The State Audit Office of Viet Nam hosts ASEANSAI knowledge sharing workshop on “Environmental management and protection in industrial clusters and craft villages”

The workshop featured a welcome video message from Datuk Wan Suraya Wan Mohd Radzi, Auditor General of Malaysia and Chairperson of ASEANSAI's Knowledge Sharing Committee, along with an opening speech by Deputy Auditor General of Viet Nam Ha Thi My Dzung.

Attending the workshop were high-level representatives from Viet Nam, such as Tran Bau Ha, Vice Chairman of Ha Tinh Province; Ha Lan Anh, Vice Chair of Nam Đinh Province; and Nguyen Ba Dung, Director General of the International Cooperation Department of SAV. Over 40 delegates from ASEANSAI member SAIs (Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, and Viet Nam) participated in the workshop.

In her video address, Datuk Wan Suraya Wan Mohd Radzi emphasized the critical role of environment as the foundation for societal development. She noted that protecting the environment is not only a necessity but also an ethical responsibility for individuals and organizations.

“The collaborative efforts of SAIs within INTOSAI and regional organizations have greatly contributed to addressing pressing environmental issues through cooperative audits. SAIs play a crucial role in promoting transparency, accountability, and good governance, reflecting ASEAN countries’ commitment to sustainable development goals (SDGs),” she remarked.

She reaffirmed ASEANSAI Knowledge Sharing Committee’s commitment to fostering cooperation among ASEAN auditors, underlining their shared dedication to building a sustainable future.

The rapid industrialization and urbanization across Southeast Asia have spurred the growth of industrial clusters and craft villages, significantly boosting economic growth, employment, and exports. However, this progress has posed serious environmental challenges, affecting public health and quality of life if not properly managed.

In her opening remarks, Deputy Auditor General Ha Thi My Dzung highlighted the increasing need for environmental protection amid globalization and sustainable development demands. She underscored the dual role of industrial clusters and craft villages in driving economic growth while upholding environmental and social responsibility.

Over the years, SAV has conducted environmental audits in various localities, assessing environmental management in industrial clusters and craft villages. These audits have yielded valuable insights and key recommendations.

Deputy Auditor General of Viet Nam noted that at the third regular meeting of ASEANSAI's Knowledge Sharing Committee in July 2022, the Committee approved SAV’s proposal to host this workshop as the Lead of this 2024 knowledge-sharing project.

“This workshop is highly significant, not only for ASEANSAI member SAIs but also for the Southeast Asian community, as we collectively work towards achieving the SDGs, protecting the environment, and ensuring accountability in public governance. This workshop creates a precious opportunity for us to share the practical lessons, thereby contributing to the sustainable development of the ASEAN region.” she said.

The workshop provided a platform for SAIs and participants to share insights on various topics, including: Environmental management and protection in industrial clusters and craft villages and the role of SAIs; Performance audits on environment issues by the SAI of Brunei; Tourism and environmental impacts: Case studies in Toba District, Indonesia; Managing and protecting the environment in  industrial clusters and craft villages in Viet Nam; Water resources management in Malaysia; Case studies from SAI of Myanmar. The event also featured roundtable discussions on related topics.