Malaysia

Abang & Co is a boutique law firm specialising in commercial, construction and environmental law. They have a strong track record of advising on high-value infrastructure projects, handling front-end project development negotiations with government entities, as well as representing clients in arbitration, adjudication, mediation and court litigation.

Founding partner Abang Iwawan is a key figure at the firm, leveraging his extensive experience in front-end project development to effectively represent clients in construction disputes, including arbitration and adjudication. He also provides valuable guidance throughout the project life cycle and has successfully handled disputes involving major infrastructure projects across Asia, Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

As an example of their expertise, Abang & Co successfully represented the construction arm of a public listed company and its joint venture partner in a construction dispute. The dispute arose from the construction and completion of a new regional sewage treatment plant in Kuala Lumpur, involving the Malaysian subsidiary of a Chinese state-owned entity. Abang & Co provided comprehensive representation throughout the process, including statutory adjudication under the Construction Industry Payment and Adjudication Act 2012, arbitration proceedings, and ultimately securing a favourable settlement for their clients.

Client feedback
“Upfront planning to minimise potential construction disputes and claims.” – Construction

Thanks to the arrival of the entire IP team from Christopher & Lee Ong, Adnan Sundra & Low now boasts a ranked intellectual property (IP) practice known for its expertise in contentious IP matters. The team represents clients in disputes involving patents, copyrights, trademarks, trade secrets, passing off, industrial designs, advertising, and domain names. The practice group is led by Sri Sarguna Raj, who has extensive experience representing clients in disputes related to patents, copyrights, privacy, trade secrets, trademarks, and industrial designs. He has worked with multinational companies across various industries, advising on litigation strategies and managing enforcement programs to protect their intellectual property rights. A recent IP matter involved representing Deluxe Caterers in a successful trademark non-use revocation action in Malaysia.

Client feedback

"The IP litigation team was exceptional in three areas. They directed and mobilised an experienced team of litigators to handle the contentious matter, with each team member bringing individual strengths that worked seamlessly from preparation to the full trial. They were accessible and attentive to detail, effectively managing multiple reporting lines and various stakeholders from other global manufacturing centres. Additionally, their management of timelines was commendable." – Intellectual property

Sri Sarguna Raj

"Attentive and engaging. He was always ready to answer my phone calls."

"He knows his work very well and is able to provide excellent legal advice."

AmerBon Advocates is renowned for its civil and human rights, and criminal litigation practices. In particular, its specialist business and human rights (BHR) team has been advocating with the Malaysian government to formulate national action plans on BHR. The firm is also experienced in handling advocacy on a wide range of other legal issues, from international law and constitutional and administrative law to commercial and corporate disputes, as well as construction and land claims. Co-founders and partners Amer Hamzah and Edmund Bon are leading and respected figures in the market, particularly for criminal law and human rights law, respectively. In commercial and transactional matters, the team is currently representing a private aviation company in a contractual dispute concerning guaranteed minimum flights provisions in an air charter agreement.

Client feedback

"The firm works closely with civil society to advance rights-based immigration reform. They have vast knowledge of the Malaysian legal framework regarding refugee and migration issues and think creatively to navigate cases and propose amendments." – Government and regulatory

Amer Hamzah Arshad

"Extremely experienced and knowledgeable."

Edmund Bon

"Edmund Bon is very focused on providing strategies and solutions that are practical to execute, using the least resources and best protecting the child from further trauma in the child visitation dispute I am involved in. He is efficient in eliminating distractions that prevent the parties involved from seeing the real problems and is skilled at steering them toward a win-win settlement. He articulates and makes sense of the most delicate parts of his client's story, which are critical for the case yet too challenging to recount in a structured way. He knows what he is doing."

Under the leadership of Aravind Kumarr, a seasoned litigator who has close to a decade of experience on the Malaysian legal scene, newly established firm Aravind focuses on corporate and commercial disputes, with a knack for cross-border disputes of such nature. Prior to setting up Aravind, Kumarr was a partner for three years at another leading law firm in Malaysia.

Commercial disputes samples showcase the firm acting for Hasrat Budi, the subsidiary of Eco World Development Group, in a staggering multi-million ringgit shareholder dispute; acting for offshore hedge fund entities, namely Global Opportunity Master Fund and Special Opportunity Master Fund, in a dispute concerning their investments in Malaysia; and acting for Eco Sky Development in various liquidated ascertained damages claims brought by homeowners for alleged late delivery.

Founded in 2015, Ariff Rozhan & Co specialises in commercial litigation and arbitration. The firm provides dispute resolution services to large banks, power providers and Malaysian conglomerates in sectors such as energy, gaming, logistics, automotive and infrastructure. Their clients include major Malaysian banks, the Malaysian Offshore Financial Services Authority, and conglomerates with interests in various industries. Leading the firm are managing partner Ariff Rozhan and founding partner William Lim, both renowned lawyers. The firm advised Zelan Holdings, a subsidiary of a Malaysian listed company, on opposing the enforcement of an arbitral award issued by the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Client feedback

"They are very quick to identify and provide clear advice on the key issues relating to a matter. They can quickly grasp complex technical issues and integrate their understanding of these issues with the associated legal and contractual matters." – Construction

Christopher Arun

"Christopher is easy to talk to and listens well. He provides sound advice and goes the extra mile for his clients."

Ariff Rozhan

"They are able to quickly narrow down the issues to the key points, grasp complex technical matters, and integrate their understanding of these issues with clear legal and contractual advice."

Azim Tunku Farik & Wong is a trusted expert in the legal market for insurance matters. Its niche specialty and established 30-year history in Malaysia have made it a trusted go-to partner for insurance players. In fact, the firm proudly sits on the panels of all the insurance companies operating in the country. The firm has a thriving and busy practice for dispute resolution in this space. Recent areas of growth for the team include medical malpractice insurance, directors’ and officers’ indemnity insurance and reinsurance disputes.

The chief contact is senior partner and insurance litigation specialist Tunku Farik Tunku Ismail.

Azmi & Associates’ shipping practice is well-regarded for its expertise in contentious admiralty and shipping matters. The firm handles a wide range of disputes, including ship arrests, collisions, casualties, marine hull and cargo claims, salvage disputes, and crew wage claims. The team also represents clients in cargo claims, bunkering disputes, and maritime arbitration, leveraging deep industry knowledge to resolve complex cases. The practice is led by Philip Teoh, a highly experienced practitioner with deep expertise in shipping, admiralty, insurance, and international trade disputes. The firm advised BG Oleochemicals, a Spanish buyer, on a dispute against a Malaysian seller concerning insect infestation discovered in three FCL container shipments of lauric acid.

Client feedback

“Provided sound legal advice and thorough legal opinion.” – Shipping

Wafiy Azman

"Excellent client engagement, swift response time, and meticulous knowledge."

Philip Teoh

"Hands-on and attentive to clients' needs."

Baskaran is a respected boutique firm best known for its construction expertise due to its involvement in many of Malaysia’s iconic projects. It also focuses on the energy and technology sectors. The firm has a particular strength in railway projects, having advised on every major Malaysian railway project over the last 20 years. Baskaran lawyers regularly appear as counsel in adjudication, arbitration, civil and mediation proceedings to resolve construction disputes. Several of these proceedings’ judgments have offered clarity and set precedent on significant aspects of the law in relation to adjudication and arbitration. The lawyers are adept at handling contract disputes in its focused industries.

Founder Thayananthan Baskaran is the lead figure for contentious matters.

Established in 2015, Cecil Abraham & Partners continues to win praise from the market as one of the leading commercial disputes firms. Its eponymous senior partner is revered as one of the top advocates in the country, a familiar name on many landmark cases. The firm handles complex, novel contentious issues across a wide swathe of financial and corporate practice areas and provides the full suite of dispute resolution services, from advisory and strategy to litigation and arbitration. It also has experience in environmental, media, property and telecommunications matters. The firm’s arbitration practice is extensive, with Abraham having sat as chair, sole arbitrator and co-arbitrator in more than 100 commercial arbitrations under a wide variety of international rules. The firm advises and acts for Fortune 500 companies, media conglomerates, government-linked companies and high-net-worth individuals as well as not-for-profit entities, charities, private individuals and private limited companies.

