The Malaysian arm of Dentons, Zain & Co’s dispute resolution department is particularly known for its ability to handle a broad range of civil and commercial disputes, construction litigation and arbitration cases, land acquisitions, and labour and employment matters. The team is also adept at handling matters involving banking law, corporate litigation including corporate restructuring, schemes of arrangement and capital reductions, probate and administration, bankruptcy and winding-up.
Seasoned litigator Anita Sockalingam leads the firm’s dispute resolution department. She is particularly known for her ability to handle complex civil and commercial disputes and for her expertise in banking law. She maintains an active trial practice and regularly appears at the appellate courts as lead counsel. Under her leadership, the department has increased its representation of women lawyers at partner level by 30%, whilst continuing to maintain strong female representation at associate level. Other key figures in the team include construction partner Vatsala Ratnasabapathy.
Among the construction matters, the team is currently representing a multinational power and engineering construction company in a construction arbitration case. The arbitration is taking place in Singapore before a panel of three arbitrators and pertains to the design and execution of land reclamation and associated works in the Melaka Gateway Project, located in Malaysia. The employer in this arbitration has raised several issues against the client, including allegations of unlawful work suspension, breach of the agreement, and loss of profits and income from the project. However, the client has responded by lodging a counterclaim, asserting that the termination was unlawful. They argue that the work suspension was carried out in accordance with the agreement due to the employer's failure to make progress payments and non-compliance with certain contractual obligations relating to payment security. The case involves complex legal arguments surrounding these disputed issues and seeks to resolve the conflicting claims between the employer and the client.
The firm counts some esteemed companies as litigation clients, including: Amanah Saham Nasional, Permodalan Nasional, Singapore Airlines, Turnpike Synergy and Universiti Putra Malaysia.
Client feedback
“Zain & Co is a reputable law firm known for its unwavering commitment to integrity and high ethical principles. All their lawyers embody these core values in their dealings with clients and other legal professionals.” – Commercial and transactions
“The team's exceptional cohesion, diverse skills, adaptability, commitment to innovation, and continuous learning make them an outstanding and sought-after group.” – Trusts and estates
“Zain & Co’s expansive knowledge base spanning various legal domains, coupled with their profound expertise in each, stands as a testament to their remarkable depth and breadth, ensuring comprehensive solutions for even the most intricate legal challenges.” – Trusts and estates
“Their service is highly commendable, showcasing exceptional responsiveness, prompt updates, and a strong commitment to addressing client needs.” – Trusts and estates
“Demonstrates expertise in dispute resolution, client-centric approach, tech integration, estate and trust management.” – Trusts and estates
Vatsala Ratnasabapathy
“Her exceptional insight, unparalleled expertise, unwavering dedication, and extraordinary impact in the field of law are truly impressive.”
“Vatsala Ratnasabapathy stands out for her extensive experience, strategic thinking, track record of success, effective communication, and client-focused approach in litigation.”
“Vatsala is an exceptional litigation lawyer whose skilful advocacy and unwavering commitment truly sets her apart, ensuring the best possible outcomes for her clients.”
“Vatsala’s impressive combination of legal acumen, strategic thinking, and relentless determination consistently leads to favourable resolutions for her clients.”
“Vatsala Ratnasabapathy has an exceptional legal mind, her distinction as the Best Lawyer 2021 in Asia is a testament to her unparalleled expertise, unwavering dedication, and extraordinary impact in the realm of law.”
“Vatsala Ratnasabapathy stands out due to her exceptional blend of skills and expertise, enabling her to tackle complex challenges with ease. Her seamless communication and ability to adapt to dynamic situations foster a highly productive work environment. Furthermore, her commitment to innovation and continuous learning keeps her at the forefront of her industry, making her an outstanding and sought-after lawyer to work with.”
Anita Sockalingam
“Anita is a highly competent and reliable lawyer who conducts thorough research, provides honest assessments on your chances of success, values integrity, and is responsive to clients' needs.”
