THE IMPORTANCE OF INTERNAL AUDIT WORK IN THE SUPERVISION OF GOVERNMENT AGENCIES

Abstract

The aim of this academic article is to present the significance of internal auditing in ensuring the governance of public sector organizations. The study reveals that Thai government agencies have systematically implemented internal auditing since 1962. This was established through regulations concerning the disbursement of funds from the treasury of the Ministry of Finance, granting heads of government departments and provincial governors the authority to appoint at least one official to conduct internal audits within their respective organizations. On August 19, 1976, the Cabinet passed resolution no. 0201/W.78, which mandated the appointment of internal auditors across all government departments, ministries, bureaus, and equivalent agencies, as well as in every province. The Central Accounting Bureau under the Ministry of Finance is responsible for setting standards for internal auditing practices and ethical conduct for internal auditors in government agencies to ensure efficiency and effectiveness in internal auditing processes. Internal auditing is considered a crucial tool for management to monitor and evaluate the performance of government agencies, provide recommendations for improvement, and achieve organizational objectives efficiently. Thailand has adopted standards for internal auditing and ethics that align with the International Standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing set by the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) of the United States. These standards are regularly updated to ensure relevance and compliance with current circumstances and the working environment of government agencies. The article emphasizes that the enhancement of internal auditing standards and ethical guidelines aims to certify the professionalism of internal auditors across all government sectors and gain acceptance from management and stakeholders both within and outside the organizations.