2008 - ISCA
Transcription
2008 - ISCA
A FUTURE OF GROWTH IN A WORLD OF OPPORTUNITY Annual Report 2007/2008 ABOUT ICPAS Established in 1963, the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Singapore (ICPAS) is the national accountancy body that develops, supports and enhances the integrity, status and interests of the profession. The Certified Public Accountant Singapore (CPA Singapore) is a professional in accountancy, finance and business who has the relevant work experience in addition to a recognised accountancy qualification. Today, ICPAS has over 19,000 members working and making their mark worldwide, which makes the CPA Singapore a designation with global recognition. CONTENTS i iii 2 3 4 6 8 13 17 19 29 48 55 79 Notice of Annual General Meeting Annual General Meeting Lunch Reply Form The CPA Singapore Identity Organisation Chart President’s Message ICPAS Council and Corporate Information Minutes of Annual General Meeting 2006/2007 Report of the Council Statistical Highlights Year-in-Review Committees Review Technical Pronouncements – 31 December 2007 Financial Statements Form of Proxy ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 NOTICE OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING Notice is hereby given that in accordance with Article 67 of the Constitution of the Institute, the Annual General Meeting 2007/2008 of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Singapore will be held on Saturday, 19 April 2008 at 2.00 pm, at Marina Mandarin, Marina Mandarin Ballroom, Level 1, 6 Raffles Boulevard, Marina Square, Singapore 039594. AGENDA 1 President’s address. 2 To confirm the minutes of the Annual General Meeting 2006/2007 of members held on 21 April 2007. 3 To receive the Report of the Council for the year 2007/2008 and Accounts of the Institute for the year ended 31 December 2007. 4 To elect eight members to the Council as follows: (a) Practising members – four to hold office for a term of two years; (b) Non-practising members – four to hold office for a term of two years. The following members of the Council retire in accordance with the provisions of Articles 38 to 40 of the Constitution: Practising Members Kan Yaw Kiong, Ernest Khoo Ho Tong Seow Teow Han, John Yeoh Oon Jin Nominations have been received for the following: Non-Practising Members Chan Yoke Kai Loh Hoon Sun Pang Yang Hoong Wong Lai Yong Practising Members Kan Yaw Kiong, Ernest Khoo Ho Tong Yeoh Oon Jin Nominated by Fang Ai Lian Ho Mun-Tuke, Don Kon Yin Tong Lee Chee Wung Sitoh Yih Pin Lim Boon Cheng Kan Yaw Kiong, Ernest Khoo Ho Tong Tan Ai Geok, Linda Teo Pin Ghee Tsang Siu For, Thomas ii ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 Non-Practising Members Loh Hoon Sun Pang Yang Hoong Wong Lai Yong Nominated by Chan Yoke Kai Quek Shi Kui Tan Boen Eng Yee Lat Shing Yim Kam May Ee Hock Kim, Gerard Quek Shi Kui Tan Boen Eng Tan Eng Teng Yee Lat Shing Yim Kam May By order of the Council Janet Tan Secretary 26 March 2008 ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING LUNCH REPLY FORM INSTITUTE OF CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS OF SINGAPORE 20 Aljunied Road #06-02 CPA House Singapore 389805 Tel: (65) 6749 8060 Fax: (65) 6749 8061 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING LUNCH Lunch will be served at 12.45 pm, followed by the Annual General Meeting at 2.00 pm. To assist the Secretariat in the lunch arrangements, please return this reply form to the Institute by 11 April 2008. I will be attending the AGM lunch on Saturday, 19 April 2008, at 12.45 pm, at Marina Mandarin, Marina Mandarin Ballroom, Level 1, 6 Raffles Boulevard, Marina Square, Singapore 039594. Member’s Name (in block): I/C Number: Membership Category: *Honorary / Fellow / Practising / Non-Practising / Provisional / Member-in-retirement Company: Telephone Number: *(Office)/(Home) E-mail address: Date: Please tick if *Vegetarian / Muslim menu is required Note: The lunch menu will be ‘no pork, no lard’. *Please delete where inapplicable. NB: To avoid unnecessary costs to the Institute, please inform the Secretariat at least 3 days before the function if you have registered but are unable to attend the AGM lunch subsequently. __________________________________ Signature iii Fold here Stamp INSTITUTE OF CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS OF SINGAPORE 20 Aljunied Road #06-02 CPA House Singapore 389805 Fold here GROUNDED VALUES Steeped in professional integrity and independence, ICPAS ensures a solid foundation for all our members to grow to their fullest professional competence. ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 THE CPA SINGAPORE IDENTITY INTEGRITY COMMITMENT RATIONALE This logo uses the idea of an “equal” or “tally” sign, often used by accounting professionals. Incorporating it into the logo gives it a sense of balance and wit. The strokes on the symbol represent the qualities that a CPA Singapore (Certified Public Accountant Singapore) possesses, which are Integrity, Commitment, Professionalism, Authority in their field and Superiority. The first letter of each quality also make up the acronym of ICPAS. PROFESSIONALISM AUTHORITY SUPERIORITY ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 ORGANISATION CHART ICPAS COUNCIL Directorate EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Communications Finance & Administration Information Technology Membership Administration & Registry Membership Marketing & Services Practice Monitoring Singapore Accountancy Academy Technical Examination & Student Registry ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Dear Members, I am happy to report a progressive year for the Institute. In many aspects, ICPAS has forged ahead in attaining our strategies to advance the profession and build recognition of Certified Public Accountant Singapore (CPA Singapore). As the inner section of this Report shows, we continue to invest substantially in the development of the profession. Throughout 2007, the Institute has organised countless seminars, talks and courses on topical and relevant subjects for practising and non-practising members to continually upgrade and update themselves. Members also received constant updates on accounting and auditing standards as well as industry updates through our regular communications channel, be it the weekly ePublication, the bi-monthly Singapore Accountant journal, ad-hoc email broadcasts and so forth. Part of our commitment is to provide the necessary resources and infrastructure to create a vibrant and conducive learning environment for our members and students, to foster a suitable environment and cultivate the passion for lifelong learning. As such, we officially opened our Singapore Accountancy Academy (SAA) City Campus right in the heart of the central business district on 24 April. The purchase of the property is timely. Besides meeting the growing need for space, the new facility also enables the Academy to expand its provision of Continuing Professional Education courses to members. ICPAS has also accredited the University of London’s BSc Accounting & Finance degree, enabling graduates to apply for ICPAS Professional Examniation and eventually attain the “CPA Singapore” designation. With SAA’s accomplished track record of 22 years in providing quality academic and technical training together with the strong team of experienced UOL lecturers, we are confident that this programme will put our graduates at a competitive advantage. To increase our international footprint, we made significant progress through partnerships with other professional associations to create learning and career advancement opportunities for our members. ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 Our recent survey indicates strong brand awareness, with a high of 97% indicating that they have seen or heard about ICPAS and CPA Singapore in the past year. Clearly we have made great strides over the last year in heightening the profile of CPAs Singapore and ICPAS. Our aggressive brand communications programs in 2007 highlighted the depth and breadth of the skills CPAs Singapore possess. In addressing the shortage of manpower in the accounting profession, the Institute partnered with industry leaders to hold a career exhibition on 19 September. Through this exhibition, we connected many potential employees with leading industry firms such as Chio Lim Stone Forest, Deloitte, Ernst & Young, Foo Kon Tan Grant Thornton, KPMG and many others, to generate interest in the accounting career. We are seeing good results in our membership growth targets through our renewed accreditation process, alternative channels to the designation, and dual-designation programs, such as the ACCA/ICPAS Joint Examination Scheme. As a result, our membership has grown by close to 6% to 19,168 members in 2007. To increase our international footprint, we made significant progress through partnerships with other professional associations to create learning and career advancement opportunities for our members. During the year, we signed memorandum of co-operations (MOC) with the Vietnam Association of Certified Public Accountants (VACPA), Cambodia’s National Accounting Council and Kampuchea Institute of Certified Public Accountants and Auditors (KICPAA). ICPAS members can now practise in Vietnam and Cambodia provided they meet the requirements of VACPA and KICPAA respectively. With these MOCs in place, we are looking to the promotion of the bilateral friendship and multifaceted cooperation, especially in the area of training and professional development activities for the mutual benefit of both parties’ members. The newly launched UOB ICPAS Professionals Platinum Card fulfills our promise to continually promote greater recognition of the accounting professionals and to offer value to our members. Throughout 2007, we have put together a variety of lifestyle programmes to encourage work-life balance and an all-rounded development for our members. The myriad of activities ranges from public speaking to sports and provides opportune networking platform for participants too. Responses from our recent survey indicates strong brand awareness, with a high of 97% indicating that they have seen or heard about ICPAS and CPA Singapore in the past year. Clearly we have made great strides over the last year in heightening the profile of CPAs Singapore and ICPAS. Our aggressive brand communications programmes in 2007 highlighted the depth and breadth of the skills CPAs Singapore possess. Whether employers are looking at growing a successful business, or individuals are looking at strengthening their professional credentials, we have impressed upon both target audiences that “All it takes is CPA Singapore”. Together with our active public relations, the CPA Singapore and ICPAS were constantly seen and heard across the media all through the year. As the voice of the profession, the Institute continues to raise appropriate concerns and feedbacks to the regulatory bodies as well as stakeholders. ICPAS will continue to invest in future sources of growth. Be it technology, business model, strategy, processes, we will prepare the Institute for growth and leadership and work towards being a globally recognised leading accountancy body. Lastly, I would like to thank my fellow Council members as well as our Committee members who have given their precious time and contributed to the Institute throughout the year. I am also grateful to our members for their continuing and unfailing support. I would also like to thank the staff and management team for their hard work in the past year. TAN BOEN ENG President ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 ICPAS COUNCIL 2007/2008 FRONT ROW (FROM LEFT): 2ND ROW (FROM LEFT): BACK ROW (FROM LEFT): Dr Kan Yaw Kiong, Ernest (Vice-President) Mr Tan Boen Eng (President) Mr Khoo Ho Tong (Treasurer) Mr Seow Teow Han, John Mr Yeoh Oon Jin Mr Tom Yee Lat Shing A/Prof. Pang Yang Hoong Ms Janet Tan (Executive Director) Mr Don Ho Mun-Tuke Ms Wong Lai Yong Mr Loh Hoon Sun Mr Lee Chee Wung Ms Yim Kam May Mr Quek Shi Kui Mr Sitoh Yih Pin NOT IN PICTURE: Prof. Chan Yoke Kai, Mrs Fang Ai Lian, Mr Kon Yin Tong, Mr Danny Teoh, Prof. Yeo Hian Heng, Gillian ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 CORPORATE INFORMATION THE COUNCIL Tan Boen Eng – President Kan Yaw Kiong, Ernest – Vice-President Khoo Ho Tong – Treasurer ELECTED TO REPRESENT PRACTISING MEMBERS ELECTED TO REPRESENT NON-PRACTISING MEMBERS Fang Ai Lian Ho Mun-Tuke, Don Kan Yaw Kiong, Ernest Khoo Ho Tong Kon Yin Tong Seow Teow Han, John Sitoh Yih Pin Yeoh Oon Jin Chan Yoke Kai Loh Hoon Sun Pang Yang Hoong Quek Shi Kui Tan Boen Eng Wong Lai Yong Yee Lat Shing, Tom Yim Kam May APPOINTED UNDER ARTICLE 27 OF THE ICPAS CONSTITUTION Yeo Hian Heng, Gillian (appointed on 22.04.2006) CO-OPTED UNDER ARTICLE 28 OF THE ICPAS CONSTITUTION Lee Chee Wung (appointed on 01.01.2008) Teoh Leong Kay, Danny (appointed 22.04.2006) SECRETARY/EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Janet Tan AUDITORS Baker Tilly TFWLCL TeoFoongWongLCLoong 15 Beach Road, #03-10 Beach Road Singapore 189677 REGISTERED AND ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE 20 Aljunied Road, #06-02 CPA House Singapore 389805 Telephone : (65) 67498060 Facsimile : (65) 67498061 E-Mail : [email protected] Website : www.icpas.org.sg ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 MINUTES OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING 2006/2007 Date: Time: Venue: Saturday, 21 April 2007 2.00 pm Mandarin Ballroom 6th Floor, South Tower Meritus Mandarin Singapore 333 Orchard Road, Singapore 238867 TOTAL NUMBER OF MEMBERS PRESENT Practising members: Non-practising members: Provisional members: 61 259 25 345 Chairman and President: Mr Tan Boen Eng Secretary: Ms Janet Tan 1. NOTICE OF MEETING The notice of meeting, having been circulated to members before the meeting, was taken as read. 2. PRESIDENT’S ADDRESS The Chairman began his address by welcoming all members present at the Institute’s Annual General Meeting 2006/2007. He then proceeded to update the meeting on the Institute’s activities for the past year. SIGNIFICANT DEVELOPMENTS AND ISSUES Technical Committees The Chairman reported that the Institute held several technical seminars through the various technical committees and technical group discussions on topical issues for its members. The seminars provide members with the opportunities to update their technical knowledge while the discussions allow members to come together to discuss with one another practical issues encountered in the course of their work. The Institute’s Accounting Standards Committee continued to play a critical role in working with the Council on Corporate Disclosure and Governance (CCDG) in reviewing new accounting proposals and setting accounting standards. He also highlighted that the Institute is planning a seminar on the exposure draft (ED) on Financial Reporting Standards for Small and Medium-Sized Entities, which was issued by CCDG in March 2007. The ED was based on the ED of the same title issued by International Accounting Standards Board (IASB). The Chairman updated that the Institute has also released a revised edition of the “Audit Manual for Small Companies” in March. The manual incorporated documentation required to enable compliance with the latest Singapore Standards on Auditing. The publication is on sale at ICPAS and comes with a complimentary CD-ROM version. The Chairman reported that two new committees namely, the CFO Committee and the Young Accountants Group Committee were formed in 2006 to provide platforms for members to exchange views and share ideas. ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 MINUTES OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING 2006/2007 Membership Services The Chairman updated that a new Membership Marketing and Services Division was set up. The new Division has arranged exclusive discounts through various tie-ups with merchants, as well as activities to engage members and enhance membership value. The Division is also responsible for promoting and marketing the ICPAS membership. “CPA Singapore” Branding He further updated that the Institute embarked on a branding campaign in 2006 to create awareness of the CPA Singapore brand and to elevate the image of accountants. To further publicise the CPA Singapore brand as well as to promote accountancy as a career, the Institute also commissioned a two-part television program, entitled Strength in Numbers, on Channel NewsAsia in October. Singapore Accountancy Academy The Chairman reported that the Institute purchased the entire 23rd floor of 6 Raffles Quay for its SAA City Campus, following favourable feedback for SAA to have a centrally located campus for the convenience of working adults. CPA Forum The Chairman also invited members to sign up for the CPA Forum, which ICPAS jointly organises with CPA Australia annually. This year, the theme of the forum is “Connecting Asian Economies” and it is scheduled on 17 and 18 August. Going Forward The Chairman commented that in moving forward, the Institute will continue to strategise on how to grow its membership and find innovative ways to create and increase membership value. He invited members to come forth with suggestions on ways to improve service. Conclusion The Chairman acknowledged the contributions of the Council and Committee members in the past year, with special thanks to retiring Treasurer, Mr John Seow. He also thanked members for their support and for taking time off to attend the AGM. 3. CONFIRMATION OF THE MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING 2005/2006 3.1 The minutes of the Annual General Meeting (AGM) 2005/2006 held on 22 April 2006, having been circulated to all members were taken as read. 3.2 On the proposal of Mr Tan See Peng and seconded by Ms Yim Kam May, the minutes of the AGM 2005/2006, were approved. 3.3 The Chairman then polled the members present on the confirmation of the minutes. From the poll results, the Chairman declared that the minutes had been confirmed. 4. ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2006/2007 4.1.1 The Chairman referred the members to the Annual Report of the Council for the year 2006/2007 and the Accounts for the Institute for the year ended 31 December 2006 and invited comments from the members present. 4.1.2 Mr Mubarak Abdat Salim commented that the presentation of the Annual Report is getting more impressive over the years. It has more useful information to members and is keeping up with the trends. He queried whether the presentation of the Balance Sheet on page 68 was in line with generally accepted accounting principles. In relation to the two signatures of the President and the Treasurer, he asked what exactly did they mean. He commented that this could be opened to various interpretations. He was not sure why it was not in line with the disclosures found in the annual report of other associations or professional bodies. He was of the view that there should be a separate attestation by the President and the Treasurer, signing on behalf of the Council, that the Institute’s financial statements are true and fair. He needed to clarify why the Institute was still sticking to this age-old practice. 10 ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 MINUTES OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING 2006/2007 4.1.3 The Treasurer addressed Mr Salim’s query and commented that he was correct in saying that the signature was an age-old practice. However, he mentioned that the Registry of Societies does not have a requirement for a separate attestation statement, different from the Companies Act. Mr Salim’s point was therefore noted and the Treasurer believed the next Treasurer would revise the presentation approach in next year’s annual report if considered necessary. On Mr Salim’s comment that many associations have upgraded and have a different attestation format in their annual reports, the Treasurer replied that to his knowledge, many of them still follow the same practice. 4.1.4 The Vice-President added while the point was noted, the practice has complied with the requirement of the regulations. As for his point as to whether it has complied with the generally accepted accounting principles in Singapore, he mentioned that this is not an accounting practice issue. If the concern is whether the Council takes responsibility for the set of financial statements, the answer is yes. And this is further reiterated in the auditor’s report that states the responsibility of the Council. 4.1.5 Mr Tan See Peng commented that on the matter of accounting standards, he noticed two anomalies now in applying the standards to the local scene. He pointed out that international standards should not be blindly applied to our local practice. He quoted two instances. Firstly, the requirement of showing the audit fees in a listed company. Nowadays one does not have to show the regular audit fees but only need to show the nonaudit fees. The intention, presumably, is to show the independence of the auditors. However, if the statutory audit fees are not shown, as compared to non-audit fees, he questioned how one would know if the auditors were truly independent. Secondly, with regards to FRS 40, one has to show the fair value of the investment property. He came across one company, which engages in the hotel and property businesses, where out of the profit before tax of $120mil, $55.7mil comes from the fair value adjustment of the investment property, which has to be shown. However he thinks the $55.7mil is not realised as the company has not disposed of the asset. Therefore showing it as part of the earnings of the company is very misleading. The management had also admitted as such. He mentioned there should be a footnote to say the amount is not realised. However, FRS 40 required it to be shown as earnings. Mr Tan therefore pointed out that perhaps the Accounting Standards Committee could look into this matter and advise on the application of such standards. 