Advancing Internal Audit in Asia Pacific: A Recap of the ACIIA Regional Conference 2024 in Bali
- Sep 3
- 3 min read
The ACIIA Regional Conference 2024, held on 28–29 August in Bali, Indonesia, marked a vibrant convergence of knowledge, collaboration, and inspiration for the internal audit profession across the Asia Pacific region. With deep gratitude and pride, we are pleased to share that the conference was attended by over 700 participants from more than 300 organizations across 19 countries—including Indonesia, Australia, Brunei, China, Philippines, Hong Kong, India, Japan, South Korea, Maldives, Malaysia, Mongolia, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam.
As the host of this year’s regional conference, IIA Indonesia took the opportunity to showcase the country’s rapid progress in GRC practices to the international audience. The event became a testament to the region's collective commitment to strengthening internal audit’s strategic role in governance, risk, and compliance.
Engaged Discussions and Global Perspectives
The conference featured dynamic sessions and deep engagement from participants throughout. A broad spectrum of critical topics was explored, including the new Global Internal Audit Standards (GIAS), sustainability and ESG assurance, fraud risk management, data privacy, innovation and technology in audit, and transformational leadership.
The sessions emphasized that internal audit is at a pivotal point—where adaptability, continuous learning, and strategic mindset are essential to stay relevant in a rapidly evolving global landscape. Speakers encouraged auditors to act as agents of positive change, identifying risks early, advising on operational improvements, and championing ethical practices.
Key Takeaways from the Conference
Internal audit must evolve with modern business demands—requiring continuous learning and strategic transformation.
Advancing sustainable finance is vital for long-term economic and environmental resilience.
The new GIAS can elevate the quality and influence of internal audit, applicable to all types of organizations.
Alternative actions may be needed in exceptional cases where full conformance to Standards is not feasible, while still meeting their intent.
Protecting personal data is critical in the digital era, and internal audit plays a key role in data governance.
Innovation and creativity are not optional—internal auditors must embrace them to drive value.
AI should be harnessed to enhance risk assessment and decision-making.
Sustainability is a strategic imperative, not just a compliance matter.
A healthy corporate culture underpins organizational success—and auditors help nurture it.
Strong relationships and effective communication with stakeholders are crucial for audit impact.
Even small audit functions can drive results with the right strategy and focus.
Advanced analytics are essential for proactive fraud risk management.
Everyone has a role to play in driving innovation.
Internal audit transformation is key to staying relevant and effective.
Public sector audit contributes to service delivery optimization and public trust.
Sustainability reporting signals long-term commitment to responsible value creation.
Active involvement of boards/commissioners empowers internal audit effectiveness.
Mental resilience through stoicism helps professionals navigate challenges with clarity.
Appreciation and Looking Forward
We extend heartfelt thanks to our inspiring speakers who sparked meaningful reflection and action, to all participants for their enthusiasm and collaborative spirit, and to our generous sponsors, whose support was essential in making this event a success.
As internal auditors, we are called to not only remain relevant but to lead transformation.
Through this conference, we are reminded that our impact lies in our integrity, our insights, and our willingness to innovate.
Let this momentum carry us forward—toward a future where the internal audit profession continues to thrive as a cornerstone of good governance in the Asia Pacific and beyond.
Comments