Profile of organic vegetable farmers

The characteristics of organic vegetable farmers in Ambon Island and Saparua Island are shown in Table 2. The characteristics of farmers are related to age, education level, size of business land, and experience in organic vegetable farming. Age is a condition where a person is categorized according to their age level, specifically as productive or unproductive. Organic vegetable farmers in Ambon Island and Saparua Island are classified as being of productive age. Farmers can produce according to their age level. The average age of farmers aged 41-51 years is 56.67%. Young farmers possess the physical and mental abilities necessary to perform their farming activities effectively.

Table 2: Distribution of respondents based on age, education level, land area, and farming experience.

The current agricultural workforce tends to be less physically productive than the older generation, resulting in limited physical capacity for farming activities. In contrast, individuals of productive age generally exhibit stronger motivation to develop their farming enterprises, as higher economic needs encourage them to adopt more effective and efficient farming practices compared to relatively older farmers. The younger a person is, the more enthusiastic they are about learning about things they do not yet know, so they will try to be faster in adopting innovations, even though they are not experienced in doing so (Zhang et al. 2024). One of the factors that can affect a person's ability and knowledge is education. The higher a person's level of knowledge, the higher their ability to adapt to changes. Generally, individuals with higher levels of formal or informal education tend to have broader insights. The education level of organic vegetable farmers ranges from elementary school to high school, with 46.67% holding a high school education. Organic agriculture farmers tend to have a relatively good level of education, which aligns with previous research showing that higher educational attainment is positively associated with the adoption of organic farming and other sustainable agricultural innovations. For example, studies have found that education and knowledge significantly influence farmers' attitudes and decisions toward adopting organic practices, as more educated farmers are better able to access information, understand production requirements, and adopt environmentally friendly practices compared to less educated counterparts (Prodhan et al. 2023). Managing organic vegetable farming requires precision and patience from farmers. Farmers must make their own organic fertilizers and plant pesticides and then apply them to the farmland.

Land area is the mainstay for developing organic vegetable farming. The average farmer's own is less than 0.5 ha, accounting for 80%. Farmers have their land for developing organic vegetable farming. This is important because farmers do not work or rent other people's land to cultivate organic vegetables, making it easier for farmers. Land utilization is optimal because several business group members do everything personally and assist, from land clearing and land processing to planting. The land for farming is quite large if it is to be cultivated sustainably; however, there is limited labor available for land clearing and processing. Therefore, farmers work the land for organic vegetable cultivation effectively and efficiently, considering the availability of land and their own abilities.

Organic vegetable development has been implemented in Ambon Island and Saparua Island since 2015 (Timisela et al. 2021). Information about organic vegetable cultivation was obtained from online media. The harvest results were encouraging, so farmers were enthusiastic about expanding their business operations. Thus, the experience of organic vegetable farming is still relatively new, with less than 4 years' experience, as well as experience between 4 and 6 years, accounting for 41.67 and 53.33%, respectively. Organic vegetable farming supports several Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 1 (No Poverty) through improved farmer livelihoods, SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) by reducing chemical exposure, and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) through environmentally sustainable farming practices.

Sustainability of organic farming in Maluku

Organic farming is an environmentally friendly cultivation system. It encourages farmers to care more about the environment in every farming activity (Charina et al. 2018; Nasirudin et al. 2021). Public awareness of the importance of health and the environment has indeed driven the popularity of organic farming. People are increasingly seeking foods that are more natural and freer from pesticide residues and other synthetic chemicals. In addition, organic farming is also considered more environmentally friendly because it does not damage the soil and biodiversity. High-quality organic fertilizers can enhance plant health, reduce susceptibility to pests and diseases, and minimize the need for pesticides. Healthy soil with a diverse population of microorganisms can also help suppress the development of soil pathogens. By paying attention to the essential aspects of organic fertilizers and pesticides, the organic farming system can operate optimally, producing healthy and safe products for consumers while preserving the environment.

Organic agriculture is recognized as an approach that supports sustainable food production by minimizing chemical inputs and mitigating adverse impacts on natural resources while addressing global challenges such as environmental degradation and food security (Cidón et al. 2021). The study's results by Hasyim et al. (2025) show a positive impact of community service activities in Haria Village. Increasing farmers' knowledge of organic farming technology and making organic fertilizers is crucial. This indicates that farmers in Haria Village increasingly understand more sustainable and environmentally friendly agricultural practices. Their ability to produce organic fertilizers independently also has the potential to reduce dependence on chemical fertilizers and reduce production costs. Overall, these findings hold promise for the development of organic farming in Haria Village and may serve as a model for other villages in the Maluku region.

