2nd DIGITALCFO ASIA
MALAYSIA SYMPOSIUM 2023


The Redefined CFO:
Maintaining Agility by Driving Growth

and Innovation for 2024 and Beyond

12 October 2023 | 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM |
Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur

REGISTRATION CLOSED

About the Symposium


In recent years, Malaysia has experienced steady economic growth and has emerged as one of the key economies in Southeast Asia. In 2023, it is expected that Malaysia's economy would continue to show signs of recovery from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, although specific details cannot be provided due to the knowledge cutoff.


Malaysia has also implemented various economic initiatives and policies to promote growth, innovation, and investment. The government has been actively encouraging digital transformation, promoting the development of high-tech industries, and supporting entrepreneurship and small businesses. Initiatives such as the Digital Economy Blueprint and the National Investment Aspirations have been launched to drive economic diversification and attract foreign direct investment.


According to a CFO Agility study conducted by Heidrick & Struggles, the first call the CEO makes in a crisis with economic disruption like COVID-19 is to the CFO. And the CFO is typically the second person board members call. All internal and external stakeholders must turn to the CFO for information on pressing issues like our ability to exist. How much time will our money last? Which risks do we face the most? How are they managed? Do our creditors make calls? Could a more accurate analysis lessen the punches we're receiving? Do you watch over the safe?


In light of all of this, CFOs today must be more adaptable than ever before to assist their businesses survive the present crisis and be in the best possible shape to thrive when it is over. Future financial performance projection and forecasting are extremely important tasks for CFOs. These predictions have often been made using only financial models, based on historical performance, and on the premise that things will continue as usual. Even during prior crises, CFOs made some minor adjustments to these models and tried their best. Now, an unprecedented number of businesses have withdrawn their financial recommendations since pre-existing hypotheses are simply incorrect and changes that would have previously served as a guide are insufficient for accurate forecasting through COVID-19. CFOs must adopt new strategies for planning ahead.


Join us at the 2nd DigitalCFO Asia Malaysia Symposium 2023, where over 120 forward-thinking finance leaders will convene to exchange insights on how CFOs in Malaysia can remain agile by driving growth and innovation for 2024 and beyond.

Tell Me More.

WHERE

Grand Hyatt

Kuala Lumpur

Grand Salon Level 1

WHEN

12 Oct 2023

9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

WHO

120 CFOs & Finance Leaders

Discussion Points


01 Agile Finance: The need for CFOs to Adapt to the Changing Business Landscape

02 Collaboration with C-suites to Ensure a Shared Organisational Objective

03 CFO as a Change Agent: Driving Transformational Leadership and Organisational Change

04 Navigating Financial Turbulence: Strategies for Mitigating Supply Chain Disruptions

05 Embracing Emerging Technologies in Finance: A Competitive Edge or Inevitable Adoption?

06 Leadership Skills for CFOs: Building Resilience, Emotional Intelligence, and Effective Communication

07 Future of Work: Adapting Finance Functions to Remote and Hybrid Environments

08 The CFO Crises Toolkit: What should CFOs prioritise in the case of the next pandemic?

09 The Role of IOT Technology in driving better ROIC (Returns on Invested Capital)

10 2024 and Beyond - Will ESG be a driver to achieve greater heights or will it be a hindrance?

11 CIFOs - Will the convergence of CIOs and CFOs be a boon or bane for companies?

12 Unlocking The Power of E-Invoicing in APAC as Part of the Finance Transformation Roadmap

Who Should Attend


CFOs, Financial Controllers, Heads of Finance, SVPs/VPs Finance, Finance Directors, General Managers Finance, Senior Finance Managers & Finance Managers, that are involved in the following:

 

  • Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A)
  • Strategic Planning & Forecasting
  • Costing & Budgeting
  • Treasury Operations
  • Project Financing
  • Financial & Management Accounting
  • Merger & Acquisition (M&A)
  • Investment / Portfolio Management
  • Auditing & Internal Control
  • Tax Governance
  • Governance, Risk & Compliance (GRC)
  • Statutory & Regulatory Reporting
  • Fiscal Policy Planning
  • Financial Technology Solutions
  • Digital & Finance Transformation

