Perceptions, practices and drivers of antibiotic use among commercial broiler farmers in Northern Peninsular Malaysia

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a significant global health threat, exacerbated by imprudent antimicrobial usage (AMU) in agriculture and livestock production. A qualitative study was conducted involving in-depth interviews with 22 commercial broiler farmers and farm managers in Northern Peninsular Malaysia. Data were analysed using Reflexive Thematic Analysis (RTA), informed by the Health Belief Model (HBM) framework to capture behavioural threats, perceived benefits, and operational cues to action. Analysis generated six overarching conceptual themes detailing the social and economic logic of on-farm AMU. Farmers reported using antibiotics for either treatment, prevention and/or growth promotion. Risky practices identified were prophylactic use of antibiotics in day-old chicks, use of multiple antibiotic combinations without veterinary prescription, and self-prescription of antibiotics based on personal experience. Analysis indicated business and commercial pressures on farms to achieve target bird weights within a short timeframe and concerns over the health and quality of day-old chicks and feed as drivers of antimicrobial use. The perceived flock susceptibility to disease, perceived benefits of antimicrobials for growth and prophylaxis, and high reliance on personal experience interact to shape daily farm practices. Findings underscore the need for targeted interventions, including mandatory veterinary oversight, routine farmer training on AMR, and improved enforcement of regulations to reduce unnecessary AMU in the poultry sector.