SDG Innovations & Impact: Relational Approach in Enabling Innovative Solutions and Impact Creation at the Grassroots

Abstract

SDG localisation is a primary goal of APPGM-SDG, and solution projects are the key component of this effort. Formed in 2019, mirroring the UK Parliament setup, the APPGM-SDG Malaysia has been the forefront organisation in localising SDGs in parliamentary constituencies. Despite Covid-19 and other practical challenges. The grounded research approach undertaken by APPGM-SDG paved the way for innovative grassroots solutions designed and undertaken by local organisations targeting vulnerable communities in their own localities. From 2020 to November 2023, APPGM-SDG has undertaken targeted solution projects at an unprecedented level, with 664 SDGs solution projects in 4 years and 364 solution providers around the country. These innovative solutions are developed through a unique relational approach between multiple stakeholders and engagements in multiple processes in the making. This approach has been the key framework in designing solution projects that have proven to have a much greater impact towards the community as a whole and personally on the livelihoods of the participants involved.  This is also evident in our recent publication, SDG Solution Projects: Best Practices Impacting the Grassroots, which carries 35 best practices for solution projects and innovative stories from the ground that can be examples of model solutions for vulnerable communities. This paper will discuss the relational approach that brings out SDG innovations in finding solutions between the partners involved, the empowerment and participatory models in place, and the processes involved in curating suitable solutions. The lessons learnt from 2020 until now in crafting fine-tuned solutions will also be included in this paper, together with real-life case studies of SDG innovative solutions that have a greater relational approach between stakeholders.