How does entrepreneurial behavior strengthen the sustainability of swamp wetland rice farming systems? a SEM-PLS approach from south sumatra, indonesia

Social Ecconomic Department, Agriculture Faculty, Sriwijaya University, Indonesia

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

Abstract

The ecological characteristics of swamp wetlands demand that farmers possess strong adaptability to address various production challenges. This highlights a research gap, particularly the limited studies integrating internal factors, external factors, entrepreneurial behavior, and the sustainability of rice farming in a comprehensive framework. Therefore, this study aims to analyze: (1) internal factors influencing farmers' entrepreneurial behavior, (2) external factors influencing farmers' entrepreneurial behavior, and (3) the influence of entrepreneurial behavior on the sustainability of swamp wetland rice farming. The research was conducted from December 2025 to January 2026 in Pemulutan District, Ogan Ilir Regency, using a survey method with multi-stage random sampling involving 90 respondents. Both primary and secondary data were collected. Data analysis employed Structural Equation Modeling-Partial Least Squares (SEM-PLS) to examine causal relationships among complex latent variables. A quantitative approach was applied using a structured questionnaire with a five-point Likert scale. The findings reveal that internal factors: motivation, experience, education, and land area significantly influence farmers' entrepreneurial behavior (β = 0.588, t = 8.534, p < 0.001). External factors, including extension services, access to production inputs, technology, and capital support, also show significant effects (β = 0.370, t = 5.169, p < 0.001). Furthermore, entrepreneurial behavior reflected in innovation, risk-taking, and opportunity-seeking positively contributes to the sustainability of swamp wetland rice farming systems (β = 0.608, t = 10.277, p < 0.001).