Sustainable Development Goals Research Articles

Leveraging Qardhul Hasan Practices from Zakat Funds for Sustainable Development: a Maqasid Sharia Perspective and Its Contribution to SDGs in Malaysia

Objective: This study aims to examine the implementation of qardhul hasan from zakat funds within the framework of maqasid sharia, focusing on its potential contributions to sustainable development, particularly in relation to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Specifically, the study explores how zakat funds, when used for qardhul hasan, can contribute to SDGs related to poverty alleviation, economic inclusion, and social justice in Malaysia. Theoretical Framework: This research applies Islamic finance theory, particularly maqasid sharia, in the context of zakat fund distribution. Maqasid sharia emphasizes the protection and welfare of the community, aligning with the principles of sustainable development. The theory of sustainable development is linked to Islamic financial practices, particularly in how qardhul hasan can serve as a tool for economic empowerment and social equity. Method: A qualitative research approach is employed in this study, utilizing content analysis and semi-structured interviews. Data are collected from various sources, including academic journals, articles, and reports on zakat fund practices in Malaysia. The study evaluates the governance of zakat funds, specifically focusing on the implementation of qardhul hasan as a sustainable financial instrument. Results and Discussion: The study finds that qardhul hasan, when implemented effectively with maqasid sharia principles, can play a crucial role in promoting sustainable development by contributing to poverty alleviation, economic empowerment, and social inclusion. However, challenges remain in the implementation process, including the lack of standardized guidelines for zakat fund governance and the need for greater awareness among stakeholders regarding the potential of qardhul hasan. The study emphasizes the importance of clear governance frameworks and strong partnerships between the government, religious institutions, and the community in ensuring the effectiveness of zakat fund distribution. Research Implications: This research offers practical recommendations for policy makers and practitioners in Islamic finance to enhance the governance of zakat funds. It suggests improving transparency, establishing clear parameters for qardhul hasan, and raising awareness about the role of zakat in achieving SDGs. Collaboration among various stakeholders is essential for maximizing the social and economic benefits of zakat funds. Originality/Value: The originality of this study lies in its exploration of qardhul hasan as a tool for sustainable development, offering insights into its role in advancing the SDGs, particularly in the Malaysian context. This study contributes to the literature on Islamic finance and sustainable development, providing a model for integrating maqasid sharia into zakat fund governance to support sustainable and inclusive societies.

Innovation in Portfolio Optimization through the Use of Genetic Algorithms for Sustainable Entrepreneurship in Volatile Markets

Context. In the global financial landscape, marked by heightened economic volatility and constant transformations, entrepreneurs face the challenge of identifying sustainable investment strategies to ensure effective long-term risk management. Purpose. This study aims to develop a model for optimizing investment portfolios through financial and technological tools to maximize returns in highly volatile environments. Moreover, it aligns with the principles outlined in the Oslo Manual and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Methodology. Markowitz portfolio optimization using a classic genetic algorithm applied to data from 10 companies selected from the technology, health, and finance sectors. This data, obtained from Yahoo Finance, covers the period from 2020 to 2023. The reliability of the models was rigorously validated through internal consistency analysis, ensuring their robustness. Theoretical and Practical Findings. Theoretical results confirm the applicability of genetic algorithms in optimizing diversified portfolios. In practice, their potential to encourage investments in sustainable companies is evident, aligning with the SDGs by fostering key areas such as industrial innovation. Originality. This study adopts a multidisciplinary approach by integrating finance and technology in the selection of investment portfolios. The literature review highlights how the synergy between these two fields promotes sustainable development. Conclusions and limitations. Findings underscore the potential of genetic algorithms to perform in highly volatile contexts. However, the reliance on historical data analysis alone highlights the need for additional studies in real-world environments. These could focus on comparing other optimization models and exploring their impact in regions with diverse market structures.