The firm is led by Cecil Abraham, its senior partner, who is widely regarded as one of Malaysia’s leading advocates. With a career spanning over 50 years, he has appeared in numerous landmark cases across all levels of the Malaysian courts and the Privy Council, with over 300 reported decisions of note to his name. Known for his formidable reputation in handling high-stakes and complex disputes, his practice encompasses corporate and commercial, environmental, banking and securities, insurance, maritime, and competition law, as well as arbitration. Supporting him is Sunil Abraham, a partner specialising in corporate and commercial, banking and securities, media, telecommunications, public and administrative, and environmental law disputes, alongside arbitration. He has significant advocacy experience, regularly appearing before Malaysian courts and arbitral tribunals. Together with partners Rishwant Singh and Aniz Ahmad Amirudin, the firm’s leadership team continues to deliver exceptional outcomes across a wide range of contentious matters.

In an ongoing commercial and transactions case sample, the firm is advising Ovanti (formerly IOU Pay) and its Malaysian subsidiaries on seven civil claims before the Kuala Lumpur High Court seeking recovery of over RM90 million ($18.9 million) allegedly misappropriated through fraudulent schemes. The team led by Cecil Abraham has successfully obtained Mareva Injunctions and Anton Pillar Orders to freeze assets and preserve evidence in proceedings against former directors, management, and employees. The ongoing matter, which involves parallel criminal investigations with the Royal Malaysian Police, represents a significant test case for fraud recovery and asset tracing in Malaysia's fintech sector, with broader implications for corporate governance and regulatory oversight in the industry.

In another significant matter, the firm is representing Malaysian Resources Corporation (MRCB) in four parallel arbitrations concerning the prestigious Desaru Coast development project. The disputes, involving subsidiaries of Khazanah Nasional's Theme Attractions Resorts, center on construction contracts for the Aman Desaru Resort, Westin Desaru Resort, Hard Rock Desaru Hotel, and Desaru Convention Centre. Since taking over as counsel, the team led by Cecil Abraham has been managing these complex proceedings at various stages, addressing critical issues including liquidated damages claims, performance bonds, and retention sums. The arbitrations are particularly noteworthy given the involvement of major Government Linked Companies and their potential to establish important precedents for Malaysia's construction and hospitality sectors.

NRY Architects, Shopee Mobile Malaysia, Sotella Fund, Technygroup Holdings and Tegas Sejati are some of the firm’s publishable clients.

The dispute resolution group at Cheah Teh & Su maintains a steady and respected presence in the market. Senior partner. The team offers a full range of dispute services such as litigation, arbitration, adjudication and mediation. In particular, the firm’s specialties include acting in complex commercial and corporate disputes, construction arbitrations, and conflicts in real estate and land acquisition matters.

Managing partner Meng Teck Teh leads a seven-partner disputes squad that includes senior partners Sivaneindiren Selvanandam and Kong Leng Pang.

After the demerger of Chooi & Company + Cheang & Ariff, Cheang & Ariff has reestablished itself as an independent law firm. The firm’s dispute resolution team is well versed in a wide spectrum of dispute resolution methods, ranging from commercial litigation to regulatory investigations and judicial inquiries, both on a domestic and international scale. Its renowned IP department is often sought after for its expertise in IP litigation and highly complex patent trademark and copyright litigation cases involving local and international pharmaceutical companies and technology corporations. Partners Siew Cheang Loh and Cindy Joo Seong Goh are key figures. In commercial and transactions, the team successfully defended MYTV Broadcasting, Malaysia's sole Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) service provider, against an injunction application by content provider Awesome Broadcasting.

Client feedback

“They found the best solution to a dispute.” – Commercial and transactions

Kelvin Seet

“Calm, confident and decisive.”

Chooi & Company’s dispute resolution department is best known for its strength in corporate and commercial litigation, particularly in handling boardroom takeovers and shareholder disputes within both public listed and private companies. Additionally, the department handles a diverse range of legal matters encompassing land and property, contracts, torts, commercial fraud, trusts and estates, construction and building, insolvency and banking, as well as other civil disputes. Seasoned dispute partners Sau Foo (Christopher) Leong, Ira Biswas, Tuck Sun Lim, Pei Ying (Janet) Chai and Yeong Hui Yap helm the firm’s dispute resolution practice. In a decades-long landmark property dispute, the firm continues to represent Semantan Estate (1952) in its high-stakes battle with the Government of Malaysia over a 263.272-acre prime land parcel in Kuala Lumpur.

Client feedback

"Chooi & Company excels in several key areas. The team is consistently available and responsive to client needs, ensuring effective communication throughout engagements. They provide advice that is not only timely but also anticipates potential issues, allowing clients to navigate complex legal landscapes with confidence. The team's calm and professional demeanor fosters a positive working relationship, making collaboration enjoyable.” – Commercial and transactions

Pei Ying (Janet) Chai

"She is consistently quick to respond to client inquiries, ensuring timely updates and support throughout engagements. Janet has a keen attention to client needs, always prioritising their interests and offering practical, commercial solutions. Her calm demeanor and professionalism foster a positive and collaborative working environment, making her a pleasure to work with."

"She provides very fast responses and develops effective strategies."

Pei Ying (Janet) Chai, Sue-Ren (Nicole Fiona) Wee and Yeong Hui Yap

“Janet stands out for her brilliance and responsiveness, while Nicole and Yeong Hui bring vast experience in specialised areas, offering insightful and practical legal guidance. Their assistance in a pro bono capacity has been delivered to the same excellent standard, demonstrating their dedication to supporting clients and the community without compromising on quality. Overall, their commitment to excellence and client satisfaction is commendable."

Christopher & Lee Ong’s Intellectual Properties & Intangible Assets (IP & IA) Practice Group is dedicated to providing comprehensive legal services to address the full spectrum of contentious IP and IA-related matters. The team represents clients across a wide range of industries, including manufacturing, technology, telecommunications, entertainment, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, luxury goods, and food and beverages. The practice is co-led by Celia Cheah and Sri Richgopinath (‘Gopi’), two highly experienced and accomplished partners. In an emerging intellectual property dispute with significant implications for Malaysia's franchise sector, Sri Richgopinath Salvam and team represent YC Capital, owner of the Ayam Gepuk Pak Gembus food chain, against former business partner Akala Virtue Enterprise. The case centers on alleged post-contract violations including trademark infringement, passing off, and unauthorised use of confidential recipes following a joint venture's expiration.

Client feedback

"CLO (Christopher & Lee Ong) excels in assembling a strong team of lawyers, each highly specialised in their respective areas of law. Their deep expertise, combined with a collaborative approach, ensures comprehensive and well-rounded legal advice tailored to the nuances of every issue." – Intellectual property

Alex Choo

"Choo has a strong command of the law, but what sets him apart is his ability to balance legal expertise with practical, commercial considerations. His solutions are both legally sound and aligned with business needs."

Sri Richgopinath Salvam

"Sri Richgopinath consistently demonstrates strong analytical skills and a high level of professionalism. He excels at problem-solving, providing clear and effective solutions even in complex situations. His attention to detail, excellent communication skills, and proactive approach contribute significantly to the success of the case."

D&P Law Group (David & Paulian) provides a comprehensive range of litigation services, including commercial litigation, construction, insolvency, employment, and intellectual property. The firm is experienced in all stages of negotiation, mediation, litigation, arbitration, and adjudication, at all levels of court and regional dispute resolution institutions. Shaun Paulian, the managing partner and a founding partner of D&P Law Group, is co-head of both the disputes and corporate departments. Brenda Chan leads the team at D&P’s disputes practice group. In a complex cross-border investment dispute, Shaun Paulian leads a team representing over 150 investors seeking to recover loss in an alleged fraudulent investment scheme orchestrated through a network of multinational entities, including special purpose vehicles from the British Virgin Islands.

Client feedback

"Communicates well with clients and provides a detailed review of steps and processes. Negotiates effectively." – Commercial and transactions

Shaun Paulian

"Demonstrates strong leadership and effective firm management. Has a clear understanding of subject matters and takes the time to understand clients well."

Labour and employment law-focused firm Donovan & Ho is recognised for its expertise in representing both employers and employees in a wide range of employment matters. The firm's areas of focus include employment contracts, compliance, termination issues, and unfair dismissal claims. With their extensive experience and knowledge. Partner Donovan Cheah leads the firm’s practice group. His previous experience as an in-house counsel further strengthens the firm's capabilities. In a significant employment dispute, the firm advised a multinational technology company on successfully defending an unfair dismissal claim at both Industrial Court and High Court levels, involving allegations of misrepresentation and coercion in a voluntary separation scheme by a former Senior Director of IT.