Event Agenda

The Redefined CFO: Maintaining Agility by Driving Growth and Innovation for 2024 and Beyond

8:30 AM

Registration & Welcome Drinks

9:00 AM

Opening Remarks by DigitalCFO Asia


Speaker:

Ryan Kwa, Group Publisher, DigitalCFO Asia

9:20 AM

Morning Keynote Presentation
Topic: Agility in Finance: The need for CFOs to Adapt to the Changing Business Landscape


The business world is constantly transforming, driven by technological advancements, globalization, and evolving customer demands. To succeed in this dynamic landscape, CFOs must be adaptable and responsive. They play a critical role in ensuring the financial health of their organizations and must proactively embrace agility. It is no longer optional but imperative. CFOs must adapt to the changing business landscape by embracing digital transformation, actively managing risks, fostering collaboration, and promoting continuous learning. By doing so, they position their organizations for success amidst ongoing challenges and opportunities.

Speaker:
Joanne Rodrigues, Group Chief Financial Officer, Affin Bank Berhad

9:40 AM

Panel Discussion I
Topic: Collaboration with C-suites to ensure a shared objective

Collaboration with other members of the C-suite is crucial to ensure a shared objective and drive organizational success. Chief Financial Officers (CFOs) must work closely with executives such as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Chief Operating Officer (COO), and Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) to align strategies and goals. By fostering open communication and a collaborative mindset, CFOs can integrate financial planning with overall business objectives, ensuring financial decisions support the organization's strategic direction. This collaborative approach enhances cross-functional understanding, enables efficient resource allocation, and promotes collective decision-making that drives the organization towards a common goal.

Speakers:

Diana Cheang, Regional Finance Controller, Fosroc
Stephanie Sim, SVP, Head of Group Finance, MIDF
Koh Saw Leng, Chief Financial Officer, Hernan Corporation Sdn Bhd

Moderator:
Joyce Loh, Group Chief Financial Officer, Kliqxe

10:10 AM

Technology Presentation I
Topic: Explore how businesses navigated the pandemic by implementing ERP systems, transforming financial operations fundamentally. From remote go-live strategies to leveraging ERP's power, discover the resilient evolution of finance.

Uncover the pivotal role of ERP as a catalyst for change, revolutionizing financial operations, enhancing transparency, and enabling strategic decision-making. We will showcase how ERP not only streamlined processes but also paved the way for resilient, agile, and future-ready finance departments.

Speaker:

Cheong Bee Yen, Solution Consultant, Oracle NetSuite

10:30 AM

AM Coffee Break & Networking

11:00 AM

Executive Presentation I
Topic: CFO as a Change Agent: Driving Transformational Leadership and Organizational Change

The role of Chief Financial Officer (CFO) has evolved beyond financial management to that of a change agent, driving transformational leadership and organizational change. CFOs are uniquely positioned to influence strategic decisions, reshape business models, and drive operational efficiencies. By leveraging financial insights, data analytics, and risk management expertise, they can identify areas for improvement and implement transformative initiatives. CFOs must exhibit strong leadership qualities, inspire cross-functional collaboration, and communicate effectively to facilitate successful change management. As change agents, CFOs play a pivotal role in guiding organizations through transformative journeys, fostering growth, and ensuring long-term success.

Speaker:

Gurmeet Singh, Chief Financial Officer, Airasia SEA

11:20 AM

Executive Presentation 2
Topic: Navigating Financial Turbulence: Strategies for Mitigating Supply Chain Disruptions


In today's volatile business landscape, CFOs face unprecedented challenges in safeguarding financial stability amidst supply chain disruptions. This compelling presentation explores innovative strategies for CFOs to effectively manage and mitigate the financial impacts of unforeseen disruptions in the supply chain. From risk assessment and contingency planning to agile financial management, attendees will gain insights into proactive measures that can safeguard their organizations' bottom lines while ensuring operational resilience. Join us to discover how financial foresight and adaptability can become indispensable tools in the CFO's arsenal, ensuring sustained financial health in an unpredictable world.

