SLIMFRESS: A Sustainable Livelihood and Flood-Resilience Model for Rice Farmers in South Sumatra, Indonesia

Nurilla Elysa Putri, Nor Diana Mohd Idris, Khai Ern Lee

Abstract

Climate change increasingly threatens farmers’ livelihoods and heightens the vulnerability of smallholder farming communities in flood-prone areas. Integrated agricultural and livelihood strategies are therefore needed to strengthen resilience and ensure long-term environmental and socioeconomic sustainability. This study aimed to develop and validate the Sustainable Livelihood Model for Flood Resilience Strategies (SLIMFRESS) for smallholder rice farmers in South Sumatra Province, Indonesia. An explanatory sequential mixed-methods design was employed, in which quantitative data were analysed first and subsequently complemented by qualitative evidence obtained from relevant stakeholders. A system dynamics model was developed using STELLA Architect 9 through causal-loop diagrams, stock-and-flow diagrams, and model validation procedures. Thematic analysis of stakeholder perspectives was conducted alongside the system dynamics modelling process to interpret the quantitative findings and refine the structure of the model. The resulting SLIMFRESS model integrates farmers’ sustainable livelihood assets with sustainable livelihood strategies to assess interventions aimed at reducing the economic and environmental risks associated with flooding in rice-farming areas. The simulation results indicate that livelihood resilience does not develop immediately but emerges gradually through sustained support, continuous knowledge development, and effective institutional collaboration. The model also highlights the importance of coordinated interventions addressing environmental conservation, household financial security, and market participation. Accordingly, policy measures should prioritise community-based conservation initiatives, financial mechanisms providing income support and agricultural insurance during flood events, and improved market access for products developed by smallholder enterprises. SLIMFRESS provides an integrated decision-support framework for designing and evaluating long-term flood-resilience strategies for smallholder rice-farming communities.

 

Keywords: sustainable livelihoods; flood resilience; system dynamics modelling; smallholder rice farmers; climate change adaptation.

 

DOI https://doi.org/10.55463/issn.1674-2974.53.8.8


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