Enho Grace & Partners focuses on addressing complex commercial and transactional disputes through its Dispute Resolution Department. The team handles a range of matters, including debt recovery, shareholder and director disputes, investment fraud, partnership and joint venture disputes, contractual disputes, insolvency and winding-up proceedings, defamation involving business owners, professional negligence claims against solicitors, trade secret and confidentiality breaches, and fraudulent trading cases. The firm’s dispute resolution team is co-led by Vincent Lim and founding partner Enho Lim. In commercial and transactions, the firm successfully represented a property developer in a significant Federal Court victory, defending against fraudulent misrepresentation claims.

Gan Partnership's dispute resolution practice is a true asset to the firm, boasting a team of highly skilled specialists in commercial, construction and labour disputes. The firm has earned tremendous respect from the market, particularly for its exceptional expertise in construction-related matters. Notably, Partners Khong Aik Gan and Joon Liang Foo serve as key contacts for clients seeking assistance with commercial, labour, and construction issues. The firm has achieved a notable breakthrough in establishing the existence of an oral contract worth RM303 million ($63.6 million) in a significant commercial dispute.

Client feedback

"Strategies and advocates effectively for the arbitration claim." – Construction

"It is easy to work with Gan Partnership, as they already have an understanding of technical critical path analysis in construction delay disputes." – Construction

Joon Liang Foo

"Effective strategies and approaches to claims, combined with strong advocacy skills."

"Understands technical problems and considers my recommendations for technical solutions."

Yi Chien (Tasha) Lim

"Responsive and knowledgeable."

Halim Hong & Quek specialises in construction law, providing expert guidance on energy, engineering, and infrastructure projects in Malaysia. With a strong track record as lead counsel in Malaysian courts, the firm represents multinational corporations and government-linked companies in a wide range of construction disputes, including payment matters, contract termination, delays, performance bonds, defects rectification and liquidated damages. They excel in adjudication and arbitration proceedings, offering comprehensive legal support throughout the entire lifecycle of building and construction projects. Partner Sanghvi Ankit is a key partner to note.

In a construction matter, the firm secured a significant victory in a complex construction dispute involving performance bonds. Partner Ankit successfully represented a developer against a contractor's attempt to prevent the release of performance bond proceeds in a project valued at over RM600 million ($126 million). The High Court's September 2023 decision set an important precedent in Malaysian construction law by clarifying that beneficiaries of performance bonds can present evidence of losses after making a demand on the bond, effectively addressing the ‘over-securitisation’ argument. This landmark ruling establishes that developers need not demonstrate their losses at the time of making the demand but can present supporting evidence during subsequent proceedings. While the matter is pending appeal, the parties have moved towards settlement, with the next case management scheduled for January 2025.

Some of the other publishable clients are Pengurusan Air Selangor, PJ Midtown Development and Real Estate and Housing Developers’ Association Malaysia (REHDA).

Harold & Lam Partnership enjoys a sterling reputation for its construction group, part of its wider dispute resolution offering. Partner Wai Loon Lam is universally acknowledged as a leading figure in the construction adjudication circuit. He has been involved as counsel in numerous reported construction decisions and has been referred to as amicus curiae where novel questions of construction law are involved. For general commercial disputes, the firm has extensive experience working with clients in the consumer product and plant, equipment and machinery sectors. Alongside Lam, the main partners helming the disputes practice are Serene Hiew, Harold Tan and Rohan Jeyabalah. The firm is representing a leading construction joint venture in a significant arbitration arising from a mall construction project in Shah Alam

Client feedback

"The lawyers at the firm were professional, knowledgeable, and approachable. They handled our case with great care and provided timely updates throughout the process. I highly recommend their services. I was very pleased with the dedication and expertise shown by the team at Harold & Lam Partnership. They ensured that all our concerns were addressed and helped us achieve a favorable outcome." – Construction

Lynn Foo

"She possesses in-depth knowledge of key legal areas, particularly in construction, engineering, and infrastructure, and consistently demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of complex issues in these fields. Beyond her legal expertise, Lynn Foo is remarkably approachable, fostering strong, trusting relationships with clients – an invaluable trait for building lasting professional connections. She is also highly efficient, delivering thorough and well-considered work within tight timelines. Her proactive approach, including consistent follow-ups, ensures that even the most complex cases are managed with meticulous attention to detail. These qualities make her an outstanding legal professional and a tremendous asset to any client or team."

Hui Ying (Ashely) Ooi

"Ashley is a dedicated and knowledgeable professional who goes above and beyond to deliver exceptional results. Her ability to communicate complex legal concepts in a straightforward manner sets her apart, and her meticulous attention to detail ensures that every aspect of a case is thoroughly addressed."

Founded in 2009, dispute resolution-focused firm James Monteiro Advocates & Solicitors has been steadily building out its construction practice through its involvement in projects and offering expert advice on contractual and risk-related matters during the initial stages. The firm regularly acts for a myriad of clients, both domestic and international, in litigation, arbitration, adjudication and settlement negotiations.
Managing partner James P Monteiro specialises in the areas of energy, construction and engineering, including project advisory, risk management and dispute resolution. Vishal V Kumar is another key contact.

In an ongoing case sample, the firm is acting for a steel contractor in a dispute arising out of a mega project located in Kuala Lumpur. Apart from being one of the largest ongoing projects in the country, this dispute will delve into the issue of entitlement to reduce a contractor's payment in a lump-sum contract. Specifically, it will scrutinise the concept of value engineering, which is asserted to not be considered a variation under the contract.

The rest of the clients the firm has advised on remain confidential.

Established in 2016, Joel & Co is a young, dynamic full-service firm that focuses primarily on corporate and commercial disputes. Its founding partner, Joel Kon, is also experienced with contentious intellectual property matters. Clients range from multinational companies to local SMEs. The firm is representing Neutrovis in two significant matters. In a domestic IP dispute, Partner Kon has addressed counterfeit face mask issues, establishing principles for cross-jurisdictional enforcement between East and West Malaysia.

Joel & Mei provides a comprehensive and diverse array of litigation services that ranges across general litigation, intellectual property, corporate advisory and family law. Since the firm’s founding in 2012 by Phan Hong (Joel) Lim and Kam Mei Aw, the duo has been maintaining their professional focus on IP and commercial and transactions. Other key figures of the firm include Sri Richgopinath Salvam, Wee Xin (Bryan) Teo and Pei Ying Chew. On the commercial and transactions front, the firm is advising Swift Integrated Logistics, a subsidiary of a listed company, on a property acquisition dispute in Kuantan, Pahang.

Client feedback

"They have done well so far in providing legal advice and the latest updates. We feel comfortable working with them, and the case is still progressing." – Intellectual property

Phan Hong (Joel) Lim

"He has great knowledge of IP and a very friendly attitude, which I appreciate the most."

Wee Xin (Bryan) Teo

"He's very approachable, and his advice is well thought out."

Law Partnership offers a scope of dispute resolution services in multiple practice areas, including commercial disputes and investigations, employment, intellectual property, and technology, media and telecommunications. The firm is best known for its IP practice, though its handling of white-collar crime and labour and employment disputes is gaining traction. The firm’s founding partners, Suaran Sidhu and Brian Law, are frequently seen in the courts for IP matters and on enforcement actions. Its client base ranges from SMEs and technology start-ups to locally listed companies and global conglomerates. Law Partnership is the local relationship firm of the global firm Eversheds Sutherland. Under the umbrella of these networks, the firm predominantly takes the lead on matters within the Malaysian jurisdiction. The firm's IP team is currently advising the Alliance Against Counterfeit Spirits (AACS) on a major anti-counterfeiting operation, collaborating with the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living and the General Operation Force of the Royal Malaysia Police.

