THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN OCCUPATIONAL STRESS, WORKING ENVIRONMENT, WORKLOAD AND JOB PERFORMANCE AMONG PALM OIL WORKERS IN KOTA TINGGI, JOHOR
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.35631/IJHPL.934001Keywords:
Job Performance, Occupational Stress, Palm Oil Workers, Workload, Working EnvironmentAbstract
Palm oil workers are operating in physically demanding tasks, challenging working conditions, and high job demands, which may influence their job performance. Occupational stress, working environment, and excessive workload are among the key factors that influence workers’ ability to perform effectively in labour-intensive plantation settings. This study examines the relationships among occupational stress, the working environment, and workload and job performance among palm oil workers in Kota Tinggi, Johor. A quantitative research approach, data were collected from 113 palm oil workers employed under the Federal Land Development Authority Federal Land Development Authority (FELDA) through structured questionnaires. The findings revealed that occupational stress has a significant positive relationship with job performance (r = 0.764, p = 0.001), indicating that manageable levels of stress may enhance workers’ focus and performance. Similarly, workload is positively and significantly associated with job performance (r = 0.752, p = 0.001), suggesting that an appropriate workload level can motivate workers to perform effectively. Moreover, the working environment demonstrates a significant positive relationship with job performance (r = 0.778, p = 0.001). Collectively, occupational stress, working environment, and workload explain a substantial proportion of the variance in job performance (R2 = 0.663). The findings highlight the importance of maintaining a supportive working environment, appropriately managing occupational stress, and regulating workload levels to enhance job performance. This study provides practical insights for plantation managers and policymakers on developing effective strategies to improve workers’ performance, safety, and well-being.
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