4.1.6 The Vice-President thanked Mr Tan for his interesting questions on accounting standards. He replied that this was beyond the scope of the AGM. However, his two suggestions are noted by the Institute and the Accounting Standards Committee could consider this matter. On the issue of whether we should take the cost approach versus the valuation approach on FRS 40 and if one should blindly follow the IASB standards, he noted that the Council on Corporate Disclosure and Governance, which is the standard setting body for accounting standards in Singapore, has taken the approach to align the Singapore standards to international standards. As to whether they have been applied blindly, it is a matter of perception. 4.1.7 Mr Mubarak Abdat Salim clarified on his earlier point that he was not referring to any compliance nor accounting standards about the attestations. The general principle of an attestation is to require the Council to take responsibility and to testify that the financial statements that they have prepared are true and fair. Mr Salim then went on to query about the Members’ Satisfaction Survey 2006 response rate in terms of absolute numbers and percentage. If the response is low, he asked if the survey is then effective. 4.1.8 The Vice-President replied that all members have been given a chance to provide their feedback through the survey. Based on the data, 10% of the members responded to the survey. Further, in any survey, respondents normally provide constructive comments. As to whether the 10% response rate is good or otherwise, it is a question of the acceptability level. The Institute certainly hopes to have a higher response rate and is targeting a 20% response rate for the next survey. However, he would leave it to members to assess if this is representative and if 10% is good enough. He encouraged more members to come forward and respond to the next survey. ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 MINUTES OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING 2006/2007 4.1.9 Mr Mubarak Abdat Salim also pointed out that some of the survey questions are not easily understood. He was one of the respondents and had a hard time completing the survey. If respondents are doubtful about certain questions and did not know how to respond appropriately, the answers may not be coherent to the questions in the survey and the subsequent results may not be conclusive. 4.1.10 The Executive Director replied that his point is noted and indicated that moving forward, the Institute would review the questions and make it more user-friendly and easier for members to complete. On the other hand, if members need clarification while completing the survey, they could call the Institute to clarify. 4.1.11 The President added that the Institute also welcomes suggestions from members on how to improve the survey forms so as to make it easier for members to respond. 4.1.12 As no further matters were raised, the Annual Report of the Institute for the year 2006/2007 and the Accounts of the Institute for the year ended 31 December 2006 have been received by the meeting, upon proposal by Mr David Phua Puay Heng and seconded by Mr Jerry Lee. 5. ELECTION OF COUNCIL MEMBERS 5.1 The Chairman informed the meeting that the following members of the Council had retired in accordance with the provisions of Articles 38 to 40 of the Constitution: Practising Members Fang Ai Lian Ho Mun-Tuke, Don Kon Yin Tong Sitoh Yih Pin As only four nominations each had been received in respect of the Practising Members and Non-practising Members, the four Practising Members and four Non-practising Members were deemed to be duly elected members of the Council for a two-year term as from this Annual General Meeting in accordance with Article 23 of the ICPAS (General Meetings) Rules. They were: 5.2 Practising Members Fang Ai Lian Ho Mun-Tuke, Don Kon Yin Tong Sitoh Yih Pin Non-Practising Members Quek Shi Kui Tan Boen Eng Yee Lat Shing, Tom Yim Kam May Non-Practising Members Quek Shi Kui Tan Boen Eng Yee Lat Shing, Tom Yim Kam May 6. TERMINATION OF MEETING In conclusion, the Chairman cited Rule 6 of the ICPAS (General Meetings) Rules, which provided that no motion shall be discussed at any Annual General Meeting of the Institute unless the required notice of 14 days was given. As the Secretariat had not received any such notice, and as all items on the agenda had been dealt with, the meeting was formally declared closed at 2:50 pm. Signed as a correct record Chairman 11 GLOBAL NETWORK Our international network of contemporaries and partners connects ICPAS globally and opens doors of opportunities to all members. 13 ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 REPORT OF THE COUNCIL The Council has pleasure in presenting its 2007/2008 Annual Report and Accounts of the Institute for the year ended 31 December 2007. At the first Council meeting held on 21 April 2007, the following Council members were elected as office bearers: President Vice-President Treasurer - - - Tan Boen Eng Kan Yaw Kiong, Ernest Khoo Ho Tong THE COUNCIL The 2007/2008 Council held ten ordinary meetings from 21 April 2007 to 29 February 2008. The number of Council meetings attended (A) and the number of committees on which each Council member served (B) are given below: Chan Yoke Kai Fang Ai Lian Ho Mun-Tuke, Don Kan Yaw Kiong, Ernest Khoo Ho Tong Kon Yin Tong Lee Chee Wung Loh Hoon Sun Pang Yang Hoong Quek Shi Kui A 6 5 8 9 7 3 6 8 6 8 B 1 Seow Teow Han, John 3 Sitoh Yih Pin 3 Tan Boen Eng 10 Teoh Leong Kay, Danny 8 Wong Lai Yong 4 Yee Lat Shing, Tom 5 Yeo Hian Heng, Gillian 3 Yeoh Oon Jin 2 Yim Kam May 3 A 7 3 10 3 10 8 7 7 10 B 5 4 10 1 5 3 3 3 3 MANPOWER AND TRAINING 4 new positions were created in the Secretariat and the Academy to enhance the Institute’s services in areas of IT, Courses and Professional Examinations. The total staff strength of the Institute as at February 2008 stood at 81. In line with the Institute’s goal to improve customer service and communications, staff attended training in leadership management, assertiveness & conflict management and team building throughout the year. SINGAPORE ACCOUNTANCY ACADEMY With its dedicated focus on quality education, the Singapore Accountancy Academy (SAA) has delivered results that speak for itself in 2007. Since the Academy moved into its own premise at 6 Raffles Quay, the facilities of the City Campus have been well utilised by members and students alike. Located at the central business district, the City Campus is poised to reach out to more working adults for its various programmes. Already, many members attending CPE classes there have commended on the convenience of the new location. SAA has also expanded its portfolio of courses with the launch of the University of London degrees courses with majors in Accounting & Finance, Banking & Finance, and Management. To date, over 200 students have taken up these programmes and enrollment is expected to increase. Another landmark achievement is the commencement of the Business Analytics & Reporting (BAR) programme. The aim of this ICPAS certified computer-based training course is to enable accounting professionals to leverage on infocomm technologies to make strategic and timely financial decisions using commonly available software. The course is funded and supported by the Infocomm Development Authority (IDA). 14 ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 REPORT OF THE COUNCIL Another noteworthy highlight is that the revamp of the lectures and addition of tutorials have helped to boost the overall passing rate for the ICPAS/ACCA Examinations. For this feat, the SAA has been accorded “Platinum Status” by ACCA UK in recognition of its good passing rates. In 2007, the SAA has also broken new grounds in attracting international students from new markets. There were about 160 new students from Myanmar enrolled with SAA. Although the recent political unrest in Myanmar may affect the January 2008 student intake, the Academy is confident that this new market has the potential to recruit more students in time to come. The SAA will continue its efforts to strengthen its foothold as a premier accountancy academy in the region. INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS The Institute hosted the following visits in 2007: 8 Jan Accounting Department, Petra Christian University, Indonesia Members of Delegation 11 Jan CPA Australia Mr Geoff Rankin, Chief Executive Mrs Ann Johns, Director of Education and Membership 1 Feb The Chartered Institute of Management Accountants Ms Judy Vulker, Project Director, Asia Pacific 12 Mar The Chartered Institute of Management Accountants Mr John Coghlan, President 14 Mar The Institute of Chartered Accountants in Australia Mr Rob DiMonte, President Mr Graham Meyer, Chief Executive Officer 26 Mar The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales Dr Raymond Madden, Executive Director, Learning & Professional Development 10 Apr Malaysian Institute of Accountants Mr Choong Shin Cheong, Roland, Chairman (Johor Branch) Mr Chuah Soon Guan, Head, Continuing Professional Education Mr G. Shanmugam, Manager, Continuing Professional Education Ms Chan Hua Seng, Manager (Johor Branch) 25 Apr Mongolian National Audit Office Mr Javzmaa Lkhamsuren, Auditor General of Mongolia Mr Ch. Nasanbat, General Auditor Ms Nurzed Lkhagvasuren, International and Public Relations Officer 25 May India’s Karnataka State Chartered Accountants Association Members of Delegation 12 Jun Beijing Municipal Audit Bureau Members of Delegation ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 REPORT OF THE COUNCIL 12 Jul The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants Mr Allen Blewitt, Chief Executive 22 Aug Association of Government Accountants of the Philippines (AGAP), Inc. Members of Delegation 30 Aug The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India Mr Sunil Talati, President 5 Sep The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England & Wales Mr Richard Dyson, President Mr Raymond Madden, Executive Director of Learning & Professional Development Ms Elaine Hong, International Development Manager of Learning & Professional Development TECHNICAL MATTERS Accounting During the year, the Institute’s Accounting Standards Committee (ASC) continued to play a pivotal role in working with the Council on Corporate Disclosure and Governance (CCDG) to review new accounting proposals and setting accounting standards, i.e. Financial Reporting Standards (FRSs). The FRSs are virtually converged with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRSs) and International Accounting Standards (IASs) issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB). The Accounting Standards Act was passed in Parliament on 27 August 2007 and the Act came into effect on 1 November 2007. With the enactment of the Accounting Standards Act, the Accounting Standards Council took over the task of prescribing accounting standards from the CCDG. Details of the contributions of the Committee can be found in the Committee’s report on page 29 of the annual report. Auditing The Institute’s Auditing and Assurance Standards Committee (AASC) continued to review and issue auditing promulgations. Auditing standards known as Singapore Standards on Auditing (SSAs) and audit practice statements known as Statements of Auditing Practice (SAPS) are harmonised with international equivalent International Standards on Auditing (ISAs) and International Auditing Practice Statements (IAPSs) respectively issued by the International Auditing and Assurance Standards Board (IAASB) of the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC). The AASC also issues Audit Guidance Statements (AGSs) as best practice statements to provide assistance to auditors on matters of relevance not covered by SSAs or SAPs. The list of auditing standards and exposure drafts approved by the Institute’s Council on the recommendations of the AASC during the year, can be found in the Committee’s report on pages 32 - 34 of the annual report. Statements of Recommended Accounting Practice The Institute approved the following revised Statement of Recommended Accounting Practice (RAPs) during the year: - Revised Auditors’ Report in Appendix 1 and 2 of RAP 7 Reporting Framework for Unit Trusts ACKNOWLEDGEMENT The Council would like to thank all members who have actively supported the Institute’s activities and programmes during the year. The Council would like to commend the chairmen and members of the various committees for their valuable contributions and dedicated service to the Institute. 15 ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 STATISTICAL HIGHLIGHTS Activities No. of Committees No. of Meetings Publications of the Institute Courses and Talks Conferences 2005 33 67 20 244 1 2007 35 68 22 335 1 2006 35 74 18 318 1 Membership No. of Members 17,328 18,143 19,168 Total Subscriptions $2,434,760 $2,534,130 $2,645,770 Total Secretariat’s Expenses $3,125,387 $3,280,091 $3,648,805 1 Average Subscription per Member $141 $140 $138 Average Expense per Member1 $180 $181 $190 $13,270,8522 $16,905,2902 Total revenue $12,716,9652 Total expenses $9,562,7302 $11,336,3472 $13,260,8322 Share of profit of associates (net of tax) - $41,5682 $38,8582 Income tax expenses $793,5712 $438,0092 $658,8362 Total surplus for the year $2,360,6642 $1,538,0642 $3,024,4802 1 This is based solely on members’ subscriptions and does not take into account other sources of income 2 Consolidated figures 2006 2007 2005 2006 2007 $3,024,480 2005 $1,538,064 $2,360,664 $13,270,852 $41,568 $16,905,290 2005 Total Surplus of the year $38,858 Share of Profit Associates (Net of Tax) Total Revenue $12,716,965 16 2006 2007 FUTURE GROWTH ICPAS continues to develop and actualise dynamic, forward-looking initiatives to advance the accountancy profession in Singapore and around the world. 18 ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 YEAR-IN-REVIEW CONTINUING PROFESSIONAL EDUCATION • In the past year, the Institute continued to provide the tools for career growth and development through our myriad of continuing professional education courses, technical seminars and conferences. Practical Insights: ICPAS Audit Manual for Small Companies seminar • Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) Compliance Update: Impact of Changes on Business & IT Audit, and Governance seminar • ICPAS/Singapore Institute of Taxation Limited (SIT): Seminar on Updates on Recent Tax Case Law • Forum on the Exposure Drafts of the ICPAS and ACRA Codes • Business Analytics and Reporting (BAR) Conference • Observations by the Financial Statements Review Committee seminar • Seminar and Panel Discussion on Audit Committees • Seminar on Anti-Money Laundering and Anti-Terrorism Financing • Seminar on Recent Court of Appeal Cases Seminars / Forums / Conferences • ICPAS/Insolvency Practitioners Association of Singapore Limited (IPAS): Maximising Value Through Restructuring seminar • Financial Reporting Responsibilities & Expectations and the Proposed SME Accounting Standards seminar • ICPAS/Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority of Singapore (ACRA): Preparation and Filing of Financial Statements in XBRL seminar • ICPAS/National Council on Social Services (NCSS): RAP 6 Accounting and Reporting By Charities Forum • • Public Accountants Conference 2007 (organised by the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority with ICPAS as the strategic partner) CPA Forum 2007 (jointly organised by ICPAS and CPA Australia) ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 YEAR-IN-REVIEW Continuing Professional Education (CPE) • Close to 270 CPE seminars and 12 CPA Dinner Talks were held in 2007. • CPE Training Directory Goes Online Members can now conveniently register, make payments for seminars, plan and manage their CPE calendar online. ICPAS continues to provide the tools for career growth and development through our myriad of continuing professional education courses, technical seminars and conferences. 19 20 ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 YEAR-IN-REVEIW VOICE OF THE PROFESSION The Institute works with all our stakeholders, including government decision makers, employers, the media and the general public to generate awareness about the accountancy profession. Over the past year, the Institute has been working closely with the now defunct Council on Corporate Disclosure and Governance, which has been replaced by the Accounting Standards Council, in reviewing new accounting exposure drafts and setting accounting standards. During the year, the Institute’s Council, on the recommendation of the Auditing and Assurance Standards Committee, approved 13 auditing pronouncements. The Asean Federation of Accountants (AFA) Council quarterly meetings were attended by the Institute’s representatives on the AFA Council: Mr Tan Boen Eng, Dr Ernest Kan, Mr Khoo Ho Tong and Mr John Seow, who is also AFA’s Treasurer. The last AFA Council Meeting in Jakarta, was held in conjunction with the 92nd AFA Conference in December. Dr Ernest Kan and Mr Lucas Tran who represented the Institute at this conference, which focused on the dynamic roles of accountants in corporate governance, were speakers as well. The Institute was also proud to be the partner organisation for the Singapore Corporate Awards (SCA), an annual event that honours exemplary of companies and individuals that have helped to raise Singapore’s standard of corporate disclosure and governance. ICPAS also jointly organised a CFO Roundtable with Robert Half in September. The Roundtable provided a platform for finance and accounting professionals to discuss the challenges Singapore businesses face in building a finance team amid today’s changing workforce. We also played a pivotal role in influencing policy makers on behalf of members by actively engaging in dialogue sessions with various government institutions and industry regulators: • On 6 March, the Public Accounting Practice Committee had a dialogue session with the Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports (MCYS) to explore possible assistance from our members to complement their efforts in setting up a business framework for social enterprises. • On 28 March, the Public Accounting Practice Committee had a dialogue session with the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA) and provided information on our members’ operational needs for ACRA’s proposed membership portal. • On 25 April and 24 October, the Institute and various professional bodies participated in dialogue sessions with ACRA to update on the upcoming activities and recent initiatives by ACRA. ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 YEAR-IN-REVIEW Acting as the voice of the profession, the Institute actively participates in meetings and dialogues to advocate for the profession and its members. • On 12 June, representatives of the Auditing and Assurance Standards Committee had a dialogue session with the MCYS to discuss and clarify certain issues pertaining to the audits and regulations concerning Institutions of a Public Character (IPC) / charities. • On 5 September, representatives of the Auditing and Assurance Standards Committee had a dialogue session with the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS) to discuss proposed revisions to the IRAS sample auditor’s reports found in Audit Guidance Statement 1 (AGS 1) Sample Auditor’s Reports. • On 7 September, representatives from the Institute had a dialogue session with the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) assessors at the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) to discuss how the accountancy profession has implemented FATF principles to combat moneylaundering (ML) and terrorism financing (TF). • On 17 January and 12 November, representatives of the Auditing and Assurance Standards Committee had dialogue sessions with the Central Provident Fund Board (CPF Board) to touch base and share observations in the audits of the product and service providers and on the changes pertaining to the sales charge and expense ratio caps under the CPF Investment Scheme (CPFIS). • On 1 November, representatives of the Banking and Finance Committee had a dialogue session with the Monetary Authority of Singapore to discuss several issues including Basel II Implementation in Singapore, Collective Impairment under MAS Notice 612, CDO issues and market trends. • ICPAS also had quarterly dialogues with ACRA to discuss issues of concern and touch base on developments. 21 22 ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 YEAR-IN-REVEIW The Institute charted new frontiers through the signing of memorandum of co-operations with overseas accountancy bodies. INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION To increase our international footprint, we signed memorandum of co-operations (MoC) with the Vietnam Association of Certified Public Accountants (VACPA) in June and with Cambodia’s National Accounting Council and Kampuchea Institute of Certified Public Accountants and Auditors (KICPAA) in September. ICPAS members can now practise in Vietnam and Cambodia provided they meet the requirements of VACPA and KICPAA respectively. These MoCs enhanced mutual cooperation between the parties as well as the promotion of the common advancement of the accountancy profession in the countries. We have also been working closely with the Chinese Institute of Certified Public Accountants (CICPA) to ink an agreement of co-operation in the first half of 2008. The scope of co-operation would be in the areas of mutual recognition of continuing professional education and training. ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 YEAR-IN-REVIEW BRINGING VALUE TO MEMBERS In order to keep up with the ever-expanding role of accounting professionals, the Institute continued to look for ways to support members innovatively that will help to enhance their well-being too. The Institute also helped to set up opportunities for members to interact and build worthwhile business contacts through networking and social activities. Benefits & Privileges • Introduction of the UOB-ICPAS Professional Platinum Card • Close to 100 dining, shopping and personal grooming offers from popular merchants • Complimentary makeover sponsored by jeweller, Coulisse, for ICPAS Annual Dinner & Dance • Launch of the Membership Privileges and Services online portal to facilitate the access of these perks by using their e-Membership card • Electronic birthday card that entitle members to exclusive vouchers Social and Networking • Over 80 events including fashion and grooming workshops, culinary & sporting classes, fengshui talks and personal development seminars, networking evenings and movie screenings • Welcome receptions at the City Campus for new members • ICPAS Annual Dinner & Dance 2007 – “A Musical Extravaganza” • Speechcraft 2007 • CPA Games 2007 23 24 ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 YEAR-IN-REVEIW ICPAS improved the value it provides to its members through privileges programme tie-ups as well as social and networking activities. MEMBERS PROMOTION The Institute is committed to developing, supporting and enhancing the CPA Singapore designation, which provides our members with the professional recognition, status and prestige they deserve. Attracting new members is vital to the continued growth of the Institute. Thus a series of marketing and branding initiatives were deployed throughout the year to position the CPA Singapore as the designation of choice for both employees and employers. Branding the CPA Singapore designation A series of print advertisements featuring the key messages of “Strengthening Your Professional Credentials”, “Growing a Successful Business” and “All it takes is CPA Singapore” appeared in media such as The Business Times, The Straits Times and Today. We also explored new media such as the Internet by putting up interactive web banners and advertorial in Channel NewsAsia. ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 YEAR-IN-REVIEW Positioning the CPA Singapore brand as the designation of choice among the various stakeholders is a key strategy for the Institute’s future growth. To reach out to our target audiences more effectively, we also placed the advertisements at strategic locations such as the City Hall MRT boarding platforms and on buses that ply the central business districts, tertiary institutions and town areas. More publicity for the CPA Singapore designation was generated through the CPA Forum’s publicity. The Institute was also constantly seen and heard across all media through interviews and soundbites given by prominent ICPAS representatives and CPAs Singapore. A survey conducted at the end of 2007 also revealed very strong brand awareness of ICPAS and CPA Singapore. Similarly, the brand recall was high with more than half of the respondents indicating that they have seen the advertisements and over 80% of them could recognise the correct visual and message. Marketing the CPA Singapore designation To market the CPA Singapore designation to accountancy graduates, the Institute has worked closely with the Nanyang Technological University (NTU) and Singapore Management University (SMU) Accountancy Alumni & Career Centres. For example, the Institute held CPA Singapore Career Talks at NTU to explain how the professional designation could help them in their career. We also launched a direct mailing campaign for the CPA Singapore prospectus to target the ICPAS-ACCA Joint Scheme graduates, SMU Accountancy Alumni & NTU Accountancy Alumni. The Institute also contributed an article relating to ICPAS membership and CPA Singapore to the SMU Accountancy website (SoAR). The inaugural ICPAS Day held on 19 September at Suntec City featured a career exhibition, which connected over 1,000 participants, most of whom are ICPAS members to accountancy and recruitment firms. The Institute also tied up with recruitment specialists Kerry Consulting, Robert Half International and Robert Walters to run regular sessions of career development talks for ICPAS members. Last year also saw the introduction of the Associate (ICPAS) designation for provisional members who have yet to meet the criteria of the full membership. 25 ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 YEAR-IN-REVEIW Membership Growth 2005 18,143 19,168 The membership promotion efforts have paid off as we see an increase in membership growth rate at close to 6% in 2007 over 2006 compared to around 5% in 2006 over 2005. 17,328 26 2006 2007 MEMBERSHIP PROFILE Membership Class Age 4% 18% 3% 13% 23% 22% 73% 44% 73% | Non-Practising 18% | < 30 13% | 51-60 23% | Provisional 44% | 31-40 3% | > 60 4% | Practising 22% | 41-50 Gender 63% | Female Local vs Overseas 37% | Male 37% 5% 63% 95% 95% | Local 5% | Overseas ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 YEAR-IN-REVIEW ACCOUNTANCY EDUCATION We remain committed to foster the needs of the accountancy industry by providing quality education and training through the Singapore Accountancy Academy (SAA), the training arm of the Institute. We officially opened our Singapore Accountancy Academy (SAA) City Campus right in the heart of the central business district on 24 April to provide a convenient, vibrant and conducive learning environment for our members and students. SAA also expanded its portfolio of courses last year with its launch of the University of London degrees courses with majors in Accounting & Finance, Banking & Finance, and Management. To date, over 200 students have taken up these programmes and enrollment is expected to increase. Another hallmark achievement by the SAA is the commencement of the Business Analytics & Reporting (BAR) course. The aim of this ICPAS certified computer-based training program is to enable finance professionals to leverage on infocomm technology to make strategic and timely financial decisions using commonly available software. The course is funded and supported by Infocomm Development Authority (IDA). SAA was also accorded the prestigious “Platinum Status” by ACCA UK in recognition of its good passing rates. The improved overall passing rate for the ICPAS/ACCA Examinations was made possible by revamping and improving on lectures and adding tutorials. Last year also saw the collaboration between SAA and the Millennia Institute (a consolidation of Pre-U centres) to teach a top up version of the ICPAS / ACCA Certified Accounting Technician (CAT) programme to their relevant students, which will allow such students to graduate with an “A” level certificate as well as the CAT qualification. The programme has been very successful and saw more than 60 students signing up in a single cohort. SAA is currently studying how it can replicate this model to other public schools under the Ministry of Education. The opening of the new city campus and an expanded portfolio of courses, among other key achievements, have helped the SAA strengthen its foothold as the premier accountancy academy in Asia. 27 28 ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 YEAR-IN-REVEIW CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY The Institute is committed to corporate social responsibility (CSR) and to further embed good corporate citizenship within our culture that will serve both member interest and the public interest. Community Service The Community Service Commtitee organised activities throughout the year that benefited the less fortunate in the society: • Walk for Fun’d in March to raise funds for the Breast Cancer Foundation • Annual Reach-Out in November • Christmas Outing in December • Movie screenings of “Pirates of the Caribbean 3: At World’s End” and “Golden Compass” which were jointly held with the Social Committee The Institute is committed to corporate social responsibility and to further embed good corporate citizenship within our culture that will serve both member interest and the public interest. In December, the Institute also organised a charity event with Sharity Giftbox ran by the Boys Brigade, which received overwhelming response from big-hearted ICPAS members. Scholarship and Awards This year, the Institute gave out the ICPAS Gold Medal to the most outstanding accountancy students from NTU, SMU, Ngee Ann, Singapore and Temasek Polytechnics. Additionally, ICPAS Scholarship Awards were presented to two second-year and two third-year students from the Nanyang Business School at NTU. We also awarded the ICPAS Scholarship Awards to two third-year and two fourth-year students from the School of Accountancy at Singapore Management University. ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 COMMITTEES REVIEW ACCA COMMITTEE Kan Yaw Kiong, Ernest – Chairman Ng Song Piak Ho Mun-Tuke, Don – Dy Chairman Quek Shi Kui Chia Chiew Meng, Robin Ramasamy, Jayapal Lee Chee Wung Tan Lye Heng, Paul Lim Lay Lian, Jocelyn Yim Kam May The ACCA Committee played a useful role in enhancing the success of the ICPAS/ACCA Joint Professional Examination Scheme. The Committee worked with the student society, ACCA / ICPAS Student Society (AISS), to organise a series of social and studyrelated student activities including a corporate visit to Deloitte & Touche and talk on the ACCA new syllabus. The Committee will continue to be involved in the AISS activities in order to assist the ACCA student body as a whole. ICPAS and ACCA continued to work closely to promote the Joint Scheme through joint career talks and student events such as the Student Orientation Day, which was held twice yearly for newly registered Joint Scheme students and the bi-annual ACCA/ICPAS Graduation Ceremony, which was held for graduates of the December 2006 and June 2007 examination sessions. ACCOUNTING STANDARDS COMMITTEE Fang Ai Lian – Chairperson Kon Yin Tong Akhtar, Sajjad Low Eng Huat, Peter Ang Hao Yao Ng Eng Juan Boon Yoon Chiang Sivaram, Nagaraj Chia Siew Eng Tan Boon Siong Chin Foong Yoke, Evelyn Tan Hock Neo, Pearl Foong Daw Ching Tan Siah Yong Goh Ann Nee (appointed 27.06.07) Tan Song Kok, Henry (appointed 18.07.07) Iyer, Shanker Teo Cheow Tong (appointed 16.05.07) Kan Yaw Kiong, Ernest Tham Sai Choy With the enactment of the Accounting Standards Act, the Accounting Standards Council (ASC) was formed to take over the task of prescribing accounting standards from the Council on Corporate Disclosure and Governance (CCDG). ICPAS Accounting Standards Committee continued working closely with the newly formed ASC in reviewing new accounting proposals and setting accounting standards, i.e. Financial Reporting Standards (FRSs). The FRSs are virtually converged with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRSs) and International Accounting Standards (IASs) issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB). As of 31 December 2007, the following were issued as FRSs and Interpretations subsequent to the Institute’s recommendations: • FRS 23 Borrowing Costs • FRS 108 Operating Segments • INT FRS 111 FRS 102 – Group and Treasury Share Transactions • INT FRS 112 Service Concession Arrangements 29 30 ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 COMMITTEES REVIEW During the year, the Committee also deliberated on the following IFRSs, amendments to IASs/IFRSs, revised implementation guidance and Interpretations issued by IASB/IFRIC. Corresponding revisions/amendments were made to FRSs and INT FRSs: • IFRIC 13 Customer Loyalty Programmes • IFRIC 14 IAS 19 – Defined Benefit Assets & Minimum Funding Requirements • FRS 1 Presentation of Financial Statements • FRS 2 Inventories • FRS 7 Cash Flow Statements • FRS 8 Accounting Policies, Changes in Accounting Estimates and Errors • FRS 11 Construction Contracts • FRS 16 Property, Plant & Equipment • FRS 19 Employee Benefits • FRS 23 Borrowing Costs • FRS 27 Consolidated and Separate Financial Statements • FRS 33 Earnings Per Share • FRS 34 Interim Financial Reporting • FRS 36 Impairment of Assets • FRS 38 Intangible Assets • FRS 101 First-time Adoption of Financial Reporting Standards • FRS 105 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations • FRS 106 Exploration for and Evaluation of Mineral Resources • INT FRS 29 Disclosure – Service Concession Arrangements • INT FRS 101 Changes in Existing Decommissioning Restoration and Similar Liabilities • INT FRS 104 Determining Whether an Arrangement Contains a Lease ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 COMMITTEES REVIEW The following IASB exposure drafts were considered by the ASC with representations and recommendations from the Committee and representatives from the relevant industries: • ED Proposed Amendments to IFRS 1 First-time Adoption of Interpretation Financial Reporting Standards: Cost of an Investment in a Subsidiary • ED of the International Financial Reporting Standard for Small and Medium-sized Entities (SMEs) • ED Proposed Amendments to IAS 24 Related Party Disclosures • ED Amendments to FRS 39 Exposure Qualifying for Hedge Accounting • ED 9 Joint Arrangements • ED Proposed Improvements to IFRS • ED INT FRS Real Estate Sales • ED INT FRS Hedges of a Net Investment in a Foreign Operation The Committee reviewed the above proposals and prepared comment letters taking into account feedback received. The comment letters were forwarded to the Council for approval/comments and to the ASC for submission to the IASB as appropriate. At its meetings, the Committee made presentations on the IASB/IFRIC exposure drafts, to which ASC members and representatives were invited. The purpose of the presentations was to facilitate understanding of the technical issues and implications of the accounting standards and proposals. The Committee also provided views on the following: • IASB Discussion Paper on Fair Value Measurements • IASB Discussion Paper on Preliminary Views on Insurance Contracts ACCREDITATION COMMITTEE Tan Boen Eng – Chairman Kan Yaw Kiong, Ernest Kwok, Kevin Pang Yang Hoong Yeo Hian Heng, Gillian Yeoh Oon Jin The Committee met to discuss the outstanding issues in respect of the negotiation for Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) between the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICA-India) and the Institute. Both sides have not been able to close the gap. For instance, ICA-India’s latest proposal contains a condition that the proposed MRA covers only ICPAS members who were born in Singapore. Arising from the Committee’s recommendation, Council has decided to grant provisional accreditation to NUS’ Bachelor of Business Administration (Accountancy) programme subject to a yearly review over the next three years. 31 32 ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 COMMITTEES REVIEW ATTS COMMITTEE Ong Chin Guan, Noris – Chairman N Vimala Devi Tan Boen Eng – Dy Chairman Lee Kian Meng, Ernest Chee Kim Hock (appointed 21.04.07) Yee Fook Hong The Committee met to deal with the policy and operational aspects of the Association of Taxation Technicians Singapore and to review the results of the ATTS examinations. A total of 4 forums were held for the benefit of the ATTS students and members. Besides inviting tax practitioners as speakers, the Committee also invited IRAS to lead the tax forums. To reach out to more tax support staff, the forums were opened to staff from CPA firms. The forums received overwhelming reponse with full capacity turnout. The total turnout of the 4 forums was 688 participants. The ATTS Annual Tea Reception 2007 was held in April to present First and Second Place Awards and Merit Certificates to students who performed well in the June and December 2006 examinations. This was the first time the invitation to the Tea Reception was extended to CPA firms and a total of 87 representatives from CPA firms attended the event. The Guest-of-Honour was Mr Alan Ow, Senior Deputy Commissioner of IRAS. The ATTS Diploma in Taxation was awarded Skills Development Funding in April. With this, students sponsored by their companies can apply for up to 90% Workforce Development Agency (WDA) financial support. AUDITING AND ASSURANCE STANDARDS COMMITTEE Kan Yaw Kiong, Ernest – Chairman Yeoh Oon Jin – Dy Chairman Barmaky, Shariq Cheong, Sabina Christie, Hamish Foo See Liang Ho, Kate Lee, Maria Lee, Paul Ng, Julie Siew Wun Mui Tan Wee Khim Tay, Joanne Thein, Reggie Toh, Joseph Tran Phuoc, Lucas Wong-Yeow Anna Irene Yeo Boon Chye Yeo Ek Khuan In 2007, the Committee organised the following seminars: 18 May - Financial Reporting Responsibilities & Expectations and the Proposed SME Accounting Standards (co-organised with the Association of Small and Medium Enterprises) 24 July - Public Accountants Conference 2007 (The Institute is strategic partner to organiser, the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority). The Chairman of the Committee spoke on the topic “International Developments - Auditing Standards” 11 September - Practical Insights: ICPAS Audit Manual for Small Companies 29 October - Anti-Money Laundering and Anti-Terrorism Financing During the year, the Institute’s Council, on the recommendation of the Committee, approved the following: • Revised sample auditor’s report for money-changing and remittance businesses (Audit Guidance Statement 1 Sample Auditor’s Reports - AGS 1) ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 COMMITTEES REVIEW • Revised sample auditor’s reports found in Singapore Standard on Auditing (SSA) 700 The Independent Auditor’s Report on a Complete Set of General Purpose Financial Statements and Appendix 1 of AGS 1 • Revised sample auditor’s report on “Report of Factual Findings - EDAS Scheme (EDB)” (AGS 1) • Revised sample auditor’s report on “Project accounts - Housing Developers (Project Account) Rules” (AGS 1) • Revised AGS on charities (Appendix 2 of AGS 5 Audits of Entities in Specific Industries, Professions or Vocations) • Revised sample auditor’s report for a branch (Appendices 1D, 1G and 10 of AGS 1) • First set of redrafted clarity SSAs: • Preface to the Singapore Standards on Quality Control, Auditing, Review, Other Assurance and Related Services • SSA 240 The Auditor’s Responsibilities Relating to Fraud in an Audit of Financial Statements • SSA 300 Planning an Audit of Financial Statements • SSA 315 Identifying and Assessing the Risks of Material Misstatement Through Understanding the Entity and Its Environment • SSA 330 The Auditor’s Responses to Assessed Risks As of 31 December 2007, the Committee was considering issues in relation to proposed new or revised auditing pronouncements on the following matters: • Comfort Letters and Other Assistance for Public Offerings of Equity Securities in Singapore • The Audit of Group Financial Statements • Materiality in Planning and Performing an Audit • Evaluation of Misstatements Identified during the Audit • Communication with Those Charged with Governance • Written Representations • Audit Documentation • Auditing Accounting Estimates, Including Fair Value Accounting Estimates, and Related Disclosures • Subsequent Events • The Auditor’s Consideration of the Internal Audit Function • The Auditor’s Responsibility in Relation to Other Information in Documents Containing Audited Financial Statements • Related Parties • Going Concern • Overall Objective of the Independent Auditor, and the Conduct of an Audit in Accordance with Singapore Standards on Auditing 33 34 ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 COMMITTEES REVIEW • The Auditor’s Responsibilities Relating to Laws and Regulations in an Audit of Financial Statements • Considering the Relevance and Reliability of Audit Evidence • Quality Control for Firms that Perform Audits and Reviews of Financial Statements, and Other Assurance and Related Services Engagements • Quality Control for an Audit of Financial Statements • The Independent Auditor’s Report on General Purpose Financial Statements • Modifications to the Opinion in the Independent Auditor’s Report • Emphasis of Matter Paragraphs and Other Matter(s) Paragraphs in the Independent Auditor’s Report • Special Considerations - Audits of Special Purpose Financial Statements and Specific Elements, Accounts or Items of a Financial Statement • Engagements to Report on Summary Financial Statements • Initial Audit Engagements - Opening Balances • Audit Sampling • External Confirmations • Using the Work of an Auditor’s Expert On top of that, the Institute, on the recommendation of the Committee and the approval of Council, provided its comments on various exposure drafts issued by the IAASB of IFAC. During the year, representatives from the Committee engaged regulatory agencies and other interested parties, including the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority, the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore and the Central Provident Fund Board, in dialogue meetings to discuss regulatory developments and auditing related matters. BANKING & FINANCE COMMITTEE Fang Ai Lian – Chairperson Chua Kim Chiu – Dy Chairman Cheng Ai Phing Desai, Prakash Ambelal Ng Geok Mui Nixon, Dominic Ong Ai Boon Woo, Wilson Leong Kok Keong Yap Chee Meng The Committee worked with the Accounting Standards Committee in considering the following IASB Exposure Drafts and Interpretations: • IFRIC D22 Hedges of a Net Investment in a Foreign Operation • ED Amendments to IAS 39 Exposure Qualifying for Hedge Accounting ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 COMMITTEES REVIEW The Committee also worked with the Accounting Standards Committee to issue the Revised Auditors’ Report in RAP 7 in February. The Committee provided its comments on the MAS Consultation Paper on Amendments to the Securities and Futures Act in January. In its continual efforts to engage the relevant authorities to discuss and resolve issues in the banking and finance industry, the Committee had a dialogue session in November with the MAS on several issues including Basel II Implementation in Singapore, Collective Impairment under MAS Notice 612 and CDO issues and market trends. BAR CERTIFICATION COMMITTEE Themin Suwardy – Chairman Kwok Chee Chiu, Winston Lee Jeng Wah Thio Tse Gan The BAR Certification Committee worked closely with another committee – BAR Panel of Advisors to oversee the ICPAS / IDA Business Analytics & Reporting (BAR) course, with the Certification Committee overseeing the quality control and certification and Panel of Advisors looking after the content development. The terms of reference of the Certification Committee are to maintain and control high standard for the whole certification process for ICPAS / IDA Business Analytics & Reporting (BAR) course and ensure the relevance and quality of the project is congruent with the objectives of the BAR Course. The Certification Committee continued to refine and improve the assessment criteria and oversee the introduction of “Certificate of Competency with Merit” awards to exemplary projects submitted by participants. Together with the instructors, the BAR Certification Committee was successful in securing IDA’s continued funding for the course. This helps the Institute to make the course available to a wider group of accountants. The Committee was also involved in the BAR Conference held on 19 September, which was attended by about 1000 financial professionals. BAR PANEL OF ADVISORS Sia Siew Kien – Chairman Thio Tse Gan The Wie Djien, Jerry Based on feedback from focus group, the Advisors reviewed the revamped BAR course to incorporate more specific case studies relevant to businesses. The key changes in the content include: 1) Participants are now shown how to automatically import new data into their data empire without traditional cut and paste, which is prone to errors. 