Application of country classification methodology for enhancing the effectiveness of official development assistance (ODA) policies: Utilization of decision tree analysis

Objective: As the scale and importance of official development assistance (ODA) continue to grow, the need to enhance the effectiveness of ODA policies has become more critical than ever before. In this context, it is essential to systematically classify recipient countries and establish tailored ODA policies based on these classifications. The objective of this study is to identify an appropriate methodology for categorizing developing countries using specific criteria, and to apply it to actual data, providing valuable insights for donor countries in formulating future ODA policies. Design/Methodology/Approach: The data used in this study are the basic statistics on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) published annually in the SDGs Report. The analytical method employed is decision tree analysis. Results: The results indicate that the 167 countries analyzed were classified into 10 distinct nodes. The study further limited the scope to the five nodes representing the most disadvantaged developing countries and suggested future directions for aid policies for each of these nodes.

Developing a design thinking artificial intelligence driven auto-marking/grading system for assessments to reduce the workload of lecturers at a higher learning institution in South Africa

This study explores the development and implementation of a design thinking Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven auto-marking/grading system for practical assessments and accurate feedback aimed at alleviating the workload of lecturers at an Online Distance eLearning (ODeL) institution in South Africa. The study adopts an iterative approach to designing and prototyping the system, ensuring alignment with the unique needs and challenges at an ODeL higher learning institution (HLI). The study outlines a Design thinking framework for developing the AI system, emphasizing empathy with user needs, clear problem definition, ideation, prototyping, testing, and iterative improvements. Integrating such a system promises to enhance operational efficiency, ensure fair and unbiased grading for assessments, and provide students with consistent, timely, personalized feedback. Tapping on theorists such as Michael Foucault and Joseph Schumpeter, this study contributes to the ongoing discourse on innovative solutions for educational challenges in South Africa by employing a design thinking framework and qualitative research methods. It provides insights for developing and implementing AI-driven auto-marking/grading systems in higher education settings. Cognizant of data privacy laws, the study will highlight the essential adherence to ethical guidelines in automated assessment processes and the successful implementation of AI-driven auto-marking/grading systems in ODeL. Additionally, this study aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), such as Good Health and Wellbeing (SDG 3), Quality Education (SDG 4), Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8), Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure (SDG 9). The study will have a follow-up article that will report on the data collected, and we will conduct another study where we seek the users’ feedback regarding the system.

Water utilization practices and wastage at household level: A case study of Lahore City

AbstractThe current research places its emphasis on addressing the issue of water shortage, which, if left unaddressed, could hinder sustainable development in the broader Punjab region, with a particular focus on the city of Lahore. In pursuit of our research objectives, we conducted a comprehensive survey that involved 600 households within Lahore. Our research methodology included the usage of both quantitative and qualitative analysis which included interviews and snowball sampling. Our findings indicate a clear and direct correlation between water shortage and patterns of water utilization and wastage. The absence of sustainable strategies to ensure adequate water supply, efficient resource management, and universal sanitation poses a substantial threat to our future. To address water shortages, it is crucial to encourage the use of water‐saving appliances and fixtures like toilets, low‐flow faucets, and showerheads. The purpose of these measures is to conserve water and align it with sustainable development goals by encouraging resource utilization that is efficient, minimizing environmental impact. By implementing these solutions, both households and border areas can benefit from significant water‐saving practices. Consequently, we recommend that the government implement targeted programs aimed at raising awareness among individuals about responsible water usage and reducing wasteful practices within households.

The relationship between education level and banking adoption among street vendors – A financial inclusion viewpoint

The educational attainment of individuals has long been recognized as a significant factor in shaping their financial behaviours and attitudes, particularly when it comes to the adoption and usage of banking services. There is generally a positive relationship between the education level of individuals and their adoption of banking services. This relationship can be attributed to the fact that higher levels of education are often accompanied by increased incomes, better financial management skills, and a greater understanding of the importance of financial planning and wealth accumulation. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive view of the current understanding of the relationship between education level and banking adoption among underprivileged sections of the society especially the street vendors. To address the research question, data was collected through a structured questionnaire from 477 street vendors in the Virudhunagar district of Tamilnadu state in India. The research reveals that although most of the respondents have a bank account irrespective of their education status, the number of respondents not having a bank account is higher among those who have lower education level. Based on the outcome of the research certain policy implications and recommendations are made. This research aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals 4, 8 and 10 (SDG 4, 8 & 10).

