Factors Influencing Digital Technology Effectiveness in Combating Corruption within Malaysian Public Sector

The adoption of digital technology is considered as one of the best initiatives undertaken by the government to deter instances of corruption that are well-perceived by the public to plaguing public sector, especially within developing and third world countries.The move is expected to improve the level of security in all public transactions while enhancing coordination to boost anti-corruption initiatives.Nevertheless, despite embracing digitalisation extensively, many corruption cases still take place within public sector in Malaysia, which require further investigation.By referring to Institutional Theory, the scope of this study looks from the perspective of public sector's organisational culture to determine its influence on corruption deterrence using digital technology.This study investigates whether the following factors (digitalization policy; organizational vision and mission; beliefs and behaviours of public servants) influence digital technology effectiveness in deterring corruption within public sector.This study employs sample comprising of 140 auditors from 774 public officials of National Audit Department headquarter, using simple random sampling.Questionnaires were distributed and responses were analysed using descriptive, correlation and multiple regression analysis.The results revealed all three factors (digitalization policy; organizational vision and mission; beliefs and behaviours of public servants) significantly influence digital technology effectiveness in deterring potential corruption within public sector.The findings of this study recommends further strategic approach to be undertaken by public sector involving extensive digital policies formulation, synchronizing organisational vision and mission statement with integrity-based actions, and cultivating supportive individual beliefs and behaviours to effectively leverage technology in curbing corruption.