Implementation of Good Governance and Government Transformation Programs in Local Authorities: A Case Study of Kelantan, Malaysia

Abstract

This research examines the implementation of the Good Governance and Government Transformation Programs (GTP) at the local government level in Kelantan between 2010 and 2020. This timeframe reflects the implementation of the GTP by the Malaysian government. The study aims to evaluate how local governments implement The Government Transformation Programs within the framework of good governance. This research employs a qualitative case study approach guided by the UNDP (1997) good governance model and the Modified Political System Theory. The findings indicate that local governments, as the closest administrative units to citizens, functioned as mediators between federal and state governments, enabling impartial governance implementation. Their practices demonstrated an adaptation of federal and state approaches to local socio-economic, political, and cultural contexts. This coordination shows that elements of good governance emerged as the GTP’s top-down initiatives were operationalized through bottom-up processes. However, the local governments’ ability to implement key indicators of good governance participation, transparency, and accountability varied across the indicators.