Purpose The aim of this study is to look into the factors that influence the level of ethics and integrity in Malaysian public sector. Design/methodology/approach This study uses a quantitative approach by delivering 128 questionnaires to Federal Chief Integrity Officers (CIOs), of which 83 were received and usable. The data were analysed using multiple regression analysis and descriptive statistics. Findings The quality of CIO in terms of competency, work performance and ethical climate has significant impact on the level of ethics and integrity. According to the study, having certified CIOs who can effectively perform their function and promote and nurture a transparent ethical climate are critical for the Malaysian Federal government to maintain a high level of ethics. Employees who have a high level of ethics are more likely to stay with the organization. Practical implications In addition, this study will assist policymakers in taking the required actions to strengthen public sector integrity practices for the establishment of a more dependable and efficient government in Malaysia. Originality/value This study addresses a gap in the Malaysian public sector’s level of ethics and integrity.

This article examines the influence of the quality of a Chief Integrity Officer (competence, work performance and independence) and ethical climate on the level of ethics and integrity. In addition, the study also examines the relationship of the level of ethics and integrity on the organizational commitment in Malaysia’s Federal Government. Primary data were collected using a questionnaire survey through email to the CIO and the officer in charge of the integrity unit in the federal territory. Factor analysis and descriptive statistics were used for data analysis and multiple regression was used for hypotheses testing of the relationships. The finding shows that the quality of CIOs and ethical climate were found to have a significant level of ethics and integrity in federal organizations. Meanwhile, the relationship between the level of ethics and integrity with organizational commitment was found to be a significant relationship in terms of affective commitment only. This study indicated that competence, the work performance of CIOs and ethical climate environment can enhance the level of ethics and integrity. Therefore, CIOs must enrol in professional certificates of integrity, high education and working experience, and must report any breaches of integrity without fear. The study also shows that employees feel honest, principled and comfortable to be working in an ethical and integral environment with their good moral values and this leads to higher good commitment in the Federal Government sector organizations.