On 5 March 2025, SEGi University’s Faculty of Business, Accountancy & Law, under the leadership of Dr Sudhashini Nair, collaborated with the Chartered Tax Institute of Malaysia (CTIM) to host a Career Talk on Taxation. This initiative aimed to introduce Bachelor of Accounting & Finance students across all years to the tax profession, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by emphasising the importance of taxation in sustainable development.
The session commenced with a welcome address by Dr Stephen Sesaiah, Dean of the Faculty, who underscored the significance of professional qualifications for accounting students. Industry expert Koo Kian Ming, Chairman of the CTIM Examination and Education Committee and Executive Director – Tax at BDO Malaysia, provided valuable insights into the field. He elaborated on the benefits of a career in taxation, the history of CTIM, and how the CTIM qualification serves as a launchpad for aspiring tax professionals.
Taxation plays a pivotal role in achieving the SDGs by providing governments with sustainable revenue to fund essential services and infrastructure. According to the Platform for Collaboration on Tax, taxation is central to the development policy agenda, as sustainable financing is increasingly recognised as a key tool in combating human rights deficits identified by the SDGs. Educating future tax professionals is crucial in ensuring effective tax systems that support these global goals.
The event also featured a sharing session by Claudia Ubong Luhat, a Tax Associate at BDO Malaysia, who discussed her experiences in the field and her journey toward obtaining professional qualifications. Her narrative provided students with a realistic perspective on the challenges and rewards of a career in taxation.
Concluding the event, Tommy Chan Yoke Thean, Tax Director at YYC Tax Consultants Sdn Bhd and SEGi University alumnus, shared his inspiring journey from a student to a licensed tax agent and director. He encouraged students to pursue their dreams relentlessly and highlighted the demand for qualified tax professionals in the industry.
The presence of CTIM representatives, including Executive Director Margaret Kok and Examination and Education Manager Irene Chen, added depth to the discussion, offering students a comprehensive understanding of the CTIM qualification and its relevance to their careers.
This career talk not only provided students with valuable insights into the tax profession but also highlighted the integral role of taxation in sustainable development. By fostering such initiatives, SEGi University demonstrates its commitment to producing competent professionals who contribute positively to society.
This event is organised in support of the following United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG):
- Quality Education (SDG 4)
- Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8)
- Reduced Inequalities (SDG 10)
