STAKEHOLDERS ’ PERCEPTIONS ON THE ACCOUNTABILITY OF MALAYSIAN LOCAL AUTHORITIES By

Purpose – This paper aims to identify stakeholder perceptions on the service performance accountability of Malaysian local authorities. Design/methodology/approach – A questionnaire survey provides the primary source of information, and both descriptive and analytical methods are employed to support the analysis of the empirical findings. Findings – The paper shows that despite a strong interest amongst stakeholders for greater accountability of Malaysian local authorities, a standard definition and scope of accountability has not emerged. However, the findings do indicate a new bond of accountability emerging between local authorities and its broader public than previously existed. Research limitations – The findings and discussion are limited to the propositions put forward in the questionnaire. Alternative research methods would complement the findings. Originality/value – The findings contribute to our understanding of accountability as interpreted by key stakeholders of local authorities located within the context of a developing country. This could potentially assist Malaysian public sector administrators whereby, an