KUCHING, June 21: The Court of Appeals sitting in Kuching this morning has unanimously allowed the appeal of Sarawak United Peoples’ Party (SUPP) Dudong branch chairman Wong Ching Yong regarding his judicial review against the decision of the disciplinary board of the Malaysian Institute of Accountants (MIA).
The institute had alleged that Wong had committed unprofessional conduct within the meaning of Rule 2 of MIA (No 2) Disciplinary Regulations 2002.
According to a press statement, sometime in 2018, Wong had undergone a disciplinary hearing conducted by MIA over allegations of non-compliance with certain accountancy standards during members’ practice review exercise.
Wong later filed for judicial review against the decision of MIA with the Sibu High Court. However, the then judicial commissioner dismissed Wong’s application with costs.
Dissatisfied, he appealed against the decision of the said Judicial Commissioner to the Court of Appeals.
The Court of Appeals, having heard arguments from lawyers representing both parties, unanimously overturned the earlier decision delivered by the Judicial Commissioner of Sibu High Court below for the reason being that the disciplinary board of MIA had committed errors of procedural impropriety during the hearing of Wong’s case and its decision was arrived without hearing any witness being called by MIA.
The Court of Appeal also ordered that any fine previously paid by Wong be returned by MIA and any publication made regarding his conviction of unprofessional conduct be retracted.
The Court also awarded costs of RM15,000 to the successful appellant. — DayakDaily
