Job satisfaction and organizational commitment in the public sector: a study of a 'closed' government agency

This paper provides findings from the qualitative stage of a study on organizational commitment and job satisfaction. Whilst a number of studies report empirical research in the private sector, as yet there is little research published on the public sector especially 'closed' government departments. Interviews were conducted to explore the influence of job satisfaction and level of organizational commitment in a Malaysian public sector organization. The findings disclosed why employees chose to stay even when they were not satisfied and lacked commitment. Low commitment and lack of satisfaction may lead to low morale and a lack of sense of belonging. These issues may benefit from being addressed in order to reduce negative impacts on performance and wellbeing. Findings from this study provide insights into ways of developing a sustainable public sector.