Auditor sets up special state units

NSTP

NILAI: The National Audit Department will establish a special audit sector at the state government level to ensure that local councils and statutory bodies are more transparent and accountable.

Auditor-General Tan Sri Ambrin Buang said the sector will hopefully help to improve the public's confidence in the management of public funds.

"At the moment, there are a lot of issues raised regarding the management of public funds, especially at the state and local government level.

"With the establishment of the special audit sector, it is hoped that the public's confidence in the management of public funds will be improved," Ambrin said at the closing of an internal audit symposium at the National Audit Academy near here yesterday.

He also said that the department will take follow-up measures, including acquiring the services of experts, to further improve and enhance the management and effectiveness of internal audit in the public sector as well as to improve the integrity of the auditing service in the country.
He said that courses and training will also be organised for internal audit committee members to ensure that they have the necessary skills to undertake their responsibility.

"This is needed as there are still weaknesses which could lead to the professionalism and effectiveness of internal audit in the public sector being questioned.

"We will co-operate with the Association of Public Audit Institute to ensure the smooth running of these programmes as the internal audit unit is important to ensure accountability."

He also reminded those involved in internal auditing to continue improving their professionalism to ensure a satisfactory service and enhance the credibility of the department.