Speaker:
Paul Puspanathan, Director, Supply Chain Global Finance Operations, Baker Hughes

11:40 AM

Technology Presentation 2

Topic: Unlocking The Power of E-Invoicing in APAC as Part of the Finance Transformation Roadmap

Speaker:

Raymond Lam, Managing Director for Pagero ASEAN

12:00 PM

Panel Discussion 2

Topic: Embracing Emerging Technologies in Finance: A Competitive Edge or Inevitable Adoption?


Emerging technologies such as blockchain, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning are transforming the finance industry. Blockchain offers secure and transparent transactions, reducing the need for intermediaries. AI and machine learning enhance data analysis, risk assessment, and fraud detection, improving decision-making and operational efficiency. These technologies enable faster, more accurate financial processes, streamlined compliance, and personalized customer experiences. Embracing these innovations allows finance professionals to stay ahead of the curve, unlock new opportunities, and drive digital transformation in the financial sector.


Speakers:
Jayanta Chatterjee, Head of Finance, Metrod (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd

Adrine Ong, Finance Director, Classic Fine Foods
Mohammad Haafiz Nordin, Director of Finance & Operations, Teach for Malaysia

Moderator:
Chari TVT, Board Member & Chairman, Board Audit Committee Airasia Aviation Group Bhd

12:30 PM

Networking Lunch / Roundtable Luncheon

1:50 PM

Executive Presentation 3
Topic: Leadership Skills for CFOs: Building Resilience, Emotional Intelligence, and Effective Communication


Building resilience enables CFOs to navigate challenges and setbacks, adapting to changing circumstances. Emotional intelligence allows them to understand and manage their own emotions and those of others, fostering positive relationships and effective teamwork. Effective communication skills are essential for conveying complex financial information to diverse stakeholders clearly and building trust. By honing these leadership skills, CFOs can inspire and guide their teams, make informed decisions, and drive the financial success of their organizations.

Speaker:
Koh Saw Leng, Chief Financial Officer, Hernan Corporation Sdn Bhd

2:10 PM

Technology Presentation 3 

Topic: AI-Driven Analytics in the Age of Disruption

In conclusion, AI-driven analytics is revolutionizing how businesses adapt and thrive in the age of disruption. It empowers organizations to make data-driven decisions, anticipate future challenges, and innovate for sustained growth. As disruption continues to shape the business landscape, the integration of AI into analytics processes will be a key differentiator, separating the leaders from the followers in the race for relevance and success.

Speaker:

Sophia Pang, Business Analytics Lead, IBM ASEANZK (ASEAN, ANZ and Korea)

2:30 PM

Executive Presentation 4
Topic: Future of Work: Adapting Finance Functions to Remote and Hybrid Environments


The future of work is rapidly evolving, with remote and hybrid environments becoming increasingly prevalent. Adapting finance functions to these new work arrangements is essential. CFOs must implement digital tools and technologies to enable remote collaboration, streamline financial processes, and ensure data security. They should also focus on developing flexible work policies and creating a supportive remote work culture. Embracing remote and hybrid work environments in finance functions can enhance productivity, attract top talent, and drive operational efficiency while accommodating the changing dynamics of the modern workforce.

Speaker:
Dr. Lincoln Goh, Senior Regional Finance Head, Sunrider International

2:50 PM

Panel Discussion 3
Topic: The CFO Crises Toolkit: What should CFOs prioritise in the case of the next pandemic?


CFOs should prioritize ensuring business continuity. This involves developing robust contingency plans that address potential disruptions to operations, supply chains, and financial stability. By proactively identifying risks and implementing measures to mitigate them, CFOs can minimize the impact of a crisis on their organization. The CFO's crisis toolkit for the next pandemic should prioritize business continuity, liquidity management, scenario planning, communication, risk management, and leveraging technology. By focusing on these key areas, CFOs can proactively prepare their organizations for future crises, ensuring financial stability, resilience, and the ability to navigate through uncertainty.

