As artificial intelligence and digital tools become increasingly embedded in business, senior finance professionals today issued a stark warning that organizations must ensure technology amplifies human values rather than replacing them. This pressing challenge was the centerpiece of a virtual summit held by ACCA (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) to mark Global Ethics Day 2025, where business leaders confronted the complexities of maintaining integrity amidst rapid technological change.
The event, held across the Asia Pacific region, brought together members, partners, and corporate leaders to discuss how finance experts can champion trust, transparency, and accountability in an environment shaped by digital disruption and shifting societal expectations.
In his opening address, Pulkit Abrol, Director – Asia Pacific at ACCA, stressed that ethical conduct is not merely a technical skill but a fundamental leadership quality. ‘In a world full of complexity, ethics becomes our compass. It’s what helps us make the right decisions, not just the easy ones,’ he stated. ‘The future of our profession will belong to those who lead with both competence and conscience.’
A compelling panel discussion, titled ‘Upholding Integrity in a World of Digital Disruption,’ explored how emerging technologies and data governance are redefining ethical standards. The panel featured Gulfishan Shaikh of easypaisa Bank Ltd., Chaaminda Kumarasiri of The Lanka Hospitals Corporation, Suresh Raj Sharma of the United Nations, Nguy?n Trung of Deloitte Southeast Asia, and Shahzaib Sanwal of EY Ford Rhodes.
The experts deliberated on the need for finance professionals to strengthen their judgement and accountability in a fast-changing landscape. They concluded that principles cannot be an afterthought and must be designed directly into business systems and processes, emphasizing that technology and integrity should be viewed as partners in driving responsible innovation.
The summit also showcased perspectives from prominent partners who reaffirmed a shared commitment to ethical progress. Asim Siddiqui, Country Managing Partner at EY Ford Rhodes, described integrity and ethical leadership as the “cornerstones of sustainable business practices.” Similarly, Sardar Mohammad Aly Osman, Chief Internal Auditor at Engro Corporation, noted, ‘Integrity is more than a principle – it’s the blueprint for lasting growth.’
Collaboration among professional bodies was highlighted as a critical component for success. Ghulam Mustafa Qazi, President of ICMAP, remarked, ‘Ethics cannot thrive in isolation. Collaboration among professional bodies is essential to foster an ethical culture across the global accounting community.’ This sentiment was echoed by Rauf Ali Jan of Habib Bank Ltd., who pointed to the bank”s partnership with ACCA as a reflection of shared values.
Speakers also reminded attendees that ethical practice is a continuous journey. Sadaf Shabbir, a Financial Advisor at VIS Credit Rating Company, observed, ‘While Global Ethics Day is celebrated once a year, ethical practice is a daily commitment, not a one-time event.’ Shafaq Fauzil Azim, President and CEO of PICG, added that the future of governance depends on the values corporate boards choose to uphold.
Assad Hameed Khan, Head of ACCA Pakistan, summarized the core message of the event, stating that the discussions clearly suggested professionals must “ensure that technology amplifies human values, and not replaces them.’
The event concluded with participants reaffirming that as the world evolves, ethical competence must advance in lockstep with technical skills to ensure finance professionals continue to act in the public interest.