Enhancing Sustainable Practices In Liberica Coffee Agrobusiness: A Technological Approach

Abstract

The Liberica coffee has gained increasing prominence within Malaysia's speciality coffee landscape due to its unique flavour profile and adaptability. However, most Liberica coffee planters continue to rely on traditional processing methods that limit yield efficiency and undermine environmental sustainability. To address these challenges, this study undertakes a systematic literature review (SLR) to identify and evaluate technological innovations that enhance sustainable practices in Liberica coffee farms. Using the PRISMA 2020 methodology, articles were systematically retrieved from Scopus and Web of Science databases. Search strings were developed using a hybrid AI-guided and expert-validated process to ensure high precision and recall. The initial search yielded 289 articles. After duplicate removal, eligibility screening, and access limitation, 12 articles were selected for full-text analysis. The findings reveal several relevant technologies that hold promise for the Liberica context, including solar drying systems, IoT-based smart agricultural technologies, and AI-assisted operation. Research demonstrates that these technologies can decrease greenhouse gas emissions, enhance resource efficiency, and bolster smallholder income. However, adoption is hindered by high upfront costs, lack of technical know-how, and infrastructural limitations, particularly in rural farming communities. This study adds to the growing body of knowledge about sustainable coffee processing by mapping relevant worldwide technology to Malaysia's Liberica sector. This review sparks ideas for coffee farmers, agrotech developers, and regulators and provides useful advice on how to make Malaysia's coffee business more sustainable, innovative, and competitive.