Speakers:

Rachel Hong, Financial Controller, Head of Finance, Supply Chain, HR & IT, Jollibee Malaysia

Hillary Chua, Chief Financial Officer, UEM Edgenta Berhad

Moderator:
Wong Jyh Juan, Fellow Chartered Certified Accountant (FCCA), Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) & Chartered Accountant, Malaysia (CA(M)).

3:20 PM

PM Coffee Break & Networking

3:35 PM

Executive Presentation 5
Topic: The Role of IOT Technology in driving better ROIC (Returns on Invested Capital).


Speaker:
Chari TVT, Board Member & Chairman, Board Audit Committee Airasia Aviation Group Bhd

3:55 PM

Executive Presentation 6

Topic: 2024 and Beyond - Will ESG be a driver to achieve greater heights or will it be a hindrance?

As we look towards 2024 and beyond, the question arises: will Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles be a driver to achieve greater heights or a hindrance? ESG factors are increasingly recognized as critical for long-term business sustainability and growth. Embracing ESG can enhance reputation, attract investors, and foster innovation. However, there may be challenges in implementation, such as increased compliance requirements and potential conflicts with short-term financial goals.

Speaker:
John Teoh, Chief Sustainability Officer, GDEX Berhad

4:15 PM

Panel Discussion 4

Topic: CIFOs - Will the convergence of CIOs and CFOs be a boon or bane for companies?

The integration of finance and technology leadership can foster better alignment between financial strategies and technology initiatives. CIFOs can drive innovation, optimize IT investments, and enhance data-driven decision-making. However, successful convergence requires strong collaboration, effective communication, and a shared vision. Without proper coordination, it may lead to conflicts or inefficiencies. Ultimately, the convergence of CIOs and CFOs can be a powerful force for companies if approached strategically and with a focus on mutual goals and value creation. Will there however, be major challenges that arise from this?

Speakers:

Dajmarehan Zolkipli, Chief Financial Officer, Tunetalk Sdn Bhd
Syed Ibn-e-Ali, Transformative CFO & Regional Finance Leader
Vijay Kumar Dayinde, Chief Information Officer, Malaysia Airports

Moderator:
Mark Jayson Agacer, Regional Finance Lead, Accenture

4:45 PM

Grand Lucky Draw - Prize Presentation & Photo Taking

4:55 PM

Symposium Chairperson's Closing Remarks

5:00 PM

End of Symposium

Meet Our Speakers.

Diana Cheang

Regional Finance Controller

Fosroc

Hillary Chua

Chief Financial Officer

UEM Edgenta Berhad

Jayanta Chatterjee

Head of Finance
Metrod (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd

Dr. Lincoln Goh

Senior Regional Finance Lead
Sunrider International

Dajmarehan Zolkipli

Chief Financial Officer
Tunetalk Sdn Bhd

Bee Yen Cheong

Solution Consultant, Oracle NetSuite

Gurmeet Singh

Chief Financial Officer
Airasia SEA

Syed Ibn-e-Ali
Transformative CFO & Regional Finance Leader

Stephanie Sim

Senior VP, Head of Group Finance

MIDF

Koh Saw Leng

Chief Financial Officer

Hernan Corporation Sdn Bhd

Adrine Ong

Finance Director

Classic Fine Foods

Wong Jyh Juan

FCCA, CIA & CA(M)

Mark Jayson Agacer

Regional Finance Lead
Accenture

Sophia Pang

Business Analytics Lead

IBM ASEANZK (ASEAN, ANZ and Korea)

Mohammad Haafiz Nordin

Director of Finance & Operations
Teach for Malaysia

Vijay Kumar Dayinde

Chief Information Officer
Malaysia Airports

Rachel Hong

Head of Finance, Supply Chain, HR, IT

Jollibee Malaysia

Joanne Rodrigues

Group Chief Financial Officer

Affin Bank Berhad

Chari TVT

Board Member & Chairman, Board Audit Committee
Airasia Aviation Group Bhd

Paul Puspanathan

Director, Supply Chain Global Finance Operations

Baker Hughes

John Teoh

Chief Sustainability Officer
GDEX Berhad

Raymond Lam

Managing Director, ASEAN

Pagero

Joyce Loh

Group Chief Financial Officer
Kliqxe

Register Now.

