(Kuching, 14th) Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari has called on more local accountants to join efforts to promote Sarawak's carbon credit industry to ensure transparency and authority in carbon assessment.
He stated that starting from 2026, Sarawak will offer free education at five government public universities, including education in the fields of finance and accounting.
The Premier pointed out that this measure aims to cultivate local experts responsible for carbon auditing and calculation, including the field of carbon trading.
"Many claim to be experts in global carbon assessment, but Sarawak will adhere to World Bank standards. Therefore, credible assessments and reliable accounting standards are needed, so we do not deceive people. Once deceived, people will lose confidence in us."
Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari made this call during his speech at the 2024 Sarawak Chartered Certified Accountants Association stakeholders appreciation dinner last night.
In addition, the Premier also emphasized the importance of accountants understanding the concept of carbon value, which, although intangible, is crucial to the industry.
On the other hand, ACCA Maritime Portfolio Head for Southeast Asia, Lim Jian Hao, stated in his speech that the association is committed to supporting Sarawak's digital economic transformation and sustainable development by equipping its members with necessary skills.
"At ACCA, we are committed to equipping our members with the necessary skills, whether it's AI-related skills to cope with this dynamic environment. Whether it's sustainability reporting or ethical leadership, our programs ensure Sarawak's accounting talent is prepared for the future and equipped to compete globally."
He pointed out that the Chartered Certified Accountants Association is focused on supporting Malaysia's goal of cultivating 60,000 professional accountants by 2030, with Sarawak being a major driving force in this aspiration.