NEWS & UPDATE

KUCHING
27 AUGUST 2026

Strong governance, effective internal audit and digital resilience are increasingly important as power utilities navigate rapid technological change, emerging risks and greater regional connectivity.

This was among the key messages highlighted at the Heads of ASEAN Power Utilities/Authorities (HAPUA) Internal Audit Summit 2026, hosted by Sarawak Energy in Kuching on 12 August 2026.

Held under the theme ‘Leading with Assurance: Digital Trust, Resilience & Value Creation in Power Utilities’, the summit gathered HAPUA country representatives, chief audit executives, delegates, and industry professionals to exchange insights on the evolving role of internal audit and strengthen collaboration among ASEAN power utilities.

In his keynote address, Sarawak Energy Board Member and Chairman of the Board Audit Committee, Ainul Azhar Ainul Jamal emphasised that internal audit must evolve beyond traditional compliance and assurance to support organisations in managing risks and strengthening governance.

“Internal Audit plays a greater role than providing independent assurance. It is a strategic partner that helps boards and management build confidence that risks are understood, governance remains robust, resources are managed responsibly, and transformation programmes deliver their intended value. Good governance is fundamental to building stakeholder confidence and strengthening collaboration across the region,” Ainul said.

On the growing role of new technologies, Ainul noted that while Artificial Intelligence (AI) offers great potential to improve audit practices through data analysis and monitoring, it also requires careful oversight on data governance, cybersecurity and ethical use.

Also speaking in his welcoming remarks at the event, Sarawak Energy Senior Vice President for Corporate Services, Marconi Madai highlighted HAPUA’s role in promoting collaboration, knowledge sharing and stronger relationships among ASEAN utilities.

“No single utility can address today's challenges alone. Through platforms such as this summit, we can exchange experiences, benchmark best practices and learn from one another's successes and lessons. This collective approach not only strengthens our individual organisations but also supports ASEAN's broader aspiration of a more integrated, resilient and sustainable regional power sector”.

Marconi added that Sarawak Energy remains committed to supporting HAPUA’s initiatives to strengthen regional collaboration and advance an interconnected ASEAN, contributing towards a secure and sustainable energy future.

In his closing remarks, Sarawak Energy Vice President for Group Internal Audit, Steven Kho Chai Huat, noted that the summit showcased how internal audit functions across HAPUA member organisations are embracing innovation and expanding capabilities.

"We have also seen that despite operating in different countries and organisational environments, many of the challenges and opportunities we face are remarkably similar. This is precisely why the HAPUA Internal Audit Summit remains such a valuable platform. By learning from one another, sharing our experiences and building professional relationships, we strengthen not only our own audit functions, but also the broader utility sector that we collectively serve," Steven said.

Organised by the Malaysia Chapter of HAPUA Working Group No 5 and Sarawak Energy’s Internal Audit team, the summit included discussions focusing on AI, cybersecurity, digital assurance, ESG governance, data analytics, business continuity and oversight of major capital projects.

The two-day summit featured seven speaking sessions with a total of 20 speakers and offered delegates a taste of local hospitality through a scenic sunset river cruise along Sungai Sarawak, showcasing Kuching’s prominent landmarks during a dinner on the first day.

Delegates and dignitaries in a group photo at the HAPUA Internal Audit Summit 2026

Sarawak Energy Board Member and Chairman of the Board Audit Committee, Ainul Azhar Ainul Jamal delivered a keynote address

Sarawak Energy Senior Vice President for Corporate Services, Marconi Madai delivered his welcoming remarks

Sarawak Energy Vice President for Group Internal Audit, Steven Kho Chai Huat delivered his closing remarks