Maktabah Reviews on Sustainable Development Goals

Ramadan in the Digital Era: Tradition, Technology, and SDGs in Sragen

2026-05-24T22:58:37+07:00

Objective: This study examines the influence of Ramadan in transforming religious traditions within the digital era in Sragen, Indonesia, while highlighting its relevance to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4, SDG 11, and SDG 16. The research aims to analyze how digital technology reshapes religious practices, social interaction, and spiritual expression among semi-urban Muslim communities during Ramadan. Theoretical framework: The theoretical framework integrates Digital Religion theory, the Social Construction of Technology (SCOT), and sociological perspectives on religion in contemporary Muslim societies. Literature review: Previous studies have demonstrated that digitalization has significantly transformed religious expression in metropolitan areas; however, limited attention has been given to non-metropolitan regions with strong traditional values such as Sragen. Methods: This study employs a qualitative descriptive approach using hybrid ethnography methods. Data were collected through literature review, digital observation of social media platforms including TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook, and online content analysis conducted during Ramadan 2024. Results: The findings reveal that religious traditions such as tadarus, communal iftar, and almsgiving have undergone digital transformation through live-streaming activities, online donation campaigns, and religious educational content. Digital platforms have increased youth participation and expanded access to Islamic learning, contributing to inclusive religious engagement aligned with the SDGs agenda. Nevertheless, the study also identifies challenges, including the decline of spiritual depth and the emergence of more individualized and fast-paced online religious interactions. Implications: The study implies the importance of strengthening value-based digital literacy and encouraging active collaboration between religious leaders, local communities, and digital platforms in guiding religious practices in cyberspace. Novelty: The novelty of this research lies in its hybrid ethnographic approach to digital Ramadan practices in a semi-urban region, contributing to broader discussions on the relationship between religion, technology, and sustainable social development in non-metropolitan Indonesia.

Faith-Based Pathways to SDG 16: Interfaith Engagement for Sustainable Peace

2026-06-01T20:30:13+07:00

Objective: This study examines the contribution of faith-based interfaith engagement to the advancement of Sustainable Development Goal 16 (SDG 16), which seeks to promote peaceful, just, and inclusive societies. The research aims to analyse how religious values, particularly the principles of coexistence, compassion, and justice, foster constructive interreligious relations and sustainable peace in pluralistic societies. Theoretical framework: The study is grounded in faith-based peacebuilding theory, religious pluralism, and ethical approaches to interfaith dialogue. It draws on religious teachings and moral traditions that emphasise human dignity, mutual respect, social harmony, and peaceful coexistence. Literature review: Previous studies demonstrate that faith communities play a significant role in conflict prevention, social cohesion, and peacebuilding. Existing scholarship highlights the importance of interfaith dialogue, humanitarian cooperation, and religious education in strengthening peaceful relations among diverse communities. However, limited research has explicitly linked faith-based interfaith engagement to the implementation of SDG 16. Methods: This research employs a qualitative approach through an extensive literature review, historical analysis, and thematic interpretation of contemporary interfaith initiatives documented in academic publications, policy reports, and faith-based peacebuilding programs. Results: The findings indicate that faith-based interfaith engagement contributes substantially to sustainable peace through six key mechanisms: ethical dialogue, community reconciliation, humanitarian collaboration, inclusive education, social cohesion initiatives, and digital engagement against radicalisation. These mechanisms strengthen trust, reduce prejudice, promote inclusive participation, and reinforce peaceful social institutions. The study further demonstrates that such initiatives support several SDG 16 targets, including reducing violence, enhancing social inclusion, promoting access to justice, and strengthening accountable institutions. Implications: The findings suggest that policymakers, educational institutions, and religious organisations should integrate interfaith engagement into peacebuilding and development strategies to enhance social resilience and community harmony. Novelty: The study offers a novel SDG-oriented framework that connects faith-based interfaith engagement with measurable contributions to SDG 16, providing a comprehensive model for sustainable peacebuilding in multicultural societies.

Advancing SDG 3 through Home Gardening for Psychological Resilience and Social Harmony

2026-06-05T08:56:25+07:00

Objective: Advancing Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG 3), which seeks to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all, requires innovative and accessible community-based interventions. This study examines the role of household horticulture as a spiritually meaningful activity in fostering psychological resilience and social harmony among individuals engaged in home gardening practices. Theoretical framework: The research is grounded in Horticultural Therapy Theory, Attention Restoration Theory, and Social Capital Theory, which collectively explain how interaction with nature, reflective engagement, and social connectedness contribute to psychological and social outcomes. Literature review: Previous studies have demonstrated the positive effects of gardening on emotional well-being, stress reduction, and quality of life; however, limited research has explored its contribution to psychological resilience and social harmony within the framework of SDG 3. Methods: A quantitative study employing Multivariate Analysis of Variance (MANOVA) analyzed questionnaire responses from individuals engaged in household horticulture to assess its influence on psychological resilience and social harmony. Results: These findings imply that household horticulture can serve as a low-cost, sustainable, and culturally adaptable intervention supporting the achievement of SDG 3 through both psychological and social pathways. The study highlights the importance of integrating nature-based activities into community health promotion programs and local sustainability initiatives. Implications: Findings support household horticulture as a sustainable, affordable intervention promoting resilience, social cohesion, and community well-being. Novelty: The novelty of this research lies in linking household horticulture, spiritual therapeutic experiences, psychological resilience, and social harmony within the SDG 3 framework, offering a multidimensional perspective on well-being that extends beyond conventional mental health approaches.