We are conducting our audit with the following objectives in mind as it is a good opportunity to independently review our own work processes and improve our operations.

The Institute of Internal Auditors Singapore definition of internal audit:

“Internal auditing is an independent, objective assurance and consulting activity designed to add value and improve an organisation’s operations. It helps an organisation accomplish its objectives by bringing a systematic, disciplined approach to evaluate and improve the effectiveness of risk management, control, and governance processes.’’

Each year, a team of representatives from Daisan Co., Ltd flies in from Japan to conduct an internal audit on Mirador. The purpose of the annual internal audit is to identify gaps on the existing procedures and process, as well as provide recommendations for improvement.

Due to the current COVID-19 situation and travel restrictions, the internal auditors from Japan were not able to fly into Singapore this year. Instead, Mr Sumiya Takeshi, Mirador’s Executive Director, was appointed as the lead auditor for conducting the internal audit on behalf of Daisan. The internal audit covered three locations: Mirador’s head office, Benoi workshop and Banyan workshop.

The internal audit covers the following elements:
• Management of assets;
• Health, safety and emergency response preparedness;
• Responsible use of energy and resources;
• Employees’ well-being;
• Safe management measures for COVID-19.

  Figure 1 and 2: Internal audit conducted on 14 February at Banyan Office.

Covid measures (SMMs) and various procedures were found to be properly followed. There were areas for improvements, mainly on what we tend to overlook on a daily basis and how we can better manage. We continue to aim to provide better work conditions and site management to continuously improve ourselves.

We hope that by this time next year border restrictions would have loosened and we can do a joint audit with members from the head office from Japan. We look forward to the next audit and to do even better.

Thank you.