WEEK 4

Class Reflection – Week 4: International Framework of Sustainable Development, SDGs & Islamic Values

This week’s class provided a comprehensive overview of the international efforts and frameworks that have shaped the global sustainable development agenda. From the 1972 Stockholm Conference to the 1992 Earth Summit in Rio, and the eventual formation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in 2016, I learned that sustainability is a long-standing global concern, not just a modern trend. It was enlightening to see how international cooperation, through frameworks like the Kyoto Protocol and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), has evolved to tackle climate change, biodiversity loss, and resource depletion.

What was most meaningful for me was the introduction of the Sejahtera concept as a local and Islamic lens for interpreting sustainability. Unlike the purely economic or policy-driven nature of global agreements, Sejahtera encompasses spiritual, emotional, and ethical wellbeing, offering a holistic vision that aligns closely with Islamic teachings. It reminded me that sustainability is not just about protecting the planet, but about nurturing the heart, character, and community — ultimately aiming for al-Falah (true success) in this world and the hereafter.

The concept of “common but differentiated responsibilities” introduced in the class is also deeply aligned with Islamic principles of justice (‘adl) and accountability (amanah). Islam emphasizes that humans are Khalifah (stewards) of the Earth, entrusted by Allah to protect and sustain the environment. As stewards, we must uphold justice not just globally but locally, making sure developing nations are supported in their efforts to meet sustainability goals — echoing the Qur’anic principle of “cooperation in righteousness and piety” (Qur’an 5:2).

Furthermore, I saw a strong parallel between the SDGs and the Maqasid al-Shariah. The five objectives of Islamic law — protection of religion, life, intellect, lineage, and property — naturally align with many of the SDGs, such as:

• SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG 6 (Clean Water & Sanitation) for the preservation of life.

• SDG 4 (Quality Education) for the preservation of intellect.

• SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 15 (Life on Land) for the protection of future generations (lineage).

• SDG 1 (No Poverty) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) for the preservation of property.

This class helped me realize that Islam not only supports the global call for sustainability but offers its own comprehensive and value-based approach through Sejahtera and Maqasid al-Shariah. The lesson emphasized that we, as students and future leaders, must adopt these values not just in theory, but in our daily actions and decision-making — ensuring that our pursuit of development always remains ethical, balanced, and spiritually conscious.