By Ashley Sim
KUCHING, June 25: Auditor-General Datuk Wan Suraya Wan Mohd Radzi has stated that the National Audit Department (NAD) Malaysia is embarking on a digitalisation drive to improve audit efficiency using big data analytics.
According to Wan Suraya, the initiative is expected to be fully operational by June 2025, marking a significant step towards more transparent and comprehensive audit processes.
“In an effort to ensure that auditing can be carried out independently and in line with the latest developments, NAD is currently in the process of amending the Audit Act 1957 [Act 62], which involves the creation of new provisions as well as amendments to some existing provisions.
“Among other things, the amendment will give space to the Auditor General to follow up on improvement actions by ministries/departments/agencies in an effort to strengthen the governance of public money management.
“In addition, the new approach of ‘follow the public money’ will ensure that public money is tracked more effectively to determine whether it is spent or used to achieve the set objectives, as well as being managed in an orderly manner,” she said during her speech at the National Auditors Conference 2024 held today at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) here.
She went on to say that management auditing of government companies will also be expanded and given a deeper emphasis.
The National Auditors Conference 2024, themed ‘Empowering Governance: Facing Modern Challenges,’ aligns with the MADANI government’s policy, emphasising robust governance in public financial management.
According to a press handout, key topics discussed included organisational digitalisation, the role of internal audits in strengthening governance, and strategies to navigate contemporary governance challenges.
Wan Suraya further underscored NAD’s dynamic role in national development through performance evaluations and monitoring government programs and activities.
She reiterated the department’s commitment to transparent and open reporting via the Auditor General’s Dashboard (AGD), which allows public access to audit follow-ups and improvements.
“This year, NAD will certify 476 financial statements and publish three Auditor General’s Reports covering various audits, including federal and state financial management,” she announced.
The event, graced by Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, marks a significant milestone as it is the first time the conference is held in Kuching, reflecting the collaborative efforts between the NAD and the Sarawak government.
The event was attended by various dignitaries and officials, including Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUS) Speaker Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nassar; Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Integrity and Ombudsman), Datuk Dr Juanda Jaya; Sarawak Deputy Minister for Transport (MOTS) Datuk Dr Jerip Susil; and Deputy Sarawak Secretary (Operation) Datu Hii Chang Kee. — DayakDaily