CFOs & Finance Leaders, Fill up the form now to reserve a seat, it's complimentary.

Confirmation emails will be sent out to confirmed attendees within 48 hours. Your attendance is only confirmed upon receipt of email confirmation.

For products/services providers or non-finance professionals, please click here to register your interest in a networking pass.

MEET OUR SPONSORS & PARTNERS


Roundtable Sponsor


Networking Sponsor


Exhibitors


Don't miss out.
Sign up to reserve a seat today.

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Drop Us a Line.

Looking to Speak?
Ryan Kwa
ryan@digitalnow.asia

Bonnie Yip
bonnie@digitalnow.asia

Keen to Attend the Event?
Sulizawati Razali
wati@digitalnow.asia

Ready to Sponsor?
Ryan Kwa

ryan@digitalnow.asia
+65 9851 0502

General Enquiries: Email us at events@digitalcfoasia.com or WhatsApp us at +65 8811 2274

Official Media Partner:

DigitalCFO Asia is the leading digital publication & media platform focusing on finance transformation & strategic insights for CFOs & finance leaders in Asia Pacific. We provide APAC’s finance leaders with the latest online content, webinars, insights & analysis, industry practices, technology trends and other innovation strategies to empower them with the knowledge to lead the digitalisation and transformation of the finance function in their organisations.

Launched in 2020, DigitalCFO Asia strives to build a vibrant and thriving community for CFOs/Finance leaders, academic bodies, consulting firms, tech vendors and service providers to come together and share their finance transformation experience over an integrated platform, creating a business synergy that benefits all stakeholders in the finance eco-system.

DigitalCFO Asia is a media brand under the DigitalNow Asia group, an integrated media business based in Singapore that connects businesses (B2B & B2C) to their respective audiences media brands and exquisitely crafted thought leadership events.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

We've got A's for your Q's

Do I have to pay to attend the symposium?

The DigitalCFO Asia Symposium Series is free to attend for individuals who are currently holding CFOs or senior accounting & finance role in their companies, subject to availability. DigitalNow Asia reserves the final rights to approve or reject any registration should there be any discrepancies between both parties.

Can I register for the event with my personal email (Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail etc)?

No. Registrations must be done with a working company email address. Registrations from generic or free email domains such as Gmail, Yahoo, Outlook, etc will not be accepted.

Do I need to bring along anything for the symposium?

Please bring along the confirmation email and your business cards for registration and networking purposes.

Can I attend the symposium if I am not a CFO or finance professional?

Yes. You can purchase a networking pass here to attend the event, subject to availability and approval from the event organiser.  

Can I attend the symposium if I am a vendor or products/service provider?

Yes. Vendors or service providers can participate in the symposium either by:

1) Taking up a sponsorship package
2) Purchasing a networking pass

Do drop us a message here and we will get back to you as soon as we can.

How do I know if my registration is successful?

If your registration is successful, a confirmation email with full event details will be sent to you within 48 hours to confirm your attendance.

Is there a dress code for the symposium?

The dress code for the symposium is business wear or smart casual.

Is complimentary parking provided for attendees?

No. Complimentary parking is not provided for attendees. However, for some event venues, attendees are able to purchase parking coupons at a special rate for attending the event. Do check with us at events@digitalcfoasia.com  

Can I attend the symposium if I am currently not employed?

Yes. However you are not eligible for the complimentary pass. You can purchase a networking pass to attend the event, subject to availability and approval from the event organiser. For more details, please click here.