<![CDATA[The main economic support for the coconut sector on the coast of Sumatra is challenged by low productivity and weak institutions and dependence on middlemen. This study aims to analyse the potential of social engineering based on community empowerment and the sociological factors that influence the sustainability of coconut farming in Indragiri Hilir, Asahan, Sabang and Aceh Besar. This research uses a qualitative approach with case study method. Data were collected through observation, documentation and in-depth interviews with 13 key informants (farmers, extension workers and government) and analysed using the Miles and Huberman interactive model. The results show structural barriers in terms of low technological literacy and poor institutional coordination. However, there is a strong social capital that can be revived through the kepala parit system in Indragiri Hilir, the tradition of gotong royong in Asahan and the innovation of superior varieties of Lampanah in Aceh. The sustainability of coconut business is very much dependent on the synergy between social capital, institutional capacity and strengthening farmer agencies. The “inside-out” social engineering model helps transform the farmers’ habitus from “subsistence” to “agripreneur” via the transformation of cultural and social capital into a competitive economic force for sustainable community resilience.]]>
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