The influence of organizational factors and employee-driven factors on social sustainability practices in a private University in Kedah

Social sustainability has emerged as a critical component of organizational reputation in higher education. This study investigates the influence of organizational and employee-driven factors on social sustainability practices within a private higher education institution in Kedah, Malaysia. It also examines the moderating role of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in these relationships. Organizational factors include leadership commitment, organizational values and culture, and human resource policies, while employee-driven factors encompass awareness and education, workforce diversity, and employee engagement. A quantitative, cross-sectional research design was employed. Data were collected through a standardized, self-administered online questionnaire distributed to academic and non-academic staff, yielding 150 valid responses. Statistical analyses—including reliability testing (Cronbach’s alpha), Pearson correlation, multiple regression, and hierarchical regression—were conducted using SPSS. Findings reveal that both organizational and employee-driven factors significantly enhance social sustainability practices. However, CSR did not exhibit a significant moderating effect on these relationships. The study contributes empirical insights into social sustainability within private higher education and offers practical recommendations for institutional leaders aiming to strengthen internal sustainability initiatives.