PERTANIKA JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SCIENCES AND HUMANITIES

This article investigates the recontextualisation of religious values in the development of community-based sanitation systems in rural areas, integrating local wisdom as a key component. Using a qualitative methodology with an in-depth case study approach, the research focusses on the interaction between religious values and local wisdom to develop sanitation practices and outcomes. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, participatory observation, and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) involving religious leaders, traditional leaders, and community members. Findings showed that religious values, when aligned with local customs and values, significantly improved community shaping and engagement in sanitation initiatives. Synergies between religious teachings and traditional practices, such as gotong royong, were shown to encourage sustainable behaviour change. This research highlights the importance of integrating spiritual, social and cultural dimensions in promoting rural sanitation development, emphasising its potential as a replicable model for community-based sanitation programmes in similar rural contexts. This research contributes to the discourse of sustainable sanitation development by offering practical insights in the application of faith-based and culturally-rooted approaches, providing a blueprint for policy makers and development practitioners in their efforts to promote sustainable sanitation systems.