"It Boils Down To People" — Accomplished Audit Partner Shares Importance Of Networking
The audit partner shared how a banana leaf restaurant owner changed his perspective on business.
By Marion Fernando — 19 Dec 2022, 10:22 AM
As you progress in your career, you'll realise networking is important
Besides expanding your circle for business growth, meeting new people also allows you to exchange professional knowledge that may help create an impact beyond just climbing the corporate ladder.
Whether it is through volunteering or mentor-mentee relationships, connecting with people in your field helps uplift your career as well as others, especially in fast-paced industries like accounting, for example.
According to Mak Wai Kit CPA (Aust.), an audit partner with Deloitte, having an additional certification such as the CPA Program is a natural progression to professional success.
It also offers the opportunity to gain perspective and insight, thanks to CPA Australia's extensive network of members.
Mak has successfully been elected as a CPA Australia Malaysia Divisional Council member for the term 1 January 2023 to 31 December 2025. He is also part of CPA Australia's Digital Transformation Committee.
Image via Mak Wai Kit (Provided to SAYS)As part of the audit and assurance practice, Mak has been with the firm based here in KL for about 15 years.
An animal lover with a passion for the environment, his dedication to the latter extends to what he does professionally, which involves Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG).
Mak did his degree in an Australian university based in Malaysia, and felt it was fitting to get his certification via the CPA Program from CPA Australia.
He managed the recently-concluded Deloitte Audit Business Challenge (DABC) 2022, which saw participation from more than 35 universities locally. CPA Australia is the Exclusive Partner for the Deloitte Audit Business Challenge.
Image via Mak Wai Kit (Provided to SAYS)As CPA Australia is a global organisation, being a member does not only provide a path towards becoming a certified accountant, but also gives you access to thought leadership by other members and CPA Australia itself
"As vast as the world is, we are limited by time and exposure in our day-to-day interaction at work. Having access and socialising with members gives one insight, a different perspective, empathy, and a truly global mindset," he explained.
Like his job, some activities and events within the CPA Program have values aligned with ESG. From how to progress in your career to providing mentorship that includes aspects outside the accounting profession, these events are designed to give back to the community, especially the youth.
Mak recently acted as a moderator for one such CPA Australia event called Zero to one – Journey of start-up to corporate, where panellists included startup founders and renowned personalities in the industry.
One encounter that left an impression on Mak was when he met a CEO who also owned a banana leaf restaurant
The interesting thing is that the banana leaf restaurant was not just a way to make money, but also to help underprivileged communities.
He said, "When you don't talk about profit in a conversation, it really takes a whole turn. It's no longer about, 'Okay, how am I gonna target this client?' or 'How am I gonna reach out to this person?'
"It gives a different perspective of you wanting to help people, help them progress in life or give them a sense of purpose."
Mak recently picked up cycling, one of several things he does to keep his mind and body healthy.
Image via Mak Wai Kit (Provided to SAYS)At the end of the day, having a professional certification brings benefits and a pathway to progression. But for Mak, it still boils down to people.
"The CPA Program has a very extensive stress on connecting people within and outside of CPA Australia, to connect with people from all backgrounds and speciality — not only in finance and accounting but beyond," he said.
Mak puts it best, "They say the value of a master's degree lies not in the academic materials but the friendships and relationships you forge throughout the programme. With CPA Australia, that happens all year round."
Interested in advancing your career in this field? You can enrol for the Semester 1 2023 intake of the CPA Program from today until 27 January 2023.
If you'd like to find out how to join CPA Australia's enthusiastic network of young professionals and be the impact you'd like to see, attend one of its online information sessions, where you'll also receive a unique promo code.
This code will entitle you to a RM576 waiver on the application fee when you use it to apply for the CPA Program.
Want a CPA Australia team member to connect with you? You can leave your contact details here.
