Build Holistic Society: Systemic & Institutional Corruption

Public sector corruption is identified as the most prevalent form of corruption in Malaysia1 with a multitude of reported instances of corruption, from individuals demanding bribes all the way to large scale abuse of power such as 1MDB. Corruption related crimes clearly cost wastage and diversion of much needed public funds, leaving less resources to fulfil human rights obligations, to deliver needed public services and to improve the standard of living of citizens. In addition, systemic corruption across the public sector violates basic economic and social rights, such as the right to an adequate standard of living2.
In systemic corruption, the purpose of corruption may also be seen to serve broader social and political functions rather than only private gain. Individuals engaged in corruption may be at least partially driven by a desire to fulfil a social norm (e.g., an expectation to help one’s race or religion), to accomplish political goals, or to attain some other end (e.g., maintain political stability and peace). In such situations, corrupt actions are integrated to political/power structures and social norms and becomes deeply rooted and self-reinforcing.