Boutique firm Lee & Koh specializes in construction, corporate, commercial, and banking litigation, as well as alternate dispute resolution. They have notable expertise in Islamic banking, infrastructure, and highway construction disputes, frequently assisting highway concessionaires in land acquisition and handling general litigation matters. The team is led by managing partner Yew Chong Koh and senior partner Irwan Ismail, both experienced dispute resolution practitioners. Partner Justin Leong also contributes to the team's expertise. Ismail is recognized as a leading expert in Islamic finance, having previously worked with AmIslamic Bank and Maybank Islamic Bank on their legal matters. In commercial and transactions, the firm represented AmBank Islamic in a landmark Islamic banking debt recovery case against Prolink Marketing.

Lee & Poh Partnership (LPP Law), established in 2020, is a full-service law firm committed to providing comprehensive and tailored legal solutions to meet the demands of an increasingly complex legal and commercial environment. With extensive expertise in litigation, arbitration, and mediation, the firm offers strategic and pragmatic legal representation across a broad range of practice areas, solidifying its position as a trusted advisor in the legal industry. Soon Wei (Ryan) Chu and Zhong Yan Lau are key partners to note.

In commercial disputes, the firm successfully represented minority shareholders in an oppression suit involving West Borneo Resources, a palm oil company with assets in Indonesia. Led by partners Ryan Chu and Zhong Yan Lau, the team secured a landmark Johor Bahru High Court victory in September 2023, obtaining a buy-out order that protected minority shareholders' interests against unauthorized corporate actions. Currently under appeal, this decision sets important precedents for minority shareholder protection in Malaysian companies with cross-border operations.

Building on the firm's strong dispute resolution capabilities, another significant matter involves representing Damai City in one of Malaysia's largest construction disputes concerning the iconic 8 Conlay project – set to be the world's tallest spiralled twin residential towers. The case is breaking new ground in Malaysian construction law, particularly regarding the interpretation of the Construction Industry Payment and Adjudication Act 2012 (CIPAA), addressing novel issues such as the scope of payment claims and the enforceability of conditional payment provisions in construction contracts. Given the project's RM1.8 billion ($378 million) value and prominent location near KLCC, the outcome will have significant implications for Malaysia's construction industry and development landscape.

Damai City, KSK Land and TTDI KL Metropolis are some of the firm’s construction clients.

In 2024, the firm significantly bolstered its team with a series of high-profile hires from Tuang Chu & Co, further strengthening its expertise across key practice areas. The firm welcomed Zhong Yan Lau, Soon Wei (Ryan) Chu, Siaw Ching (Angelina) Kok, and Kai Xiang Aw as partners in the commercial and transactions practice, while Chee Weng Leong, Ken Ming (Dominic) Ng, and Sri Kantha Naveen joined as partners in the construction practice.

Client feedback

"Very practical and commercially savvy advice." – Commercial and transactions

"An excellent counsel for all kinds of litigation disputes, especially construction matters." – Construction

"Quick turnaround time and insightful commercial advice." – Construction

Soon Wei (Ryan) Chu

"Very clear and composed. A great legal mind, always finding solutions."

Chee Weng Leong

"Practical and business-friendly advice. Chee Weng also communicates very effectively and meets our deadlines efficiently."

"Chee Weng Leong is a genius, combined with immense hard work and dedication to the law. He seamlessly integrates legal expertise and critical thinking into every matter he handles, consistently delivering compelling legal points and arguments to persuade and assist the judge from a remarkable perspective."

Ken Ming (Dominic) Ng

"Quick responses and on-the-go advice."

The dispute resolution group at Lee Hishammuddin Allen & Gledhill is one of the oldest, largest and most respected in the market. The scope of its coverage is wide, with dispute specialists occupying every niche within the corporate and commercial fields. The firm’s contentious practice is divided into area-specific practice groups that offer specialist assistance in general commercial disputes, banking and insolvency litigation, and construction and real estate disputes. The practice area heads within the disputes group are Lambert Rasa-Ratnam, international arbitration and energy specialist and tax group leader Nitin Nadkarni, and banking and insolvency specialist Kumar Kanagasingam. In a landmark matter, partner Mong Chung Seng is advising the liquidators of Malaysia Airlines System (MASB) in what is considered Malaysia's largest creditors' voluntary liquidation to date, involving approximately RM5.2 billion ($1 billion) in liabilities and RM296 million ($62 million) in assets.

Client feedback

Nurul Aisyah Hassan

"Nurul Aisyah Binti Hassan has been an exceptional lawyer to work with. Her professionalism, expertise, and attention to detail have been outstanding. She consistently provides clear and effective legal advice, demonstrating a deep understanding of the complexities of each case. Nurul Aisyah's dedication to achieving the best possible outcomes, coupled with her approachable and proactive communication, has made the entire legal process smoother and more manageable."

Hooi Ping Tan

"I have been working with Hooi Ping for over six years now, and she is absolutely amazing! Very detail-oriented, always happy to explain in detail the legal view and suggested course of action. An amazing problem solver and very results oriented."

Pei Roo (Chris) Toh

"Technically sound with strong business acumen. Easy to work with and extremely efficient. Chris Toh, as the partner in charge, was able to formulate a sound strategy to address the tax dispute we had with the Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia."

Lim Chee Wee Partnership has distinguished itself as a specialist disputes boutique with exceptional capabilities in commercial litigation, competition law, and white-collar crime, demonstrating profound expertise in managing complex cross-border legal challenges. The firm's strategic approach is driven by a leadership triumvirate of litigation experts: senior partner Chee Wee Lim, a veteran with over 30 years of practice and former Malaysian Bar President; managing partner Shih Lee, renowned for sophisticated dispute resolution strategies; and partner Will Sen Kwan, who leads the firm's competition law practice. Their collective expertise enables nuanced representation across international arbitration platforms, with each partner bringing distinctive strategic capabilities to high-stakes litigation matters. The firm's current representation of 1Malaysia Development and SRC International in multi-jurisdictional asset recovery proceedings exemplifies their sophisticated approach to complex commercial disputes, particularly in cases involving intricate financial misconduct and substantial cross-border legal challenges.

Client feedback

"What stands out most is their collaborative approach – when suitable, they harness the collective expertise of the entire firm rather than relying on a handful of individuals. Their organizational structure also appears to me to be quite fluid, without rigid hierarchies or siloed teams. This enables them to form optimal teams tailored specifically to each client's requirements. They also consistently appear to be involved in some of the highest-profile Malaysian disputes. This expertise extends beyond arbitration – I have recently begun assisting LCWP (Lim Chee Wee Partnership) with an appeal to the Malaysian Federal Court, and I am aware that LCWP is involved in many more such high-profile appeals." – Commercial arbitration

Nathalie Ker and Chi Ren (Raphael) Kok

“I have had the chance to meet Nathalie Ker and Raphael Kok as well and hope to have the opportunity to work with them in the future."

Muayyad Khairulmaini and Emily Ho

“The juniors on our file, Muayyad Khairulmaini and Emily Ho, have proven to be an excellent team.”

The leading intellectual property practice at LindaWang Su & Boo (a member of ZICO IP) has the respect of peers in the market. The firm has three dedicated specialists in this area and the practice continues to grow. Its IP practice covers all facets of IP ranging from trademark, patent and design prosecution and registration, copyright and trade secret protection, dispute resolution and IP litigation, anti-counterfeiting and enforcement to licensing and transactional IP as well as IP compliance and regulatory advice. Linda Wang leads the firm’s IP practice, alongside Siew Ling Su and Boo Seng Ong, who are renowned experts in all areas of IP work. With years of exclusive IP experience. In a pioneering patent infringement matter, the firm is advising Salutica Allied Solutions on a complex lawsuit against Apple Malaysia concerning Crosspair Technology.

Client feedback

“They are intellectual property specialists.” – Intellectual property

Siew Ling Su

“Very good counsel and is able to provide practical solutions and strategy.”

Liza Khan Chambers operates a strategic litigation and dispute resolution practice with deep expertise across corporate, commercial, and regulatory domains. The firm's practice covers complex commercial disputes, shareholder litigation, capital markets controversies, and shariah (Islamic law) finance matters, delivering nuanced legal solutions for corporate clients navigating challenging legal landscapes. In a significant appellate matter, the firm represented Hemraj in a Federal Court case against Tenaga Nasional, addressing complex legal questions surrounding non-delegable duty of care in utility infrastructure contexts. The case examined the legal principles determining a homeowner's potential liability towards public utilities companies during routine construction works.

