A recent survey by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) reveals that 50% of women in Malaysia’s finance and accountancy sectors now aspire to become entrepreneurs, marking an increase from 43% last year. This data, part of ACCA’s upcoming Global Talent Trends 2026 report, highlights a growing confidence among women in leveraging their financial skills for business ownership.
The survey, which gathered insights from over 11,000 finance professionals across 175 countries, indicates that younger generations, particularly Generation Z and Millennials, are driving this entrepreneurial ambition. The findings align with the global theme for International Women’s Day 2026, ‘Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL women and girls.’
Helen Brand, chief executive of ACCA, commented, “Entrepreneurship represents economic empowerment in action. The number of women aspiring to business ownership is an encouraging signal that finance and accountancy skills are equipping women not only to lead within organisations, but to build enterprises of their own.”
The report suggests that accountancy serves as a robust foundation for future entrepreneurs, with many professionals viewing their finance background as advantageous for entrepreneurial careers. This trend is particularly strong in emerging markets, where entrepreneurship is often seen as a route to economic mobility and societal impact.
Andrew Lim, head of ACCA Maritime South-East Asia, noted, “The drive towards entrepreneurship is especially evident among younger finance professionals. They see accountancy as more than a technical discipline, it is a launchpad for innovation, independence, and impact.”
As International Women’s Day approaches, these findings underscore the importance of supporting women’s entrepreneurial potential, which has significant economic benefits, including increased job creation and innovation.
