Comparative Study of Anti-Corruption Agencies: Indonesia's KPK vs. Malaysia's MACC

Abstract

Anti-corruption agencies play a pivotal role in curbing corruption, but their effectiveness varies across countries due to institutional design, political context, and operational capacity. This comparative study analyzes Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) and Malaysia’s Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) to identify factors contributing to their successes and challenges. Through comparative legal analysis, performance metrics, and interviews with officials and experts, the paper explores differences in independence, investigative powers, political support, and public engagement. Findings indicate that while both agencies have made significant strides, they face distinct political pressures and institutional constraints that affect their autonomy and impact. The study offers recommendations for strengthening anti-corruption agencies in Southeast Asia, emphasizing the need for legal safeguards, adequate resources, and public trust. This research enriches international scholarship by providing a nuanced understanding of institutional effectiveness in regional anti-corruption efforts.