Client feedback

"They did well in litigating our matter in court." – Commercial and transactions

"Empathetic service." – Labor and employment

"Communication, guidance, and promptness." – Trusts and estates

MahWengKwai & Associates is a litigation and dispute resolution practice with extensive experience across commercial, civil, and regulatory disputes in Malaysia. The firm's practice encompasses complex commercial litigation, construction and real estate disputes, labor and employment controversies, and white-collar crime matters, offering comprehensive legal solutions to corporate and individual clients. The firm's key dispute resolution practitioner is Raymond Mah, the managing partner with a distinguished career in Malaysian litigation. In a complex real estate dispute, the firm is representing Sime Darby Brunsfield Holding and Sime Darby Property in litigation involving the Oasis Square Ara Damansara development. The case centres on claims by parcel owners regarding vacant possession, maintenance charges, and sinking fund contributions, with plaintiffs seeking damages against the developer.

Client feedback

Denise Phang

"Very knowledgeable and punctual at meeting deadlines."

"Very energetic and supportive."

Established in 2020, Mont Kiara-based Ming & Partners’ dispute resolution department represents local and international clients for a wide variety of corporate and commercial disputes. Besides regularly representing clients in Malaysian courts, the firm also represents clients in arbitration proceedings, mediation and negotiations.

Partners Ming Wai (Jordan) Keong and Kuan Lim helm the practice. Keong acts in disputes involving corporate litigation, construction, intellectual property, tax and other general litigation matters. Lim, on the other hand, is experienced in handling IP registrations for trademarks, copyrights and patents.

In commercial litigation, the firm represented HeiTech Padu in opposing a setting aside of arbitral award application initiated by Fomema. Another ongoing matter sees the firm representing machinery manufacturer Khong Fah Machine against GoodGloves Industries for a matter relating to four production lines of glove-dipping machinery.

KS Office Co, Lysaght Corrugated Pipe, Sawak Jaya Housing Development and Splendid Sea are some of the firm’s recent clients.

Client feedback
“Able to respond and provide advice and solutions promptly.” – Commercial and transactions

“Their services are deliverable and consistently meet our expectations. The firm demonstrates a clear understanding of the nature of our business and the regulatory requirements, effectively safeguarding the interests of our organisation.” – Commercial and transactions

“Provided professional intellectual property legal service.” – Intellectual property

Kuan Lim
“Friendly, responsive, cost-effective legal advice.”

“The counsel lawyer Kuan Lim is incredibly hard-working, responsive and efficient.”

“Smart, amenable and able to respond, provide advice and solutions promptly.”

“Very good in follow-up and keeping us updated in each step of the case.”

Navaratnam Chambers operates as a pure counsel practice specializing in a wide spectrum of complex commercial and civil disputes across Malaysia. The practice offers comprehensive legal representation in intricate matters spanning commercial and company law, contract disputes, land law, tax controversies, media law, competition law, trust and equity, defamation, professional liability, and project and energy financing disputes. The practice is led by Nahendran Navaratnam, a highly regarded advocate known for his exceptional cross-examination skills and strategic litigation planning. Alongside Navaratnam, Wong Wye Wah contributes significant expertise, bringing meticulous evidence analysis and refined written advocacy to the practice. Their collaborative approach enables the practice to deliver comprehensive and thoughtful legal representation.

Client feedback

"Navaratnam Chambers is renowned for its impeccable research and advocacy, consistently delivering clear and effective solutions to complex legal challenges." – International arbitration

Nahendran Navaratnam

"Nahendran Navaratnam is a walking encyclopaedia when it comes to concepts in arbitration and the conflict of laws. His vast knowledge of these intricate areas of law allows him to quickly identify and distil key legal issues from complex sets of facts. With his sharp analytical mind and exceptional research skills, he is able to craft compelling, well-grounded arguments that address the core of any dispute. He approaches cases with clarity and precision, making him an invaluable advocate in high-stakes matters involving cross-border disputes, arbitration, and the enforcement of foreign awards."

Nahendran Navaratnam and Wye Wah Wong

“Despite being a small team, it boasts the expertise of two highly experienced advocates – Nahendran and Wye Wah – who bring a hands-on approach to every matter. Their deep legal knowledge, coupled with a commitment to thorough research, ensures that clients receive tailored, practical advice that simplifies even the most intricate issues. This combination of meticulous attention to detail and strategic insight has earned Navaratnam Chambers a reputation as a trusted partner in matters involving international arbitration and conflict of laws.”

Young and dynamic firm Ng Zainurul Seke & Khoo provides a diverse array of litigation services that ranges from commercial litigation, family law, labour and employment, construction, intellectual property, criminal litigation and debt recovery- related cases. Managing partners Ng Kee Way and Khoo Ai Theng are key figures of the firm.

In a construction dispute, the firm acted for a construction contractor in a Construction Industry Payment and Adjudication Act (CIPAA) claim against a main contractor for non-payment relating to two construction agreements filed at the Asian International Arbitration Centre. The main contractor raised defences including delays, counterclaims on defective work, the need to hire new contractors, and overclaiming. The adjudicator ruled in favour of the firm’s client. Dissatisfied with the decision, the main contractor filed an application to set aside the CIPAA adjudication decision and requested a stay. After extensive arguments and submissions, the court sided with the firm’s client, dismissing the main contractor's application to set aside the decision and stay its enforcement.

The rest of the clients the firm has advised remain confidential.

In February 2023, the firm hired Seke Tsai Yan from TY Seke & Co as a partner.

Ooi & Ooi is a boutique dispute resolution practice founded in 2018, focusing primarily on corporate and commercial litigation, construction disputes, and white-collar crime arbitrations. The practice provides comprehensive legal services across diverse sectors, including property development, construction, and corporate transactions, leveraging strategic approaches to resolve complex legal challenges for clients in both domestic and international contexts.

The firm was co-founded by siblings Nicholas Ooi and Natalie Ooi, who bring substantial legal experience from established Malaysian law firms. Nicholas Ooi has a multifaceted professional background, having practised commercial and civil litigation for six years, worked with the Malaysian stock market regulator's enforcement team, and served as in-house legal counsel for a holdings company. Natalie Ooi specialises in complex commercial litigation, with expertise in corporate, real estate planning, land, and construction disputes. Both partners are empanelled as adjudicators with the Asian International Arbitration Centre and are fellows of the Asian Institute of Alternative Dispute Resolution, lending significant credibility to their dispute resolution practice.

In a significant commercial property dispute, Ooi & Ooi represented BCB in securing a 286-acre land transaction in Batu Pahat, Johor. When the vendor attempted to rescind the initial agreement, the firm strategically intervened through legal proceedings, preventing alternative sales and ultimately negotiating a successful conditional sale and purchase agreement. By challenging the vendor's contract termination and revealing procedural irregularities, the team preserved BCB's interests in a strategic land bank acquisition. The successful resolution enables BCB to proceed with a planned mixed-use development with an estimated gross development value of RM1.1 billion ($231 million), marking a significant milestone in the firm's dispute resolution capabilities in property transactions.

The firm’s recent client roster includes China 1st Metallurgical Construction, Country Heights Damansara Kuala Lumpur Residents’ Association and Pengurusan Air Selangor.

Client feedback

"Prompt and efficient in providing advice." – Construction

"Very responsive and trustworthy." – Real estate

Natalie Ooi

"Natalie Ooi is very prompt in her advice and provides practical solutions to commercial matters. Her ability to address queries immediately reflects her efficiency and expertise."

"I really trust Natalie’s advice. We had a complicated land transaction, and she made legal jargon and procedures easy to understand, ensuring a smooth process."

"They are very hands-on and patient with us. We have met with some complications with succession. Natalie helped us resolve it by getting court declarations for us."

Owee & Co is a specialist dispute resolution firm, focused on high-value, complex corporate and commercial disputes, civil and commercial fraud, and professional negligence. Its clients span multinationals and listed companies to high-net-worth individuals.

Partner Owee Chia Ming helms the firm’s disputes group.

In commercial and transactions, the team successfully represented the founder of a company in the fitness industry in opposing a minority oppression claim over the issuance of shares in the company which was alleged to be in breach of the pre-emption rights of a shareholder.

In another commercial dispute, the team is currently acting for several substantial contributories of a wound-up public company in the real estate development sector in large disputes over the distribution of surplus assets between three wound-up companies that have cross shareholdings, and ratification of the proposed remuneration of a former liquidator of the company that the firm had successfully removed.

