Cloud-Powered GovTech: Enabling Smarter Public Services for Sustainable Governance

Abstract

Developing nations frequently grapple with bureaucratic inertia and corruption, hindering progress toward sustainable development. While digital transformation is widely pursued, the specific strategic role of cloud infrastructure in cementing governance integrity remains under-explored. This study addresses that gap by presenting a technical architectural framework and conducting a qualitative comparative analysis of GovTech implementations in Rwanda, India, Indonesia, and Singapore. By examining platforms such as Rwanda’s Irembo and Indonesia’s LAPOR! , the research demonstrates how cloud-native features—specifically microservices architecture and API gateways —provide the necessary scalability and resilience for public services. Critically, the study illustrates the mechanism for combating corruption: the replacement of discretionary manual processes with immutable digital audit trails and automated workflows, which enforce transparency and reduce opportunities for bribery. The findings confirm that cloud-powered GovTech is a foundational pillar for achieving UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) and Goal 9 (Innovation)..