THE RISK FACTORS OF CORRUPTION IN THE HEALTHCARE SECTOR IN MALAYSIA: A CONCEPTUAL AND LEGAL ANALYSIS

Abstract

Previous research indicates that there is substantial evidence of the adverse effects of corruption on the health and welfare of society at both the individual and governmental levels. The construction of hospitals, the advancement of high-tech equipment and facilities, and the growing arsenal of drugs required for treatment, when combined with a robust market of vendors and healthcare companies, create opportunities for bribery and conflict of interest in the healthcare sector. As such, this paper will examine the factors that contribute to the risk of corruption in Malaysia's healthcare sector and will suggest possible ways to intervene in order to achieve a corrupt-free nation. This research employs a doctrinal research method based on content analysis to review the literature on the concept of corruption and the factors that contribute to the risk of corruption in the healthcare sector. The solution proposed in light of the findings has significant implications for legislators who are tasked with developing a legislative framework to address the risks of corruption in the healthcare sector with the goal of promoting accountability and transparency. The paper concludes that the law can be viewed as a useful tool for enacting change toward a healthier anti-corruption environment, which would influence our society's culture and lifestyle.