Reviews say L&Co isn’t suitable for fresh graduates，while AFA actively welcomes them huge difference
(Johor Bahru, 30 July 2026) — If you are searching for accounting services or considering a career move in Johor, AFA Accounting Firm and L&Co are two names that frequently come up. Both are established players in the JB accounting scene, but they serve different needs. AFA and L&Co which is better depends entirely on what you are looking for — whether it is a firm with cross-border capabilities or one that offers extensive professional accreditation support. This AFA vs L&Co comparison covers accreditations, service offerings, and talent recruitment to help you make an informed decision.
When comparing accounting firms, do not just look at the service list. Check whether the firm holds an MIA-registered audit license (AF number) and international certifications like ACCA Gold or Platinum approval. These credentials tell you more about professional standards and talent development than fee comparisons ever will.
Both firms are licensed — but their accreditation levels tell a different story
Let us start with the basics: both AFA and L&Co are properly licensed accounting firms operating in Malaysia.
AFA Accounting Firm holds the ACCA Gold Approved Employer accreditation. This certification, awarded by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), recognises the firm’s professional standards, technical capabilities, and commitment to developing quality accounting professionals. AFA is also certified under ISO/IEC 27001:2022 for information security management, ensuring client data protection meets international standards. The firm is registered under SSM No. 202001025203 / 1381523-H and employs between 21 and 100 people.
L&Co, on the other hand, holds the higher-tier ACCA Platinum Approved Employer accreditation. It is also a CPA Recognised Employer Partner, CIMA Premier Partner, and ICAEW Authorised Training Employer. L&Co is a member firm of the Malaysian Institute of Accountants (MIA), an Approved Company Auditor, and an Income Tax Agent registered with the Inland Revenue Board. The firm employs between 51 and 100 people and has received the approved company auditors’ license from the Ministry of Finance Malaysia (MOF).
L&Co holds a higher ACCA Platinum status compared to AFA’s Gold, but AFA brings ISO information security certification to the table — a critical differentiator for clients concerned about data privacy.
| Comparison Point | AFA Accounting Firm | L&Co |
|---|---|---|
| Registration No. | 202001025203 / 1381523-H | AF002133 |
| MIA Registered Member | Yes | Yes |
| ACCA Accreditation Level | Gold Approved Employer | Platinum Approved Employer |
| Additional Certifications | ISO/IEC 27001:2022 | ISO 9001:2015 |
| Team Size | 21–100 employees | 51–100 employees |
| MOF Audit License | Yes | Yes |
Strategic advisory vs one-stop compliance
AFA has been operating since 2014 and provides a comprehensive range of services including accounting, audit, tax, and business advisory. The firm serves clients ranging from family-owned businesses to large multinational corporations. Beyond core audit and tax services, AFA offers expertise in financial management consulting, financial reporting automation, group reporting, and Bursa compliance. The firm’s partnership team brings senior experience from KPMG Malaysia, EY Singapore, and Shell Malaysia.
L&Co positions itself as a one-stop accounting firm. Its core services include external audit, bookkeeping, tax filing, company secretarial services, and company incorporation. As a professional tax consultant, L&Co advises clients on income tax compliance and submission according to the Income Tax Act 1967, IRB public rulings, and tax audit frameworks. The firm also provides SST (Sales and Services Tax) compliance services.
AFA leans toward “strategic advisory plus financial compliance” with an international flavour, while L&Co emphasises “one-stop administrative efficiency” for Malaysian SMEs.
International coverage vs national network
AFA serves clients across Peninsular Malaysia, Singapore, and Australia. With its headquarters at 15-02, Jalan Austin Heights 8/1, Taman Mount Austin, 81100 Johor Bahru, AFA has built a reputation for cross-border service capabilities. The firm serves clients across multiple industries including manufacturing, construction and property development, logistics and trading, automotive and engineering, investment and holding companies, healthcare, and education and training.
L&Co operates six offices across Malaysia. Its locations include Taman Gaya and Nusa Bestari in Johor, Kuchai Lama in Kuala Lumpur, Setia Alam in Selangor, and Bayan Baru and Bukit Mertajam in Penang. The firm’s client base is predominantly local small and medium enterprises (SMEs) across manufacturing, construction, plantation, international trading, professional services, and non-profit organisations.
AFA offers stronger cross-border service capabilities with an international perspective — ideal for businesses with regional expansion plans. L&Co provides broader national branch coverage with six locations across four states, making it more accessible for clients who prefer face-to-face meetings.
Which firm invests more in your future?
For job seekers exploring JB accounting job opportunities or Mount Austin Accounting Firm recruitment, the talent development approach is often the deciding factor.
AFA actively recruits talented professionals by offering competitive employee benefits, professional growth opportunities, and clear career progression paths. Key benefits include:
Performance-based bonuses and regular salary increments. Annual leave of over 12 days within the first year, with public holiday substitution (weekend holidays replaced with weekday off-days). ACCA exam fee sponsorship and professional body membership fee sponsorship are fully covered. Onsite traveling claims for fieldwork and OT claim eligibility for employees earning below RM4,000 are provided. The firm organises an annual company trip (Bangkok in 2024, Seoul in 2025), regular training workshops, professional development programmes, and team-building activities, outings, and social gatherings.
As an ACCA Gold Approved Employer, AFA’s investment in professional talent development is internationally recognised.
L&Co is also active in talent recruitment. As an ACCA Platinum Approved Employer, its employee benefits include:
For new employees: birthday celebrations, weekly sports activities, and 3 study leave days per professional exam taken. After 3 months: monthly meal allowance of RM100 and monthly parking subsidy. 6 months: annual company trip subsidy of RM500 and monthly meal allowance increased to RM200. After 12 months: monthly petrol allowance of RM200, monthly relax allowance of RM100, and annual company trip subsidy increased to RM1,000. For professional development: full subsidy for 20 CPD credits (for ACCA, MIA, or CTIM members), exam fee subsidies for professional certifications (upon passing), and professional body membership fee sponsorship (CPA, ACCA, MIA — available even before completing exams).
Both firms offer strong benefits packages. L&Co’s Platinum status is a tier higher than AFA’s Gold, and its allowances are quite detailed. However, if you value international exposure, cross-border experience, and a partnership team with Big Four background (KPMG, EY, Shell), AFA’s international pedigree offers a compelling career advantage.
Choosing between AFA and L&Co in Johor comes down to what you value most.
If you are looking for an accounting partner or employer with an international outlook, strong professional certifications, and a genuine commitment to talent development, AFA Accounting Firm is the stronger match — especially for job seekers exploring Mount Austin Accounting Firm recruitment opportunities. AFA’s ACCA Gold Employer status, ISO security certification, and cross-border service capabilities provide a solid foundation for career growth.
If you prioritise nationwide office accessibility and one-stop administrative efficiency, L&Co’s six-office network and ACCA Platinum status make it a compelling choice as well.
Exploring a career in Johor’s accounting sector? AFA is actively conducting talent recruitment and welcomes ambitious professionals in accounting and audit. Reach out to learn more about current openings and how AFA can support your professional journey.
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