Business Intelligence and Strategic Entrepreneurship for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS) Through: (Green Technology Innovation and Green Knowledge Management)

Abstract The study aimed to investigate the effect of business intelligence on strategic entrepreneurship and the mediating role of green technology innovation and the moderate role of green knowledge management for sustainable development goals (SDGs) in the Jordanian entrepreneurial companies in King Hussein Business Park (KHBP). It was used the descriptive analytical approach, for data collection purposes the researcher uses a “random sample” consisting of (347) employees. The method of data collection was by a questionnaire distributed to the sample. The total returned questionnaires were (318) with a good response rate of approximately (79.5%). In this research, was used partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM). The findings indicated there is: a positive and direct impact of business intelligence on (strategic entrepreneurship, and green technology innovation), a positive and impact of the green technology innovation on strategic entrepreneurship, and the green technology innovation mediate a positive effect between business intelligence, and strategic entrepreneurship and the green knowledge management moderates the impact of business intelligence on strategic entrepreneurship. The study findings emphasize the need to improve Business Intelligence to promote sustainability by incorporating environmental criteria into data analytics, allowing companies to make environmentally friendly decisions, urges companies to integrate Green Technology Innovation into their strategic plans by collaborating with technology providers and research organizations. The research also emphasizes the need for government initiatives that encourage the use of green technology innovation and green knowledge management..

Potencjalna rola regulacji soft-law i francuskiej koncepcji rozporządzeń z mocą ustawy (ordonnances) w osiąganiu celów zrównoważonego rozwoju

The purpose of the article is to present the interconnection between the financial market, sustainable development and soft-law rules in today’s economy we have an overlapping process in the financial markets between general investment based on financial efficiency and investment concerning social responsibility – including ESG criteria (environmental-social-governance). The concept of sustainable development may be defined as a tool leading not only to economic growth but in the long term also as a solution leading to the elimination of the disproportions and instabilities within a society. The COVID pandemic and the war in Ukraine showed, that today we require some new legal instruments and techniques that could help in the realization of goals of sustainable development and that would ensure legal stability. The methodology used by the author is related to the functional approach of the comparative legal method, the historical-descriptive and the dogmatic method, with a special focus on French and international law regulations. Comparative method is both a science, a research method and the effects of research obtained from the application of the comparative studies. Comparative studies, as a science of comparing selected aspects of different legal systems, is aimed at learning and understanding law in a much broader context, because at the supranational level. It is this aspect that makes comparative research extremely important for sustainable development rules, which are often characterized by a cross-border and international character. The scientific aim of the work is to show whether and how soft important law provisions especially in the financial market, as well as regulations with the force of law, can be a useful instrument supporting the process of building sustainable finance. As part of the conclusions, the author notes that the use of the described legal structures may contribute to faster and more effective implementation of sustainable development regulations. The above is even more important when these regulations appear from a supranational perspective rather than from a national perspective.

The impact of big data adoption on competitive advantage in achieving sustainable development goals: the moderating role of mimetic pressure

The impact of big data adoption on competitive advantage in achieving sustainable development goals: the moderating role of mimetic pressure

COVID-19 and youth volunteering: Trajectory and structure of India’s National Service Scheme

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic had a significant impact on people worldwide, including in India, where disadvantaged and marginalized populations reliant on institutional support were worse affected. In this context, healthcare and sanitation workers played a crucial role in addressing pressing health and sanitation needs. India’s National Service Scheme (NSS) fosters youth leadership through various programs and activities, with volunteering being a core component of its social services since its establishment. Conventionally, the NSS has been engaged in raising awareness about health issues and promoting community development; however, its visibility and effectiveness were diminished during the pandemic. This situation prompts an examination of the preparedness and capacity of NSS volunteers to effectively respond to community needs and manage health crises. Good health and well-being is one of the sustainable development goals, and the United Nations recognizes that achieving these goals is challenging without the active participation of youth. This study uses the institutional change model to analyze the current framework and roles of the NSS, exploring the potential of institutional and policy reforms in enhancing the participation of NSS youth volunteers in public health efforts, especially in tackling issues such as COVID-19. In addition, the study offers perspectives on current weaknesses in the organization, mobilization, and training of youth as a cohesive unit within community health systems, which may prevent them from responding effectively during times of crisis.

