Mapping stakeholders’ dynamics for sustainable PKC distribution in cattle feed: An integrated MICMAC-MACTOR analyses

• MICMAC–MACTOR analysis finds key leverage for PKC access as cattle feed. • Government and institutions are crucial for sustainable PKC distribution systems. • Price, supply, and quantity impact access and resilience in the PKC system. • Collaborative, cross-sector governance enhances the sustainability of the feed system Palm kernel cake (PKC), a by-product of the palm oil industry, is considered a sustainable and affordable cattle feed source in Indonesia. However, its adoption remained constrained by institutional fragmentation, market inefficiencies, and logistical challenges. To address this, the study evaluates how accessible PKC is as sustainable cattle feed, using an integrated approach that combines the Matrix of Cross-Impact Multiplications Applied to Classification (MICMAC) and the Matrix of Alliances and Conflicts: Tactics, Objectives, and Recommendations (MACTOR) analyses. A total of 32 respondents and 14 key stakeholders involved in the PKC supply chain from three districts in Riau Province participated in the study. Data was collected through structured questionnaires, focus group discussions, and in-depth interviews. Respondents involved in cattle farming who rely on PKC as an alternative feed were selected using purposive sampling. The results of MICMAC analysis showed that government and institutional actors as key leverage points for improving access to PKC, with price, suppliers, and quantity being the main economic factors. The MACTOR analysis revealed that structural imbalances of dominant actors, such as the feedlot association, plasma association, and feed suppliers, wield significant influence. Meanwhile, relay actors, including livestock services, the directorate, estate services, and grassroots organizations, are highly dependent and under-resourced. Autonomous stakeholders like the palm oil association, universities, and banks remained under-mobilized. Additionally, divergence mapping showed tensions between stakeholders focused on export markets and those prioritizing food security. These findings highlight the importance of multi-level, collaborative governance to improve system alignment, infrastructure, and institutional capacity for sustainable livestock feed strategies. The study recommends establishing a cross-sectoral governance platform to align institutional priorities, strengthen infrastructure, and improve stakeholder coordination. Future research should also explore financial models for local cooperative-based PKC distribution systems.