Embracing the Hub Model for Sustainable Distribution System of Farm Produce during the Pandemic Crisis

Abstract

This video presents the concept of the hub model as the alternative distribution approach for sustainable farm-based business during the pandemic crisis. It is believed that the conventional distribution approach which is typically developed by a longer chain that involves multi-levels of intermediaries might less significant for farm produce due to perishability, especially when all supporting services like transportation and small retail stores are disrupted. The study focuses on small-scale farmers in Ranau, Sabah who have affected by the logistic disruption during the movement control order amid the Covid-19 outbreak. The Covid-19 has caused an unstable supply of farm produce to the market due to several physical and logistic restriction, thus has led to the dumping of farm produce and loss of regular market. This research is based on the key informant interviews with two key small farmers in Ranau who employs the different approach of distributing their farm produce to customers during the pandemic through the appointed agents who served as one-stop collection hub in the city. The findings provide useful insights into the development of the conceptual idea for a sustainable distribution system by embracing the hub model through a mobile app, integrating the farmer, hub agent, runner and customer in the supply chain. This research hopes to contribute ideas to policymakers to provide appropriate support facilities on the sustainable distribution system for farm produce in Malaysia.