A Re-Assessment of Auditors’ Office in Enhancing Accountability

Abstract

In the context of contemporary corporate atmosphere, auditors are pivotal. They act as a financial guardian in the interests of stockholders and stakeholders. Hence, there is a gradual trend of increasing reliance on auditors and their report. Most importantly, the report is lodged at the Companies Commission of Malaysia to enable stockholders and stakeholders to view the report. Hence, this study will examine the office of auditors pertaining to laws governing eligibility, appointment, qualification, disqualification, resignation and removal. The study will determine whether there are any weaknesses in the relevant laws which contribute to the passive role played by auditors. The study then proceeds to scrutinise whether the powers and rights entrusted to the auditors are adequate in protecting the interests of the stockholders and stakeholders. In doing so, the study will show that the powers and rights of the auditors are superficial in truly protecting the interests of the stockholders and stakeholders. The study will then recommend the necessary reforms to be made to the relevant provisions of the Companies Act 1965 to enhance the accountability of auditors. This is important since there is also a growing trend to make professionals more accountable.