By Nazatul Izma and MIA Strategic Communications & Branding Team
As sustainability becomes integral to business strategy, accountants are playing a vital role in embedding environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles into corporate decision-making and reporting, helping steer the transition to a greener, more inclusive and equitable economy.
This was a central message at the MIA International Accountants Conference 2025, recently held at MITEC, which drew more than 3,800 delegates and featured 80 speakers across 16 dynamic sessions.
In his keynote address, YB Senator Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan, Minister of Finance II, emphasised that the profession’s advocacy for sustainability aligns with national priorities such as the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR) and the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 (NIMP 2030), both aimed at accelerating green growth and industrial transformation.
“In executing these plans, we are counting on accountants to play a critical role in guiding companies to improve their sustainability practices, particularly in governance by ensuring high-quality, reliable disclosures are aligned with international standards,” he said. “Such reliable and credible reporting is crucial for attracting low-carbon investments and enhancing the international competitiveness and green credentials of Malaysian products.”
“Their contributions enhance transparency, support climate action, and help guide Malaysia toward a low-carbon, resilient economy,” he added.
The 2025 Conference was especially significant as it achieved a milestone of 40 years, marking MIA’s leadership in talent development and professional upskilling. Over four decades, the Conference has evolved into one of the largest regional gatherings of accountants as well as a premier platform for thought leadership, capacity building, and regional cooperation – supporting MIA’s mandate as the regulator and developer of the accountancy profession. On behalf of MIA, YBhg Dato’ Seri Dr Mohamad Zabidi Ahmad, President of MIA, extended his appreciation to all stakeholders for their contributions to the Conference’s enduring success during his remarks at the Opening Ceremony.
Themed “Collaborative Leadership for a Sustainable Future”, the Conference aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 17 – Partnerships for the Goals. Held in conjunction with the ASEAN Summit 2025, the Conference underscored the importance of regional collaboration to drive growth and innovation in an increasingly interconnected world.
“Accountants are uniquely positioned to foster trust, transparency, and accountability across ASEAN, driving sustainable development, economic integration, and regional resilience,” said YBhg Dato’ Seri Dr Mohamad Zabidi. In line with the theme, he called on accountants to take the lead in building collaborative relationships across industries and borders. He also encouraged delegates to “demonstrate ethical leadership and sound governance to create a more inclusive and sustainable future.”
Key Takeaways on the Profession’s Future Relevance
The Conference shared several key insights deemed essential to the future relevance of the profession.
- To remain future-ready, accountants must continually strengthen their capabilities in ESG, sustainability, and digital transformation.
- The future demands more than technical expertise – leadership, adaptability, systems thinking, and integrative skills will be essential.
- Accountants must be equipped to deliver both financial and non-financial insights to navigate complex, fast-changing environments.
- The profession is evolving from a functional to a strategic advisory role, guiding organisations not only in finance and compliance but also in environmental and risk management strategies.
- Accountants will be instrumental in bridging sustainability goals with financial strategy – using the language of numbers to convert environmental ambitions into measurable outcomes and actionable plans.
Highlighting the importance of global collaboration, the Conference also featured a keynote by Mr Jean Bouquot, President of the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC), who underscored the value of collaborative leadership in securing the future of the profession.
Looking ahead, MIA remains committed to delivering essential upskilling programmes to ensure accountants are prepared for emerging challenges. The Institute expressed its heartfelt gratitude to all delegates, speakers, and partners who contributed to the success of this year’s Conference.
