Title: Usage of Accounting
Information among Malaysian Bumiputra Small and Medium
Non-Manufacturing Firms
Abstract: This paper reports the results of
a
descriptive study which investigates the usage of accounting
information
and computerized accounting information system (AIS) among small and
medium
sized firms (SMEs). Using mail questionnaire, data was collected from
136
non-manufacturing bumiputra SMEs in Malaysia. Findings from this study
suggest
that uses of accounting information among non-manufacturing bumiputra
SMEs
are varied. Furthermore, while about half of the firms sought advice
from
accounting firms, most of them visited accounting firms only once a
year.
Only a very small percentage of firms that prepared accounting
information
internally use computerized AIS. This study has made important
contributions
by providing important insights into the financial management practices
of
non-manufacturing bumiputra SMEs, which has received little attention
thus
far from academic, governmental and professional bodies. In conclusion,
this
study suggests that the usage of accounting information and
computerized
AIS among non-manufacturing bumiputra SMEs is still minimal. Therefore,
relevant
government agencies need to play a more active role in creating
awareness
of the importance of accounting information among bumiputra SMEs.
Authors: Noor Azizi Ismail and Rosliza Mat
Zin