Spatial predictors of landowners' engagement in the restoration of the Brazilian Atlantic Forest

Abstract Forest restoration can potentially contribute to multiple global sustainable development goals. Yet, little is known about the factors associated with local actors' choice to engage in restoration, limiting the development of effective scaling strategies. Our study examines the spatial socio‐ecological factors associated with landowners' engagement in forest restoration, documented by the Atlantic Forest Restoration Pact in Brazil. We draw on Diffusion of Innovations theory to model associations between forest restoration and explanatory variables among 222,000 private properties in the Atlantic Forest. Properties with the highest cattle densities were 163.9% more likely to be restored (95% CI: 131.1%–201.3%) than those with the lowest. Large properties had a 120.0% higher restoration probability (95% CI: 90.9%–153.5%) than medium ones. Compared to reference levels, associations between forest cover (in 2010) and restoration probability were ambiguous, but properties with greater forest loss (1990–2010) were 9.0% less likely to be restored (95% CI: −12.5% to −5.3%). Properties with water bodies were 22.2% more likely to be restored (95% CI: 8.9%–37.1%), while upland properties were 46.6% less likely (95% CI: 32.3%–57.8%), and those with the highest ruggedness 22.2% less likely (95% CI: 12.4%–30.9%). Longer travel times to urban areas reduced restoration likelihood by 48.3% (95% CI: 39.7%–55.8%). Properties in the highest road distance quantile were 11.1% more likely to be restored (95% CI: 0.1%–23.2%). High forest management levels reduced restoration likelihood by 52.6% (95% CI: 15.5%–73.6%), while densely populated areas increased it by 53.8% (95% CI: 35.6%–74.4%). Properties in wealthier municipalities were more likely to be restored (54.7%, 95% CI 10.8%–116.4%). Landowners' decision‐making appears responsive to legislative requirements (on minimum forest cover and afforestation around waterbodies), underscoring their value for promoting restoration. Commercial landowners might have greater incentives to restore or be selectively targeted by restoration organisations, risking the marginalisation of smallholders in poorer areas from restoration agendas. Engagement with forest restoration is highest where there are more people and lower travel times to cities, suggesting restoration can potentially deliver ecological benefits in some of Brazil's most degraded landscapes. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.

Harnessing the Power of Mechanization: A Multivalued Treatment Effect Analysis on Productivity for Chinese Smallholders

Developing countries, in their pursuit of the Sustainable Development Goals, are intensifying their efforts to promote agricultural mechanization, with China at the forefront, through comprehensive policy revisions aimed at enhancing mechanization levels. This study employs multivalued treatment effect (MVTE) and quantile treatment effect (QTE) methodologies to assess the impact of agricultural mechanization on labor and land productivity while also examining the seffects across different farm sizes and moderating influences. Leveraging data from the 2016 China Labor-force Dynamics Survey, the findings indicate that semi-mechanized and full-mechanized farming, compared to no-mechanized farming, significantly boost labor and land productivity for both average and lower-to-mid-level productivity farmers. Disaggregated analysis by farm size shows that larger farms benefit significantly from semi-mechanized and full-mechanized farming in terms of increased labor and land productivity. However, the incremental benefits of varying levels of mechanization on productivity are observed only in labor productivity for farmers with mid- and upper-level productivity and for those in the largest farm size group. Additionally, land transfer status, government subsidies, and the intensity of clan culture are found to significantly influence the productivity effects of agricultural mechanization in China. Consequently, it is imperative to reorient agricultural policies towards enhancing the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of mechanization, especially considering the constraints on labor and land availability and the need to minimize the environmental impact of agricultural production. In light of these discussions, this paper presents policy implications for sustainable agricultural mechanization.