Details of clients the firm has advised on during the research period remain confidential.

P E Lim is a boutique civil litigation and dispute resolution law firm established in 1997 by managing partner Judy Lim Pek Eng in Petaling Jaya. The practice handles litigation and dispute resolution matters across multiple jurisdictions, including Kuala Lumpur, Shah Alam, and Klang, with a comprehensive practice spanning commercial and transactions, construction, insolvency, and labour and employment litigation. The firm is led by managing partner Judy Lim Pek Eng, a lawyer with over 30 years of legal experience who has appeared at all levels of Malaysian courts. Partner Joshua Wu Kai-Ming, who joined the firm in March 2021 and was promoted in January 2023, complements the practice with his expertise in litigation. He has been engaged as counsel in various matters and has held watching briefs for the Bar Council and the National Human Rights Commission.

Rahmat Lim & Partners is a prominent dispute resolution practice offering comprehensive legal services across commercial, banking, corporate, employment, and property litigation. The firm's expertise extends to complex areas including security enforcement, minority shareholder rights, corporate governance disputes, insolvency proceedings, regulatory challenges, and professional negligence claims. The dispute resolution team delivers strategic representation to a select clientele comprising banks, financial institutions, multinational corporations, local blue-chip companies, institutional shareholders, and major private companies, with a particular strength in sophisticated, high-value disputes requiring nuanced legal intervention.

The practice is led by litigation head Jack Yow and international arbitration and projects head Yee Leong Chong, both distinguished practitioners with extensive experience in complex commercial disputes. Yow has notable expertise in handling high-stakes litigation involving financial institutions, multinational companies, and judicial review applications, having successfully recovered multi-million-ringgit facilities and obtained significant arbitration awards. Chong, with over 33 years of practice, specialises in international arbitration across multiple Asian regions and Africa, focusing on construction, energy, infrastructure, and investment disputes. Their collective expertise has positioned the firm as a leading dispute resolution practice in the region.

In a landmark debt restructuring matter, the firm successfully acted for Sapura Energy and its 22 subsidiaries in obtaining critical court orders for a complex debt restructuring exercise valued at approximately RM12 billion ($2.5 billion). The firm secured a third set of court orders effective March 2024, enabling the company to engage with creditors and develop a comprehensive scheme of arrangement without facing immediate litigation. This intervention represents the largest reported restructuring effort by a Malaysian company to date, involving multi-currency syndicated loans from multiple financial institutions and demonstrating the firm's sophisticated approach to resolving complex corporate financial challenges.

Building on its expertise in complex commercial disputes, the firm is concurrently representing BASF Petronas Chemicals in a significant electricity supply agreement dispute with Petronas Gas. The matter involves a substantial claim concerning breach of an electricity sale and purchase agreement, with contractual implications valued at approximately RM4.2 billion ($882 million). The dispute centres on the interpretation of contractual obligations relating to annual electricity quantity commitments for the 2018 and 2019 contract years, with Petronas having commenced legal proceedings for outstanding payments against BASF, highlighting the intricate commercial and contractual challenges inherent in large-scale utility supply arrangements.

Notable litigation clients include BASF Petronas Chemicals, Essilor Manufacturing (Thailand) and Sapura Energy.

Client feedback

"Sticks to budgets; excellent reporting." – Commercial and transactions

"Rahmat Lim & Partners were very prompt and efficient in helping me settle the dispute. They provided me with good legal advice, which greatly helped resolve the matter amicably. I am most grateful." – Commercial and transactions

"Providing advice on next steps. The cases are quite complicated, but Rahmat Lim & Partners Malaysia managed to simplify the process and assist us in confidently managing the cases." – Labor and employment

Chiew Ee Kwong

"Chiew Ee Kwong provides very clear advice and ensures appropriate delegation, making the process seamless and efficient."

Desmond Liew

"Desmond Liew is committed to timelines and demonstrates strong technical expertise in the areas he covers."

Mei Fang Tan

"Mei Fang Tan is very responsive, even during late evenings and weekends. She provides thorough advice whenever possible, ensuring clients feel supported."

Jack Yow

"Jack Yow is highly efficient and possesses excellent knowledge of the law in the area of tenancy resolution, making him a reliable advisor."

Raja Darryl & Loh has established itself as a distinguished legal practice with a six-decade legacy in dispute resolution, particularly distinguished in banking, property, and complex commercial litigation across multiple sophisticated sectors. The firm's comprehensive dispute resolution practice spans diverse legal domains including healthcare, technology, construction, corporate governance, and intellectual property, with a particularly nuanced approach to complex commercial challenges. Led by partners Raja Eileen Soraya, Huey Miin, and Shirley Hor, the practice brings exceptional expertise in navigating intricate legal landscapes across Malaysian superior courts and international jurisdictions. Their strategic capabilities are exemplified through landmark matters such as the Carotech tax dispute, where the firm successfully argued a critical interpretation of Real Property Gains Tax ranking in company liquidation, demonstrating their ability to deliver precedent-setting legal strategies that provide substantive statutory clarity and commercial guidance for clients operating in complex regulatory environments.

Client feedback

"Professional and subject matter experts, provides sound ER advice promptly." – Labor and Employment

Vijey Krishnan

"Vijey Krishnan is agile and flexible, adapting to the issues and complexity of each case. His strong client relationships inspire a high level of confidence and trust."

Li Vyen Tham

"Li Vyen Tham is an excellent source of support for all industrial and employee relations matters. She conducts herself in a very professional manner while maintaining a pleasant personality, making it comfortable to work with her. She consistently goes the extra mile to provide support, and we greatly value her expert advice and guidance."

Rosli Dahlan Saravana Partnership has distinguished itself as a premier dispute resolution practice with exceptional capabilities in navigating complex commercial, tax, and appellate litigation across sophisticated legal platforms. The firm's strategic approach combines technical legal expertise with innovative advocacy, demonstrating particular strength in handling intricate cross-border disputes, constitutional challenges, and high-stakes commercial litigation. Led by seasoned practitioners Rosli Dahlan, DP Naban, and Saravana Kumar, the firm brings decades of collective experience in civil litigation, administrative law, and tax disputes, enabling nuanced legal solutions that address multifaceted legal challenges. Their landmark representation of Tenaga Nasional in a significant tax dispute challenging the Inland Revenue Board's reinvestment allowance disallowance exemplifies the firm's ability to deliver strategic litigation that not only serves client interests but also potentially reshapes sector-wide legal interpretations, with the ongoing Federal Court proceedings underscoring the firm's commitment to precedent-setting legal advocacy.

Client feedback

Austen Emmanuel Pereira

"Committed, responsive, and professional."

With the addition of Choon Hon Leng, previously the head of Raja Darryl & Loh’s construction, infrastructure, and energy practice group, Sanjay Mohan Advocates & Solicitors has emerged as the largest specialist construction law practice in Malaysia, with a team comprising 18 lawyers. The firm excels in handling contentious and intricate disputes, adeptly navigating arbitration and litigation proceedings. Its extensive experience encompasses diverse construction projects, such as hospitals, highways, bridges, high-rise buildings, power plants, and ports. Managing partner Sanjay Mohanasundaram is a key figure of the firm.

The firm is currently representing Sunway Construction in a significant ongoing dispute valued at RM680 million ($142 million). The dispute centres around the construction of Light Rail Transit Line 3 stations and their connecting rails. The key issue at hand is the ownership of the right of way. Specifically, the question arises as to whether the utilisation of the right of way by a separate person or company, upon being granted a subsequent right of way by the local authority or land office, constitutes trespass. This case stands as one of the country's largest third-party claims, involving a construction project where the claimant is not a party to the original contract.

Other key clients are Ahmad Zaki Resources, Eversendai Engineering, Johnson Medical International, Lion Pacific and Ssangyong Engineering & Construction.

Client feedback
“Very good and clear advice.” – Energy

Sanjay Mohan
“Strategy and position-taking, as he has deep knowledge on the subject-matter in construction.”

“Proactive. Always available. Good commercial advice.”

