Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim stressed the crucial role of internal auditors in safeguarding institutional integrity, calling governance a “national asset” rather than a bureaucratic burden.
Delivering the keynote at the Asian Confederation of Institutes of Internal Auditors (ACIIA) Conference 2025 on Tuesday, Anwar addressed more than 1,500 audit professionals from 26 countries at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre.
“Governance must not be seen as a burden, but as a strategic asset, the anchor of market credibility, the magnet for investment, and the guarantee that progress is shared fairly,” he said.
He described auditors as central to strengthening institutions and sustaining growth, especially amid compounded challenges from economic shocks, technological disruption, and geopolitical uncertainty.
Quoting American statesman James Madison, Anwar stressed that “power must be matched by responsibility, and authority by accountability.” He linked this to the MADANI government’s reforms, focused on restoring public trust in institutions.
Among key reforms highlighted: the first amendment to the Audit Act in over 30 years, granting the National Audit Department wider oversight powers; the creation of the Serious Irregularities Committee, which has recovered and safeguarded RM159 million in public funds since 2024 and our new guidelines issued in early 2025, extending audit jurisdiction to all organisations receiving public funds, strengthening fiscal accountability and combating corruption.
“These may not be glamorous reforms, but they are essential to the integrity of our system,” Anwar noted.
He reaffirmed governance as a pillar of the 13th Malaysia Plan (2026–2030), adding that private sector collaboration is equally vital. He praised the Institute of Internal Auditors Malaysia and Bursa Malaysia for jointly launching the SORMIC Guide 2025, calling it a key step in enhancing risk culture, investor confidence, and regulatory preparedness.
“As auditors, your calling is to ensure the system holds under pressure. As leaders, our duty is to ensure integrity is never optional,” he said.
Concluding on a hopeful note, Anwar urged auditors to be “stewards of reform and resilience,” leaving behind institutions that inspire trust at home and respect abroad.
The ACIIA Conference 2025 is Asia’s largest of its kind, held as Malaysia chairs ASEAN.
