Integrating Islamic Ethics into Sustainable Water Governance: A Malay Civilization Perspective on Public Utility Reform in Indonesia

Abstract

Water played a central role in shaping the identity and sustainability of human civilization. In the context of Malay civilization, water is more than a natural resource—it represents purity, balance, and collective responsibility guided by Islamic values. This paper discusses how sustainable water governance can be strengthened through the integration of Islamic human capacity and ethical principles in managing public water utilities in Indonesia. The research adopts a qualitative case study approach that explores institutional reform within regional public water companies. Findings indicate that sustainability in water governance is not only achieved through technological improvements or financial restructuring, but also through the cultivation of ethical awareness, leadership integrity, and community participation based on the values of trust, justice, and public welfare. The study also reveals that the incorporation of Islamic ethics encourages accountability and equity, reinforcing the global agenda of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6 on clean water and sanitation. By situating water management within the broader framework of Malay Islamic civilization, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of how faith, culture, and governance can interact to promote sustainable public services and environmental management. While previous studies have addressed governance reform in technical and institutional terms, few have explored how Islamic ethical values embedded in Malay civilization contribute to sustainable public utility transformation.