The integration of digital technology in agriculture: Smart farming adoption strategy in Indonesian farming communities

¹ Agribusiness Socio-Economic Department, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universitas Terbuka, Tangerang Selatan 15437, Indonesia
² Department of Communication and Community Development, Faculty of Human Ecology, IPB University, Bogor 16680, Indonesia
³ Department of Regional Development Management, Faculty of Economics and Management, IPB University, Bogor 16680, Indonesia

^* Corresponding author: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Abstract

Data from the Central Statistics Agency (BPS) 28.64% of Indonesia's labor force was engaged in the agricultural sector in the first quarter of 2024, and this sector remains a primary source of livelihood for a large portion of the population. Despite its importance, the agricultural industry continues to face various challenges, including low productivity, limited access to modern technology, and the risk of ongoing food insecurity. Research attempts to analyze strategies for integrating digital technology into agricultural practices through the concept of smart farming. Adopting digital tools is viewed as a strategic effort to enhance operational efficiency, boost productivity, and ensure more sustainable management of natural resources. This research, conducted in West Java, employed a quantitative approach and involved 135 farmers from various agricultural groups. Structural Equation Modeling Partial Least Squares analyzed data. The research results indicated that farmers' characteristics, innovation attributes, external environmental support, and learning intensity significantly affect both the intention to adopt and the actual adoption of smart farming, thereby enhancing farm sustainability. It provided valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders to develop technology-oriented training, extension services, and support programs aimed at boosting competitiveness and advancing digital transformation in Indonesia's agricultural sector.