WEEK 10: Measurement, Indices, and Indicators for Sustainable Development and SDG

Assalamualaikum w.b.t and hello!

For this week’s lecture, we had a short yet meaningful discussion on the topic: Measurement, Indices, and Indicators for Sustainable Development and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

We explored a variety of alternative measures of economic and social well-being, including:

• Human Development Index
• Canadian Index of Well-Being
• Ecological Footprint
• Calvert-Henderson Quality of Life Indicators
• Genuine Progress Indicator 
• Happy Planet Index
• Index of Sustainable Economic Welfare
• Sustainable Society Index
• Living Planet Index
• Measure of Domestic Progress
• Sustainable National Income 
• Environmental Performance Index 

In addition, we focused on Malaysian Shariah Index, a method of measurement in determining the government's status in carrying out the nation's administration based on the principles of Maqasid Shariah. It also focuses on the seriousness of the government in carrying out the policies and programs so that it adheres to Islamic standard, and to identify areas where improvements are necessary with needs to be focused on by the government, so that the people will gain more benefit, as a result of the application of the universal values of Islam.

As Robert Kennedy once wisely stated: 

 "The Gross National Product (GNP) measures everything except that which makes life worthwhile".

This quote reminds us that progress is not solely defined by economic growth or urban development. True advancement should also consider human happiness, social justice, spiritual well-being, and environmental sustainability.

In conclusion, as we strive toward sustainable development, we must use inclusive and holistic indicators that reflect not only material prosperity but also the quality of life and moral values of a nation. A society can only be truly developed when its people thrive in all aspects—physically, emotionally, socially, and spiritually.

Thank you for reading!