A Web-Based Virtual Training Platform for Sustainable Palm Oil Farming in Malaysia

Abstract

The palm oil industry is a major contributor to Malaysia’s agricultural economy; however, small-scale farmers often face limited access to structured training, modern agronomic knowledge, and sustainable cultivation practices, particularly in rural areas. This study presents the design, development, and evaluation of a web-based Virtual Training Platform for Palm Oil Farmers (VTPPOF) that addresses these challenges through accessible digital learning. The platform integrates multimedia instructional modules, downloadable learning materials, interactive assessments, and progress-tracking features to support continuous skills development. The team used an Agile development methodology, and the system supports three user roles: administrator, trainer, and farmer. Usability testing with 30 participants demonstrated high perceived usefulness, ease of use, and user acceptance, with mean scores exceeding 4.0 on a five-point Likert scale. The findings indicate that VTPPOF has strong potential to enhance agricultural knowledge dissemination, promote sustainable farming practices, and support digital transformation within Malaysia’s palm oil sector. This study contributes a web-based training platform for palm oil farmers, demonstrating high usability and acceptance. Future work will enhance mobile access, integrate advanced
technologies, and evaluate long-term agricultural impact.