<![CDATA[The development of Malapari-based agroforestry (Pongamia pinnata) has become increasingly important for Lembata Regency as a strategy to improve community livelihoods and strengthen ecological resilience in the dryland areas of East Nusa Tenggara. This study aims to analyze the level of knowledge, perceptions, and interest of local communities toward Malapari; identify technical, social, and institutional challenges in agroforestry implementation; and formulate evidence-based policy strategies to enhance community participation. The research employed a quantitative survey approach with descriptive and correlational methods, involving 336 respondents from various coastal and highland areas of Lembata. The findings indicate that community knowledge is generally at a moderate level, while interest and readiness to participate are relatively high. Key challenges identified include limited access to high-quality seedlings, low technical capacity, insufficient extension support, and weak coordination within village institutions. The analysis further shows that perceptions of economic and ecological benefits significantly influence community willingness to participate. In addition, collaborative programs such as MAMA-PAPA demonstrate how multi-stakeholder integration can effectively strengthen local capacities and promote green economic initiatives. This study concludes that strengthening technical capacity, expanding training programs, enhancing village-level policy support, and establishing a penta-helix collaboration model are critical priorities for accelerating the development of Malapari agroforestry in Lembata.]]>
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