Sejarah sosio ekonomi kaum tani dan cabarannya di negeri Kedah tahun 1880-1990.

This study discusses the history and socio-economic changes of Kedah’s peasants between 1880 and 1990. It covers three phases, namely the pre-colonial period, the British and Japanese colonial period and post-independence. This study aims to identify the socioeconomic form of peasants in Kedah in pre-colonial period. Next, this study examines the socioeconomic development of the peasants for the period of 1900 to 1945. In addition, this study examines the debt issues faced by the peasants in the period 1900 to 1970. Further, this study details the steps taken to overcome the socioeconomic problems of the peasants. as a result of the issues of Padi Kunca and Jual Janji from 1900 to 1970. Next, this study evaluates the importance of the establishment of the Muda Agricultural Development Board (MADA) until 1990. This research uses historical methods with a descriptive qualitative approach. In terms of the use of sources, the focus is on primary sources which are official records such as the State Secretary's file (SUK), Sultan Abdul Hamid's Correspondence (SMSAH), KSama File (Kedah), State Agricultural Officer File (1943- 1966), Annual Report of the Ministry of Agriculture and Agro-Based Industry (MOA), Annual Report of the Muda Agricultural Development Board (MADA), Kedah Annual Report. In addition, online primary materials such as newspaper clippings from Berita Harian, The Strait Times, Malaya Tribune, Straits Echo and Singapore Free Press accessed from the National Library of Singapore were also used to complete the research facts. The study is also supported by secondary sources which are library materials consisting of books and articles as well as theses as additional references. In order to fill the gaps in the study, interview data is also used. Interview sessions were held face-to-face with historical figures and those who have information on the issues of Padi Kunca, Jual Janji and the establishment of MADA. The study found that the main constraints that hindered the socio-economic progress of Kedah peasants throughout the three eras were outdated farming methods, the pressure of Padi Kunca debt and Jual Janji. This study also found that the establishment of MADA has had a positive impact on peasants in improving their socioeconomic status. The main contribution of this study in the corpus of knowledge proves that debt culture is the main cause of the poverty of Kedah’s peasants and can only be overcome through intervention from the government.