The sustainability of organic farming in Maluku is crucial for protecting the environment and supporting the local economy. Organic agriculture in Maluku emphasizes the use of organic fertilizers, natural pest control, and garden hygiene management, guided by the principle of kalesang (maintaining, organizing, and preserving). This helps mitigate negative environmental impacts and enhances the quality of agricultural products.

Organic farming supports food security by ensuring the availability of healthy and safe food. Organic farming is a sustainable approach to producing agricultural products in Maluku, which protects the environment and supports the local economy. With the use of local wisdom and support from various parties, organic farming can be an ideal agricultural model in the future. The environment is also protected, which contributes to sustainable environmental management. The action of biosecurity in agriculture is presented in Figure 2.

Figure 2: Biosecurity measures in the agricultural sector on the Ambon and Saparua Islands. Source: Primary data.

Figure 2 shows that 87% of farmers' responses emphasized the importance of protecting the agricultural system. This reflects the meticulous efforts of farmers to maintain focus on organic agriculture, ensuring the system remains free from contamination by non-organic cultivation methods. Consistent attention to organic farming is essential for sustainability. An 85.33% response rate shows the importance of consumer trust in agricultural products, which grows when the dedication of farmers is evident. This trust strengthens the relationship between producers and end users, ensuring confidence in agricultural outputs. Therefore, biosecurity measures are essential for the development of sustainable organic agriculture. Organic agriculture, when appropriately implemented, fosters consumer trust in farmers. This trust is crucial as the demand for organic vegetables has increased across socio-economic classes, including lower, middle, and upper groups. The rising popularity of organic vegetables is evident in both traditional and modern markets. The demand for vegetables in Ambon City has been increasing, driven by greater public awareness of the health benefits (Timisela et al. 2018). Similarly, Grzywińska-Rąpca et al. (2025) stated that consumers purchase organic food because they believe it is healthier, tastier, fresher, and environmentally friendly.

Communities that engage in agricultural activities often face various threats that can damage crops and other natural resources essential for the community's biological resilience; therefore, it is crucial to implement a biosecurity system (Nahumury and Ndoen 2015). Biosecurity plays a crucial role in protecting the environment and promoting sustainable production. The assertion is supported by 85.3% of respondents in a survey who affirmed that biosecurity in agriculture protects the environment and promotes sustainable practices. These benefits apply to all types of crops cultivated by farmers. Proper advancements in organic agriculture have a positive influence on the surrounding natural environment, thereby improving the quality of other crops. Organic farming is a sustainable practice that minimizes the environmental and ecological impact of agriculture. Using more organic matter in agricultural practices can reduce the adverse environmental effects by preserving natural cycles during the recovery process. Organic farming may also enhance food quality (Gamage et al. 2023). Organic farming is one such approach that should be practiced attaining the goal of sustainable agriculture. Organically cultivated food products have gained popularity due to their numerous health benefits (Soni et al. 2022).

Using organic fertilizers in organic agriculture significantly benefits the sustainability of ecosystems in the surrounding environment. These fertilizers, composed of natural materials such as animal waste, including cow, chicken, and goat manure, were produced by farmers who raised these animals. Implementing biosecurity measures on livestock farms, particularly during pre-production, is essential. The measures prioritize cleanliness to ensure well-being and integrate broader practices that harmonize the care of animals, plants, and the environment. Organic agriculture operates on the principles of health, ecology, justice, and protection, as outlined by Karyani et al. (2019). The health principle emphasizes that agricultural activities should preserve and enhance the well-being of soil, plants, animals, the earth, and humans, recognizing their interconnectedness.

This farming approach aligned with life's natural cycles and ecological systems, ensuring fairness among humans and other living organisms. Achieving practical organic agriculture requires careful and responsible management to safeguard the health and well-being of both present and future generations. It is important to acknowledge that crop diversity is a hallmark of organic agriculture. In contrast to conventional farming, which often relies on monoculture-the mass production of a single crop-organic farming frequently adopts polyculture, where multiple crops are cultivated on the same land (IFOAM 2010). Polyculture supports beneficial insects, soil microorganisms, and other elements that enhance soil health (Sharma 2024). Furthermore, crop diversity helps preserve species near agricultural areas, preventing extinction and promoting ecological balance.

