CULTIVATING AGENCY: HOW LOW-INCOME WOMEN EMPOWER THEMSELVES THROUGH COMMUNITY GARDENING IN URBAN MALAYSIA

Abstract

This study explores the Kebun Komuniti Projek (KKP), a community garden initiative in Pangsapuri Mutiara Magna, Malaysia, to examine its potential as a model for addressing urban poverty, with an emphasis on women. The research focuses on the themes of social support, and patronage to understand the impact of the initiative on the empowerment and resilience of the participants. Utilizing qualitative data collected from in-depth interviews and field observations, the findings reveal that KKP empowers its members through diverse income-generating opportunities, fostering a strong sense of belonging and support networks that mirror kinship. The initiative also develops patronage relationships at the grassroots level, leading to a greater sense of unity and collaboration within the community. The study concludes that the KKP model effectively contributes to alleviating urban poverty among women, particularly those experiencing multiple dimensions of marginalization. The model's emphasis on flexible participation, robust social support networks, and strong community patronage has the potential to inform and complement existing poverty alleviation strategies, in similar low-income groups.