2) A new simulation module incorporating what-if scenarios analysis on the face of the budget that gives instantaneous results was added to the revamped BAR course. 3) A corporate finance model to determine the optimal capital structure for a company was added. The Committee formed the Panelists for the Q&A session at the BAR Conference held on 19 September, providing answers to numerous questions on how to improve workplace-reporting efficiency. BOARD OF EDUCATION AND EXAMINERS Yeo Hian Heng, Gillian – Chairperson Chew Tong Gunn Choo Teck Min Lian Wee Cheow Pang Yang Hoong 35 36 ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 COMMITTEES REVIEW The Committee streamlined the Institute’s CPE guidelines so as to be in line with the IFAC IES Standards and to maintain the professional competence of professional accountants. Over the course of the year, the Committee has assessed and successfully accredited the Bachelor of Business (Accountancy) from Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT). Graduates are eligible to apply for ICPAS Professional Examination (PE) if they have attempted the recommended core subjects at the degree level. To cater to the increasing demand of the ICPAS PE, the Committee has decided on the change of the examination frequency. Starting from the November 2008 examination session, all the five modules under the ICPAS PE will be offered twice a year instead of two papers offered quarterly. CAT COMMITTEE Tan Boen Eng – Chairman Ooi, Peter Khoo Ho Tong – Dy Chairman Teo Hui Leng Lim Cheng Lian, Angela 2007 was one of the best performing years for SAA’s CAT programme. Enrolment for both international and local markets has increased more than 30%. SAA has 70 students registered for the scheme at Millennia Institute and over 30 students for the Institute of Technical Education (ITE) collaboration. There is also a sharp increase in students under the Skill Development Fund (SDF) and Surrogate Employer Programme (SEP). There were a total of 1514 new student members joining the CATS/ACCA joint scheme, bringing the total number of registered student members to 3333. The number of graduates was 386 and there was a steady increase in the number of CATS Full members. The current membership strength is 414 for both Ordinary and Senior Members. CFO COMMITTEE Soh Gim Teik – Chairman Goh Bee Kheng, Grace Jong Voon Hoo Koo Tse Chia Loo Wen Lieh The Committee continued to provide a platform to address the professional needs of the Institute’s members by organising conferences, workshops, round-table discussions and networking sessions for Chief Financial Officers, Financial Controllers, Finance Directors etc. During the year, the Committee and Robert Half International jointly hosted an inaugural CFO Roundtable Discussion. A distinguished group of leading financial and accounting professionals were invited to discuss the challenges Singapore businesses face in building a team of finance professionals amid today’s changing workforce. The participants exchanged ideas and share best practices on how organisations can manage and train existing staff to meet the changing needs of their roles, as well as how to retain valuable employees especially when the economy is facing a talent crunch. CHINA COMMITTEE Tan Boen Eng – Chairman Sitoh Yih Pin – Dy Chairman Teo Meng Hua – Dy Chairman Chew Soon Beng Khoo Ho Tong Lim Lian Soon Ong Kian Guan, Joshua Wong Lai Yong Yong Cherng Nan Yow Hon Meng, Jason ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 COMMITTEES REVIEW The Committee hosted the visit of the Chinese delegation from Beijing Municipal Audit Bureau. A group of seven officials from the Beijing Municipal Audit Bureau visited the Institute on 12 June. There was an active exchange of audit practices between the Committee members and the visitors during the session. COMMUNITY SERVICE COMMITTEE Wong Lai Yong – Chairperson Wong Kian Kok – Dy Chairman Chia Chiew Meng, Robin Lee Lai Ken, Helen Ling Ing Hea, Grace Loh Boon Leng, David Tan Lee Choo Tang Shiuh Huei Wong Lee Eng, Elsie Yeo Siew Huay, Micolle The Committee organised the following community service projects in 2007: • Walk for Fun’d A charity drive in the form of a treasure hunt to raise funds for Breast Cancer Foundation was held at the Fort Canning Park on 31 March. • Movie Screening – “Pirates of the Carribean 3: At World’s End” 50 children from the Andrew and Grace Home attended this movie screening on 26 May. • Reach-Out 2007 The Annual Reach-Out was held on 4 November at Superbowl Golf and Country Club where 300 residents from nine charitable organisations were invited to a Chinese lunch and entertainment. • Autism Resource Centre Charity Dance The Institute sponsored 50 charity dance performance tickets to persons with special needs to attend the 1 December Matinee organised by the Autism Resource Centre (Singapore). The charity dance was held to raise funds for a new school. • Christmas Outing The Institute shared Christmas joy with 80 residents from Kaki Bukit Seniors Activity Centre on 6 December. The residents cruised down Orchard Road to see the Christmas lightings before having dinner at River View Hotel. • Movie Screening – “Golden Compass” On 8 December, 79 children from several homes attended this movie screening. CORPORATE FINANCE COMMITTEE Mah Chee Kheong, Chaly – Chairman Tham Sai Choy Ng Geok Mui Tham Tuck Seng Tan Chian Khong Wong Kian Kok The Committee discussed and provided input on matters relating to corporate finance to the regulatory authorities and other corporate finance/investment banking organisations. It also worked closely with other committees within the Institute on matters pertaining to accounting and auditing standards and provided input on professional issues to the standards setters. In January and November, the Institute, on the recommendation of the Committee and the Banking and Finance Committee and the approval of Council, provided its comments on the Monetary Authority of Singapore’s (MAS) second and third policy consultation papers on the “Policy Consultation on Amendments to the SFA and the FAA”. The public consultation papers arose from MAS’ review of the Securities and Futures Act (SFA) and the Financial Advisers Act (FAA), and are part of the initiatives of MAS to regularly review its regulatory requirements and to benchmark them against international best practices. 37 38 ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 COMMITTEES REVIEW CORPORATE GOVERNANCE COMMITTEE Kan Yaw Kiong, Ernest – Chairman Bowman, Bill Ho Yew Kee (appointed 15.08.07) Jothidas, A Kamis, Rohan Lee Kin Wai Ramasamy, Dhinakaran Yee Lat Shing, Tom The Committee continued to draw on the experience of auditors, accountants, consultants, company directors and other experts to raise awareness of corporate governance issues and to promote fairness, transparency and accountability in the conduct of business. In January, the Committee responded to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA)’s Consultation Paper on the Proposed Amendments to the Singapore Penal Code. In August, the Institute provided feedback to the Charities Unit on the Consultation paper on the Draft Code of Governance for Charities and Institutions of Public Character (IPCs). The Committee also continued to discuss the development of new best practice guidelines to promote sound corporate governance in companies. Representatives from the Committee continued to contribute articles to the “Corporate Governance” column of the Singapore Accountant. The Committee acknowledged the importance of its role in the development, implementation and promotion of sound corporate governance and will continue to participate actively in projects associated with its objectives and to organise relevant events on corporate governance. During the year, the Committee organised the following seminars and panel discussions: • Seminar on “Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) Compliance Update: Impact of Changes on Business & IT Audit, and Governance”; • Seminar on the recent court appeal cases “United Project Consultants Pte Ltd v Leong Kwok Onn”, “Gaelic Inns Pte Ltd v PlanAssure PAC” and “JSI Shipping (S) Pte Ltd v TeoFoongWongLCLoong”; and • Seminar and Panel Discussion on Audit Committees. Representatives from the Committee were invited to sit on the discussion panel of the ICPAS-NCSS Seminar on RAP 6 Accounting & Reporting by Charities held on 26 June. CPA AUSTRALIA COMMITTEE Loh Hoon Sun – Chairman Bowman, Bill Chan Lai Koon Han Lih Lih Koh Noi Keng Law, Janice Lim Kim Tong Ooi, Peter Seah, Linda Tan Boen Eng Jointly organised by ICPAS and CPA Australia on 17-18 August, the CPA Forum provided a platform for regulators and business leaders to exchange views and share their ideas with the business community. Over 800 CPAs and industry leaders from Singapore, Australia, Hong Kong and Malaysia gathered for the one-and-a-half-day Forum. They looked at the various aspects of Asian economies integration, including business expansion, investments, business risk, talent attraction and retention, opportunities for SMEs, accounting standards and taxation. Another successful enterprise is the joint monthly Dinner Talks held at the Conrad Centennial Singapore, which drew close to 300 members from both bodies. ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 COMMITTEES REVIEW DISCIPLINARY COMMITTEE Tan Boen Eng – Chairman Loh Hoon Sun Fang Ai Lian Sitoh Yih Pin Kon Yin Tong Yee Lat Shing, Tom Lee Chee Wung Yeo Hian Heng, Gillian The Committee dealt with 1 case submitted by the Investigation Committee. ETHICS COMMITTEE Teoh Leong Kay, Danny – Chairman Ang Peng Koon, Patrick Cheong Fook Seng, Anthony Ho Mun-Tuke, Don Quek Shi Kui Soh Chung Hian, Daniel Tay Joo Soon Yuen Ewe Jin, Phillip During the year, the Institute, on the recommendation of the Committee and the approval of Council, provided its comments to the International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants (IESBA), an independent standard-setting board within the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC), on the following exposure drafts (EDs): • Sections 290 and 291 of the IFAC Code of Ethics for Professional Accountants, which essentially sought to update and strengthen the independence requirements contained in the IFAC Code. • Strategic and Operational Plan 2008-2009, which outlines how the IESBA’s mission and objectives align with IFAC’s strategic priorities, and also explains how the IESBA works to achieve its objective as set out in its Terms of Reference. In August, the Institute, on the recommendation of the Committee and the approval of Council, issued an ED of a revised ICPAS Code of Professional Conduct and Ethics, based on Part C of the IFAC Code. This follows the issuance of an ED on the Code of Professional Conduct and Ethics for Public Accountants (the ACRA Code) by the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority’s Public Accountants Oversight Committee (PAOC) Ethics Sub-Committee. The ACRA Code is based on Parts A and B of the IFAC Code. The ICPAS Code will be based on the ACRA Code for Parts A and B when the latter is finalised. In September, the Institute held a forum on the “Exposure Drafts of the ICPAS and ACRA Codes” to solicit feedback from members and the feedback discussed had been considered and incorporated in a comment letter to ACRA on its ED on the ACRA Code. EXAMINATION COMMITTEE Kan Yaw Kiong, Ernest – Chairman Chee Hay Kheong, Daniel Ho Yew Kee Lee Jee Cheng, Philip (appointed 21.04.07) Lim Lian Soon The Committee continued to play its role in the implementation and administration of the ACCA/ICPAS Joint Scheme for its ACCA Professional Entry Route (PER) and Certified Accounting Technician (CAT) qualifications. The ACCA new syllabus was first examined in the December 2007 examination session. In conjunction with the introduction of the new syllabus, the Committee had approved and endorsed the standard exemptions policy for qualifications awarded by local educational institutions. The Committee worked closely with the Singapore examination team to provide feedback and suggestions to ACCA on ways to improve administrative processes, in the hope that the examining team could focus their attention on the setting of the papers and thus enhancing the quality of the Singapore adapted papers. The Committee continued to approve both the appointments and re-appointments of examiners, assessors and inspectors for the Singapore variant and adapted papers. A representative from the Committee continues to attend the Law and Tax Panel Meetings conducted by ACCA UK with all the examiners on the coming examination. 39 40 ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 COMMITTEES REVIEW FINANCIAL STATEMENTS REVIEW COMMITTEE Tan Eng Seong, Phillip – Chairman Ooi Chee Kar Cheng Ai Phing – Dy Chairperson Sim Cheng Geok, Helen Bay, Esther Soh Kok Leong Chia Soo Hien, Frankie Tan Kay Yeow, Douglas Chin, Robin Tan Swee Ho Eng Chin Chin Tan Tong Kai Goh Swee Hong Teo Chai Choo Ho Kok Yong Tham Chee Soon Kok Moi Lre Toh Kian Leong, Joseph Leaver, David Anthony Wong Kian Kok Ling Soon Hwa, Philip Wong-Yeo Siew Eng Lo Wei Min Yeo Boon Chye 120 sets of financial statements were reviewed. These included newly-listed public companies and a selection of private limited financial statements. These financial statements were reviewed by members working under the following sub-committees: Sub-Committee Chairman/Chairperson Published Accounts Phillip Tan Eng Seong Private Limited Accounts Cheng Ai Phing Number of Financial Statements Reviewed 72 48 120 In the course of its reviews, the Committee has highlighted to practising members areas where the presentation or content of the financial statements fall short of compliance with the Singapore Financial Reporting Standards (FRS) and other promulgations. Generally the standard of disclosure in the financial statements has improved. However, it was noted that for certain sets of financial statements reviewed, practising members were found to be not conversant with the FRS and pronouncements issued by the Institute in respect of the Singapore Standards on Auditing (SSA). These practising members were recommended to attend training courses to update themselves on the Standards. In addition, one member was found wanting in the discharge of his professional duties and subsequently referred to the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority for further action. In view of the substantial changes to the Singapore Financial Reporting Standards, which are effective for financial periods beginning on or after 1 January 2005, members are advised to take note of the changes and ensure their compliance in the relevant financial statements. On 5 October, the Committee conducted a seminar on observations compiled from its reviews over the past 20 months. More than 400 participants from CPA firms, statutory boards and various industries attended this seminar. GENERAL PURPOSE & FINANCE COMMITTEE Tan Boen Eng – Chairman Kan Yaw Kiong, Ernest Khoo Ho Tong During the year, the Committee met to deal with administrative and financial matters relating to the Institute. The Committee reviewed the annual budget, annual salary adjustments and promotional exercise for staff as well as the appointment of internal auditors to evaluate the internal controls of the Secretariat and the SAA. ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 COMMITTEES REVIEW The Committee considered and made recommendations to the Council on the presentation of ICPAS Silver and Merit Awards to two members who had made significant contributions to the Institute and or the community. It also awarded eight ICPAS Scholarship Awards to accountancy undergraduates from Nanyang Technological University and Singapore Management University. The awards and scholarships were presented at the Institute’s Annual Dinner and Dance on 26 October. The Committee also recommended to Council that Provisional Member be entitled to use the designation “Associate (ICPAS)”. The Committee discussed the development of a CPA Singapore logo to foster greater identification, recognition and brand building. INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SERVICES COMMITTEE Tang Kok Kwai – Chairman Seow Teow Han, John Lee Jeng Wah – Dy Chairman Sia Siew Kien Chee Hay Kheong, Daniel Tan Wee Peng, Kelvin Chin Chen Keong, John Themin Suwardy Chong Kek Sing Thio Tse Gan Hooi Cheng Cheong Wee Phui Gam Lim Shien Ching, Henry With to the aim to revamp the Institute’s IT infrastructure and applications, this committee will propose an IT Governance Framework for guidance and quality control of this project. These guidelines and best practices will assist to ensure that the Institute’s investment in IT will achieve the intended benefits. INSOLVENCY PRACTICES COMMITTEE Ho Mun-Tuke Don – Chairman Tam Chee Chong – Deputy Chairman Aw Eng Hai Chan Ket Teck Chay, Peter Chee Yoh Chuang Iyer, Ramasamy Subramaniam Reid, Timothy James (appointed 16.05.07) Seshadri Rajagopalan Tan Ng Kuang, Nicky Tay Swee Sze Yong Cherng Nan During the year, representatives of the Committee provided its views and inputs to the Insolvency & Public Trustee’s Office (IPTO) on the Consultation Paper on the Proposed Debt Repayment Scheme issued by Ministry of Law and IPTO. The proposed scheme seeks to help wage-earner debtors with relatively small unsecured debts not exceeding $100,000 avoid bankruptcy. The proposed scheme will be administered by appointed and qualified case administrators from the IPTO who would ensure that the debtor proposes and completes the debt repayment plan within five years. Members were also involved in the participation to provide and emphasise the importance to increase the awareness of insolvency practitioners in technical competency and the current legal precedents by the High Court in Singapore. In this respect, a series of CPE programmes were organised jointly with IPAS and SAA on the relevant features of Insolvency and Restructuring, which would be of interest to practitioners. Members of the IPC took an active part in reviewing, submitting written suggestions and giving constructive inputs to the proposed amendments to the Insolvency Legislation and participated in the INSOL International Singapore Symposium held at the Fullerton Hotel, Singapore in November. INSURANCE COMMITTEE Mak Keat Meng – Chairman Sim Hwee Cher – Dy Chairman Faulkner, Paul Hoon Ching Sing, Jeremy Ngo Siew Pod Tan Eng Seong, Phillip Yee Lat Shing, Tom Young, Kenny Horlley 41 42 ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 COMMITTEES REVIEW The Committee continued to contribute to the insurance industry through feedback and recommendations on various industry matters to insurance bodies and regulators, whilst handling issues raised by members. In July, the Committee deliberated and submitted a comment letter on the Public Consultation on Proposed Risk Management Guideline for Insurance Business to the Insurance Supervision Department of the Monetary Authority of Singapore. The Committee worked with the Accounting Standards Committee on the following IASB discussion papers and implementation guidance: • Discussion Paper on Preliminary Views on Insurance Contracts • Revised Implementation Guidance on IFRS 4 Insurance Contracts In 2007, MAS issued the supplementary report on the audit of Investment-Linked Life Insurance Polices (ILP) Sub-Funds, based on the recommendations of the Insurance Committee. INVESTIGATION COMMITTEE Kan Yaw Kiong, Ernest – Chairman Lee Chow Soon (Lay Person) Seow Teow Han, John – Dy Chairman Loh Yoon Min Khoo Ho Tong Ong Sim Ho During the year, the Committee dealt with three cases against non-practising CPAs, of which one case was dismissed and one case was referred to the Disciplinary Committee for professional misconduct. The third case is still on going. MANAGEMENT ACCOUNTING COMMITTEE Chan Yoke Kai – Chairman Chung Lai Hong Jothidas, A – Dy Chairman Ghosh, B C Cheng Wai Fung Low Peng Nam, Eric Chong Kum Fatt, Michael Navaratnam, V During the year, the Committee deliberated and recommended to the Institute the withdrawal of the following Statements on International Management Accounting Practice (IMAPs) on the basis of convergence with the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC): • IMAP – Preface to Statements on International Management Accounting Practice • IMAP 1 (Revised) Management Accounting Concepts • IMAP 4 Management Control of Projects • IMAP 5 Managing Quality Improvements IFAC has withdrawn the IMAPs as it is moving towards producing principles-based pronouncements. Nonetheless, IFAC may consider encapsulating the history of management accounting so that this work is not lost but has yet to decide on how to proceed with this. Consequently, the Committee agreed with the approach to promulgating principles-based guidance and recommended the withdrawal of the preface to IMAPs & IMAPs 1, 4 and 5 on the grounds of harmonisation with IFAC. ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 COMMITTEES REVIEW The Committee also deliberated and provided its comments on the following Exposure Drafts issued by IFAC during the year: • Exposure Draft on the Preface to IFAC’s International Management Accounting Statements and International Good Practice Guidance • Exposure Draft of a Proposed International Management Accounting Statement – Project Appraisal Using Discounted Cash Flow The issuance of these Exposure Drafts follows the work of IFAC’s Professional Accountants in Business (PAIB) Committee. The PAIB Committee has embarked on an initiative to develop principles-based pronouncements for PAIBs and had issued EDs on a proposed preface to new management accounting guidance and the proposed IMAS Project Appraisal Using Discounted Cash Flow. The Committee would continue to take an active role in the promulgation of management accounting guidelines in Singapore and organise seminars and workshops for the benefit of ICPAS members, especially those pertaining to management accounting. MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE Seow Teow Han, John – Chairman Wong Lai Yong Khoo Ho Tong – Dy Chairman Yang Ching Chao Choo Teck Min Yeoh Oon Jin Khoo Teng Aun The Committee is responsible for the review of membership matters and to make monthly recommendations to Council on the admission of provisional and non-practising members, fellows, membership reclassifications, resignations, reinstatements, removal of members for non-payment of annual subscription fees and other related matters. Having successfully attracted the ICPAS/ACCA joint scheme graduates to join the Institute under its new scheme, the Committee would be extending the same scheme to NTU and SMU 2008 Bachelor of Accountancy graduating cohorts. PUBLIC ACCOUNTING PRACTICE COMMITTEE Seow Teow Han, John – Chairman Kon Yin Tong Liew Geok Bee, Lisa – Dy Chairman Lee Chee Wung Heng Yeow Meng, Michael Luar Eng Hwa Ho Lon Gee Tan Kian Leng, Clement Khoo Ho Tong The Committee considered issues relating to the public accounting arena and participates in dialogue sessions with the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA) and other relevant authorities, to further the interests of practising members. On 6 March, the Committee met with representatives from the Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports (MCYS) to explore possible assistance from our members to complement their efforts in setting up a business framework for social enterprises. MCYS seeks to create a pro-social enterprise environment and a culture of social entrepreneurship in Singapore. Following the meeting, the Committee successfully facilitated the setting up of a panel of members whom the social enterprises can approach to perform services in the areas of book-keeping, financial audit, taxation or corporate secretarial. The Committee also met representatives from ACRA on 28 March to provide information on our members’ operational needs for ACRA’s proposed membership portal. This portal serves to provide customised information for the needs of professional bodies like ICPAS and aims to ease company secretaries’ record-keeping requirements, facilitate practice management, reduce costs and support business continuity planning needs. 43 44 ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 COMMITTEES REVIEW During the year, in response to our members’ needs and ACRA’s request, the Committee facilitated in setting up a hot review panel, to provide an alternative to public accountants should they need help in seeking hot review partners. A hot review is an interim measure imposed by the PAOC to enable a public accountant to take the necessary corrective actions to comply with auditing standards before a revisit by the PMP reviewers. SINGAPORE ACCOUNTANCY ACADEMY COMMITTEE Tan Boen Eng – Chairman Kan Yaw Kiong, Ernest – Dy Chairman Chew Tong Gunn Khoo Ho Tong Loh Hoon Sun Quek Shi Kui Seow Teow Han, John Sitoh Yih Pin Yang Ching Chao The Academy has successfully maintained a sizable presence in today’s competitive environment. Strategising in areas such as quality lecturers, high passing rates, customer service and course management has borne fruits. SAA was granted the Platinum approval under the ACCA’s Approved Learning Partner – Student Tuition programme. Platinum approval is the highest and most prestigious level of the programme. In 2007, SAA launched 2 new programmes: The University of London External programme and the Nottingham University MSC International Business Management. There are about 200 students enrolled in the UOL BSc Accounting and Finance, BSc Banking and Finance or BSc Business programmes. During the year, SAA presented awards to lecturers with outstanding performance and SAA students who are prizewinners of the ICPAS/ACCA joint examination scheme. SINGAPORE ACCOUNTANT EDITORIAL BOARD Tan Boen Eng – Chairman Low Kee Yang Tan Hun Tong – Dy Chairman Shee Ping Fatt, Alfred Kan Yaw Kiong, Ernest Sitoh Yih Pin Koh Hian Chye Wang Jiwei Kon Yin Tong Singapore Accountant, the bi-monthly journal, continues to be one of the key communication channels between ICPAS and its members. Following its revamp in the beginning of 2006, the journal underwent further enhancements in 2007. As it seeks to cater to wider, more business-oriented members, the journal focused its stories on topical issues such as Islamic banking, corporate governance, the rising Asian economies, mergers and acquisitions, etc. It also has more in-depth reports of the Institute’s seminars and events for the benefit of members. The journals’ news and happenings coverage were expanded to show members’ involvement with the Institute. What’s more, the Singapore Accountant carried quality interviews with prominent members such as Ms Chua Sock Koong (SingTel Group CEO), Mr Gerard Ee (Chairman of NKF), Mr Siew Peng Yim (CFO of the Year and CFO of HTL International). In addition, the look and feel of the journal was reformatted to be neater and more reader-friendly. There are now more photos, better pagination as well as stylish layout just to name a few. Looking ahead, we will continually improve on the journal to provide a fresh perspective; one aligned with the dynamism of the CPA Singapore, yet firmly grounded in its primary objective of providing up-to-date technical information to the accounting profession. ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 COMMITTEES REVIEW SOCIAL COMMITTEE Yim Kam May – Chairperson Wong Lai Yong – Dy Chairperson Heng Yeow Meng, Michael Ho Nai Chuen Koh Boon Ngee, Andrew Lo Wei Min Loo Wen Lieh Seah Gek Choo Tang Shiuh Huei Wong Lee Eng, Elsie The Committee organised the following social activities: • Movie Premier – “Spiderman 3” About 150 members attended this movie premier on 1 May. Before the screening, members were given a parchment craft demonstration. Participants also had an opportunity to socialise with each other over lunch. • Movie Screening – “Pirates of the Caribbean 3: At World’s End” On 26 May, more than 100 members attended this movie screening. • PewterSmithing Workshop Members had a fun hands-on session playing the Pewtersmith on 22 June where they were awarded a personalised pewter-smith certificate for their unique handmade masterpiece. They also enjoyed a river bumboat ride. • Movie Screening – “Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix” More than 100 members watched this movie on 14 July. In conjunction with the release of the last book of the Harry Potter series - “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows” on 21 July, the Institute offered members special discounts on the Harry Potter backlist titles and attractive gifts. • Speechcraft 2007 Organised jointly with the CPA Toastmasters Club, the annual Speechcraft programme was held over four sessions in the month of October. Speechcraft 2007 was conducted with the objective of helping members develop effective communication skills. Besides building a foundation in public speaking skills, members were also trained on how to give interesting speeches and presentations. The last session of the seminar coincided with the Club’s 20th Anniversary and the induction of new members on 23 October. • ICPAS Annual Dinner & Dance 2007 – “A Musical Extravaganza” Over 300 guests and members attended ICPAS Annual Dinner and Dance 2007 – “A Musical Extravaganza” on 26 October, at Grand Hyatt Singapore. The Guest-of-Honour, Mrs Lim Hwee Hua, Minister of State for Finance and Transport, delivered the keynote address. Two members were presented with the ICPAS Medal awards in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the Institute, while another two Committee members were presented with Certificates of Appreciation for their long services rendered. • Helena Rubinstein Workshop The Helena Rubinstein workshop held on 23 November and 25 January taught members the proper steps of a skin care regime. • Movie Screening – “Golden Compass” About 60 members attended this movie screening on 8 December. 45 46 ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 COMMITTEES REVIEW SPORTS COMMITTEE Yim Kam May – Chairperson Neo Peck Hwee, Belinda Phua Puay Heng, David Voo Chih Yeong Wee Bee Lay, May Yeo, Rankin Brandt CPA Games A total of 19 games were played in this year CPA Games including two new games – floorball and softball. PricewaterhouseCoopers once again emerged as the overall Champion for this tournament. The Games concluded successfully with the Award Presentation cum Closing Dinner held on 19 October on board the Cheng Ho Cruise Ship. Inter-Professional Games (IPG) This year’s IPG, hosted by the Singapore Medical Association, was actively participated by the six professional bodies of accountants, architects, doctors, engineers, lawyers and surveyors. The Games ended with a closing dinner cum prize presentation ceremony held at The Singapore Island Country Club on 17 November. The Institute proudly bagged the first place for Basketball, Badminton, Bowling, Table Tennis, Snooker and Soccer, and emerged once again as the overall Champion, through the enthusiastic support and active participation from members. TASK FORCE ON PRE-ADMISSION COURSE Cheng Ai Phing – Chairperson Khoo Teng Aun Lee Chee Wung Lian Wee Cheow Lim Boon Cheng Tan Mui Siang, Patricia Toh Kian Leong, Joseph During the year, the Task Force met to review the developments that took place following the presentations of the Task Force’s recommendations made to Council and ACRA. The Task Force worked closely with the ICPAS Secretariat and the various overseas professional bodies to identify a curriculum writer to enhance the ethics module in the Pre-admission course. The appointed curriculum writer has been identified and a curriculum committee comprising of Ms Cheng Ai Phing, Mr Lim Boon Cheng and Mr Tom Yee (ICPAS Council member) has been working closely with the writer to enhance the ethics module curriculum incorporating the principles set out in the International Education Standards of the International Federation of Accountants. TAXATION AND LEVIES COMMITTEE Ong Chin Guan, Noris – Chairman Miao, Nicholas Tan Boen Eng - Dy Chairman Ng Teck Mong, Albert Boon Suan Lee Sandison, David Jackson Khoo Ho Tong Sum Yee Loong Liew, Winnie Tan, Angela Lo Ngai Hung Wong Lai Yong Low Weng Keong Yee Fook Hong The Committee continued to deal with the interpretation and practice aspects of tax issues raised by members. During the year, the Committee provided its comments on various matters including the following consultation papers: • Public Consultation on GST Advance Ruling System (ARS) by Inland Revenue Authority (IRAS) • Public Consultation on Avoidance of Double Taxation Agreements (DTAs) by Ministry of Finance (MOF) • Public Consultation on Draft Income Tax (Amendment) Bill 2007 by MOF Representatives from the Committee continued to contribute articles to the “Tax Focus” column of the Singapore Accountant. ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 COMMITTEES REVIEW YOUNG ACCOUNTANTS GROUP COMMITTEE Wang, Jack – Chairman Heng Yeow Meng, Michael Ho Wah Fong, Alex Kwan Chee Wai, James Lee Boon Teck Lee Kim Lin, Eleanor (appointed 18.07.07) Lim Lay Lian, Jocelyn Wee Hiang Bing, Terry (appointed 18.07.07) The Committee organised the following activities: • Planning for your career and work life balance It was a great evening of networking for young accountants as they gathered at National Museum Singapore on 10 April to learn from recruitment firm Robert Half International on the skill sets employers value and appreciate for the various finance positions. The Committee also invited Ms Claire Chiang to share her secret on work life balance, given her demanding career as the Senior Vice-President of Banyan Tree Holdings Ltd. • MBA Night @ The Blue Room More than 70 participants attended the networking event, MBA Night @ The Blue Room on 14 June. The event was held at The Arts House at The Old Parliament. Speakers from various global business schools such as Manchester Business School Worldwide, The University of Chicago Graduate School of Business, Insead, Melbourne Business School and University of Nottingham were invited to speak on various topics pertaining to a MBA qualification. • Private Equity In Asia A full house of 300 members from both the Institute and Chartered Financial Analyst Singapore (CFAS) came together to attend the Private Equity in Asia seminar held at SMU’s Main Auditorium on 21 July. Jointly organised by the Institute and CFAS, this hugely popular event saw six distinguished speakers touched on the trends, mechanics as well as an experience sharing session with a key figure involved in a major buyout. • NTU Career Seminar On 9 October, the Committee conducted a career seminar for the National Technological University (NTU) accounting students. The topic for the seminar was “Private VS Public Accounting”. Over a hundred students turned up for this career seminar, which was carried out in a lively panel discussion format. 47 48 ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 TECHNICAL PRONOUNCEMENTS 31 December 2007 FINANCIAL REPORTING STANDARDS (FRS) Issued by the Accounting Standards Council (ASC) No. Title IAS/IFRS Equivalent Preface to Financial Reporting Standards Framework for the Preparation and Presentation of Financial Statements FRS 1 Presentation of Financial Statements FRS 1 (Revised) Presentation of Financial Statements FRS 2 Inventories FRS 2 (Revised) Inventories FRS 7 Cash Flow Statements FRS 7 (Revised) Cash Flow Statements FRS 8 Accounting Policies, Changes in Accounting Estimates and Errors FRS 8 (Revised) Accounting Policies, Changes in Accounting Estimates and Errors FRS 10 Events after the Balance Sheet Date FRS 11 Construction Contracts FRS 11 (Revised) Construction Contracts FRS 12 Income Taxes FRS 14 Segment Reporting FRS 16 Property, Plant and Equipment FRS 16 (Revised) Property, Plant and Equipment FRS 17 Leases FRS 18 Revenue FRS 19 Employee Benefits FRS 19 (Revised) Employee Benefits FRS 20 Accounting for Government Grants and Disclosure of Government Assistance FRS 21 The Effects of Changes in Foreign Exchange Rates FRS 23 Borrowing Costs FRS 23 (Revised) Borrowing Costs FRS 24 Related Party Disclosures FRS 25 Accounting for Investments (superseded by FRS 40 from 1.1.2007) FRS 26 Accounting and Reporting by Retirement Benefit Plans FRS 27 Consolidated and Separate Financial Statements FRS 27 (Revised) Consolidated and Separate Financial Statements FRS 28 Investments in Associates FRS 29 Financial Reporting in Hyperinflationary Economies FRS 31 Interests in Joint Ventures FRS 32 Financial Instruments: Presentation FRS 33 Earnings per Share FRS 33 (Revised) Earnings per Share FRS 34 Interim Financial Reporting FRS 34 (Revised) Interim Financial Reporting FRS 36 Impairment of Assets FRS 36 (Revised) Impairment of Assets FRS 37 Provisions, Contingent Liabilities and Contingent Assets FRS 38 Intangible Assets FRS 38 (Revised) Intangible Assets FRS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement FRS 40 Investment Property FRS 41 Agriculture Yes Yes 1 1 2 2 7 7 8 8 10 11 11 12 14 16 16 17 18 19 19 20 Effective Date 1.1.2007 1.1.2009 1.1.2005 1.1.2009 1.1.2005 1.1.2009 1.1.2005 1.1.2009 1.1.2007 1.1.2005 1.1.2009 1.1.2007 1.1.2007 1.1.2006 1.1.2009 1.1.2007 1.1.2005 1.1.2007 1.1.2009 1.1.2005 21 1.1.2006 23 1.1.2005 23 1.1.2009 24 1.1.2006 25 1.1.2005 (withdrawn) 26 1.1.2005 27 1.1.2005 27 1.1.2009 28 1.1.2005 29 1.1.2005 31 1.1.2005 32 1.1.2007 33 1.1.2007 33 1.1.2009 34 1.1.2005 34 1.1.2009 36 1.7.2004 36 1.1.2009 37 1.1.2006 38 1.1.2006 38 1.1.2009 39 1.1.2007 40 1.1.2007 41 1.1.2005 ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 TECHNICAL PRONOUNCEMENTS FINANCIAL REPORTING STANDARDS (FRS) (cont’d) No. Title IAS/IFRS Equivalent FRS 101 FRS 101 (Revised) FRS 101 (Revised) FRS 102 FRS 103 FRS 104 FRS 105 FRS 105 (Revised) FRS 106 FRS 106 (Revised) FRS 107 FRS 108 First-time Adoption of Financial Reporting Standards First-time Adoption of Financial Reporting Standards First-time Adoption of Financial Reporting Standards Share-based Payment Business Combinations Insurance Contracts Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations Exploration for and Evaluation of Mineral Resources Exploration for and Evaluation of Mineral Resources Financial Instruments: Disclosures Operating Segments Effective Date IFRS 1 IFRS 1 IFRS 1 IFRS 2 IFRS 3 IFRS 4 IFRS 5 IFRS 5 IFRS 6 IFRS 6 IFRS 7 IFRS 8 1.1.2007 1.1.2008 1.1.2009 1.1.2007 1.1.2007 1.1.2007 1.1.2005 1.1.2009 1.1.2006 1.1.2009 1.1.2007 1.1.2009 SIC/IFRIC Equivalent Effective Date Preface Preface to Interpretations of Financial Reporting Standards - INT FRS 7 Introduction of the Euro 7 INT FRS 10 Government Assistance - No Specific Relation to Operating Activities 10 INT FRS 12 Consolidation - Special Purpose Entities 12 Amendment to scope of INT FRS 12 (issued Mar 2005) – for reference INT FRS 13 Jointly Controlled Entities - Non-Monetary Contributions 13 by Venturers INT FRS 15 Operating Leases - Incentives 15 INT FRS 21 Income Taxes - Recovery of Revalued Non-Depreciable Assets 21 INT FRS 25 Income Taxes - Changes in the Tax Status of an Enterprise or 25 its Shareholders INT FRS 27 Evaluating the Substance of Transactions Involving the 27 Legal Form of a Lease INT FRS 29 Disclosure - Service Concession Arrangements 29 INT FRS 29 (Revised) Disclosure - Service Concession Arrangements 29 INT FRS 31 Revenue - Barter Transactions Involving Advertising Services 31 INT FRS 32 Intangible Assets - Web Site Costs 32 INT FRS 101 Changes in Existing Decommissioning, Restoration and IFRIC Similar Liabilities Interpretation 1 INT FRS 101(Revised)Changes in Existing Decommissioning, Restoration and IFRIC Similar Liabilities Interpretation 1 INT FRS 104 Determining whether an Arrangement contains a Lease IFRIC Interpretation 4 INT FRS 104 (Revised)Determining whether an Arrangement contains a Lease IFRIC Interpretation 4 INT FRS 105 Rights to Interests arising from Decommissioning, Restoration IFRIC and Environmental Rehabilitation Funds Interpretation 5 INT FRS 106 Liabilities arising from Participating in a Specific Market – IFRIC Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Interpretation 6 1.1.2005 1.1.2005 1.1.2005 INTERPRETATIONS OF FINANCIAL REPORTING STANDARDS (INT FRS) Issued by the Accounting Standards Council (ASC) No. Title 1.1.2005 1.1.2005 1.1.2005 1.1.2005 1.1.2005 1.1.2005 1.1.2008 1.1.2005 1.1.2005 1.9.2004 1.1.2009 1.1.2006 1.1.2008 1.1.2007 1.12.2005 49 50 ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 TECHNICAL PRONOUNCEMENTS INTERPRETATIONS OF FINANCIAL REPORTING STANDARDS (INT FRS) (cont’d) No. Title INT FRS 107 Applying the Restatement Approach under FRS 29 Financial Reporting in Hyperinflationary Economies INT FRS 108 Scope of FRS 102 INT FRS 109 Reassessment of Embedded Derivatives INT FRS 110 Interim Financial Reporting and