Governance and Corporate Responsibility
Corporate Governance Overview
- Corporate governance is a system of rules, practices, and processes by which a company is directed and controlled.
- It primarily involves the relationship between the board of directors, shareholders, and other stakeholders.
Role of the Board of Directors
- The board of directors runs the company on behalf of the shareholders.
- Directors must act within their legal powers and promote the company's success, aligning their actions with shareholder interests.
Statutory Duties of Directors (Section 7.1 of Company's Act 2006)
- Act Within Powers
- Directors must only operate within their legal authority.
- Promote Company Success
- Directors must prioritize actions that benefit the company, avoiding detrimental decisions.
- Exercise Independent Judgment
- Decisions should be made based on sound reasoning rather than external pressures.
- Diligence
- Directors must employ reasonable skill, care, and diligence in their roles.
- Avoid Conflicts of Interest
- Personal interests should not interfere with duties to the company.
- Do Not Accept Benefits from Third Parties
- Acceptance of bribes or similar advantages is prohibited.
- Declare Interests in Transactions
- Any personal interests in company activities must be disclosed.
Long-Term Planning
- Directors should aim for long-term success rather than short-term gains.
- This includes cultivating beneficial relationships and understanding the impact of business decisions.
- Foster good community relations and protect the environment.
Financial Responsibilities
- Directors must prepare financial statements in compliance with local and international standards.
- Statements must be accurate and free from material misstatements due to error or fraud.
- Implementation of internal controls and segregation of duties is necessary to prevent fraudulent activities and errors.
Compliance with Laws and Regulations
- Directors are responsible for ensuring the company adheres to local and relevant laws governing business conduct.
Going Concern Principle
- The "going concern" status indicates that the business will continue its operations for the foreseeable future, not expected to cease operations imminently.
- Directors must assess and report on the company's ability to continue as a going concern, based on financial health and management's plans.
Balanced Assessment of Company Position
- Directors should provide a fair and understandable evaluation of the company's financial and operational status to stakeholders.