CPA Australia hosts inaugural ASEAN Academic Forum in Jakarta to support improved accounting education

CPA Australia is hosting more than 150 leading academics and finance professionals in Jakarta this week (16-17 September) for the inaugural ASEAN Academic Forum, addressing the skills and technological shifts shaping the future of accounting education. 

The Forum provides opportunities for academics and professionals with cross-disciplinary interests to share research findings and promote advances in accounting education. The event also aims to expand access to international publication opportunities in Indonesia, and a booklet of proceedings will be produced to capture the insights and contributions shared during the two-day program.

The profession is evolving quickly, with employers increasingly seeking inter-disciplinary skills and expertise in emerging areas such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, cloud-based technology, ESG, ethics, risk management, and strategic business partnering. 

Participating countries include Australia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore and Vietnam, in addition to Indonesia. 

Priya Terumalay FCPA, Regional Head for CPA Australia in Southeast Asia, said,  “Academics play an important role in influencing the next generation of accountants and finance professionals. This forum is part of our ongoing support for the advancement of accounting research and teaching.”

“By gathering distinguished scholars, educators and industry leaders from around the region, we aim to inspire meaningful dialogues, collaborations and innovation in accounting.”

In addition to the presentation of research papers, the forum features keynotes and panel discussions on global research impact, transformative teaching and the integration of AI and digital pedagogy. 

The accounting profession is a key pillar of the Indonesian economy, underpinning stability, efficiency and sustainability of companies, financial markets and the broader economy. With most of the world’s largest multinationals operating in Indonesia, demand for qualified accountants is increasing rapidly. At the same time, the country’s fast-growing economy faces a shortage of accounting professionals. 

CPA Australia is helping to address this gap by building local professional accounting capabilities. The CPA Program is well received in Indonesia and continues to attract strong interest from aspiring accountants and finance professionals. 

“Jakarta was chosen for our inaugural forum because we want to support the Indonesian government in shaping the future of the accounting profession through education and advocacy,” Priya said.

“We’ve had a presence in Indonesia since 2011 and we are committed to supporting efforts to increase local accounting and finance talents.”

Australian Ambassador to ASEAN, Tiffany McDonald, conveyed special remarks at the dinner reception. “I hope this forum will lead to a stronger network among professionals, academics and researchers in your respected fields and contribute to greater information and knowledge exchange between Australia and ASEAN”, said Ambassador McDonald. 

Professor ASL Lindawati, BINUS University said, “I am truly honoured to present a paper at the ASEAN Academic Forum which is an invaluable platform for academics and practitioners from across the region to share insights and strengthen collaborations.”

“I deeply appreciate CPA Australia’s commitment to supporting research and advancing publication opportunities vital to nurturing innovation and driving the accounting profession forward.” 

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