AFA and IFAC Strengthen Regional Collaboration through AFA–IFAC Dialogue in Jakarta

Jakarta, 5 December 2025 — The ASEAN Federation of Accountants (AFA), in collaboration with the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC), convened the AFA–IFAC Dialogue at Fairmont Jakarta, bringing together representatives from IFAC and AFA Primary and Associate Members across ASEAN. The Dialogue served as an important forum for open exchange on global developments affecting the accountancy profession and how these developments can be translated into practical actions that respond to regional needs.

Enhancing Professional Quality, Capacity, and Future Skills

The Dialogue focused on key areas essential to strengthening the profession across ASEAN. Participants discussed the implementation of Quality Management Standards, particularly the ISQM suite, and shared experiences on shifting from compliance-based approaches toward risk-based, firm-wide quality management systems that are scalable and appropriate to different firm sizes. Special attention was given to the challenges faced by small and medium-sized practices, including resource constraints and implementation readiness, highlighting the value of peer learning and regional knowledge sharing.

Discussions also addressed the role of all members in supporting professional development and public trust through effective strategic planning and fulfillment of IFAC’s Statements of Membership Obligations. IFAC shared insights on its Strategic Planning Toolkit, which is designed to help PAOs develop phased, realistic plans aligned with their capacity and priorities. In addition, participants explored developments in education and sustainability, including upcoming revisions to the International Education Standards that will embed sustainability-related competencies across the professional lifecycle. These discussions underscored the need to equip accountants with skills in sustainability reporting, assurance, ethics, and data analysis to remain relevant in a rapidly evolving environment.

Turning Dialogue into Coordinated Regional Action

Beyond technical discussions, the Dialogue reinforced the importance of coordination and follow-up to ensure lasting impact. AFA emphasized that meaningful engagement with IFAC is critical to aligning global direction with ASEAN realities and to ensuring that international standards and initiatives are effectively implemented at the regional and national levels. Participants also reflected on emerging trends such as technology adoption and market developments, recognizing both the opportunities and risks they present for the profession.

In closing, AFA encouraged all members to build on the outcomes of the Dialogue by integrating key insights into regional and national initiatives planned for 2026. The AFA Secretariat reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining close communication with members, gathering feedback, and supporting collaborative initiatives with IFAC and other regional bodies. The AFA–IFAC Dialogue concluded with a shared commitment to strengthening cooperation, enhancing professional capacity, and advancing a resilient, future-ready accountancy profession across ASEAN.

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Category: ASEAN Accountants | Post on 19 Desember 2025