing markets or can only sell their products to middlepersons. They are often exploited by the middleperson who buys products at unreasonably low prices. Opportunities for networking and direct selling will increase their bargaining power and choices in the market. Through the project, the farmers are now more motivated and creative in their farm management and diversification of end products. For instance, the technology to produce banana paper has now been adapted to produce papers from other fruits, such as durian and rambutan skin. Moreover, farmers become more professional in managing the cooperatives. 132 THE ASIA REGIONAL FORUM ON BIODIVERSITY Conclusions Action research is not an easy and straight forward process. It is important for the researcher to take into consideration the needs of the stakeholders. For this case study, needs analysis was done using the Assets Based Community Development approach. The researcher also needs to create rapport with the community. Action research is a slow and cyclical process, and priority should be given to minimize conflict among all stakeholders. The project can be replicated by adopting the process to other areas. However, the researcher must take into account that all cases are unique, and any action should consider local specificity in accordance with the site’s situation, strengths and weaknesses. ACKNOWLEDGMENT The authors would like to acknowledge USM for funding the programme under the grant “Delivery Sustainability Excellence: Showcasing Balik Pulau as a Sustainable Village”. The authors would also like to thank all stakeholders, especially the communities in Balik Pulau and Sidratul Enterprise. REFERENCES R. Chambers and G.R., 1992. Conway, Sustainable Rural Livelihoods: practical concepts for the 21st Century. IDS Discussion Paper, February 1992, No: 296. IDS. Brighton. The Malaysian Government. 2005. Ninth Malaysian Plan. Putra Jaya.
In Celebration of His Majesty the King of Thailand’s 84th Birthday Anniversary
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