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As industries continue to evolve in response to digital transformation, artificial intelligence (AI), and changing business demands, the accounting and finance profession is undergoing a significant shift. 

Recognising the importance of exposing students to these realities, the School of Accounting and Finance (SoAF) at Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) recently organised an industrial visit to the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) Malaysia office in Bandar Utama, Petaling Jaya. 

The visit reflects APU’s commitment to producing industry-ready graduates by providing students with opportunities to engage directly with professional bodies and practitioners, enabling them to gain valuable insights beyond the classroom. 

Led by Dr Lim Ying Ying, Senior Lecturer at SoAF and APU CIMA Lead, and accompanied by Ms Ili Syahirah Kamaruzaman, Lecturer at SoAF, the visit offered students a first-hand look into the evolving landscape of the accounting and finance profession. 

Understanding the Future of Management Accounting

Located in the heart of Bandar Utama, the CIMA Malaysia office serves as the regional hub for the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants, the global organisation formed through the collaboration of CIMA and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). 

Upon arrival, students were warmly welcomed by representatives from CIMA, who introduced the organisation’s global presence, professional qualification pathways, and its role in shaping the future of finance professionals worldwide. 

The session highlighted the growing demand for professionals who possess not only strong technical accounting knowledge but also strategic thinking, analytical capabilities, and digital competencies. 

Students gained a deeper understanding of how the role of management accountants has expanded beyond traditional financial reporting to encompass business strategy, performance management, risk assessment, and value creation. 

Learning from Industry Experience

One of the highlights of the visit was an engaging industry-sharing session delivered by Mr Ryan Peh, a finance professional at Oracle and an active member of the CIMA community.

Drawing from his professional journey and industry experience, Mr Ryan shared practical perspectives on how emerging technologies are reshaping the finance function. He explained how AI, automation, and data analytics are transforming business operations and decision-making processes, creating new opportunities for finance professionals to contribute as strategic business partners.

Through real-world examples and interactive discussions, students explored how modern management accountants are expected to interpret data, provide business insights, and support organisational growth in an increasingly digital environment. 

The session offered a realistic glimpse into the skills and mindset required to remain relevant and competitive in a rapidly changing profession. 

Developing Critical Thinking and Professional Judgement

To further enhance student engagement, participants took part in a business scenario exercise designed to simulate real-world decision-making challenges. 

Working collaboratively, students were tasked with analysing a business situation, evaluating alternative solutions, identifying potential risks, and presenting justified recommendations. 

The activity encouraged them to apply critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and professional judgement—competencies that are highly valued in contemporary finance and accounting roles. 

By placing students in practical situations that mirror workplace challenges, the exercise reinforced the importance of problem-solving and strategic decision-making in today's business environment. 

Inspiring Future Finance Leaders

Beyond the formal sessions, students were given the opportunity to tour the CIMA office and gain insights into the organisation’s operations, initiatives, and contributions towards developing future finance leaders. 

The visit concluded with a lively question-and-answer session, where students actively engaged with the speakers on topics ranging from career progression and professional qualifications to industry expectations and future opportunities. 

Their enthusiasm and participation demonstrated a strong desire to understand the profession beyond academic theory and highlighted the value of industry engagement initiatives in complementing classroom learning. 

Among the key learning outcomes from the visit were a deeper understanding of the strategic role of management accountants, greater awareness of professional qualification pathways, enhanced appreciation of the impact of emerging technologies on the profession, and strengthened critical thinking and decision-making skills. 

Most importantly, the experience inspired students to actively pursue professional development opportunities and prepare themselves for successful careers in the accounting and finance industry. 

Prof Dr Chong Lee Lee, Head of the School of Accounting and Finance at APU, commended the initiative and the dedication of the faculty members involved. 

"Industry engagements such as this CIMA visit provide students with invaluable exposure to real-world professional practices. I am proud of our faculty members for continuously creating opportunities that empower students to become confident, future-ready accounting and finance professionals who can thrive in an increasingly dynamic global economy."