VIEWING ASEAN THROUGH A GOVERNANCE AND CORRUPTION LENS: REALIZING MALAYSIA AND ASEAN’S SHARED FUTURE

Published on 19 Dec 2025

In “Viewing ASEAN Through a Governance and Corruption Lens”, Dr. Geetha A. Rubasundram argues that despite ASEAN’s economic progress since 1967, weak governance, entrenched corruption, and limited accountability continue to undermine the region’s shared future—challenges that came sharply into focus during Malaysia’s 2025 ASEAN chairmanship. Drawing on Transparency International’s Corruption Perception Index, the World Governance Indicators, and the UN E-Participation Index, the article shows that—with the exception of Singapore—most ASEAN members struggle with systemic corruption, weak rule of law, limited civic space, and uneven institutional capacity, problems further exacerbated by climate finance misuse and political instability. While Malaysia’s leadership of ASEAN-PAC and efforts to promote public–private collaboration, institutional reform, and digital participation are notable, the author stresses that frameworks alone are insufficient without enforcement, judicial integrity, and meaningful citizen engagement. Ultimately, the article warns that unless ASEAN moves beyond “policies on paper” toward robust institutions, stronger rule of law, and genuine accountability, corruption risks eroding public trust, democratic legitimacy, and the region’s long-term political and economic resilience.