Potential benefits associated with a cross-sectoral biosecurity approach

A cross-sectoral biosecurity method offered significant benefits, including improved public health, enhanced inter-village trade, increased agricultural production, and strengthened environmental protection. According to Figure 3, these benefits outlined the importance of integrating biosecurity measures across different sectors. Organic farming is designed to produce high-quality, nutritious food supporting health and well-being. Therefore, using fertilizers, pesticides, veterinary drugs, and food additives with diverse health effects should be avoided. In Maluku, biosecurity and organic farming are intertwined and essential to improving the welfare of farmers and the environment. Biosecurity helps prevent diseases and pests in crops, while organic farming utilizes natural methods to manage these issues without the use of chemical pesticides. The combination of the two can produce healthier and more sustainable agricultural products. By combining effective biosecurity measures with the application of organic farming principles, farmers in Maluku can produce healthier, more environmentally friendly, and higher-value agricultural products.

Figure 3: Potential benefits associated with a cross-sectoral biosecurity approach (FAO 2007).

Promoting public health is a crucial initiative to foster healthier lifestyles within families. Organic agriculture practiced by farmers on the Ambon and Saparua Islands represented a practical approach to biosecurity, which aimed to enhance community health. Gradually, these communities have come to recognize the health benefits of consuming organic foods. Local vegetable farmers employed soil- and water-based cultivation methods, adopting a rural farming model inspired by urban agricultural technologies.

Organic products are free from synthetic chemicals, which can accumulate in the body over time and pose health risks. Preventive measures, such as adopting an organic diet, are cost-effective and efficient in reducing the likelihood of illness, making organic consumption a viable and appealing option. According to Regulation No. HK. 00.06.52.0100 of the Head of the Indonesian Food and Drug Authority (BPOM) on the Supervision of Organic Processed Food, organic food is derived from agricultural systems that adhere to an integrated and balanced ecosystem. The growth of organic farming reflects increased awareness of environmental conservation, food safety, and health (Durbul et al. 2021; Kasih 2020).

Agricultural business actors should uphold environmental protection and awareness. In this context, environmentally friendly agricultural practices ensure that products are harvested, consumed, and distributed safely, healthily, and high quality. Biosecurity's main objective is to prevent, control, and manage risks to life and health within the sector. Consequently, it plays a crucial role in sustainable agricultural development.

The ecological principle situates organic agriculture within the environmental system of life. It emphasized that production should be based on ecological processes and cycles. Food and well-being are derived from the ecology of a specific production environment. For instance, plants require fertile soil, animals need a well-functioning farm ecosystem, and aquatic organisms, including fish, depend on a healthy aquatic environment. Organic agriculture, livestock farming, and the harvesting of wild products should adhere to natural ecological cycles and balances. While these cycles are universal, their application is site-specific. Organic management practices should be adapted to local conditions, ecology, culture, and scale. Input materials must be minimized through reuse, recycling, and efficient management of resources and energy to maintain, improve, and protect natural resources. Organic agriculture promotes ecological balance by fostering farming systems, habitat development, and preserving genetic and agricultural diversity. Producers, processors, marketers, and consumers of organic products should collectively work to protect and benefit the environment, encompassing soil, climate, habitats, biodiversity, air, and water.

Improved human health and well-being are the ultimate outcomes of a biosecurity system that bridges the gap between agriculture and health. Poor agricultural or food production practices can create biosecurity threats, directly impacting public health and food safety. The benefits of a more harmonized and integrated approach are evident in various national contexts. A holistic method would help avoid inconsistencies, close gaps, prevent unnecessary trade barriers, and protect human health and consumer confidence in agricultural products.

Analysis of factors influencing farmers' decisions in the implementation of organic agriculture

The factors influencing farmers' decisions to implement organic agriculture include government and community support, as well as the availability of production inputs and marketing networks (Figure 4). Analysis shows that community support is a key factor in these decisions. This is especially important in the study area, where the community prioritizes health by consuming organic food. Community support includes backing for community-based organic agriculture and active participation in its development through ideas and suggestions. Community support in this study extends beyond general social encouragement and is reflected in several concrete forms observed during fieldwork. Farmer groups play a central role in facilitating peer learning, where experienced farmers share knowledge on organic cultivation techniques, compost production, and pest management with other group members. This informal knowledge exchange reduces uncertainty and increases farmers' confidence in adopting organic practices.

Figure 4: Loading factor values (outer path), path coefficients (inner path), and R-squares are standard values in the model. Source: Primary data.

In addition, community support is manifested through collective activities such as joint production of organic fertilizers, shared use of farming tools, and coordinated planting schedules. These practices not only lower individual production costs but also strengthen mutual trust among farmers, which is particularly important in island contexts characterized by limited access to external inputs.

