By MIA Sustainability, Digital Economy and Services Team
For small and medium practices (SMPs), the pressure to digitalise is more than a trend—it is a critical factor for survival and growth. But where do you start? The challenges are real: tight budgets, a lack of technical expertise, and the overwhelming pace of technological change.
Recognising these hurdles, the Malaysian Institute of Accountants (MIA) is organising a game-changing initiative: the MIA SMP Digital Accelerator Programme. More than another webinar or guide, this is a hands-on, supportive programme designed to propel your practice into the digital future.
Based on the introductory webinar held in January 2026, here are the key points that you need to know about this programme.
What is the MIA SMP Digital Accelerator Programme?
Think of it as a launchpad for your firm’s digital future. The programme is designed to help SMPs enhance their work processes, overcome key challenges, and achieve sustainable growth through technology. It presents an exclusive opportunity for a maximum of 35 firms that have already started their tech journey—no matter how small—and are ready to hit the accelerator.
Who is it for?
What’s in it for you?
Key Webinar Panel Takeaways
The introductory webinar also featured a panel discussion moderated by Professor Dr David Asirvatham, Chair of the MIA Digital Technology Implementation Committee (DTIC), together with Steven Chong, Member of the MIA DTIC, and Teh Weil Xuan, Member of the MIA SMP Committee. They shared invaluable, straightforward and actionable advice on digital transformation for sustainable growth, geared to SMPs.
From Practical Steps to Big Leaps
For firms feeling overwhelmed, the message was clear: start small and focus on your biggest pain points.
Teh shared his personal experience on how a task that initially took nearly two weeks was completed in just two days with the right tool. His advice? “Tackle one thing at a time. Look at your pain points and identify the areas where you face the most challenges and spend the most time. Start by addressing those first. Once you see progress in your processes, you will gradually build trust in technology adoption and move on to the next area.”
The experts also demystified Artificial Intelligence (AI), explaining that SMPs can start with accessible tools like the paid versions of Large Language Models. These can be used to draft reports, analyse financial statements, or check disclosure requirements, freeing up valuable time for strategic, high-value work. They also agreed that AI is not here to replace accountants but to empower them, shifting their focus from repetitive tasks to critical thinking and advisory roles.
On Leadership and Culture: It Starts at the Top
“If you cannot lead by example, why should you even expect that your staff is going to be any different?” asked Steven Chong, underscoring the central role of leadership in successful transformation. Adopting new technology is more than buying software; it involves changing the firm’s culture. Leaders must champion this change. It is crucial to involve the team, delegate responsibility, and frame the change as a way to empower them, not replace them. For instance, “When you automate repetitive tasks, you free up your team to focus on higher-value work like analysis and strategic judgment,” noted Teh.
Overcoming the “We’re Too Small” Mindset
One of the concerns raised by the audience was, “We are too small to go digital.”
Shooting down this “excuse”, Steven said that this is a limiting belief, and numerous affordable and scalable tools are available for firms of all sizes.
Reflecting on a personal coaching experience, Steven said, ” You have to start somewhere and there is no such thing as being too small.” In fact, being small can be an advantage. Professor Dr. David emphasised, “When you are small, you have the highest opportunity to go digital. In fact, you must go digital when you are small.” Smaller firms are more agile and can adopt new processes more quickly than larger, more bureaucratic organisations.
Your Journey Starts Now: How to Apply
Applying for the SMP Digital Accelerator Programme is simple and free — all information is available on the MIA website.
- Find out more about the Programme and the link to the application form here.
- View the recording of the Introductory Webinar: MIA SMP Digital Accelerator Programme here.
Seize this opportunity to accelerate your practice, enhance your value, and secure your place in the future of accounting.