Navigating menstrual stigma and norms: a qualitative study on young people’s menstrual experiences and strategies for improving menstrual health

BackgroundMenstrual health is a recognised important public health issue and is essential for the realisation of gender equality and the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals. This study aimed to explore the menstrual health experiences of young people in Sweden and how the menstrual cycle affects their health and lives. The study also aimed to identify the facilitators and barriers to achieving menstrual health.MethodsWe conducted a qualitative study in Sweden. Sixteen young people aged 18–28 who have experienced the menstrual cycle participated in individual interviews. Purposeful sampling combined with snowball sampling was applied to recruit the participants. The data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.ResultsParticipants viewed menstruation as a sign of having a healthy and functioning body. Menstruation was linked to becoming a woman and fostered a sense of community and sisterhood, which was viewed as positive among cis women. Further, the results showed that physical and emotional symptoms related to the menstrual cycle limited the participants’ everyday lives and social relationships and had a negative effect on their sexual and mental health. While managing their emotional discomfort and other menstrual complaints, they also had to deal with the public stigma and norms about menstruation contributing to shame and worries. Barriers to menstrual health included stigma and norms related to menstruation, which led to the adoption of expected behaviours, such as avoiding participation in social activities. The normalisation of menstrual complaints also contributed to delays in seeking healthcare, despite having symptoms that had a negative effect on their health. An important factor promoting menstrual health and quality of life is access to prompt treatment to mitigate and decrease symptoms that limit everyday life.ConclusionsThe results indicate that menstrual stigma and related norms create challenging situations limiting menstruating people’s everyday lives and reluctance to seek healthcare despite needing to. To promote the menstrual health of menstruating young people in Sweden, organised and systematic screening of menstrual cycle-related symptoms should be provided within student health services at schools and universities, and primary healthcare. Policymakers should consider integrating stigma-reducing efforts into public health interventions to improve general awareness and promote gender equality.

Exploring the Impact of Eco-Friendly Leadership and Motivation on Sustainable Workplace Culture and Environmental Effectiveness to Support the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG’s)

Objective: This study investigates the effects of Green Transformational Leadership, Green Intrinsic Motivation, and Green Extrinsic Motivation on pro-environmental workplace behaviors in Bandung City, Indonesia's creative economy. It is in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Theoretical Framework: This study is founded on the ideas of environmental performance, workplace pro-environmental behaviors, green transformational leadership, and green motivation (both intrinsic and extrinsic), all of which support sustainable practices in line with the SDGs. Method: Utilizing a survey approach, this research targets employees in the creative industry's fashion sector in Bandung City, Indonesia, encompassing sub-sectors like fashion, knitting, footwear, and accessories. The study aims to involve 312 willing participants and employs Confirmatory Factor Analysis and Covariance-Based Structural Equation Modeling (CB-SEM) methodologies. Results and Discussion: The report indicates that green transformational leadership, green intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, workplace pro-environmental behaviors, and environmental performance are all highly correlated. This draws attention to the study's contribution to the SDGs. Research Implications: While acknowledging limitations such as sector-specific generalizability and potential biases in data collection methods, this study highlights the need to expand respondent samples across industries to enhance the applicability of findings and promote sustainable practices in alignment with the SDGs. Originality/Value: This study enhances the existing body of knowledge by examining the relationship between green transformational leadership, green intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, workplace pro-environmental behaviors, and environmental performance within Bandung City's creative industry. It emphasizes how crucial motivation and leadership are to encouraging eco-friendly behavior and enhancing environmental performance, which supports the SDGs.

A Tentative Analysis of the Interactions Between the Building Sector and SDGs

Objective: This study aims to examine the relationship between the construction industry and the United Nations, focussing on the interactive effects and the degree of connection between the building sector and sustainable development goals (SDGs). Theoretical Framework: This topic delineates the fundamental concepts and theories that support the research. Examining all 17 SDGs and the construction industry's participation is prominent, establishing a robust foundation for comprehending the investigation's background. Method: The research process thoroughly examines credible academic sources and subsequent analysis. Data was gathered via an extensive literature examination of scholarly publications and official sources. Results and Discussion: The findings demonstrated the connections between the building sector and the SDGs. Some objectives, particularly objectives 3, 6, 7, 9, 11, 12, 13, and 15, are recognised as closely related to the construction sector. Additional studies must expand the sample size by gathering more primary data to corroborate the existing findings. Research Implications: The practical and theoretical consequences of this research are examined, offering insights into the application and influence of the results on practices within the construction and built environment sector. These consequences may pertain to the construction industry and associated project management fields. Originality/Value: This study enhances the literature by thoroughly examining the relationships between the building industry and all 17 SDGs by reviewing credible academic publications. This research is significant and valuable as it advances the sustainable transformation of the construction industry to enable the effective realisation of SDGs.

