carried out by a team of 62 internal auditors with diverse disciplines, as summarised below: The overall cost incurred in managing the internal audit function for FY2023 is RM14.93 million, comprising mainly staff costs and other operating expenses, as follows: RM14.93 million Total Costs Incurred for FY2023 RM13.67 mil (92%) Staff costs RM1.26 mil (8%) Other operating costs Engineering 25 (40%) Accounting, Finance and Business 30 (48%) Quantity Surveying 2 (4%) System & Data Analyst/Information Technology 5 (8%) 62 Total Number of Auditors STATEMENT ON INTERNAL AUDIT FUNCTION CREATING VALUE THROUGH STRONG GOVERNANCE Sec 4 175 In addition to the above, 32% (20 auditors) are actively engaged in pursuing professional certifications at various levels. GIA commits to ensure that the level of auditors’ skills, knowledge and competencies are maintainedas reflected in the Internal Audit Charter. These are accomplished through the following: • Active participation of auditors in national conferences and trainings (both internally and externally) focused on diverse areas such as auditing, strategic initiatives, leadership and communication, business acumen, data analytics, and personal development. • Involvement in training programs focused on ESG matters, aimed at acquiring a comprehensive understanding and insights into the fundamentals of ESG. This encompasses methodology for providing sustainability assurance, aligning with the enhanced sustainability disclosure mandated by Bursa Malaysia. • Maintain corporate membership status in IIA Malaysia, ensuring internal auditors have continuous access to valuable resources such as trainings, reading materials, and audit-related updates, fostering a well-informed and connected audit community. • Implemented succession management programme tailored to internal auditors at different levels, ensuring a strategic approach to talent development and continuity within the audit team. As of 31 December 2023, GIA invested a total cost of RM209,477 on trainings and conferences, aimed