Is pursuing ACCA in Malaysia still worth it in 2025, considering the rising cost, job market demand, and alternative career paths like CPA or CIMA?

If you're in Malaysia in 2025 and you're asking yourself whether to pursue ACCA, here's the honest take:

It depends on what you actually want to do. ACCA is still respected, yes. Companies know what it is, and it’ll help you get into audit, accounting, and finance jobs, especially at places like the Big Four or large corporates. But it's no longer the "must-have" it once was. The job market has evolved — just having ACCA doesn’t guarantee a great job or salary anymore.

Also, it’s not cheap. Between exam fees, study materials, and tuition, you’re going to spend a decent amount — and you’ll need discipline and time to pass. So you need to be really clear on what the end game is. If your goal is to become an auditor, financial controller, or eventually a CFO, then ACCA still makes sense. It’s still a solid, structured path.

Now, if you're not 100% into that route — if you're more drawn to business strategy, commercial finance, or even something more modern like fintech or data — ACCA might not be the best return on your time or money. In that case, CIMA might suit you better (it’s more business-oriented), or you could skip professional qualifications altogether and build skills in data, tech, or business that are more aligned with those roles.

As for CPA Australia, it’s fine, but unless you’re planning to work in Australia or Singapore, it’s not as well recognized locally as ACCA.

So is it worth it?
Yes, if:

• You’re aiming for accounting, audit, or traditional finance roles
• You’re ready to commit financially and mentally
• You’ll complement it with real-world experience and tech skills

Otherwise, think hard about whether there’s another route that’s better aligned with what you actually want to do — because there are more paths now than there used to be.

Let me know your goal — and I can give you a much more personal take.

It depends on your career goals. 

ACCA is still highly recognized in Malaysia and across Asia, especially for roles in audit, tax, and financial reporting. It’s a solid path if you’re aiming for public accounting or corporate finance. 

That said, costs have risen, and alternatives like CPA (for global mobility) or CIMA (for management roles) might be better fits depending on your interests.

Key is to align the qualification with where you want to work (e.g., Big 4 vs. MNC vs. startup) and what role you want long-term. ACCA still holds strong value but it’s no longer the only strong option.