Integrating Internal and External Extension Functions for Local Wisdom–Based Empowerment of Nutmeg Farming Communities in Ternate

Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans) farming communities in Ternate City face considerable socio-economic and geographical challenges that limit the effectiveness of agricultural extension services and hinder sustainable rural development. This study aims to examine the causal relationships between internal and external functions of agricultural extension agents, community empowerment, and farmers’ capability, with empowerment hypothesized as a mediating variable. A quantitative explanatory design was employed, covering eight sub-districts in Ternate City, North Maluku Province. Using purposive sampling, 95 respondents were selected, including nutmeg farmers, small-scale processors, community leaders, and local government officials. Data collection methods included structured questionnaires, interviews, observations, and document review. The analysis was conducted using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) with SmartPLS version 4. The findings reveal that internal functions—such as education, motivation, and work experience—have a significant direct effect on capability (β = 0.189; p < 0.001), but no significant effect on empowerment (β = 0.037; p = 0.232). External functions—including infrastructure, accessibility, and communication systems—exert significant positive effects on both empowerment (β = 0.074; p = 0.021) and capability (β = 0.155; p = 0.014). However, the mediating role of empowerment in linking internal and external functions to capability is not statistically significant, with indirect effects of β = 0.028 (p = 0.257) and β = 0.057 (p = 0.061) respectively. These results suggest that community capability in nutmeg-producing areas is shaped more by direct functional support than by indirect pathways through empowerment. Strengthening both agent competencies and external support systems remains essential for enhancing resilience and sustainable development among rural farming communities in Ternate. The novelty of this study lies in integrating both internal and external agent functions within a holistic empowerment–capability framework in nutmeg-based agricultural systems. The implications suggest that participatory extension strategies must be reinforced by institutional support and contextual infrastructure to ensure sustainability. The study contributes empirically to rural development literature and provides practical insights for policymakers to strengthen extension systems in archipelagic and resource-constrained regions.