ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the sociopolitical implications of so-called ‘sector transgressions’ in the national context of Malaysia. It traces a historical trend of private technology companies transitioning into soft critical infrastructure sectors (education, healthcare, and banking). The sector transitions examined in the Malaysian context are initially beneficial, as they provide welcomed public services. Yet, one long-term result may be an erosion of governmental decision-making capacity. Secondly, this phenomenon could lead to policymaking that prioritises short-term solutions serving private commercial interests, potentially neglecting broader societal implications and public interests. The chapter suggests long-term measures for mitigating harms, emphasising government capacity-building, transparent procurement, gig economy reforms, and robust legal frameworks to safeguard public interests.