Impairment INT FRS 111 FRS 102 - Group and Treasury Share Transactions INT FRS 112 Service Concession Arrangements INT FRS 112 (Revised)Service Concession Arrangements SIC/IFRIC Equivalent Effective Date IFRIC Interpretation 7 IFRIC Interpretation 8 IFRIC Interpretation 9 IFRIC Interpretation 10 IFRIC Interpretation 11 IFRIC Interpretation 12 IFRIC Interpretation 12 1.3.2006 1.5.2006 1.6.2006 1.11.2006 1.3.2007 1.1.2008 1.1.2009 EXPOSURE DRAFTS OF FINANCIAL REPORTING STANDARDS AND INTERPRETATIONS OF FINANCIAL REPORTING STANDARDS (ED FRS AND ED INT FRS) Issued by the Accounting Standards Council (ASC) Title ED of Proposed Amendments to FRS 39 Financial Instruments: Exposures Qualifying for Hedge Accounting (issued December 2007) ED 9 Joint Arrangements (issued December 2007) ED 9 Illustrative Examples (issued December 2007) ED 9 Basis of Conclusions (issued December 2007) ED of Proposed Improvements to Financial Reporting Standards (issued December 2007) ED INT FRS – Hedges of a Net Investment in a Foreign Operation (issued August 2007) ED INT FRS – Real Estate Sales (issued July 2007) ED FRS Small and Medium-size Entities (issued March 2007) Draft Implementation Guidance ED Proposed Amendments to FRS 24 Related Party Disclosures (issued March 2007) ED Proposed Amendments to FRS 101 First-time Adoption of Financial Reporting Standards – Cost of an Investment in a Subsidiary (issued February 2007) SINGAPORE STANDARDS ON AUDITING (SSA) No. Title ISA Equivalent Preface to the Singapore Standards on Quality Control, Auditing, Review, Yes Other Assurance and Related Services (Revised) Preface to Singapore Standards on Quality Control, Auditing, Assurance and Related Services Yes Glossary of Terms Yes Framework for Assurance Engagements Yes Effective Date (Annual periods beginning on or after) 15.12.09 Sep 96 Audit report date: 1.1.05 ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 51 TECHNICAL PRONOUNCEMENTS SINGAPORE STANDARDS ON AUDITING (SSA) (cont’d) No. Title ISA Equivalent 200 – 299 General Principles and Responsibilities SSA 200 Objective and General Principles Governing an Audit of Financial Statements 200 SSA 210 Terms of Audit Engagements 210 SSA 210 (Revised) Terms of Audit Engagements 210 SSA 220 Quality Control for Audits of Historical Financial Information 220 SSA 230 Audit Documentation 230 SSA 240 (Revised) The Auditor’s Responsibilities Relating to Fraud in an Audit of 240 Financial Statements SSA 240 The Auditor’s Responsibility to Consider Fraud in an Audit of 240 Financial Statements SSA 250 Consideration of Laws and Regulations in an Audit of 250 Financial Statements SSA 260 Communications of Audit Matters with Those Charged with Governance 260 300 – 499 Risk Assessment and Response to Assessed Risks SSA 300 (Revised) Planning an Audit of Financial Statements 300 SSA 300 Planning an Audit of Financial Statements 300 SSA 315 (Revised) Identifying and Assessing the Risks of Material Misstatement 315 Through Understanding the Entity and Its Environment SSA 315 Understanding the Entity and Its Environment and Assessing the 315 Risks of Material Misstatement SSA 320 Audit Materiality 320 SSA 330 (Revised) The Auditor’s Responses to Assessed Risks 330 SSA 330 The Auditor’s Procedures in Response to Assessed Risks 330 SSA 402 Audit Considerations Relating to Entities using Service Organisations 402 500 – 599 Audit Evidence SSA 500 Audit Evidence 500 SSA 501 Audit Evidence – Additional Considerations for Specific Items 501 SSA 505 External Confirmations 505 SSA 510 Initial Engagements – Opening Balances 510 SSA 520 Analytical Procedures 520 500 – 599 Audit Evidence SSA 530 Audit Sampling and Other Means of Testing 530 SSA 540 Audit of Accounting Estimates 540 SSA 545 Auditing Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures 545 SSA 550 Related Parties 550 SSA 560 Subsequent Events 560 SSA 570 Going Concern 570 SSA 580 Management Representations 580 Effective Date (Annual periods beginning on or after) 15.12.05 15.12.04 Deferred 15.6.05 15.06.06 15.12.09 15.12.04 15.12.04 15.12.04 15.12.09 15.12.04 15.12.09 15.12.04 15.12.04 15.12.09 15.12.04 15.12.04 15.12.04 15.12.04 15.12.04 15.12.04 15.12.04 15.12.04 15.12.04 15.12.04 15.12.04 Audit report date: 31.12.06 15.12.04 15.12.04 52 ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 TECHNICAL PRONOUNCEMENTS SINGAPORE STANDARDS ON AUDITING (SSA) (cont’d) No. Title ISA Equivalent Effective Date (Annual periods beginning on or after) 600 – 699 Using Work of Others SSA 600 Using the Work of Another Auditor 600 SSA 610 Considering the Work of Internal Auditing 610 SSA 620 Using the Work of an Expert 620 1.1.97 15.12.04 15.12.04 700 – 799 Audit Conclusions and Reporting SSA 700 The Independent Auditor’s Report on a Complete Set of 700 General Purpose Financial Statements SSA 701 Modifications to the Independent Auditor’s Report 701 SSA 710 Comparatives 710 SSA 720 Other Information in Documents Containing Audited 720 Financial Statements 800 – 899 Specialised Areas SSA 800 The Independent Auditor’s Report on Special Purpose 800 Audit Engagements Audit report date: 31.12.06 Audit report date: 31.12.06 15.12.04 15.12.04 Audit report date: 31.12.06 SINGAPORE STANDARDS ON REVIEW ENGAGEMENTS (SSRE) SSRE 2400 SSRE 2410 Engagements to Review Financial Statements (previously SSA 910) Review of Interim Financial Information Performed by the Independent Auditor of the Entity ISRE 2400 ISRE 2410 1.1.97 15.12.06 Assurance Engagements other than Audits or Reviews of ISAE 3000 Historical Financial Information The Examination of Prospective Financial Information ISAE 3400 (previously SSA 810) Audit report date: 1.1.05 1.7.01 SINGAPORE STANDARDS ON ASSURANCE ENGAGEMENTS (SSAE) SSAE 3000 SSAE 3400 SINGAPORE STANDARDS ON RELATED SERVICES (SSRS) SSRS 4400 SSRS 4410 Engagements to Perform Agreed-upon Procedures Regarding Financial Information (previously SSA 920) Engagements to Compile Financial Information (previously SSA 930) ISRS 4400 1.1.97 ISRS 4410 1.1.97 ISQC 1 Date: 15.6.05 SINGAPORE STANDARD ON QUALITY CONTROL (SSQC) SSQC 1 Quality Control for Firms That Perform Audits and Reviews of Historical Financial Information, and Other Assurance and Related Services Engagements 53 ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 TECHNICAL PRONOUNCEMENTS STATEMENTS OF AUDITING PRACTICE (SAP) No. Title IAPS Equivalent SAP 19 SAP 24 SAP 25 SAP 1000 SAP 1004 SAP 1005 SAP 1006 SAP 1010 SAP 1012 SAP 1013 SAP 1014 Guidance to Auditors on Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing Auditors and Public Offering Documents Audit of Listed Companies Inter-Bank Confirmation Procedures The Relationship Between Banking Supervisors and Banks’ External Auditors The Special Considerations in the Audit of Small Entities Audits of the Financial Statements of Banks The Consideration of Environmental Matters in the Audit of Financial Statements Auditing Derivative Financial Instruments Electronic Commerce – Effect on the Audit of Financial Statements Reporting by Auditors on Compliance with Financial Reporting Standards 1000 1004 1005 1006 1010 1012 1013 1014 AUDIT GUIDANCE STATEMENTS (AGS) No. Title Effective Date (Annual periods beginning on or after) Preface to Audit Guidance Statements AGS 1 Sample Auditor’s Reports AGS 2 Verification of Debtor Balances – Confirmation by Direct Communication (previously SAP 1) AGS 3 Microfilm Records and their Audit Implications (previously SAP 3) AGS 4 Existence and Valuation of Inventories in the Context of the Historical Cost System (previously SAP 4) AGS 5 Audits of Entities in Specific Industries, Professions or Vocations (previously SAP 7, SAP 8 and SAP 9) AGS 6 Bank Reports for Audit Purposes (previously SAP 10) AGS 7 Value for Money Auditing In a Statutory Board (previously SAP 18) AGS 8 Reports on the Internal Control Procedures of Service Organisations Audit report date: 1.1.07 EXPOSURE DRAFTS OF SINGAPORE STANDARDS ON AUDITING AND STATEMENTS OF AUDITING PRACTICE (ED/SSA AND ED/SAP) No. Title ED/SSA 505 ED/SSA 620 ED/SSQC 1 ED/SSA 220 ED/SSA 510 ED/SSA 530 ED/SSA 700 ED/SSA 705 ED/SSA 706 ED/SSA 800 External Confirmations (issued November 2007) Using the Work of an Auditor’s Expert (issued November 2007) Quality Control for Firms that Perform Audits and Reviews of Financial Statements, and Other Assurance and Related Services Engagements (issued August 2007) Quality Control for an Audit of Financial Statements (issued August 2007) Initial Audit Engagements - Opening Balances (issued August 2007) Audit Sampling (issued August 2007) The Independent Auditor’s Report on General Purpose Financial Statements (issued August 2007) Modifications to the Opinion in the Independent Auditor’s Report (issued August 2007) Emphasis of Matter Paragraphs and Other Matter(s) Paragraphs in the Independent Auditor’s Report (issued August 2007) Special Considerations - Audits of Special Purpose Financial Statements and Specific Elements, Accounts or Items of a Financial Statement (issued August 2007) 54 ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 TECHNICAL PRONOUNCEMENTS EXPOSURE DRAFTS OF SINGAPORE STANDARDS ON AUDITING AND STATEMENTS OF AUDITING PRACTICE (ED/SSA AND ED/SAP) (cont’d) No. Title ED/SSA 805 ED/SSA 200 ED/SSA 250 ED/SSA 500 ED/SSA 550 ED/SSA 570 ED/SSA 230 ED/SSA 540 ED/SSA 560 ED/SSA 580 ED/SSA 610 ED/SSA 720 ED/SSA 260 ED/SSA 320 & ED/SSA 450 ED/SSA 600 (Revised) ED/SAP XX Engagements to Report on Summary Financial Statements (issued August 2007) Overall Objective of the Independent Auditor, and the Conduct of an Audit in Accordance with Singapore Standards on Auditing (issued May 2007) The Auditor’s Responsibilities Relating to Laws and Regulations in an Audit of Financial Statements (issued May 2007) Considering the Relevance and Reliability of Audit Evidence (issued May 2007) Related Parties (issued March 2007) Going Concern (issued March 2007) Audit Documentation (issued January 2007) Auditing Accounting Estimates, Including Fair Value Accounting Estimates, and Related Disclosures (issued January 2007) Subsequent Events (issued January 2007) Written Representations (issued January 2007) The Auditor’s Consideration of the Internal Audit Function (issued January 2007) The Auditor’s Responsibility in Relation to Other Information in Documents Containing Audited Financial Statements (issued January 2007) Communication with Those Charged with Governance (issued Nov 2006) Materiality in Planning and Performing an Audit and Evaluation of Misstatements Identified during the Audit (issued Nov 2006) The Audit of Group Financial Statements (issued March 2006) Comfort Letters and Other Assistance for Public Offerings of Equity Securities in Singapore (issued December 2004) STATEMENTS OF RECOMMENDED ACCOUNTING PRACTICE (RAP) No. Title Last Update RAP 6 RAP 7 RAP 8 RAP 9 RAP 10 RAP 11 RAP 12 Accounting and Reporting by Charities Reporting Framework for Unit Trusts Foreign Income Not Remitted to Singapore IPO Costs FRS 103 Business Combinations - Clarification of transitional provisions Pre-Completion Contracts For The Sale Of Development Property Merger Accounting for Common Control Combinations for financial statements prepared under Part IX of the Fifth Schedule to the Securities and Futures (Offers of Investments) (Shares and Debentures) Regulations 2005 Jun 06 Feb 07 Nov 04 Nov 04 Dec 04 Oct 05 Dec 06 TAXATION AND LEVIES PRACTICE GUIDELINES (TAX) No. Title TAX 1 TAX 2 TAX 3 Clarifications of Tax Matters as at 31 December 1985 Clarifications of Tax Matters Clarifications of Tax Matters for the period from 1 January 1990 to 30 June 1996 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 Statement by Council Independent Auditor’s Report Income and Expenditure Statements Balance Sheets Statements of Changes in Accumulated Fund and Miscellaneous Fund Cash Flow Statements Notes to the Financial Statements 56 ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 STATEMENT BY COUNCIL On behalf of the Council of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Singapore (the “Institute”), we, Tan Boen Eng and Khoo Ho Tong being the President and Treasurer respectively, do hereby state that in our opinion, the consolidated financial statements of the Group and financial statements of the Institute set out on pages 58 to 78 are properly drawn up in accordance with the provisions of the Societies Act and Singapore Financial Reporting Standards so as to give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the Group and the Institute as at 31 December 2007 and of its results, changes in accumulated and miscellaneous funds and cash flows of the Group and the Institute for the financial year ended on that date. Tan Boen Eng President Date: 13 February 2008 Khoo Ho Tong Treasurer ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT To members of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Singapore We have audited the accompanying financial statements of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Singapore (the “Institute”) and its subsidiaries (collectively, the “Group”) set out on pages 58 to 78, which comprise the balance sheets of the Group and the Institute as at 31 December 2007, the income and expenditure statements, statements of changes in the accumulated fund and miscellaneous fund and cash flow statement of the Group and the Institute for the year then ended and a summary of significant accounting policies and other explanatory notes. The financial statements of the financial year ended 31 December 2006 were audited by another firm of Certified Public Accountants whose report dated 21 February 2007 expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial statements. The Council’s Responsibility for the Financial Statements The Council is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of these financial statements in accordance with the provisions of the Societies Act and Singapore Financial Reporting Standards. This responsibility includes designing, implementing and maintaining internal controls relevant to the preparation and fair presentation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error; selecting and applying appropriate accounting policies; and making accounting estimates that are reasonable in the circumstances. Auditor’s Responsibility Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audit. We conducted our audit in accordance with Singapore Standards on Auditing. Those Standards require that we comply with ethical requirements and plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance as to whether the financial statements are free from material misstatement. An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. The procedures selected depend on the auditor’s judgement, including the assessment of the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to fraud or error. In making those risk assessments, the auditor considers internal controls relevant to the entity’s preparation and fair presentation of the financial statements in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the entity’s internal controls. An audit also includes evaluating the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates made by the Council, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit opinion. Opinion In our opinion, (a) the consolidated financial statements of the Group and the financial statements of the Institute are properly drawn up in accordance with the provisions of the Societies Act and Singapore Financial Reporting Standards so as to give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the Group and of the Institute at 31 December 2007 and the results, changes in accumulated fund and miscellaneous fund and cash flows of the Group and the Institute for the year ended on that date; and (b) the accounting and other records required by the regulations enacted under the Societies Act to be kept by the Institute have been properly kept in accordance with those regulations. Baker Tilly TFWLCL Certified Public Accountants, Singapore Date: 13 February 2008 57 58 ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 INCOME AND EXPENDITURE STATEMENTS For the financial year ended 31 December 2007 Note Group 2007 $ Institute 2006 $ 2007 $ FEE INCOME FOR THE YEAR Members’ annual fees 2,645,770 2,534,130 2,645,770 Members’ admission fees 272,400 213,400 272,400 2,918,170 2,747,530 2,918,170 LESS EXPENDITURE Administrative expenses 3 (4,916,250) (4,107,638) (4,855,988) Deficit from operating activities (1,998,080) (1,360,108) (1,937,818) OTHER INCOME 4 872,329 (1,125,751) Net surplus from the Academy 6 Total surplus from operating activities 4,770,209 3,644,458 Share of profit of associates (net of tax) Total surplus before tax 38,858 3,683,316 Income tax expense 7 (658,836) 2,534,130 213,400 2,747,530 (4,057,036) (1,309,506) 662,787 (1,275,031) 554,553 (754,953) 2,585,289 1,934,505 4,770,209 3,495,178 2,585,289 1,830,336 41,568 1,976,073 – 3,495,178 – 1,830,336 709,324 (650,784) (438,009) (645,718) TOTAL SURPLUS AFTER INCOME TAX TRANSFERRED TO ACCUMULATED FUND 3,024,480 1,538,064 2,849,460 The accompanying notes form an integral part of these financial statements. 2006 $ (427,219) 1,403,117 59 ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 BALANCE SHEETS At 31 December 2007 Note Group 2007 $ Institute 2007 $ 2006 $ NON-CURRENT ASSETS Property, plant and equipment 8 41,428,866 41,621,206 41,428,866 Investment in subsidiaries 16 – – 3 Associates 9 80,426 41,568 – 41,509,292 41,662,774 41,428,869 41,621,206 3 – 41,621,209 CURRENT ASSETS Inventories 36,209 – Trade and other receivables 10 597,094 1,858,266 Amount due by subsidiaries 16 – – Amount due by associates 16 – 1,725 Fixed deposits 15 3,992,157 857,457 Cash and bank balances 15 2,462,646 1,340,128 7,088,106 4,057,576 TOTAL ASSETS 48,597,398 45,720,350 – 1,854,938 17,076 1,725 310,086 1,260,961 3,444,786 45,065,995 2006 $ 36,209 592,998 109,765 – 3,234,241 2,339,358 6,312,571 47,741,440 NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES Bank loans (secured) 12 5,111,111 6,444,445 5,111,111 Finance lease liabilities 13 171,867 218,389 171,867 Deferred tax liabilities 96,300 96,300 96,300 5,379,278 6,759,134 5,379,278 CURRENT LIABILITIES Trade and other payables 11 1,998,178 1,642,276 1,984,767 Amount due to associate 3,298 – 3,298 Course fee received in advance 3,009,214 1,877,361 3,009,214 Subscription fee received in advance 620,871 510,739 535,801 Bank loans (secured) 12 1,333,333 1,333,333 1,333,333 Finance lease liabilities 13 97,018 87,969 97,018 Current tax payable 686,339 1,043,409 673,221 7,748,251 6,495,087 7,636,652 TOTAL LIABILITIES 13,127,529 13,254,221 13,015,930 1,630,356 – 1,877,361 448,433 1,333,333 87,969 1,032,619 6,410,071 13,169,205 NET ASSETS 35,469,869 6,444,445 218,389 96,300 6,759,134 32,466,129 34,725,510 31,896,790 Represented by Accumulated fund 35,466,136 32,441,656 Miscellaneous fund 14 3,733 24,473 35,469,869 32,466,129 34,721,777 3,733 34,725,510 31,872,317 24,473 31,896,790 The accompanying notes form an integral part of these financial statements. 60 ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN ACCUMULATED FUND AND MISCELLANEOUS FUND For the financial year ended 31 December 2007 Note Accumulated Miscellaneous fund fund $ $ GROUP Balance at 1 January 2006 30,903,592 38,315 Total surplus for the year 1,538,064 – Net decrease for the year 14 – (13,842) Balance at 31 December 2006 32,441,656 24,473 Total surplus for the year 3,024,480 – Net decrease for the year 14 – (20,740) BALANCE AT 31 DECEMBER 2007 35,466,136 3,733 INSTITUTE Balance at 1 January 2006 30,469,200 38,315 Total surplus for the year 1,403,117 – Net decrease for the year 14 – (13,842) Balance at 31 December 2006 31,872,317 24,473 Total surplus for the year 2,849,460 – Net decrease for the year 14 – (20,740) BALANCE AT 31 DECEMBER 2007 34,721,777 3,733 The accompanying notes form an integral part of these financial statements. Total $ 30,941,907 1,538,064 (13,842) 32,466,129 3,024,480 (20,740) 35,469,869 30,507,515 1,403,117 (13,842) 31,896,790 2,849,460 (20,740) 34,725,510 61 ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 CASH FLOW STATEMENTS For the financial year ended 31 December 2007 Group 2007 $ Institute 2006 $ 2007 $ CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES Total surplus before tax 3,683,316 1,976,073 3,495,178 Adjustments for: Depreciation for property, plant and equipment 902,431 612,079 902,431 Interest on finance leases 15,856 15,224 15,856 Loan interest 306,764 88,234 306,764 Impairment loss of trade receivables 53,787 – 53,787 Interest income (54,512) (113,299) (43,195) Share of profit of associates (38,858) (41,568) – Gain on disposal of property, plant and equipment (182) (200) (182) Property, plant and equipment written off 72,171 983 72,171 Operating surplus before working capital changes 4,940,773 2,537,526 4,802,810 Inventory (36,209) – (36,209) Receivables 1,211,142 (1,197,837) 1,118,503 Subscription fees received in advance 110,133 210,153 87,368 Payables 359,200 633,430 357,709 Course fees received in advance 1,131,853 43,292 1,131,853 Miscellaneous fund (20,740) (13,842) (20,740) Cash generated from operations 7,696,152 2,212,722 7,441,294 Income tax paid (1,015,906) (1,208) (1,005,116) Net cash from operating activities 6,680,246 2,211,514 6,436,178 CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES Interest received 52,479 169,175 41,881 Purchase of property, plant and equipment (723,404) (15,575,566) (723,404) Proceeds from disposal of property, plant and equipment 4,423 200 4,423 Net cash used in investing activities (666,502) (15,406,191) (677,100) 2006 $ 1,830,336 612,079 15,224 88,234 – (103,649) – (200) 983 2,443,007 – (1,068,904) 193,107 623,865 43,292 (13,842) 2,220,525 – 2,220,525 159,790 (15,575,566) 200 (15,415,576) CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES Interest paid on finance leases (15,856) (15,224) (15,856) Loan interest paid (306,764) (88,234) (306,764) Proceeds from bank loan – 8,000,000 – Repayment of principal loan (1,333,334) (222,222) (1,333,334) Repayment of finance lease liabilities (100,572) (92,523) (100,572) Net cash (used in)/generated from financing activities (1,756,526) 7,581,797 (1,756,526) (15,224) (88,234) 8,000,000 (222,222) (92,523) 7,581,797 NET INCREASE/(DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT BEGINNING OF YEAR CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT END OF YEAR (NOTE 15) (5,613,254) 7,184,301 1,571,047 4,257,218 2,197,585 6,454,803 The accompanying notes form an integral part of these financial statements. (5,612,880) 7,810,465 2,197,585 4,002,552 1,571,047 5,573,599 62 ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For the financial year ended 31 December 2007 These notes form an integral part of and should be read in conjunction with the accompanying financial statements. 