Is it worth to integrate rice cultivation into catfish aquaculture system?: a case study in Kedah, Malaysia

Hairazi Rahim, . and Mohd Fairuz Md Suptian, . and Engku Elini Engku Ariff, . and Mohd Amirul Mukmin Abdul Wahab, . and Nuruddin Mohamad Isa, . (2023) Is it worth to integrate rice cultivation into catfish aquaculture system?: a case study in Kedah, Malaysia. Economic and Technology Management Review, 21. pp. 1-14. ISSN 1823-8149

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Abstract

The agricultural policies of governments globally emphasise enhancing domestic production, productivity and sustainability, alongside addressing food security and resource limitations. One strategy gaining traction involves integrating rice and f ish farming within a sustainable agricultural framework. This offers ecological and economic advantages like improved soil fertility, natural pest control and increased household income, while also creating agro-tourism opportunities. In Malaysia, catfish farming has notably expanded, significantly contributing to aquaculture production. Efforts are ongoing to integrate rice cultivation with catfish farming to optimise agricultural space and income generation. This study evaluates the monetary benefits of this integration, focusing on the Aquaculture Extension Centre or Pusat Pengembangan Akuakultur (PPA) Jitra in Kedah Darul Aman. It employs experimental methodologies, assessing two scenarios involving rice production using a floating bed system. This method avoids conventional chemicals to minimise harm to aquatic life, especially catfish. The research presents two scenarios: The first is a rice production project at 3,624 kg/ha, and the second is a rice production project at 8,872 kg/ha, both integrated with catfish farming. A partial budgeting approach assesses financial viability, analysing net income alterations based on total revenue and costs. Scenario 1 displays a negative return due to escalating costs outweighing benefits. However, sensitivity analysis suggests Scenario 1’s potential viability if rice yields reach 5,976.67 kg/ ha. Scenario 2, though also showing a negative return, holds potential viability if rice yields increase to 9,814.44 kg/ha. The study evaluates the economic lifespan of catfish and rice cultivation, estimating catfish production at 1,700 kg/ pond and rice production at 4.5 mt/pond. Break-even points for both components indicate when revenues equal costs. The integrated approach demonstrates a favourable Benefit Cost Ratio (BCR) of 1.27, indicating economic feasibility through integration. However, comprehensive environmental impact studies are vital to ensure sustainability, despite the promise of cost reduction through labor sharing. While aligned with promoting a circular economy and environmentally friendly agricultural practices, a thorough assessment of ecological implications is crucial. Integrated rice and catfish farming, if diligently executed, holds potential as a sustainable and environmentally responsible approach to agricultural development.

Item Type:	Article
Creators:	Hairazi Rahim, . and Mohd Fairuz Md Suptian, . and Engku Elini Engku Ariff, . and Mohd Amirul Mukmin Abdul Wahab, . and Nuruddin Mohamad Isa, .
Title:	Is it worth to integrate rice cultivation into catfish aquaculture system?: a case study in Kedah, Malaysia
Date:	2023
Location:	Economic and Technology Management Review website
Publication:	Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute
Volume:	21
Physical Description:	14p.
Agency Name:	Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM)
Date Deposited:	17 Nov 2025 02:40
Last Modified:	17 Nov 2025 02:40
URI:	http://myagric.upm.edu.my/id/eprint/23750

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