Assessing the Effectiveness and Sustainability of SDG Initiatives in Sabah West: A Multi-Theoretical Approach

This study evaluates the impact of 18 Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) solution projects implemented under APPGM-SDG in the Sabah West region, covering parliamentary constituencies such as Kota Belud, Kota Marudu, Beaufort, Keningau, and Ranau. The core issue examined is the effectiveness and sustainability of SDG-related community projects in addressing socio-economic and environmental challenges. Many community-based initiatives face difficulties in long-term impact measurement, resource constraints, and procedural inefficiencies, limiting their potential to foster lasting change. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, integrating qualitative and quantitative data collection techniques. Three primary methods were utilized: Focus Group Discussions (FGD) with beneficiaries, Site Visits (SV) for direct observational assessments, and Document Review (DR) analyzing project proposals, reports, and multimedia documentation. The study is framed using the Kirkpatrick Model of Training Evaluation, which assesses project effectiveness across four levels: Reaction, Learning, Behavior, and Results. The Sustainable Livelihoods Framework is employed to evaluate how communities utilize resources to enhance economic resilience, while the Triple Bottom Line approach provides an assessment of economic, social, and environmental sustainability. Additionally, the Return on Value (ROV) framework was used to assess six impact dimensions: Deep (Personal), Clear (Skills), Wide (Network), High (System), Gender, and SDG Awareness. JEL Codes: Q01, O13, I38 Keywords: Sustainable Development Goals, Impact Evaluation, Community Development, Return on Value, Kirkpatrick Model, Triple Bottom Line, Sustainable Livelihoods Framework.