Opportunities in Malaysia
CPA Australia's reputation for its contribution to the accounting profession and the development of accounting education in Malaysia is widely recognised.
Member services
There are a range of products and services tailored to meet the needs of finance, accounting and business professionals in Malaysia, including technical committees and discussion groups; CPA Program workshops; CPD seminars and conferences; and networking events.
Pathways to membership of your local body
Under the requirements of Section 22 and 23 of the Accountants Act 1967, you cannot practice an accountant in Malaysia unless:
- you have spent the majority of your residence within Malaysia
- you are a registered member of the Malaysian Institute of Accountants (MIA)
This includes holding company positions such as finance manager, accounts manager, financial controller, general manager or any other similar descriptions.
CPA Australia members who hold CPA status are eligible to become full members of the MIA.
If you wish to establish your own public practice, you will be required to obtain a valid practising certificate from the MIA. Only MIA members registered as chartered accountants with valid practising certificates can describe and hold themselves out as chartered accountants in public practice and may carry out services such as accounting, audit, liquidation, tax and other related services. However, the practice of audit, liquidation and tax would require an additional license issue of the Ministry of Finance.
Accountants working in industry, commerce, government, academia are not required to obtain a practising certification.
Malaysia's business environment
Despite the less favourable external environment which has had a moderating effect on Malaysia's export growth, strong domestic demand has sustained the growth of the Malaysian economy.
Employment opportunities
Throughout the year, career and recruitment fairs are often held. To demonstrate you are a forward thinker, it's always advised to bring copies of your resume, and supporting documents, to these events.
There is a need for CPAs in a wide range of fields, including: commerce and industry, public sector, public practice, banking, finance and capital markets, insurance, financial services consultancy, education and information technology.
Having good grades is not everything. Being a leader, good aptitude, making the right decisions, good networking and having people skills will give you the edge to be employed.
Skills and specialities in demand
Skills currently in demand include: forensic accounting, Islamic monetary affairs and Islamic accounting standards banking, professional practice, industry and commerce, banking and finance services and business process outsourcing.
Work permits
An employment visa is required for foreigners working in Malaysia. For more information visit the Immigration Department of Malaysia website.
Working conditions and lifestyle
Malaysia is moving towards a five day working week culture. Banks and government offices have led the way by implementing this. Office hours operate from 9.00 am to 5.30 pm. A healthy work / life balance is encouraged.
The Employees Provident Fund is a savings scheme for your retirement. The current employee contribution rate is 11 per cent and 12 per cent by the employer.
More information
- read about CPA Australia's relationship with the MIA
- visit the MIA website
- visit the Immigration Department of Malaysia website
- view Malaysia contact details on the CPA Australia's website
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