Ready and able for the world of accountancy

In mid-2014, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak called for the establishing of a centre for professional accounting programmes in UiTM to boost the number of Bumiputera professional accountants. Following the recommendation, UiTM created the Centre of Professional Accountancy UiTM (IPAC Education) on March 25, 2015 as a private entity under UiTM Holdings.

The centre will serve as the tuition provider for globally renowned professional accounting qualifications namely, the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW), the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) and also our home-grown professional qualification by the Malaysian Institute of Certified Public Accountants (MICPA). The centre is located at INTEC, Section 17 of Shah Alam.

Afterschool was given the opportunity to have a chat with the Director of IPAC Education to understand the importance of the establishment and INTEC Education College.

Associate Professor Mahfudzah Mohamed was the Head of Professional Programme Department, Faculty of Accountancy UiTM for 11 years and a lecturer at UiTM for almost 20 years. She was given the responsibility for the strategy, management and operations of professional accountancy programmes for IPAC Education at INTEC Education College.

Why is IPAC Education an important investment for our future?

We are in need of more professional accountants, especially those Bumiputera status. We are diverting students straight into the world of professional accountancy exposing them to exams which are practical and business oriented, building up knowledge and confidence to create rapport with the top accounting firms in Malaysia such as PWC, Ernst & Young, and KPMG.

If I am interested in accountancy, why would I consider IPAC Education?

Anyone can be an accountant. Just like engineering or medicine, the world of accountancy is a diverse starting point for all. But once you have ventured into this professional aspect, be prepared. The examinations are tough. Commitment and focus is needed to understand what is presented to you and how to solve. A certain level of English proficiency is also important, as the papers are of international acknowledgment.

As for the requirements, students need SPM qualifications with a minimum of 5As, especially in English and Mathematics. We use it as a measure but if students are determine to take the leap and take the exams at full force; we would applaud and accept them into IPAC Education.

What are your thoughts on the professional accounting bodies available in Malaysia?

I can’t say there is a difference in the aspect of examinations or programmes. What I can say we are proud to be collaborating with ACCA, where our graduates will be taking the next step in their professional accounting programmes. With ACCA, our students have the flexibility to work and study towards their professional qualifications. ACCA has been in Malaysia for quite some time, thus the rapport we have created allows an equal trust for the future of our current and future students of IPAC Education. We are planning to branch out to other professional bodies, staring with Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) in January 2017.

Were there any surprises from the recently graduated students of IPAC Education?

We expected good results but did not expect such a large number of students to receive 75 percent for two semesters throughout their one year with IPAC Education. This places high standards for the new cohorts to be even better than their seniors, engaging in a hearty battle of the wits. It also builds on the success of IPAC Education and its reputation as the ideal centre for professional accountancy programmes. I’ve also seen their confidence levels rising, being adaptable and flexible in situations where you need to think on your feet.

Do you have any words of wisdom for your graduates?

First of all, I would like to say congratulations for your achievements. I am proud of you and I pray for a bright future ahead. Whatever that you do, do it for the right reason. Have a good balance in your moments, and appreciate the time that has been given to you, too.

Venture inside IPAC Education @ INTEC, and enjoy the fast-track to the world of professional accountancy.