TRANSFER OF TECHNOLOGY (ToT) SKILLS AMONG EXTENSION AGENT IN MALAYSIAN COCOA BOARD (PENINSULAR MALAYSIA)
Authors: Nurul Aziemah Majid*, Athirah Rajuddin, Nur Bahiah Mohamed Haris and Jasmin Arif Shah
Journal Issue: Malaysian Cocoa Journal, Volume 17 2025
Keywords: Transfer of technology (ToT), extension agents, cocoa farmers, technical skills, delivery skills, evaluation skills
Published On: 5/11/2025
Abstract
The Malaysian cocoa industry has witnessed a sharp decline in production over the decades, primarily due to pest outbreaks, land use competition, and reduced farmer interest. In response, the Malaysian Cocoa Board (MCB) has prioritized the role of extension agents in transferring agricultural technologies to smallholder cocoa farmers. Therefore, extension agents need to possess strong Transfer of Technology (ToT) skills. ToT refers to the process by which technology is transferred from institutional research to the end users through extension services. Therefore, this study examines the ToT skills (technical, delivery, and evaluation) among the extension agents in the MCB in Peninsular Malaysia. A quantitative research approach was adopted, utilizing a structured questionnaire administered to 376 productive cocoa farmers in Peninsular Malaysia. The data were analyzed using SPSS Version 24 through descriptive statistics. The findings indicate that all three ToT skills are at a high level. Among them, technical skill recorded the highest mean score (M = 4.56), followed by delivery skill (M = 4.51) and evaluation skill (M = 4.49). This highlights the critical role of technical expertise in enhancing the effectiveness and efficiency of extension service delivery. Extension agents who are technically proficient are better equipped to address farmers’ needs, provide practical solutions, and build trust within the farming community, thereby contributing to improved performance outcomes. In conclusion, the study underscores the significance of ToT skills among extension agents, highlighting the importance of strengthening ToT competencies as key drivers in enhancing cocoa production through effective extension services by MCB.