EFFORTS IN RAISING AWARENESS OF CORRUPTION AMONG YOUTH: THE ROLE OF THE COMMUNITY AND THE MALAYSIAN ANTI-CORRUPTION COMMISSION (MACC) IN ENHANCING INTEGRITY AND SELF-IDENTITY

Abstract

The focus of this paper is to discuss efforts to foster youth awareness and its connection to the role of the community and the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) in enhancing integrity and personal identity. This paper discusses and examines the issues and challenges of the culture of corruption, focusing on aspects such as: (i) Efforts to Foster Youth Awareness, (ii) The Role of the Community, (iii) The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), and (iv) Integrity. The findings of the study propose six (6) mandatory measures to eliminate corrupt practices, namely: (i) Exploring the Nature of Corruption and the Practice of Gift-Giving, (ii) Shaping Public Perception to Oppose Corruption in Politics, (iii) Raising Awareness Among Citizens on the Impact of Corruption on the Nation’s Governance Framework, (iv) Strategizing Institutions and Plans to Address Corruption Crimes,(v)  Emphasizing the Importance of Combating Corruption through the ‘Integrity and Anti-Corruption Course (KIAR)’ in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), and (vi) Strengthening Law Enforcement and Penalties for Corruption Offenses. This study underscores that eradicating corruption is a long-term process that cannot be achieved overnight. In Malaysia, where corruption cases involving youth and prominent figures have highlighted the persistence of this issue, education plays a pivotal role. Emphasis should be placed on experiential learning methods for the younger generation to cultivate integrity, resilience, and high ethical values, along with strong discipline. By shaping individuals with robust character and the ability to resist corrupt practices, this group can become the driving force in Malaysian society, leading efforts to dismantle the deeply ingrained culture of corruption.