Datuk Zaiton Mohd Hassan has made history as the first Malaysian to be appointed vice-president of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), a globally recognized body representing over 250,000 members and more than 500,000 future members across 180 countries. This achievement marks a milestone for Malaysia and highlights Zaiton’s outstanding contributions to the field of accountancy and professional education.
A Visionary Leader
Zaiton currently serves as the CEO of the Malaysia Professional Accountancy Centre (MyPAC), where she has championed initiatives to support students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds in pursuing careers in finance and accountancy. Her visionary leadership has not only elevated the profile of Malaysia in the global accounting profession but also contributed to fostering diversity and inclusion within the industry.
Under her guidance, MyPAC has helped countless aspiring accountants overcome financial barriers, providing them with the tools and mentorship needed to succeed in a competitive global environment. Zaiton’s dedication to social equity in education underscores her belief in the transformative power of professional qualifications for individuals and communities alike.
Part of a Historic Leadership Team
Zaiton’s appointment comes during a groundbreaking year for ACCA, with its leadership team comprising women in all three officer roles for the first time. Alongside President Ayla Majid the first Pakistani and South Asian to hold the position, and Deputy President Melanie Proffitt from England, Zaiton represents a new era of diversity and inclusivity in the organization’s history.
Her role as vice-president will involve shaping ACCA’s future strategy, ensuring that its members are prepared to meet the challenges of a rapidly evolving global economy. Zaiton aims to focus on sustainability, innovation, and ethics, while furthering ACCA’s mission of providing opportunities for all, regardless of background or location.
A Global Role Model
Beyond her ACCA responsibilities, Zaiton’s leadership extends into her advocacy for ethical practices and capacity-building in the accounting sector. Her work at MyPAC aligns seamlessly with ACCA’s core values of accessibility and fairness, ensuring that the next generation of accountants is diverse, skilled, and ready to drive meaningful change.
Zaiton’s achievement serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration, not only for Malaysians but also for professionals worldwide. Her journey exemplifies how resilience, vision, and a commitment to social good can break barriers and redefine what is possible.
Her appointment as ACCA vice-president also underscores Malaysia’s growing influence in global finance and professional services, setting a high standard for future leaders to follow. As she embarks on this significant role, Zaiton is poised to leave a lasting impact on the profession, empowering others to reach their potential and contributing to a more equitable global economy.
Datuk Zaiton’s historic appointment is a reminder that diversity is not just a goal but a strength, driving progress and innovation across industries worldwide.
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