Leading full-service firm Shearn Delamore & Co houses one of the largest dispute resolution practice groups in the country, with no less than 16 partners regularly engaged in litigation and arbitration in their specialist areas. The firm features in the top echelons of all our categories. The firm has a growing niche professional negligence litigation offering, with a dedicated team advising clients from the medical, legal and other professions. Head of disputes, Rabindra Nathan helms the team that includes corporate and commercial specialist Dhinesh Bhaskaran, construction expert Rodney Gomez, competition partner K Shanti Mogan, employment head Sivabalah Nadarajah, intellectual property specialist Karen Abraham, tax head Anand Raj, and white-collar crime partner Rajasingam Gothandapani. In a landmark competition law case, the firm is representing a poultry feed miller challenging significant penalties imposed by the Malaysia Competition Commission.

Client feedback

Jyeshta Mahendran

"Jyeshta is very prompt in her responses, provides sound legal advice due to her years of experience and in-depth knowledge, and is easy to work with and accessible."

K Shanti Mogan

"Shanti is highly experienced, has excellent knowledge of dispute resolution, and is quick to respond."

Sook Eng Sim

"Sook Eng demonstrates good knowledge and experience, is very proactive, and provides excellent consultation, advice, and support."

Shook Lin & Bok has established itself as a distinguished dispute resolution practice with exceptional capabilities in intellectual property and construction litigation, offering comprehensive legal services across complex commercial dispute resolution platforms. The firm's strategic approach encompasses sophisticated arbitration, litigation, and alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, with particular expertise in intellectual property enforcement and construction-related conflicts. Led by senior partner Ko Luen Lam, the practice brings over three decades of collective experience in navigating intricate legal challenges across Malaysian superior courts, demonstrating nuanced capabilities in trademark, patent, and industry-specific disputes. Their recent representation of Public Bank in a significant trademark dispute against TransferWise exemplifies the firm's strategic litigation approach, successfully challenging an expungement application and potentially establishing critical precedents in trademark registration principles within Malaysia's financial services sector, underscoring their ability to deliver sophisticated legal solutions that extend beyond immediate client interests.

Client feedback

“Independent and professional.” – Commercial and transactions

Hooi Huang Ng

“Great knowledge in the restructuring and insolvency space, able to provide viable solutions to clients. Quick and responsive.”

Skrine has emerged as a preeminent dispute resolution practice with an unparalleled focus on high-stakes contentious matters across diverse legal domains. The firm's litigation and arbitration practice demonstrate exceptional capability in managing complex commercial disputes, with particular expertise in intellectual property, construction, competition, and white-collar crime litigation. Led by a distinguished team of senior practitioners including Ivan Loo, Siva Kumar Kanagasabai, Lim Koon Huan, and Preetha Pillai, the firm brings comprehensive strategic capabilities to sophisticated legal challenges, combining deep sectoral knowledge with nuanced litigation approaches. Their involvement in the 1Malaysia Development matter exemplifies the firm's ability to navigate intricate cross-border legal landscapes, handling complex financial disputes that intersect with significant governance and regulatory challenges, thereby positioning themselves as a critical legal resource in resolving high-profile and systemically important litigation matters.

Client feedback

“Skrine has good understanding of our business and is familiar with the larger AIA, so they're able to provide pragmatic advice to our matters. The lawyers who primarily works with us are responsive and diligent. They did a fantastic job in the civil case from beginning to end, which resulted in a win for our company.” – Labour and employment

Sara Lau

“Sara demonstrates understanding of our business and is able to co-solution with us while taking into consideration the pros and cons. She proactively communicates with us on any updates and matters that we need to be aware of.”

T Thavalingam & Co is a highly specialised employment and industrial relations law firm with a distinguished reputation for representing employers across diverse sectors. The firm's practice encompasses a comprehensive range of employment-related legal services, advising multinational corporations, government-linked companies, and family enterprises in industries including banking, financial services, oil and gas, airlines, telecommunications, and consumer goods. Founding partner Thavalingam Thavarajah is a leading employment law practitioner with deep expertise in complex industrial relations matters. In a landmark employment law matter, the firm successfully represented MyTeksi (Grab) in challenging the employment status of an e-hailing driver seeking unfair dismissal claims.

Tay & Partners has established a robust dispute resolution practice distinguished by its comprehensive approach to complex litigation across multiple legal domains, including corporate conflicts, intellectual property challenges, banking and insolvency proceedings, and sophisticated commercial disputes. The firm's strategic capabilities extend beyond traditional litigation, encompassing pre-litigation analysis, appellate advocacy, and cross-border legal challenges, with a particularly distinguished intellectual property practice handling intricate patent, trademark, copyright, and industrial design infringement matters. Led by experienced practitioners Leonard Yeoh and Lee Lin Li, the firm brings extensive trial experience and nuanced legal expertise across Malaysian and international litigation platforms. Their current representation of Country Garden in a significant property dispute involving potential claims from numerous condominium purchasers exemplifies the firm's ability to navigate complex legal landscapes, addressing critical issues of contract law, misrepresentation, and property development practices that could potentially reshape legal frameworks for housing development agreements in Malaysia.

Client feedback

"Good documentation and presentation of the case." – Commercial and transactions

Lin Li Lee

"Her knowledge of all aspects of IP law is impressive and definitely comes in handy. She is able to handle all kinds of IP work, from registration to litigation. This is not something other IP practitioners can do."

Leonard Yeoh

"Leonard has a good understanding."

Timothy J Dass & Co is a full-service commercial law firm specializing in intellectual property litigation and commercial disputes. The practice provides strategic legal services to domestic and international corporations, with a particular emphasis on resolving complex intellectual property challenges across various sectors. Timothy J Dass, the founding partner, principally specializes in intellectual property litigation, with over a decade of experience handling complex legal matters. He has developed a significant reputation for managing high-value disputes, including counterfeiting cases, domain name conflicts, and appellate litigation. In a significant intellectual property dispute, the firm represented a chain of restaurants in a trademark infringement case filed at the Kuala Lumpur High Court. The matter involved allegations of trademark passing off and unauthorized use of a registered trademark.

As home to one of the country’s premier shipping practices, TS Oon & Partners is a multi-practice law firm that is also known for handling international clients and their investment needs. Its dedicated shipping team has deep maritime knowledge and the full range of capabilities and expertise to handle all domestic and regional shipping matters. It regularly acts for marine underwriters, shipowners, shipyards, port operators, P&I Clubs, financial institutions, commodity traders, freight forwarders and other shipping interests. The shipping team works closely with its associate office in Singapore, Oon & Bazul.

The leaders of the team are managing partner Thian Seng Oon and partner Jessica Teng.

Tuang Chu & Co is well versed in the commercial and transactions arena. The firm’s dispute resolution department has extensive experience in litigation, domestic and international arbitration, adjudication and other forms of alternative dispute resolution. Its clientele ranges from preeminent local companies to foreign corporations, encapsulating a full spectrum of corporate and commercial matters.

The firm’s dispute resolution team is led by partner Ryan Soon Wei Chu. Litigators Zhong Yan Lau and Chee Weng Leong are also key figures to note.

The firm is currently representing an individual in an ongoing commercial and transactions case in Malaysia. This case involves ex-spouses who were partners in a limited liability partnership called 3E Accounting PLT (PLT). The litigation includes an oppression suit filed by the firm's client, a civil suit filed by the other partner against the client, and a derivative proceeding filed by the client on behalf of PLT. These multiple actions have led to significant developments in the laws related to disputes under the Limited Liability Partnership Act 2012.

Key clients include Cocoaland Holdings, Hai Hong Capital, Hai Hong Holdings, Setara Jaya and Sindiyan.

In 2023, the firm hired Kok Siaw (Angelina) Ching and Naveen Sri Kantha as partners from Skrine and Lavania & Balan Chambers, respectively.

