Malaysia has strengthened its international presence as the Chair of ASEAN by launching ICAEW ASEAN Connect 2025. Held at Chartered Accountants’ Hall in London, the event brought together ICAEW members from across Southeast Asia and the UK. It marked a significant milestone in uniting ASEAN’s finance professionals to drive regional cooperation and global economic alignment.

The forum was initiated by ICAEW Malaysia, reflecting the country’s ambition to position itself as a connector between regional talent and international standards. It also highlighted the important role-chartered accountants play in supporting ASEAN’s journey toward becoming a unified economic bloc.

Supporting ASEAN’s Growth Through Professional Unity

As ASEAN economies become more interconnected, so does the need for strong professional frameworks. Accountants play a critical role in building trust through consistent reporting and good governance. This trust is essential for encouraging investment, trade, and financial transparency.

The event was officiated by Dato’ Zakri Jaafar, Malaysia’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom. It welcomed finance professionals from Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, and Vietnam, along with ASEAN accountants working in the UK. Discussion focused on cross-border mobility, sustainable, growth, and how fiancé leaders can support regional resilience.

Honoring Talent and Advancing Shared Goals

One of the evening’s highlights was the ICAEW World Prizegiving Ceremony. It recognized Malaysia’s top-performing accountancy students, showcasing the country’s ability to produce globally competitive talent. The recognition also reflected the international value of the Associate Chartered Accountant (ACA) qualification.

“ASEAN Connect 2025 is about uniting two worlds, ASEAN’s vibrant economies and ICAEW’s global expertise,” said Shenola Gonzales, Head of ICAEW Malaysia. “As Malaysia lead the region this year, we’re proud to highlight how our profession helps drive collaboration and economic strength.”

ICAEW continues to work closely with local regulators, universities, and its Malaysian member’s society to ensure training aligns with international standards. This strategy helps raise the region’s profile in global finance.

Driving ESG Alignment and Regional Policy Influence

ICAEW’s impact extends beyond professional development. In 2025, Chief Executive Alan Vallance became the first ICAEW leader to speak at the ASEAN Capital Markets Forum, emphasizing policy alignment. Additionally, ICAEW led ASEAN’s first Scope 3 emissions reporting workshop, bringing together policymakers, regulators, and business leaders to support consistent ESG reporting.

“Financial resilience depends on transparency,” Vallance explained. “Investors demand clarity in sustainability. ASEAN must adopt a unified approach that promotes competitiveness while ensuring ESG compliance.”

Through these initiatives, ICAEW is influencing policy, shaping regional best practices, and empowering ASEAN professionals. Its efforts help build a foundation for sustainable growth, stronger regulations, and cross-border collaboration.

Malaysia Champions ASEAN’s Professional Future

ICAEW ASEAN Connect 2025 proves that Malaysia is not only leading but also elevating the ASEAN region through global engagement. With a focus on talent, sustainability, and collaboration, the forum strengthened ASEAN’s position as a rising economic force. AS Malaysia continues its leadership role, it sets a clear path for professional excellence and regional unity on the global stage.