1 CORPORATE INFORMATION The Institute (ROS Ref No. 0137/2004) is the national organisation of the accountancy profession in Singapore. It was established in June 1963 as the Singapore Society of Accountants (SSA) under the SSA Ordinance 1963, then reconstituted and renamed the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Singapore (ICPAS) on 11 February 1989 under the Accountants Act 1987. As of 1 April 2004, ICPAS is reconstituted as a society under the Societies Act. The restructuring is primarily a change of form for the Institute as ICPAS continues to be the national body for the accountancy profession in Singapore and its functions remain unchanged. The registered office of the Institute is located at 20 Aljunied Road, #06-02 CPA House, Singapore 389805. The principal activities of the Institute are those of administering the Institute’s membership, catering for the training and professional development of its members. The consolidated financial statements relate to the Institute and its subsidiaries (together referred to as the Group) and the Group’s interests in associates. 2 SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES a) Basis of preparation The financial statements of the Group have been prepared in accordance with the Societies Act and Singapore Financial Reporting Standards (FRS). The financial statements, which are presented in Singapore dollars, have been prepared on historical cost basis except as disclosed in the accounting policies below. The accounting policies have been consistently applied by the Group and the Institute and are consistent with those used in the previous financial year. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with FRS requires the use of estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of income and expenditure during the financial year. Although these estimates are based on the Council’s best knowledge of current events and actions and historical experiences and various other factors that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, actual results may ultimately differ from those estimates. There were no significant judgments and estimates made during the year. The Group has not applied the following new/revised FRS or interpretations that have been issued as of the balance sheet date but are not yet effective: FRS 23 FRS 107 FRS 108 INT FRS 111 INT FRS 112 Amendments to FRS 1 Borrowing Costs Financial Instruments: Disclosures Operating Segments FRS 102 – Group and Treasury Share Transactions Service Concession Arrangements Presentation of Financial Statements on Capital Disclosure The initial application of these standards and interpretations, where applicable, are not expected to have any material impact on the Group’s financial statements. b) Consolidation Subsidiaries A subsidiary is an entity over which the Group has the power to govern the financial and operating policies so as to obtain benefits from its activities. The financial statements of the subsidiaries are included in the consolidated financial statements from the date of the control commences until the date that control ceases. Intra-group transactions and balances are eliminated in preparing the consolidated financial statements. ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 2 SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONT’D) b) Consolidation (cont’d) Associates Associates are those entities in which the Group has significant influence, but not control, over their financial and operating policies. The Group’s investments in associates are accounted for using the equity method. The consolidated financial statements include the Group’s share of the profit or loss of the associates from the date that significant influence commences until the date that significant influence ceases. When the Group’s share of losses exceeds its interest in an associate, the carrying amount of that interest (including any long-term investments) is reduced to zero and the recognition of further losses is discontinued except to the extent that the Group has an obligation or has made payments on behalf of the associate. Accounting for subsidiaries and associates by the Institute In the Institute’s separate financial statements, investments in subsidiaries and associates are stated at cost less impairment losses. c) Functional and foreign currencies Functional currency Items included in the consolidated financial statements are measured using the currency that best reflects the economic substance of the underlying events and circumstances relevant to the Institute and its subsidiaries (“the functional currency”). The consolidated financial statements are presented in Singapore dollars, which is the functional currency of the Institute and its subsidiaries. Foreign currencies Transactions in foreign currencies are translated into the functional currency using the exchange rate in effect at the date of the transaction. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies at the balance sheet date are translated into the functional currency at the rates ruling at that date. All exchange differences are taken to the income and expenditure statement. d) Inventories Inventories, comprising accounting books and manuals, are stated at the lower of cost and net realisable value. Cost is calculated using the first-in, first-out method. e) Property, plant and equipment Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and impairment losses. Cost includes expenditure that is directly attributable to the acquisition of the asset and costs of bringing the asset to working condition for its intended use. Dismantlement, removal or restoration costs are included as part of the cost of asset if the obligation for dismantlement, removal or restoration costs is incurred as a consequence of acquiring or using the asset. Expenditure for additions, improvements and renewals are capitalised and expenditure for maintenance and repairs are charged to the income and expenditure statement. The cost of replacing part of an item of property, plant and equipment is recognised in the carrying amount of the item if it is probable that the future economic benefits embodied within the part will flow to the Group and its cost can be measured reliably. The costs of the day-to-day servicing of property, plant and equipment are recognised in the income and expenditure statement as incurred. Depreciation of property, plant and equipment is calculated on the straight-line basis to write off the cost less residual value of the assets over their estimated useful lives as follows: Freehold buildings Furniture and office equipment Computers Renovation Freehold land is not depreciated. 50 years 3 to 10 years 3 to 4 years 3 to 5 years 63 64 ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 2 SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONT’D) e) Property, plant and equipment (cont’d) Depreciation methods, useful lives and residual values are reviewed, and adjusted as appropriate, at each financial yearend. An item of property, plant and equipment is derecognised upon disposal or when no future economic benefits are expected from its use or disposal. Any gain or loss arising on derecognition of the asset is included in the income and expenditure statement in the year the asset is derecognised. f) Impairment of non-financial assets The carrying amounts of the Group’s assets are reviewed at each reporting date to determine whether there is any indication of impairment. If any such indication exists, the asset’s recoverable amount is estimated. An impairment loss is recognised in the income and expenditure statement if the carrying amount of an asset or its cash-generating unit exceeds its recoverable amount. A cash-generating unit is the smallest identifiable asset group that generates cash flows that largely are independent from other assets and groups. The recoverable amount of an asset or cash-generating unit is the higher of its fair value less costs to sell and its value in use. In assessing the value in use, the estimated future cash flows are discounted to their present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the asset or cash-generating unit. Impairment losses recognised in prior years are assessed at each reporting date for any indications that the loss has decreased or no longer exists. An impairment loss is reversed if there has been a change in the estimates used to determine the recoverable amount. An impairment loss is reversed only to the extent that the asset’s carrying amount does not exceed the carrying amount that would have been determined, net of depreciation, if no impairment loss has been recognised. Reversal of impairment loss is recorded in income and expenditure statement. After such a reversal, the depreciation charge is adjusted in future periods to allocate the asset’s revised carrying amount, less any residual value, on a systematic basis over its remaining useful life. g) Financial assets Classification, recognition and measurement Financial assets are classified as either financial assets at fair value through profit or loss, loans and receivables, held-tomaturity investments or available-for-sale financial assets as appropriate. Financial assets are recognised on the balance sheet when, and only when, the Group becomes a party to the contractual provisions of the financial instrument. When financial assets are recognised initially, they are measured at fair value, plus, in the case of financial asset not at fair value through profit or loss, directly attributable transaction costs. The Group determines the classification of its financial assets at initial recognition and re-evaluates this designation at each financial year-end, with the exception that the designation of financial assets at fair value through profit or loss is not revocable. The Group does not have the following financial assets: financial assets at fair value through profit or loss, held-tomaturity investments and available-for-sale financial assets. Non-derivative financial assets with fixed or determinable payments that are not quoted in an active market are classified as loans and receivables. Such assets are carried at amortised cost using the effective interest method, less impairment losses. Gains and losses are recognised in the income and expenditure statement when the loans and receivables are derecognised or impaired, as well as through the amortisation process. The Group classifies the following financial assets as loans and receivables: • Cash and cash equivalents • Trade and other receivables including amounts due from subsidiary and an associate ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 2 SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONT’D) g) Financial assets (cont’d) Impairment of financial assets The Group assesses at each balance sheet date whether there is any objective evidence that a financial asset or a group of financial assets is impaired. Assets carried at amortised cost If there is objective evidence that an impairment loss on financial assets carried at amortised cost has been incurred, the amount of the loss is measured as the difference between the asset’s carrying amount and the present value of the estimated future cash flows discounted at the financial asset’s original effective interest rate. The carrying amount of the asset is reduced through the use of an allowance account and the amount of the loss is recognised in the income and expenditure statement. If, in a subsequent period, the amount of the impairment loss decreases and the decrease can be related objectively to an event occurring after the impairment was recognised, the previously recognised impairment loss is reversed. Any subsequent reversal of an impairment loss is recognised in the income and expenditure statement to the extent that the carrying value of the asset does not exceed its amortised cost at the reversal date. Derecognition of financial assets A financial asset is derecognised when the contractual rights to receive cash flows from the asset have expired. On derecognition of a financial asset, the difference between the carrying amount and the sum of (a) the consideration received and (b) any cumulative gain or loss that has been recognised directly in equity is recognised in the income and expenditure statement. h) Trade and other receivables Trade receivables and other receivables are classified and accounted for as loans and receivables under FRS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement (FRS 39). They are recognised initially at fair value and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method, less allowance for impairment. An allowance for impairment of trade and other receivables is established when there is evidence that the Group will not be able to collect all amounts due according to the original terms of the receivables. The amount of the allowance is recognised in the income and expenditure statement. i) Cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalents comprise cash on hand and bank balances and fixed deposits with financial institutions. j) Cash on hand and in banks and fixed deposits are classified and accounted for as loans and receivables under FRS 39. The accounting policy is stated in Note 2 (f ). Financial liabilities Financial liabilities include trade payables, other amounts payable and interest-bearing loans. Financial liabilities are recognised on the balance sheet when, and only when, the Group becomes a party to the contractual provisions of the financial instrument. Financial liabilities are initially recognised at fair value of consideration received less directly attributable transaction costs and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest rate method. Gains and losses are recognised in the income and expenditure statement when the liabilities are derecognised as well as through the amortisation process. The liabilities are derecognised when the obligation under the liability is discharged or cancelled or expired. k) Provisions Provisions are recognised when the Group has a present obligation (legal or constructive) where, as a result of a past event, it is probable that an outflow of resources embodying economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation 65 66 ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 2 SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONT’D) k) Provisions (cont’d) and a reliable estimate can be made of the amount of the obligation. Provisions are reviewed at each balance sheet date and adjusted to reflect the current best estimate. Where the effect of time value of money is material, the amount of the provision is the present value of the expenditure expected to be required to settle the obligation. l) Leases Finance leases Leases of assets in which the Group assumes substantially the risks and rewards of ownership are classified as finance leases. Property, plant and equipment acquired through finance leases are capitalised at the inception of the lease at the lower of its fair value and the present value of the minimum lease payments. Subsequent to the initial recognition, the asset is accounted for in accordance with the accounting policy applicable to that asset. Lease payments are apportioned between the finance charges and reduction of the lease liability so as to achieve a constant rate of interest on the remaining balance of the liability. Finance charges are charged to the income and expenditure statement. Operating leases Leases of assets in which a significant portion of the risks and rewards of ownership are retained by the lessor are classified as operating leases. Payments made under operating leases (net of any incentives received from the lessor) are taken to the income and expenditure statement on a straight-line basis over the period of the lease. When an operating lease is terminated before the lease period has expired, any payment required to be made to the lessor by way of penalty is recognised as an expense in the period in which termination takes place. m) Revenue Recognition Revenue is recognised to the extent that it is probable that the economic benefits will flow to the Group and the revenue can be reliably measured. Members’ annual and admission fees, students’ fees and students’ administration fees and CATS & ATTS fees are recognised when due. Course fees (from continuing professional education and training) are recognised when the services are rendered. Advertising income is recognised when advertisement is placed. Interest income is recognised as the interest accrues based on effective interest rate method unless collectibility is in doubt. Sundry income, arising mainly from the sale of Members’ Handbooks, are recognised when the goods sold are delivered. n) Employee Benefits Pension Obligations As required by law, the Group makes contributions to the state pension scheme, the Central Provident Fund (CPF) Scheme which is a defined contribution pension scheme. Contributions to CPF are recognised as expense in the period in which the related service is performed. Employee Leave Entitlement Employee entitlements to annual leave are recognised when they accrue to employees. The estimated liability for leave is recognised for services rendered by employees up to the balance sheet date. o) Income Tax Income tax for the financial year comprises current and deferred tax. Income tax is recognised in the income and expenditure statement except to the extent that it relates to items recognised directly in equity, in which case it is recognised in equity. 67 ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 2 SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONT’D) o) Income Tax (cont’d) Current tax is the expected tax payable on the taxable income for the year, using tax rates enacted or substantively enacted at the balance sheet date, and any adjustment to tax payable in respect of previous years. Deferred tax is recognised, using the balance sheet method, providing for all temporary differences at the balance sheet date between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their carrying amounts in the financial statements. Deferred tax is not recognised for the initial recognition of assets or liabilities that affect neither accounting nor taxable profit. Deferred tax is measured at the tax rates that are expected to be applied to the temporary differences when they reverse, based on the tax rates and tax laws that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the balance sheet date. A deferred tax asset is recognised to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profits will be available against which temporary differences can be utilised. Deferred tax assets are reviewed at each balance sheet date and are reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that the related tax benefit will be realised. 