Malaysia needs more forensic accountants to fight off corruption

Corruption cases are expected to multiply from last year's 20 to 80 cases this year. This, according to the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission, calls for more forensic accountants.

According to division director Datuk I.G. Chandran, the workload has quadrupled since last year. Most cases involve millions of ringgit and are primarily related to fund transfers.

Due to mounting workload, Chandran is looking to expand this unit as there's a shortage of accountants.

"We intend to bring in graduates from the big four accounting companies such as PricewaterhouseCoopers, Ernst & Young, KPMG and Deloitte.

He said a certain aptitude and specific skills were needed to become a forensic accountant, in addition to being able to plough through documents and accounts.