Assessing the Economic Value of Candlenut Utilization in a Community Forest Area of South Sulawesi Indonesia

Abstract

Abstract Candlenut (Aleurites moluccanus) is one of the Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) widely utilized by communities living near forest areas due to its high economic value. Local communities have long depended on candlenut collection as a source of income. This study aims to assess the economic contribution of candlenut utilization in the Community Forest (CF) area in Batu Putih Village, Malllawa Subdistrict, Maros Regency, South Sulawesi. This study employed a mixed method approach, including field observations, purposive sampling-based interviews, and a comprehensive review of existing literature. The results indicate that candlenut harvesting contributes substantially to household income, with average annual earnings of IDR 10,329,000 from unshelled candlenuts and IDR 12,494,000 from shelled candlenuts per farmer. This suggests that candlenut-based livelihood strategies play a significant role in enhancing rural economic well-being in community forest areas.

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