The Role of Company Secretaries on Money Laundering

Company Secretaries stand at the forefront of efforts to combat money laundering and terrorism financing. As key figures within organizations, their responsibilities extend to implementing preventive measures outlined in regulatory frameworks like the Anti-Money Laundering Act. In this article, we'll explore the pivotal role company secretaries play in safeguarding financial systems against illicit activities and the essential steps they must take to mitigate risks effectively.

Understanding Money Laundering:

Money laundering is a complex process where cash obtained from illegal activities is integrated into the financial system to make it appear legitimate. This process involves three key stages:

Placement

This is the initial stage where cash proceeds from illegal activities are physically placed into the financial system. This could involve depositing cash into bank accounts or using it to purchase assets.

Layering

The illegally obtained funds are moved through a series of transactions to obscure their origin. This could involve transferring funds between accounts, converting them into different currencies, or making complex financial transactions to create layers of complexity. Until the funds look clean and from legal sources.

Integration

The final stage involves integrating the laundered funds back into the economy in such a way that they appear to be from a legitimate source. This could involve investing in businesses, purchasing real estate, or making other high-value transactions.

Company Secretaries as Reporting Institutions:

Company Secretaries play a crucial role in preventing money laundering activities. Under Part IV of the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act (AMLA), Company Secretaries are considered Reporting Institutions (RIs) and have obligations both as individuals and at the firm level to combat or prevent money laundering activities.

Preventive Measures Taken by RIs:

To prevent their institutions from being used for money laundering or terrorism financing, RIs must undertake various preventive measures, including:

Risk Assessments

Conduct thorough assessments of the risks associated with their clients, products/services, geographical locations, and delivery channels.

Customer Due Diligence (CDD)

Verifying the identity of clients using reliable and independent sources and conducting enhanced due diligence for higher-risk clients.

Screening Against Sanctions Lists

Checking client names against relevant sanctions lists to prevent dealings with individuals or entities involved in terrorism or proliferation activities.

Submitting Suspicious Transaction Reports (STRs)

Reporting any suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities, such as Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM).

Record Keeping

Maintaining records of transactions, KYC information, and analysis of STRs for at least seven years.

Keeping Information Updated: Regularly updating client information and conducting ongoing monitoring for any suspicious activities.

Furthermore, company secretaries must adopt a Risk-Based Approach (RBA) to identify, assess, and mitigate money laundering and terrorism financing risks. This involves documenting risk assessments, considering relevant risk factors, and keeping assessments up-to-date through periodic reviews.

In conclusion, Company Secretaries play a crucial role in combating money laundering and terrorism financing by implementing robust preventive measures, conducting thorough due diligence, and adhering to regulatory requirements outlined in the AMLA. By taking a proactive approach to risk management, they contribute to maintaining the integrity of the financial system and preventing illicit activities.

PS : Authored by Mr Syazwan, our THK secretary associate, in his personal LinkedIn.

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