Corruption risks and potential threats to the forestry sector in Peninsular Malaysia

Abstract

Corruption and forest disturbances represent substantial barriers to sustainable
development in Malaysia's forestry sector. Working within this sector faces a
variety of threats. This study explores key corruption risks within the forestry
sector, analysing the motives and opportunities that drive forest offences in
Peninsular Malaysia. Respondents from relevant agencies were primarily
surveyed using questionnaires. Data analysis using SPSS revealed the corruption
risks encountered within the forestry sector. Respondents identified fieldwork and
reporting as potential areas susceptible to corruption, with their perceptions
analyzed through central tendency and dispersion measures. Additionally,
correlation analysis was conducted to determine the strength and direction of the
relationship between motive and opportunity regarding forest offences, and to
assess whether the correlation was statistically significant. The findings
demonstrated a robust positive correlation (r = 0.66) between motive and
opportunity, indicating a significant relationship. This suggests that motives for
forest offences correspond to opportunities for such offences. This study
highlights the need for targeted collaboration between the Forestry Department
and relevant authorities to develop specialized training programs. These programs
are crucial for effectively investigating and prosecuting forest violations,
ultimately reducing corruption risks