Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata’afa has challenged newly inducted accountants to uphold quality and standards in their profession during these unprecedented times. 

Addressing the Samoa Institute of Accountants' annual ceremony for newly inducted accountants at the Taumeasina Island Resort on Wednesday evening, the Prime Minister said life today was “unprecedented, difficult and challenging” but as leaders they are all expected to be resilient and adaptable in the face of adversity.

“Today, we live in unprecedented, difficult and challenging times. As leaders, we expect the same ‘quality’ to ensure leaders of this age are resilient and adaptable in the face of adversity,” Fiame told the inductees. 

“Even in the worst moments when the human spirit is tested to breaking point, with the onerous responsibility of surviving natural disasters, the inescapable impacts of climate change, the cruelty of the global pandemic and our vulnerabilities, leaders must be champions of change and rise above the challenges.”

Pointing to the Samoa Institute of Accountants (SIA), the Prime Minister said the institution has professional standards and a code of conduct that governs the behaviour of members and sets high standards of ethics and integrity.

“The Institute has in place solid professional standards; a firm ‘code of conduct’ to direct members’ professional behaviour as well as high standards of ethics and integrity to inform professional responsibilities. 

“As you step into your new recognised status of becoming a member of the Samoa Institute of Accountants, there is an expectation in the ‘quality’ and ‘value’ of your self-worth and your professional conduct as a member of SIA.”

The veteran M.P. then urged the new inductees to have a vision of their future and looked back at her own journey as a politician, saying she also had her own vision of what she wanted for the country.

“As you step into society as members of SIA, have a vision of your future. In my political journey, my vision was for Samoa to be a place where people are happy to live. 

“This same vision is reiterated to some extent in the Samoa Pathway for Development which speaks to fostering social harmony, safety and freedom for all. 

“You as members of the Institute have a role to play in achieving Samoa’s vision, through the high-quality standard of your role and advice.”

Accountants have a role under the Government’s Samoa’s Pathway for Development, which according to Fiame highlights five key strategic outcomes. She added that one of these strategic outcomes is the attainment of a “diversified and sustainable economy”.

“As our economy faces uncertainty and stress, we cannot undermine the critical role of high-quality financial reporting and auditing to inform businesses and decisions of the Government,” she said. 

“The Institute further contributes significantly to other key strategic outcomes in its role of financial accounting and audit. 

“As you go forth as members of SIA, take heed of a few life lessons as guidance during your journey.”

The Prime Minister then urged the inductees to “remain grounded” in their positions and “don’t be compromised.”

“Be prepared to remain grounded in your position, don’t be compromised even if you become unpopular over it.

“Hold strong ‘values’ to define you as an individual and be firm in the standards of your profession.

“Onosai’ – pei o le upu masani, e leai se mea e maua ma le filemu!”