Corruption in the Public Sector: Determinants, implications and solutions

Aida Abdullah; Falih Suaedi; Shahidah Abdul Razak

doi:10.21834/e-bpj.v10iSI38.7655

Authors

Aida Abdullah Faculty of Administrative Science and Policy Studies, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Seremban, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia
Falih Suaedi Faculty of Social & Political Sciences, Universitas Airlangga, Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
Shahidah Abdul Razak Faculty of Administrative Science and Policy Studies, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Seremban, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21834/e-bpj.v10iSI38.7655

Keywords:

Corruption, culture, digitization, leadership

Abstract

Corruption in the public sector remains a major challenge, particularly in developing countries. This study explores the psychological, organizational, and situational factors that drive corrupt behavior among civil servants. Drawing on empirical data and theoretical frameworks such as the Fraud Triangle, Public Service Motivation theory, and the Corruption Hexagon Model, this study explores how moral framework, leadership and life events influence corrupt behavior. Findings suggest that corrupt practices, including procurement fraud and bribery, have implications for perpetrators, victims, and national development. The study concludes with solutions that target institutional culture and reform, authentic leadership, and improved law enforcement.

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