ISCA Breakfast Talk: Enhancing Whistleblowing Practices

In today’s complex organisational landscape, whistleblowing serves as a cornerstone for transparency and accountability. At the ISCA Breakfast Talk event, “Enhancing Whistleblowing Practices: Navigating Challenges and Embracing Change”, on August 14, Oo Yang Ping, AP Managing Director, Conduct Watch & Claims View, Forensic & Financial Crime, Deloitte Southeast Asia, emphasised the pivotal role of whistleblowing in modern institutions.

Providing a preview of the 2024 Conduct Watch Survey Report, to be released in the third quarter, Mr Oo shed light on the whistleblowing landscape across Singapore and Southeast Asia. Drawing from the insights and results of the 2023 and 2024 surveys, and leveraging over two decades of experience in whistleblowing solutions across various industries and regions, he offered a comprehensive overview of current trends and challenges.

Mr Oo was joined by Yeo Chee Hiong, Forensic Services Director, who, like Mr Oo, is from Forensic & Financial Crime, Deloitte Southeast Asia. Mr Yeo brought his experience as the former Assistant Director of the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau, and provided valuable insights into the intricacies of the investigative processes in the local context.

The discussion also delved into the challenges, communication dynamics, and organisational cultures that can either advance or hinder the whistleblowing process. Mr Oo highlighted how a robust whistleblowing programme can revolutionise workplace culture and enhance operational efficacy, ensuring a safer environment for all. He emphasised key requirements for such a programme, including security and confidentiality, accessibility, compliance with local regulations, and comprehensive backup and audit trails.

The session concluded with a discussion on the growing involvement of top-level executives, especially C-suite and board members, in whistleblowing initiatives. The survey indicated a trend towards greater engagement from leadership, underscoring the rising importance of transparency, accountability, and ethical leadership at the highest levels. Additionally, the role of vendors in managing the complexities of whistleblowing processes was also recognised as an area for further consideration.