The Impact Climate Change to the Cracker (Keropok Keping) Industry in Kuala Terengganu

Abstract

The issue of climate change has implications on Small and Medium Industries (SMEs), especially the cracker industry that uses natural and traditional methods to produce products. Crackers are a popular type of snack food in Malaysia and ASEAN countries. The production of crackers traditionally requires suitable weather and temperature conditions. The weather in a place is influenced by several meteorological components, namely temperature, wind direction and speed, rate and type of precipitation and duration of sunlight. This study was conducted to see to what extent weather changes the impact on the cracker industry. Qualitative methods were used to obtain data and information through observation, interview and content analysis methods. A total of 14 informants were selected, consisting of four entrepreneurs, six workers, and four raw material suppliers. The study findings found that the cracker produced depends on local weather conditions and the quality of raw materials. The implication is that the cracker produced is of poor quality and is less in demand from consumers. The marketing of crackers affects the source of income for industry owners and workers. MARA, AIM and TEKUN agencies provide loans and financial resources to small industries to help expand their products in the market. Therefore, the issue of climate change must be addressed because this issue is a barrier to the industry from producing traditional products.