PERTANIKA JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SCIENCES AND HUMANITIES

This study examines how Bugis local wisdom aligns with social goals in sustainable development, particularly the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 1 to 5. It highlights how values embedded in Bugis culture—such as integrity in leadership, community responsibility, and resilience—can support social equity, environmental stewardship, and community well-being. By analysing the Pangngajak Tomatoa, a traditional Bugis text, and conducting interviews with cultural leaders in South Sulawesi. This study identifies cultural practices that contribute to sustainability in ways that are meaningful and effective at the community level. The findings suggest that Bugis wisdom offers a practical and culturally relevant approach to sustainable development, one that values fairness, shared decision-making, and inclusive leadership across genders. The study also provides a framework for integrating local cultural values into global sustainability goals. While its focus on the Bugis community may limit broader generalisation, future studies are encouraged to apply this model in diverse contexts and use quantitative methods for further validation.