Accountants Must Adapt to AI and Geopolitical Changes, Says Deputy Finance Minister

Deputy Finance Minister Liew Chin Tong has urged accountants and finance professionals to develop multidisciplinary skills as artificial intelligence (AI) reshapes the industry. Speaking at the Certified Practising Accountant Congress 2026, he said AI could replace some routine accounting roles while creating new opportunities that require stronger human judgement and value-based decision-making. He warned that finance professionals could no longer focus solely on technical accounting knowledge, as businesses increasingly face challenges involving geopolitics, supply chain resilience, technology, critical minerals and climate change.

AI and Global Economic Shifts Demand a Broader Role for Finance Professionals

Liew outlined three priorities for Malaysia: strengthening its position in global supply chains and technology, maintaining geopolitical neutrality, and building a stronger middle class. He also encouraged closer cooperation among ASEAN countries and Australia to improve their collective position when dealing with major global powers.

He urged accountants to resist pressure on governments to compete through lower wages, weaker workers’ rights, excessive tax incentives or relaxed environmental standards. Meanwhile, Liew said he hoped amendments to the Accountants Act 1967 could be accelerated ahead of the legislation’s 60th anniversary in 2027.

Liew Chin Tong says accountants must broaden their expertise as AI, geopolitics and changing global supply chains transform the finance profession.

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