Tribun Jabar Reporter, Nappisah
TRIBUNJABAR.ID, BANDUNG – Accountants and auditors must continue adapting to technological advancements while maintaining their commitment to integrity and honesty in financial reporting.
This was conveyed by the Deputy Minister of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), Helvi Yuni Moraza, during the IX Accounting Research Parade at Universitas Widyatama on Wednesday (11/20/2024).
According to her, the accounting profession plays a vital role as the main foundation in ensuring good governance and accurate decision-making, particularly in helping MSME actors apply these principles.
“The business process in every MSME must be well-maintained, and financial governance must become more efficient,” she stated.
“MSMEs contribute significantly to regional budgets (APBD) and job creation, serving as pillars of family economics across various regions. However, many MSME actors face difficulties adapting to modern technology,” she added.
Helvi noted that MSME actors struggle to implement the latest technology in managing their businesses, posing a significant challenge in improving their efficiency and competitiveness in global markets.
The Rector of Universitas Widyatama, Prof. Dr. Dadang Suganda, Drs., M.Hum., reaffirmed the university’s commitment to keeping up with advancements in science and technology and expanding knowledge in the field of accounting, including through the Accounting Research Parade.
He emphasized that rapid developments in technology and regulations pose challenges and opportunities for accounting professionals.
“This is a golden opportunity for all of us to share knowledge. Hopefully, what we learn today can provide great benefits and enhance the quality of our profession,” he remarked.
The Chair of the Indonesian Institute of Accountants (IAI) West Java Region, Prima Yusi Sari, emphasized that artificial intelligence (AI) in accounting does not diminish the critical role of accountants but rather helps accelerate and simplify their work processes.
“We cannot deny that AI significantly aids accountants, but accountants are still essential for deeper analysis,” Prima said.
She explained that while AI can perform routine and data-based tasks, such as preparing financial reports and conducting audits, it cannot replace the critical thinking and analysis of accountants.
“AI can accelerate the audit process and ensure accuracy, but accountants remain crucial in providing a deeper understanding of the information generated by AI,” she explained.
Prima also addressed the importance of empowering MSMEs to face the challenges of technological advancements, especially in preparing adequate financial reports.
According to her, one of the common weaknesses of MSMEs is the lack of ability to prepare financial statements that meet standards, which is crucial for accessing banking services and other financing options.
However, Prima reminded that while technology is available, not all MSME actors have the skills to operate financial applications effectively.
“The assistance we provide will focus on helping MSMEs record transactions correctly, such as distinguishing whether a purchase should be categorized as inventory or fixed assets,” she added.
Meanwhile, Syafrizal Ikram, Head of the Accounting Undergraduate Program at Universitas Widyatama, revealed that the university organized an international collaboration event focusing on empowering MSMEs in the digital era.
“We hope that small business actors can learn how to utilize digitalization in managing their businesses, including in accounting and taxation,” said Syafrizal.
One of the main agendas of the event was a coaching clinic, where MSME actors could directly consult with practitioners and academics on various topics, including accounting management, taxation, business management, and legal matters. The event was supported by several universities and other higher institutions.
According to Syafrizal, the biggest challenge for the accounting profession and MSMEs is how to leverage advanced technology, such as AI, for better financial reporting and decision-making.
“We encourage MSMEs to adapt to technology so their administrative processes and financial reporting become more efficient and transparent,” he explained.
Syafrizal expressed hope that this collaboration would better prepare MSMEs in West Java, especially in Bandung, to compete in global markets by improving their understanding of the importance of financial management and technology utilization.
“Most MSMEs in West Java are still not compliant in managing administration, especially regarding taxes and financial reporting. This presents a challenge for us as academics and accounting professionals to continue assisting them,” he concluded. (*)
