Although the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) is frequently used in hydrological research to assess sedimentation and erosion, its use throughout Sulawesi has not yet been synthesized. With an emphasis on identifying research trends, methodological practices, and knowledge gaps, this study attempts to review and compile previous SWAT-based studies conducted in Sulawesi watersheds. A narrative review methodology was employed, utilizing journal articles, conference proceedings, and university repositories published between 2010 and 2024. Research sites, goals, input data, calibration and validation procedures, and published results were all included in the scope. In contrast to systematic reviews, this synthesis places more emphasis on methodological gaps and patterns than on comprehensive coverage. Twenty-two studies in all were found. While Central, West, and Southeast Sulawesi continue to be underrepresented, South Sulawesi accounted for more than half. Land cover change, conservation tactics, the availability of water resources, micro-hydro potential, and flood risk assessment were the primary research topics. However, scenario development was frequently lacking, and only 55% of studies reported calibration and validation using numerical metrics (e.g., NSE, R2, PBIAS). Few studies included socioeconomic factors, which diminished the applicability of the model's outputs for policy. This review is limited because it is narrative in nature rather than following a systematic protocol, and it's possible that local unpublished reports were missed. Methodological differences between studies also hindered comparability. By highlighting research gaps, promoting more spatially balanced studies, and emphasizing the importance of robust model validation, the findings provide policymakers and watershed managers with valuable insights. This is the first review that we are aware of, focusing exclusively on Sulawesi. It is unique because it synthesizes methodological flaws and suggests future paths for equitable and multidisciplinary watershed management.