Government support was not statistically significant. This finding can be explained by the specific socio-economic and institutional context of the study area, limited access to information, bureaucratic procedures, and the lack of sustained technical assistance reduce the effectiveness of government interventions at the farm level. In island contexts characterized by geographic dispersion and logistical constraints, informal support mechanisms such as farmer groups, peer learning, and collective input production appear to play a more immediate and practical role in influencing farmers' behavior. Therefore, the non-significant effect of government support does not indicate its irrelevance, but rather highlights the need for more consistent, context-sensitive, and integrated policy interventions to support organic agriculture in island regions.

The model measurement adopted reliability and validity analysis. Reliability analysis was conducted using Cronbach's Alpha, with a minimum acceptable value of 0.7 and an ideal range of 0.8 to 0.9. Additionally, the composite reliability (ρc) value was utilized, interpreted similarly to Cronbach's Alpha. Each latent variable was required to account for at least 50% of the variance of its indicators. Consequently, the absolute correlation between a latent variable and indicators must exceed 0.7, as reflected by the outer standard loadings. The Cronbach's Alpha and Construct Reliability values are presented in Table 3. Cronbach's Alpha represents the lower bound of a construct's reliability, whereas composite reliability provides a more accurate estimate of internal consistency. Composite reliability was generally regarded as a superior metric for assessing the internal consistency of a construct. According to the rule of thumb proposed by Ghozali (2016), a composite reliability value exceeding 0.7 and a Cronbach's Alpha value greater than 0.7 were deemed satisfactory. The analysis showed that all Cronbach's Alpha and Construct Reliability values exceeded the threshold of 0.7.

Table 3: Construct reliability and validity values.

Discriminant validity was evaluated using the Fornell-Larcker criteria and the cross-loadings method. The Fornell-Larcker criterion posits that a latent variable should account for more variance in its indicators than in other latent variables. Statistically, this implied that the Average Variance Extracted (AVE) value of each latent variable should exceed the highest squared correlation (Ω²) value with other latent variables. Table 4 presents the root AVE values for each construct, signified in bold. These values were compared with the squared correlation values of the model, which showed an R² value of 0.569 (Table 5).

Table 4: Fornell-Larcker criterion values.

Table 5: Nilai R Square.

Table 4 showed that the root AVE scores of all variables surpassed the R² value, confirming their validity for further testing. The R² value of 0.569 was categorized as moderate, indicating that the combined effects of farmer decision-making, community support, government support, and the availability of agricultural inputs and marketing networks explained 56.9% of the variance in the implementation of organic agriculture. The remaining 44.1% was attributed to factors not included in the study model.

The structural model analysis in this study was continued using the bootstrapping method in SmartPLS version 3.0, with a significance level of 0.05. To determine the direction of the relationship between variables, a one-way (one-tailed) test was used. The t-statistic value should be above 1.64 for one-tailed hypothesis testing (Jogiyanto 2011).

Table 6 shows that community support, farmer decisions regarding the implementation of organic agriculture, and the availability of agricultural production inputs and marketing networks all have a positive influence on organic agriculture practices. Bootstrapping was adopted to assess the significance or probability of direct, indirect, and total effects. Additionally, it evaluated the significance of other values, including R-squared, Adjusted R-squared, F-statistic, outer loading, and outer weight. The complete PLS-SEM bootstrapping method analyzed all values within the PLS framework to generate probability values (Figure 5).

Table 6: Path coefficient value of the bootstrapping results.

Figure 5: Bootstrapping t-value between constructs (Inner model). Source: Primary data.

The path coefficient ranges from -1 to +1, with values closer to +1 signifying a stronger positive relationship, while those nearing -1 suggest a stronger negative relationship (Sarstedt et al. 2022). The community considers consuming organic vegetables healthier and of higher quality than non-organic alternatives. This preference for organic food is associated with health benefits and improved quality of life. Consequently, farmers' decisions to implement organic agriculture play a critical role in meeting this demand. The availability of inputs and marketing networks is also vital, as organic inputs are essential for production, and a consistent marketing network motivates farmers to expand organic agriculture output. Through organic farming, farmers and consumers will gain significant benefits for both their health and economic sustainability. This is supported by research from Sarstedt et al. (2022) and Widiarta et al. (2011), which demonstrates that organic farming practices have been proven to have a positive impact on the economic sustainability of farmers. The p-values for each construct-community support for farmer decisions, farmer decisions for implementation of organic agriculture to support biosecurity, availability of agricultural production inputs and marketing networks for implementation of organic agriculture, -are 0.000, 0.000, and 0.026, respectively, all of which are below the 0.05 threshold. Therefore, this indicates that the direct influence of agricultural input availability and marketing networks on the implementation of organic agriculture is statistically significant.