Participants of the SunPlus Installation and Training in Myanmar, alongside SSD and MYUM Treasury personnel, pose for a group photo. The initiative aims to strengthen financial stewardship and transparency within the Adventist Church. [Photo courtesy of the MYUM Communication Department]
The Adventist churches in the Southern Asia-Pacific region (SSD) and Myanmar (MYUM) are embarking on a transformative journey with the installation and implementation of SunPlus, a cutting-edge accounting software, across all missions and institutions. This initiative is not just a technological upgrade; it is a vital step toward empowering treasury personnel to fulfill their responsibilities in support of the church’s mission.
From September 2 to 12, 2024, the MYUM Head Office in Yangon hosted a comprehensive training program designed to equip treasurers and accountants from various missions and institutions with the skills they need to effectively utilize SunPlus. This initiative aligns with the mission statement of SSD, emphasizing the importance of financial stewardship in furthering the church’s goals.
Annie Asoy, SSD SunPlus Service Director, and Vicmar Gandeza, SSD SunPlus Service Manager, are spearheading the training, bringing with them extensive experience and expertise. Together with their dedicated team and the MYUM Treasury Team, they are promoting a collaborative approach to this crucial initiative.
Why SunPlus?
The adoption of SunPlus represents a significant advancement in the church’s financial management. Designed to streamline accounting processes, enhance reporting capabilities, and improve overall efficiency, SunPlus will enable treasury personnel to manage resources more effectively. This is important in an era where transparency and accountability are paramount for all organizations, including religious institutions.
The training program covered key aspects of the SunPlus software, including an introduction to its fundamentals, hands-on applications for real-world scenarios, and techniques for generating insightful reports that aid in decision-making and strategic planning. Additionally, participants learned best practices in financial management to enhance stewardship across missions and institutions. Beyond gaining technical expertise, the training encouraged a sense of community among treasury personnel from various regions, promoting collaboration and shared learning.
A Step Toward Empowerment
Cally Thein, Treasurer of MYUM and head of the Adventist financial management in the country, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to enhance financial decision-making through the SunPlus program. He emphasized the value of learning and the importance of efficiency in managing church resources. “This initiative goes beyond a simple training program; it reflects a steadfast commitment to empowering church leaders with the tools and knowledge needed to manage their financial responsibilities with integrity and efficiency,” said Thein. “By strengthening the capabilities of treasury teams, MYUM is actively advancing its mission of service and stewardship, contributing to the church’s broader efforts in outreach and community building,” Thein added.
As the installation and training of SunPlus continues, SSD and MYUM remain fully engaged in supporting the church’s mission, ensuring that each financial decision is aligned with the greater purpose of extending God’s work. This proactive approach is fostering a culture of transparency and accountability, one that will play a vital role in enhancing the church’s mission in Myanmar and beyond. The positive impact of this initiative will be felt across communities, driving the church’s mission forward for years to come.
Teint Saung, MYUM Communication Director