Corruption Prevention in Malaysia’s Education Sector: A Case Study

Abstract

Cultivating integrity and fostering a hatred of corruption are important elements that must be emphasized in the national education system. Anti-corruption awareness must be instilled not only in school pupils and students of higher learning institutions but also in teachers and lecturers. They are important individuals who can shape the future of our young generation. Currently, programs on anti-corruption are jointly carried out by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), the Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE), and the Ministry of Education Malaysia (MOE), based on the requirements of the National Anti-Corruption Plan (NACP) 2019-2023. Therefore, the objective of this article is to explain the definition of corruption in the context of Malaysian law; identify the main initiatives in cultivating integrity and anti-corruption through education, and analyze corruption cases related to the education sector. The research methodology employed is a case study, which looks at real cases of corruption involving educators. Findings show that educators' position is not immune from engaging in acts of corruption. Besides, corruption is a 'sharp thorn' that can damage the good name of the education sector in the country. Therefore, educators need to increase their knowledge of corruption crimes and appropriate preventive measures.