11 November 2026

Objectives of a financial statement audit

The auditor’s overall objectives are to:

  1. Obtain reasonable assurance that the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether caused by fraud or error.
  2. Express an opinion on whether the financial statements are prepared, in all material respects, according to the applicable financial reporting framework.
  3. Report and communicate as required by the auditing standards. mia.org.my
Key termSimple explanationExample
Reasonable assuranceA high level of assurance, but not a complete guarantee.The auditor obtains persuasive evidence but cannot promise that every mistake has been identified.
Material misstatementAn error or omission significant enough to influence users’ decisions, considering its size or nature.Omitting a major loan could mislead a bank assessing the company’s financial position.
Audit opinionThe auditor’s conclusion on the financial statements based on the evidence obtained.The auditor concludes whether the statements give a true and fair view under the applicable framework.

Example: A company reports a profit of RM200,000 but omits expenses of RM300,000. Correcting the omission would change the reported profit into a loss of RM100,000. This could substantially affect investors’ or lenders’ decisions.

An audit opinion does not guarantee the company’s future survival or the effectiveness of management’s business decisions.

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