Press Release
State Audit Office of the Kingdom of Thailand
August 1, 2024
The State Audit Office (SAO) summarizes its annual performance report for fiscal year 2023, having protected more than 30 billion baht of public funds.
Mr. Sutthipong Boonniti, Deputy Auditor General, serving as the Press Secretary of the State Audit Office, revealed that in the fiscal year 2023, the SAO conducted audits following the policies set by the State Audit Commission. These audits covered 9,426 entities, including central and regional government agencies, local administrative organizations, state enterprises, funds, and revolving funds. A total of 14,148 reports/systems/contracts/announcements were audited.
Significant deficiencies were found, and recommendations were provided to 1,795 entities, accounting for 19.04% of the audited entities, to correct deficiencies and improve operations according to relevant laws and regulations. This resulted in the recovery and protection of public funds amounting to 30,835.97 million baht. The audit results can be categorized as follows:
1. Financial Audits: From 8,575 financial reports audited, the SAO issued qualified opinions, adverse opinions, and disclaimers of opinion on 629 reports (7.34%). The main issues included inaccurate and incomplete accounting records, lack of supporting documents, and inability to explain discrepancies, particularly in significant items such as cash and cash equivalents, land, buildings, and equipment. Compared to fiscal year 2022, where 1,094 reports received similar opinions, this represents a 42.50% decrease, reflecting improved financial reporting by audited entities.
2. Compliance Audits: From 5,318 compliance audit reports/contracts/announcements, 2,638 were found with deficiencies (49.61%). Major issues included incorrect calculations of standard prices, improper contract management, incomplete tax and fee collection, and non-compliance with construction standards. The total financial impact was 666.47 million baht.
3. Performance Audits: The SAO audited the performance and efficiency of government spending and operations, focusing on areas such as environment, economy, utilities, health, and education, covering a budget of 520,680.59 million baht. Of 157 reports, 151 had deficiencies (96.18%), leading to recommendations to prevent financial losses amounting to 30,169.50 million baht. Key issues included not achieving set goals, lack of clear objectives and indicators, and inefficiencies in operations.
Mr. Sutthipong emphasized that aside from its main audit functions, the SAO played a significant role internationally in fiscal year 2023, serving on the INTOSAI Governing Board and as the External Auditor for ASEANSAI. The SAO also published academic articles and engaged in projects to promote public participation in safeguarding public funds and assets.
“Every baht spent by the SAO on its operations generates financial benefits for the nation of no less than 10.76 baht. The SAO managed to protect 30,835.97 million baht of public funds against operational costs of 2,865.57 million baht. The SAO remains committed to providing valuable audit services and recommendations to ensure the optimal use of public funds for the benefit of the nation and its citizens,” concluded Mr. Sutthipong.
Prepared by
Public Relations and Corporate Communications Office
Translated by
International Affairs Office