Blockchain in Agricultural Supply Chain: Promote the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS)

Objective: This study aims to evaluate the possibility of Blockchain promoting the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Theoretical Framework: Based on the characteristics of blockchain, the content of SDGs, and various theories of new technology and social sustainable development, this study explores how blockchain can be used as instrument in smart regulatory theory to promote SDGs. Method: The analysis is combined with theory and specific fields to evaluate the possibility of blockchain acting as instrument to promote corporate self-regulation for sustainable development, and to specifically analyze smart contracts and Hyperledger Fabric in the agricultural supply chain to promote SDGs. Results and Discussion: The discussion results show that in theory, blockchain could become a regulatory instrument as a technical link; in practice, smart contracts and Hyperledger Fabric can help solve specific problems in the agricultural supply chain and promote the realization of ‘Good Health and Well-being’ and ‘Responsible Consumption and Production’. Research Implications: This study contributes to the use of blockchain as regulatory instrument to promote corporate self-regulation and helps to provide ideas for the realization of SDGs and the resolution of specific difficulties in the agricultural supply chain. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the application of blockchain, the promotion of SDGs, and the interaction between technology and social development.

The silent barrier: exploring data availability in Small Island Developing States.

To quantify three aspects of data-related developmental progress across 57 Small Island Developing States (SIDS) recognized by the United Nations: statistical capacity measured using the Statistical Performance Indicators (SPI), data availability using the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) indicators, and gender-stratified indicators. SIDS as a single country group were compared with other World Bank regions, using SPI, availability of SDG metrics, and availability of gender-stratified metrics. Using population size as a proxy for "smallness," its association with data capacity and availability was modeled. SPI among SIDS was lower than in any world region - broadly equivalent to Sub-Saharan Africa. Two-thirds of SDG indicators were available for SIDS in 2022; other world regions having between 71% and 87% availability. One-third of gender-stratified indicators were available for SIDS in 2022; other world regions having between 58% and 68% availability. Population size was strongly associated with each outcome, with SIDS having a statistical capacity 18.0 percentage points lower than other countries [95% CI (8.5, 27.4)], SDG data availability 17.4 percentage points lower [95% CI (13.1, 21.7)], and gender-stratified indicator availability 28.8 percentage points lower [95% CI (24.5, 33.0)]. As global demand and associated rewards for electronic data increase, our analysis highlights the challenges introduced by island "smallness" in the global push for digital transformation. Regional cooperation mechanisms, sustained international support, and systematic monitoring of data availability are urgently required to monitor capacity development.

Bibliometric Analysis of Adaptive Behavior Research: Advancing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for Children with Disabilities

Introduction: Adaptive behavior refers to the collection of skills and behaviors that individuals use to function independently in their daily lives, it encompasses the ability to meet personal needs and deal with the natural and social demands of one's environment. This includes a wide range of skills, such as communication, self-care, socialization, and practical skills needed to navigate one's environment. This is useful in providing references to support Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) initiatives, especially to improve access to quality education for children with disabilities. Objective: This study conducts a bibliometric analysis of research on adaptive behavior for children with disabilities from 2014 to 2024. It focuses on identifying patterns, trends, and gaps in the literature to understand the evolution and current state of the field. Theorical Framework: Adaptive behavior is often categorized into different domains, reflecting the various areas of functioning that are essential for independent living and social integration. The three primary domains of adaptive behavior commonly recognized in the literature are conceptual, practical and social domain. Method: The study employs advanced bibliometric techniques, including keyword co-occurrence and citation analysis, to explore the interconnectedness of topics and to forecast future directions in research. It underscores the critical need for reliable and inclusive assessment tools, comprehensive multi-informant evaluations, and interventions that can be integrated into educational settings to support the independence and social integration of children with disabilities. Results and Discussion: The findings of the study through article co-occurrence mapping analysis, four clusters representing adaptive behavior were identified, that is red cluster (psychological and social dimensions), green cluster (developmental and cognitive aspects of disability), blue cluster (adaptive functioning and behavioral outcomes) and yellow cluster (behavioral and diagnostic) portrays an interconnected landscape of research topics, where psychological, developmental, behavioral, and diagnostic themes converge, reflecting the complexity and interdisciplinary nature of research in disabilities. Research Implications: This study contributes practical implications, improving interventions, informing policies, and enhancing community understanding and support for individuals with varying needs in adaptive behavior. This holistic impact underscores the importance of such research in driving both theoretical and practical advancements in the field. Originality/Value: The exploration of adaptive behavior in children with disabilities has emerged as a critical area of study, integrating multifaceted approaches from diagnosis to intervention. The comprehensive review presented in this article not only captures the varied dimensions of adaptive behavior but also underscores the intricate interplay between intellectual, developmental, and social facets of disabilities in children.

