Proceedings of The 6th International Conference on Advanced Research in Social Sciences
Year: 2023
DOI:
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The Role of Maqasid Sharia and Demographics in Predicting Sustainable Behavior in Malaysia
Ali Mehellou, Mohamad Saifudin Mohamad Saleh, Bahiyah Omar
ABSTRACT:
Many scientists and researchers agree unanimously that the main cause of environmental degradation and economic, social, and health crises is the unsustainable behavior and practices of individuals. Past studies have also shown that values and goals can help guide individuals’ behavior towards being more sustainable. This study investigates the influence of the five goals of Shariah, known as Maqasid Sharia (the objectives of Islamic law), on sustainable behavior in Malaysia within the context of the demographic variables of gender, age, marital status, income, education, ethnicity, occupation, and religion. Using a self-administered questionnaire, data was collected from Malaysian citizens in 6 states. 682 valid questionnaires were used for analysis, and the Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) technique was employed to analyze the collected data using SPSS and SmartPLS software. The results show that Maqasid Sharia and demographic variables, specifically, religion, income, occupation, and gender, played a crucial role in predicting sustainable behavior in Malaysia. The results also reveal that only the religion affects the relationship between Maqasid Sharia and sustainable behavior. This study highlights the importance of considering demographic factors when conducting research, programs, or making policies related to sustainability and sustainable behavior. Practitioners, academics, and policymakers should take these factors into consideration to better understand and promote sustainable behavior.
keywords: control variables, goals, sustainable lifestyles, predictors, PLS-SEM