Why Is It Necessary to Do an Audit for Companies in Singapore and Malaysia?

Auditing plays a crucial role in ensuring transparency, accountability, and financial integrity in business operations. Whether you’re running a private limited company in Singapore or Malaysia, getting your financial statements audited is not just a good business practice — in many cases, it’s a legal requirement.

1. Regulatory Requirements

Singapore:

According to ACRA, companies that are not exempt must have their financial statements audited annually.
A company is exempt from audit only if it qualifies as a small company — which generally means having revenue and total assets of not more than S$10 million, and not more than 50 employees.
However, even small companies may need to perform audits if requested by government agencies.

Malaysia:

Under the Companies Act 2016, all companies (except those qualifying as dormant) are required to submit audited financial statements to SSM.
This applies even to small companies unless they apply and are qualified for audit exemption status.

2. Required by Authorities for Licensing and Registration

In Singapore, agencies such as the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) may require audited financial statements for:
- Contractor registration
- License renewal
- Financial grading assessment
Similarly, in Malaysia, government bodies or regulatory agencies may demand audited accounts for project tenders, licenses, or certifications.

3. Banks and Financial Institutions

When applying for loans, overdraft facilities, or even business grants, many banks and investors require the latest audited financial statements.
Audited reports provide credibility and assurance on the financial health of your company, increasing your chance of approval.

4. Investor and Shareholder Confidence

For companies seeking external investors or considering listing, audited accounts enhance transparency and reduce the risk for stakeholders.
It shows that the company maintains proper internal controls and governance structures.

5. Avoid Legal and Tax Risks

Failure to comply with audit requirements can result in penalties, legal action, or tax issues.
Audited statements help ensure accurate tax filings, reducing the risk of disputes with IRAS (Singapore) or LHDN (Malaysia).

Conclusion

Whether required by law, demanded by regulators, or requested by banks and investors, auditing is an essential process that supports the growth and credibility of your company. Even if your business qualifies for audit exemption, consider the added benefits of voluntary auditing — it can strengthen your business reputation, support expansion plans, and provide peace of mind to stakeholders.

USAFE’s Commitment to Quality Audit Services

At USAFE, we are dedicated to simplifying the audit process for our clients, so they can focus on what matters most — running and growing their business. Our firm specializes in delivering comprehensive audit services, ensuring full compliance with regulatory requirements and maintaining the highest standards of accuracy in financial reporting.

We recognize the critical importance of meeting deadlines, and we are committed to the timely and efficient completion of every audit engagement. From planning and conducting the audit, to preparing essential documentation and liaising with relevant authorities such as ACRA, SSM, BCA, and financial institutions, we handle every aspect with precision and professionalism.

Our team also offers ongoing support and expert guidance to help you navigate the evolving regulatory landscape and improve your financial reporting practices. With our unwavering commitment to excellence and reliability, USAFE is your trusted partner for audit services — helping you stay compliant, build trust with stakeholders, and support your long-term success.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute any professional advice. Feel free to contact us to consult with our professional advisors team for personalized advice and guidance.

Sources: https://corporatefinanceinstitute.com/resources/accounting/what-is-an-audit/