3 ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES Secretariat Group Institute 2007 $ 2006 $ 2007 $ 2006 $ Auditors’ remuneration 22,000 Computer and office equipment maintenance 18,471 CPF 185,131 Depreciation of property, plant and equipment (Note 9) 521,804 Employee benefit expenses 29,350 Exchange (gain)/Loss (20) Finance costs - Interest on finance lease 1,664 - Interest on loan 306,764 General expenses 110,961 ICPAS scholarship 12,000 Insurance premiums 20,002 Journal and publication 319,276 Legal and professional fees 38,655 Library expenses 15,696 Lights and power 26,275 Marketing and promotion 328,531 Office maintenance and air conditioning 210,037 Postage and telecommunications 43,270 Practice Monitoring Division (Note 5) 180,910 Printing and stationery 25,927 Property, plant and equipment written off 8,504 Property tax 113,440 Regional and international conferences 85,831 Rental expenses 11,964 Salaries and bonuses 1,738,584 Seminars and talks 83,504 Social and hospitality 290,618 Subscriptions to accountancy bodies 110,617 Transport 5,879 Website expenses 50,605 4,916,250 14,800 14,984 159,231 307,124 41,516 – 18,000 18,471 185,131 521,805 29,350 (20) 12,500 14,984 159,231 307,124 41,516 – 1,954 88,234 96,170 12,000 14,163 272,849 27,943 13,844 27,814 401,636 220,427 48,184 170,060 24,608 – 68,103 54,808 11,267 1,485,067 66,945 316,959 107,424 5,024 34,500 4,107,638 1,664 306,764 54,861 12,000 20,002 319,276 38,655 15,696 26,275 328,531 210,037 43,270 180,910 25,763 8,504 113,440 85,831 11,964 1,738,585 83,504 290,618 110,617 5,879 50,605 4,855,988 1,954 88,234 49,985 12,000 14,163 272,849 27,943 13,844 27,814 401,636 220,427 47,974 170,060 22,701 – 68,103 54,808 11,267 1,485,067 66,945 316,959 107,424 5,024 34,500 4,057,036 68 ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 4 OTHER INCOME Group Institute 2007 $ 2006 $ 2007 $ 2006 $ Advertising income CATS & ATTS fees Gain on disposal of property, plant and equipment Interest income from fixed deposits and bank balances Management fee charged to subsidiaries and associate Penalty fees Sundry income Website income 105,094 364,225 182 54,512 6,800 2,520 330,821 8,175 872,329 104,848 311,121 – 113,299 – 4,760 170,286 5,010 709,324 105,094 – 182 43,195 172,800 2,520 330,821 8,175 662,787 104,848 – – 103,649 166,000 4,760 170,286 5,010 554,553 5 PRACTICE MONITORING DIVISION Fee income Sundry income Less expenses : Administrative expenses CPF Depreciation of property, plant and equipment (Note 9) Salaries and bonuses Net deficit Group & Institute 2007 2006 $ $ 80,350 12,243 111,000 2,211 (100,973) (14,932) (6,320) (151,278) (273,503) (180,910) (28,333) (22,415) (1,511) (231,012) (283,271) (170,060) 6 NET SURPLUS FROM THE ACADEMY (i) Continuing Professional Education (CPE) Fee income Less expenses : Administrative expenses Course materials CPF Depreciation of property, plant andequipment (Note 8) Interest on finance lease Lecturers’ fees Property, plant and equipment written off Salaries and bonuses Surplus on CPE Group & Institute 2007 2006 $ $ 1,815,075 1,778,638 (336,279) (50,066) (24,335) (52,263) (2,161) (514,620) (4,311) (209,105) (1,193,140) 621,935 (572,554) (27,470) (23,929) (41,232) (3,000) (514,617) – (213,385) (1,396,187) 382,451 69 ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 6 NET SURPLUS FROM THE ACADEMY (CONT’D) (ii) Training courses for ACCA, ATT, CAT, PAC, SAT, STT, and others Fee income Doubtful receivables recovered Gain on disposal of property, plant and equipment Less expenses : Administrative expenses Course manuals CPF Depreciation of property, plant andequipment (Note 8) Exchange gain Interest on finance lease Lecturers’ fees Property, plant and equipment written off Salaries and bonuses Surplus on training courses Net surplus from the Academy 7 INCOME TAX EXPENSE 2007 $ CURRENT TAX EXPENSE Current tax 686,339 (Over)/underprovision in prior year (27,503) 658,836 DEFERRED TAX EXPENSE Origination and reversal of temporary differences – Underprovision in prior year – – Income tax expense 658,836 Group & Institute 2007 2006 $ $ 11,207,306 – – 11,207,306 8,227,337 499 200 8,228,036 (2,077,886) (428,298) (224,696) (322,044) 218 (11,429) (2,110,563) (59,356) (1,824,978) (7,059,032) 4,148,274 (1,995,187) (345,791) (151,887) (262,212) 83 (10,270) (1,933,760) (983) (1,325,191) (6,025,198) 2,202,838 4,770,209 2,585,289 Group Institute 2006 $ 2007 $ 2006 $ 407,209 – 407,209 673,221 (27,503) 645,718 396,419 – 396,419 20,649 10,151 30,800 438,009 – – – 645,718 20,649 10,151 30,800 427,219 70 ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 7 INCOME TAX EXPENSE (CONT’D) The income tax expense on the results of the financial year varies from the amount of income tax determined by applying the Singapore statutory rate of income tax to total surplus before tax due to the following factors : Group Institute 2007 $ 2006 $ 2007 $ 2006 $ Total surplus before tax 3,683,316 1,976,073 3,495,178 1,830,336 Tax calculated at a tax rate of 18% (2006 : 20%) Singapore statutory stepped income exemption Income not subject to tax Expenses not deductible for tax purposes (Over)/underprovision in prior year Others 662,997 (41,468) – 64,544 (27,503) 266 658,836 395,215 (41,000) (7,904) 81,092 10,151 455 438,009 629,132 (27,450) – 71,539 (27,503) – 645,718 366,067 (30,500) (7,904) 89,405 10,151 – 427,219 8 PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT Group & Institute Furniture Freehold Freehold & Office Land Buildings Equipment Computers Renovation $ $ $ $ $ COST Balance as at 1 January 2006 20,176,000 6,584,501 1,418,859 840,426 812,091 Additions – 15,122,263 196,142 175,016 82,145 Disposals – – – (1,970) – Written off – – (93,067) (70,408) (435,449) Balance as at 31 December 2006 20,176,000 Additions – Written off – Balance as at 31 December 2007 20,176,000 ACCUMULATED DEPRECIATION Balance as at 1 January 2006 – 1,053,519 656,223 684,011 779,422 3,173,175 Depreciation charge for the year – 232,500 266,008 92,587 20,984 612,079 Disposals – – – (1,970) – (1,970) Written off – – (92,396) (70,096) (435,449) (597,941) CARRYING AMOUNT Balance as at 31 December 2006 20,176,000 20,420,745 692,099 238,532 93,830 41,621,206 Balance as at 31 December 2007 20,176,000 19,986,610 731,845 289,671 244,740 41,428,866 – – – – – 1,286,019 434,135 – – 1,720,154 1,521,934 378,419 (206,687) 1,693,666 829,835 272,369 (115,951) (24,432) 961,821 943,064 184,465 (44,449) 1,083,080 704,532 123,922 (35,045) – 793,409 458,787 223,620 (12,610) 669,797 29,831,877 15,575,566 (1,970) (598,924) Balance as at 31 December 2006 Depreciation charge for the year Written off Disposals Balance as at 31 December 2007 21,706,764 – – 21,706,764 Total $ 364,957 72,005 (11,905) – 425,057 44,806,549 786,504 (263,746) 45,329,307 3,185,343 902,431 (162,901) (24,432) 3,900,441 71 ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 8 PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT (CONT’D) In accordance with the Constitution of the Institute, the freehold land and freehold buildings were transferred to Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Singapore Pte Ltd, which holds the freehold land and freehold buildings in trust for the Institute. Location Freehold properties i) CPA House 20 Aljunied Road Singapore 389805 Consisting of 5 floors (Units #01-01, #01-03, #01-04, #01-05, #01-06, #02-01, #02-02, #04-01, #04-02, #05-01, #05-02, #06-01 and #06-02) and totaling 2,779 sq. meters ii) 6 Raffles Quay #23-00 Singapore 048580 Assets held under finance leases During the year, the Group acquired property, plant and equipment with an aggregate cost of S$63,099 (2006: Nil) under finance leases. The carrying amount of property, plant and equipment held under finance leases as at 31 December 2007 was S$265,089 (2006 : S$301,424). Leased assets are pledged as security for the related finance lease liabilities (Note 13). Assets pledged as security In addition to assets held under finance lease, a piece of freehold property with a total carrying amount of S$14,719,008 (2006: S$15,021,453) is pledged as security to secure a mortgage loan from a bank (Note 12). Depreciation The depreciation for the year is charged to the income and expenditure statement as follows: The Secretariat (Note 3) The Practice Monitoring Division (Note 5) The Academy (Note 6 (i)) The Academy (Note 6 (ii)) Group & Institute 2007 2006 $ $ 521,804 6,320 52,263 322,044 902,431 307,124 1,511 41,232 262,212 612,079 9 ASSOCIATES Investment in associates Group Institute 2007 $ 2006 $ 2007 $ 2006 $ 80,426 41,568 –* –* 72 ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 9 ASSOCIATES (CONT’D) Details of associates are as follows: Name Country of incorporation 50 33 Insolvency Practitioners Association of Singapore Limited Singapore Institute of Taxation Limited * There is no cost of investment as the associates are companies limited by guarantee whereby every member of the company undertakes to contribute to meet the debts and liabilities of the company in the event of its liquidation to an a mount not exceeding $10. Singapore Singapore Effective interest held by the Group 2007 2006 % % 50 33 The summarised financial information of the associates is as follows: 2007 2006 $ $ ASSETS AND LIABILITIES Current assets 202,495 105,031 Total assets 202,495 105,031 Current liabilities 24,504 22,471 Total liabilities 24,504 22,471 RESULTS Revenue 115,781 70,443 Profit after taxation 95,431 49,975 During the financial year, the Institute has the following transaction with an associate on the terms agreed between the parties : 2007 2006 $ $ Management fee income 10 TRADE AND OTHER RECEIVABLES 6,800 Group – Institute 2007 $ 2006 $ 2007 $ 2006 $ Trade receivables Less: Allowance for doubtful receivables Accrued practice review fee receivable Deposits Interest receivable Others Prepayments Prepaid capital expenditure 361,214 – 361,214 43,500 24,750 5,730 18,616 143,284 – 597,094 903,872 (2,156) 901,716 81,000 115,726 3,649 8,997 300,296 446,882 1,858,266 361,214 – 361,214 43,500 24,750 1,634 18,616 143,284 – 592,998 903,872 (2,156) 901,716 81,000 115,726 321 8,997 300,296 446,882 1,854,938 73 ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 10 TRADE AND OTHER RECEIVABLES (CONT’D) Trade receivables are non-interest bearing and are generally on immediate to about 6 months’ terms. Movements in allowance for doubtful receivables: Balance at beginning of year Doubtful receivables recovered Written off against provision Balance at end of year Group Institute 2007 $ 2006 $ 2007 $ 2006 $ 2,156 (1,351) (805) – 41,430 (499) (38,775) 2,156 2,156 (1,351) (805) – 41,430 (499) (38,775) 2,156 11 TRADE AND OTHER PAYABLES 2007 $ Group 2006 $ 2007 $ Institute 2006 $ Trade payables Accrued operating expenses 806,400 1,191,778 1,998,178 619,229 1,023,047 1,642,276 806,400 1,178,367 1,984,767 619,229 1,011,127 1,630,356 Trade payables are non-interest bearing and are normally settled on 30-day term. 12 BANK LOAN Effective interest rate per annum 2007 2006 % % Current liabilities Secured bank loan 4.65 4.25 Non-current liabilities Secured bank loan at 1% over the bank’s prevailing cost of funds per annum* (2006: 4.65% per annum) 6.00 4.65 Secured bank loan at 1% (2006 : 1%) over the bank’s prevailing cost of funds per annum* 6.00 6.00 Group & Institute 2007 2006 $ $ 1,333,333 1,333,333 1,333,332 1,333,332 3,777,779 5,111,111 5,111,113 6,444,445 * The interest rate on the floating rate loan reprice at interval of 1 month. The loan is repayable in 72 equal monthly installments of about S$111,111 commencing 1 November 2006. It is secured by a mortgage over a freehold property (Note 8). The carrying amount of the bank loan approximates its fair value as it bears interest at rates which approximates the current incremental borrowing rate for similar type of borrowing arrangement. 74 ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 13 FINANCE LEASE LIABILITIES Group & Institute Minimum lease payments 2007 2006 $ $ Present value of payments 2007 2006 $ $ 113,076 199,596 101,727 250,660 97,018 171,867 87,969 218,389 312,672 (43,787) 352,387 (46,029) 268,885 – 306,358 – 268,885 306,358 268,885 306,358 Within one year After one year but not more than five years Total minimum lease payments Less: Finance charges Present value of minimum lease payments These finance lease liabilities are secured by a charge over leased assets (Note 8). At the expiration of the finance lease agreements, the Institute has the option to purchase the assets for S$13,157 (2006: S$6,280). In the event that the option is not exercised, the lessor has the right to sell the assets to a third party and the Institute has undertaken to indemnify the lessor for the difference if the selling price is lower than the residual value of S$13,157 (2006: S$6,280). The effective rate of interest is approximately 3.8% to 6.8% (2006: 6% to 9.6% per annum). 14 MISCELLANEOUS FUND Community Service Project Fund The fund is made up of donations from members, money from fund-raising projects and contributions from the Institute. It is used for the Institute’s community service projects. It is made up as follows: Group & Institute 2007 2006 $ $ Balance at beginning of year Add: Donations from members Less: Community service projects funded during the year Net decrease for the year Balance at end of year 24,473 23,900 (44,640) (20,740) 3,733 38,315 21,294 (35,136) (13,842) 24,473 15 CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash and bank balances and fixed deposits. 2007 $ 2006 $ 2007 $ 2006 $ Fixed deposits Cash and bank balances 3,992,157 2,462,646 6,454,803 857,457 1,340,128 2,197,585 3,234,241 2,339,358 5,573,599 310,086 1,260,961 1,571,047 Group Institute Fixed deposits are placed for varying periods of between 1 and 12 months depending on the immediate cash requirements of the Group and the Institute and earn interest of 0.83% to 2.88% (2006 : 0.83% to 2.88%) per annum. 75 ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 16 SUBSIDIARIES AND INTRA-GROUP BALANCES/TRANSACTIONS Association of Taxation Technicians (S) Limited (“ATTS”), Certified Accounting Technicians (Singapore) Ltd (“CATS”) and Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Singapore Pte Ltd (“ICPAS PL”), which are all incorporated in Singapore, are deemed to be wholly-owned subsidiaries of the Institute as Council Members of the Institute directly control ATTS, CATS and ICPAS PL. The amounts due from subsidiary and associate are unsecured, interest-free and repayable on demand. During the financial year, the Institute has the following significant transactions with the subsidiaries on terms agreed between the parties: 2007 2006 $ $ Management fee income 166,000 166,000 17 KEY MANAGEMENT PERSONNEL COMPENSATION Key management personnel compensation comprised: Short-term employee benefits Post-employment benefits Group & Institute 2007 2006 $ $ 829,704 60,737 890,441 673,025 51,924 724,949 18 COMMITMENTS (i) Capital commitments Capital expenditure contracted for as at the balance sheet date but not recognised in the financial statements is as follows: Group & Institute 2007 2006 $ $ Capital commitments in respect of property, plant and equipment 11,000 58,098 (ii) Operating lease commitments The Group leases an office under non-cancellable operating lease agreement. The lease has a term of about 1 year with an option to renew. Future minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating lease as at balance sheet date are as follows: Group & Institute 2007 2006 $ $ Within one year After one year but within five years 17,760 28,120 43,778 – 76 ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 19 FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS Financial risk management The main risks arising from the Group’s financial management are interest rate risk, credit risk, liquidity risk and foreign currency risk. The Group reviews and agrees policies for managing each of these risks and they are summarised below: Interest rate risk The Group is exposed to interest rate risk through the impact of rate changes on interest bearing loan and fixed deposits. The Group’s policy is to manage its interest cost using a mix of fixed and variable rate debt. Credit risk The Group’s exposure to credit risk arises from the failure of a customer or a counterparty to settle its financial and contractual obligations to the Group, as and when they fall due. The Group manages this risk by monitoring credit ratings and limiting the aggregate financial exposure to any individual counterparty. The Group places its cash and fixed deposits with banks and financial institutions, which are regulated. As at balance sheet date, there is no significant concentration of credit risk. The maximum exposure to credit risk is represented by the carrying amount of each financial asset in the balance sheets. Liquidity risk In the management of liquidity risk, the Group monitors and maintains a level of cash and bank balances deemed adequate by the Management to finance the Group’s operations and mitigate the effects of fluctuations in cash flows. The Group targets for available funds in the form of surplus liquidity and aims at maintaining flexibility in funding by keeping committed and uncommitted credit lines available. Foreign currency risk The Group’s foreign currency risk results mainly from cash flows and transactions denominated in foreign currencies. It is the Group’s policy not to enter into derivative forward foreign exchange contracts for hedging and speculative purposes. The Group has no significant exposure in respect of financial assets and liabilities held in foreign currency. Estimation of fair values Bank loan The carrying value of the bank loan approximates its fair value and is disclosed in Note 12. Other financial assets and liabilities The notional amounts of financial assets and liabilities with a maturity of less than one year (including trade and other receivables, cash and cash equivalents and trade and other payables) are assumed to approximate their fair values because of the short period to maturity. 77 ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 20 COMPARATIVE INFORMATION Reclassifications Certain reclassifications have been made to the comparative information to enhance comparability with the current year’s presentation. These reclassifications are due to elimination of inter division transactions and regrossing of certain income and expenditure items and do not have any impact on the accumulated fund and miscellaneous funds. The following reclassifications were made in the Group’s financial statements: (i) Income and Expenditure Statement Administrative expenses Other income Net surplus from the Academy As previously reported $ Amount reclassified $ As reclassified $ (4,070,693) 1,382,379 1,875,289 (36,945) (673,055) 710,000 (4,107,638) 709,324 2,585,289 Amount reclassified $ (*) Amount reclassified $ (**) As reclassified $ – – – – – – 66,945 170,286 Note 6 Net surplus from the Academy (previously disclosed in the Notes to the Financial Statements as Note 13) Continuing Professional Education (CPE) Re-grossing of income Fee Income 1,717,798 – 60,840 1,778,638 8,227,337 (ii) Notes to the Financial Statements Note 4 Other income (previously disclosed in the Notes to the Financial Statements as Note 11) As previously reported $ Inter division billing elimination Management fee charged to the Academy 710,000 (710,000) Management fee charged to thePractice Monitoring Division 30,000 (30,000) 740,000 (740,000) Re-grossing of income Sundry income 103,341 – Training courses for ACCA, ATT, CAT, PAC, SAT, STT and Others Re-grossing of income Fee Income 8,049,235 – 178,102 78 ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 20 COMPARATIVE INFORMATION (CONT’D) (ii) Notes to the Financial Statements (cont’d) As previously reported $ Amount reclassified $ (*) Amount reclassified $ (**) As reclassified $ Note 6 Net surplus from the Academy (cont’d) (previously disclosed in the Notes to the Financial Statements as Note 13) Continuing Professional Education (CPE) Administrative expenses (585,340) 73,626 Training courses for ACCA, ATT, CAT, PAC, SAT, STT and Others Administrative expenses (2,453,459) 636,374 710,000 (60,840) (572,554) Note 5 Practice Monitoring Division (previously disclosed in the Notes to the Financial Statements as Note 12) Inter division elimination Administrative expenses (58,333) Note 3 Administrative expenses (previously disclosed in the Notes to the Financial Statements as Note 10) Re-grossing of expenses Seminars and talks – (178,102) (1,995,187) (238,942) 30,000 - (28,333) – (66,945) (66,945) * due to Inter division elimination ** due to Re-grossing of income/expenses Financial statements of the Institute The income and expenditure statement, statement of changes in accumulated fund and miscellaneous fund, cash flow statement and the relevant notes to the financial statements of the Institute for the financial year ended 31 December 2006 have been included in the comparatives information in current year financial statements to enhance comparability of current year’s presentation. 21 AUTHORISATION OF FINANCIAL STATEMENTS The financial statements of the Group and Institute for the financial year ended 31 December 2007 were authorised for issue by the Council on 13 February 2008. 79 ICPAS Annual Report 2007/2008 FORM OF PROXY THE SCHEDULE Rule 12 THE INSTITUTE OF CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS OF SINGAPORE (GENERAL MEETINGS) RULES I, ________________________________________________________ of ____________________________________________ being a member of the Institute, do hereby appoint _____________________________________________________________ of_______________________________________________ , or failing him ___________________________________________ of ___________________________________________ as my proxy to vote for me at the Annual General Meeting of the Institute to be held on 19 April 2008 and any adjournment of such meeting. Dated this _______ day of _________________ 2008. Signed by _____________________________________________ ) in the presence of ______________________________________ ) member of the Institute of Certified ) Public Accountants of Singapore, of ) (Address) ____________________________________________ ) (Signature of Member) _____________________________________________ ) _____________________________________________ ) ) (Signature of Witness) NOTE: A member entitled to vote may appoint as his proxy any other member who is qualified to vote, except that no member shall be entitled to vote by proxy in the election of a member or members of the Council. [Rule 11, ICPAS (General Meetings) Rules] The instrument of proxy shall be in the form set out in the Schedule and shall be signed in the presence of another member, other than the proxy holder, who is entitled to vote. [Rule 12, ICPAS (General Meetings) Rules] The proxy shall not be entitled to vote at a meeting unless the instrument of proxy has been deposited with the Executive Director not less than 48 hours before the date and time fixed for the meeting. [Rule 15, ICPAS (General Meetings) Rules] This page has been intentionally left blank. WWW.ICPAS.ORG.SG INSTITUTE OF CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS OF SINGAPORE 20 Aljunied Road, #06-02 CPA House Singapore 389805 Tel Fax Email Website (65) 6749 8060 (65) 6749 8061 [email protected] www.icpas.org.sg