In terms of cultural dimensions, Malaysia has the highest
PDI in the world with a score of 100 which indicates an
extremely hierarchical society where the public is expected to
accept leadership’s authority without question (Hofstede,
2014). Finally, SEA developments in Malaysia indicate the
absence of SEA legislation and public participation practice
though SEA application and public participation provisions are
present. Consequently, Malaysia’s high PDI may explain its
top-down policy planning where SEA initiatives is highly
dependent on leadership’s political will as opposed to public
pressure.