Enhancing the Legal Protection of Waqf Assets in Banjar City, West Java, Through Land Registration and Regulatory Awareness to Support the Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Objective: This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the land registration program in enhancing the legal protection of waqf assets in Indonesia, focusing on its contribution to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 16 on peace, justice, and strong institutions. This study specifically focuses on the context of Banjar City, West Java. Theoretical Framework: This research applies Islamic law theory related to the protection of waqf assets and sustainable development theory, linking legal protection efforts with the achievement of SDGs. The Islamic perspective on waqf management emphasizes secure and sustainable stewardship, which aligns with the principles of sustainable development. Method: A juridical-empirical approach with a descriptive-analytical method is used in this study. Data were collected through interviews, field observations, and document reviews regarding the implementation of the land registration program and related policies in Banjar City, West Java. The analysis focuses on evaluating the effectiveness of these initiatives in protecting waqf assets. Results and Discussion: The study finds that the land registration program has made a positive contribution to the protection of waqf assets. However, challenges remain, including insufficient socialization and training for nadzir (waqf managers) and a lack of public understanding regarding the importance of land registration. Regulatory awareness programs, such as waqf land certification, offer significant potential to strengthen legal protection. The synergy between government policies and community participation is crucial for improving the effectiveness of waqf protection. Research Implications: This study provides practical implications for the development of policies aimed at strengthening the protection of waqf assets. It recommends improving socialization and training for nadzir and raising public awareness about the importance of waqf land registration. Collaboration between the government, religious institutions, and the community is essential for enhancing the protection of waqf assets. Originality/Value: The originality of this study lies in its identification of the importance of the land registration program and regulatory awareness in strengthening the protection of waqf assets in Indonesia, particularly in Banjar City. The study also offers practical recommendations to improve the implementation of these initiatives and provides insights into the local context in Indonesia, which can be used as a model for other regions.

Fintech and Regtech as Tools of Financial Digitalization and the Regulatory Framework in Achieving Sustainable Development Insights from Albania

Objectives: This study endeavors to scrutinize the development of e-banking services, which represent the most recognized and utilized form of digital finance in the nation with respect to the attainment of Sustainable Development Goal 9 (SDG9). Method: This research employed an online survey in conjunction with a SWOT analysis to assess the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats related to FinTech and RegTech within Albania. Results: The key finding derived from the questionnaire suggests that the predominant form of smart technology recognized and utilized by Albanian consumers is e-banking. The SWOT analysis delineates the evident strengths of FinTech, including near instantaneous and efficient transactions, minimal transaction fees, and continuous access to checking accounts. However, the study found that consumers possess limited familiarity with FinTech services and RegTech. Research implications: The study highlights the imperative for Albania to adopt an activity-based regulatory approach that applies consistent rules regardless of the legal status of the entity or the level of technology employed. Specifically, it is essential to formulate a regulatory structure that facilitates the entry of new market participants, thereby enhancing competitive dynamics in the market and modernizing the delivery of traditional financial services. Originality/Value: This research contributes to the ongoing discourse regarding the advancement of FinTech and RegTech in developing nations and provides salient recommendations for policymakers, regulators, and financial institutions in leveraging digital technologies within an emerging market context such as Albania.