Week 2: Islam and Sustainable Development

 Assalamualaikum wbt,

May the readers be always in Allah's mercy. In the second week of SCSH 1201 class, Prof. Dr. Suhaimi discusses Islam and Sustainable Development. Our lecturer presented 3 main things:, Islam and social sustainability, Islam and environmental sustainability, and Islam and economic sustainability. Here's my reflection for week 2.

1. The concept of sustainable development in Islam can refer to achieving consumer well-being, economic efficiency, social justice, and environmental balance harmoniously and simultaneously. We have also been entrusted as vicegerent (khalifah) on this earth and given the responsibility to protect it from all forms of damage and destruction.

2. In Islam and environmental sustainability, mankind has the right to benefit from the essential environmental elements and resources such as water, minerals, land, forest, soil, and many more. But we only have the right to benefit from it on the condition that the degree of need is met; do not ever waste resources. The Prophet also taught us to be prudent and careful in using resources, for example, by being moderate when performing ablution with water, and by eating and drinking without engaging in wastefulness.

3. In Islam and social sustainability, we talk about the tenets of Islam and tenets of Iman as the basis for social sustainability, at the same time, fardh ain and fardh kifayah as the operational basis for social governance.

4. In Islam and economic sustainability, Islam doesn't hinder development but promotes it socially and economically. Human beings should strive to earn a lawful (halal) livelihood and seek balance within themselves, their families, and society. One should engage in trade as long as it does not violate the laws of Allah. It is dangerous to remain in a state of poverty, as it can weaken us and prevent us from contributing anything to the community.