Client feedback
“Responsible and professional.” – Banking and financial services

“Tuang Chu & Co was very professional in their legal advice and has been diligent in the execution of their duties as my legal adviser.” – Commercial and transactions

“Basically, they have been doing very well in all of our CIPAA matters concerning construction disputes as well advising us on various legal concerns. Their proactive approach, coupled with a deep understanding of construction law intricacies, has led to a series of successful outcomes for our organisation.” – Construction

“They are excellent in their work, very meticulous, detailed and they think outside the box when it comes to resolving disputes. Not only are they equipped with experience and knowledge regarding all construction contractual disputes, they are also well versed with the technical aspect of disputes, which is something many lawyers are not equipped with. One of the few law firms I know that can go through delay analysis and banter with the consultants. They also ensure that they provide the best service/advice to their clients, constantly following up with their clients and they are up to date with the recent laws.” – Construction

“They successfully managed to get our claim back from the other party.” – Construction

“At the core of Tuang Chu & Co's services is legal project management. Their approach integrates sophisticated methodologies, ensuring a seamless execution that addresses the complex dynamics of construction endeavours. Proficient and forward-thinking, the firm's construction team possesses a nuanced understanding of the legal intricacies inherent in such projects, enabling them to anticipate issues and navigate construction projects and pitfalls proactively.” – Construction

“Meticulous, proactive, and incredible critical thinking advice given.” – Construction

“The construction team have been performing very well and they provide practical and commercially viable advice in approaching a construction dispute which assists in achieving the objectives we seek.” – Construction

“Tuang Chu & Co has a very professional team, very flexible in resolving my problems and concerns, in many ways and aspects. In short, they are excellent!” – Construction

“Tuang Chu & Co has shown great expertise across various practice areas. However, our company particularly benefitted from TCC’s expert knowledge in construction law. The team's ability to navigate the complexities of the company’s construction-related legal matters has been invaluable.” – Construction

“The construction team in TCC (Tuang Chu & Co) headed by Mr Leong Chee Weng has been a game-changer for our company, where the team’s commitment to staying ahead of industry trends and ensuring excellence has been evident in every interaction. We felt confident in the firm's ability to address the company’s specific needs.” – Construction

“TCC is also very responsive, transparent, and focused on tailoring legal support to meet the company’s unique requirements within the construction industry.” – Construction

“In summary, Tuang Chu & Co has consistently exceeded my expectations with their expertise, client-centric approach, innovative solutions, global perspective, ethical standards and a dedicated team.” – Construction

“The firm understands the intricacies involved in a complex construction dispute and is able to recommend offensive directions at the right time to ensure a favourable outcome amidst the multifaceted complexities of the case.” – Construction

“They performed exceptionally well, showcasing a true passion for their job and a strong commitment to representing and assisting their clients. Their great communication skills, coupled with a willingness to listen, ensure effective collaboration. Furthermore, their extensive knowledge of construction law, combined with their strong writing ability, enables them to navigate complex legal matters with confidence. Additionally, they possess a healthy scepticism and exercise good judgement, further enhancing their capabilities.” – Construction

Chee Weng Leong
“Chee Weng has proven to be an invaluable asset our lawyer, consistently demonstrating exceptional skills and attributes in handling our CIPAA matters. His profound understanding of construction law, coupled with meticulous attention to detail, has been instrumental in navigating complex legal challenges successfully. Leong Chee Weng's proactive approach, strategic thinking, and effective communication have contributed significantly to our string of favourable outcomes. His dedication and expertise make him a trusted legal partner, ensuring that our company is well-represented and positioned for success in all CIPAA matters, arbitration and perhaps in other various legal dispute means.”

“Smart, detail and careful.”

“Chee Weng and his construction team are very professional and knowledgeable in handling construction disputes. He and his team members are very responsive and helpful to our requests. They have shown strong commitment to serve the client with their best effort! Not only on legal case duties – I still remember how helpful he was in resolving other small matters like fee arrangement, invoices, etc.”

“He is truly a helpful and flexible professional which I will recommend to others!”

“He has a good grasp of the legal issues and details of the case.”

“Chee Weng has various positive attributes which have enhanced our working experience. His attributes include having profound knowledge of construction law, which has been a crucial asset to our company. The construction landscape is constantly evolving, and Leong Chee Weng's ability to navigate and adapt to these changes has also been invaluable. We appreciate his proactive approach to keeping our legal strategies aligned with current and future industry standards.”

“We have observed Chee Weng's proactive stance in addressing potential legal challenges. His ability to foresee issues and implement solutions before they escalate has been instrumental in helping us navigate our construction projects with confidence. Chee Weng has exhibited exemplary leadership in handling complex construction cases. His guidance, particularly in negotiations, dispute resolution, and strategic legal advice, has been crucial in maintaining our reputation for excellence in the construction industry.”

“In summary, Chee Weng's positive attributes as a construction lawyer have significantly contributed to the success of our projects. His expertise, adaptability, collaborative approach, proactive problem-solving, leadership, dedication to client success, and reliability make him an exceptional lawyer in our construction endeavours. We look forward to continuing our successful collaboration with him.”

“Proactive to interact with client and always shares his constructive and valuable advice.”

“There are many positive attributes about Leong Chee Weng which make him our go-to when it comes to construction disputes. To name a few, Chee Weng's depth of knowledge and specialisation in construction and commercial dispute matters is truly commendable. His expertise in construction law has been instrumental in navigating complex issues related to contracts, project delays, defects and other construction-related matters. His ability to analyse and interpret intricate documents has been crucial in our recent successes. We also commend Chee Weng for his constant clear and concise communication style. He often has the ability to digest legal complexities and explain in a manner that is easily understood, facilitating open and transparent communication throughout the legal process.”

“Chee Weng has also consistently demonstrated a high level of responsiveness and accessibility. Whether through timely email correspondence, scheduled meetings or last-minute calls, he has been readily available to address our inquiries and provide us with his timely input.”

“In summary, Chee Weng consistently excels in delivering tasks marked by expertise, strategic thinking, clear communication, accessibility, negotiation prowess, and unwavering professionalism. We are confident in his abilities and look forward to continued collaboration with him and the firm in future legal matters.”

“Chee Weng and his construction team have shown exceptional legal expertise, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of the intricacies involved in construction and commercial disputes. His commitment to delivering comprehensive and effective legal solutions has greatly contributed to the positive outcomes we have achieved in recent cases.”

“Chee Weng’s in-depth knowledge of construction law has been instrumental in navigating complex issues related to contracts, project delays, defects and other construction-related matters. His ability to analyse and interpret intricate legal documents has been crucial in providing us with sound legal strategy. We also appreciate Chee Weng’s clear and concise communication style. He has been responsive to our inquiries, keeping us well-informed about his strategy and approach on our cases and providing timely input when required.”

Ken Ming (Dominic) Ng
“Dominic approaches each and every dispute with pragmatic and practical solutions as well as strategies, especially in advancing fronts which would increase the company's probability of reaching an amicable settlement. This has been very helpful in recovering outstanding sums due in our construction projects. He diligently attends to the needs of each individual client and meticulously manages every case.”

“Ken Ming consistently demonstrates a high level of confidence and possesses a keen ability to anticipate challenges well in advance. This foresight enables him to proactively devise and implement effective solutions, showcasing a professional acumen that is both strategic and results-oriented.”

“Dominic's profound understanding of the law not only enables him to navigate legal intricacies effortlessly but also ensures that clients' strategic positions remain calculated. His ability to think creatively sets him apart.”

Naveen Sri Kantha
“He managed to brief us on the way forward with the case. He personally handled the case well.”

“Very efficient and attention to detail.”

“Efficient, proactive, understandable and amazing critical thinking ability.”

“Responsive and initiative.”

“He is well versed with construction law and the technical aspects of it. He is able to solve a complex issue effortlessly in view of his experience and knowledge. He constantly follows up with his clients, and is always very responsive towards any queries/clarifications that is required. His work is top-notch and he has the ability to use layman’s terms and explain/answer questions clearly and on point so that the client is able to understand and pick up points. He is also very precise, detailed, making sure the client's interests are protected.”

“I collaborated closely with Naveen, a partner in this firm (even before he joined). He consistently delivers exceptional work and service. Naveen is intelligent, attentive, and possesses extensive knowledge. I particularly admire his drafting skills, and his industry expertise is truly impressive. He is highly articulate, adept at simplifying complex issues for his non-legal clients. His ability to explain intricate matters in an understandable manner is crucial and greatly valued in serving his clients effectively.”

Vin & Isaac Lee is a full service boutique firm that was established in 2013. Its disputes offering focuses on construction and white-collar crime matters and is staffed by one partner and three associates. For construction mandates, the team regularly represent clients in adjudication under the Construction Industry Payment and Adjudication Act, arbitration and in the Malaysian civil courts. Its white-collar crime practice is gaining traction and the team has acted for clients on fraud allegations, cheating and conspiracies involving publicly-listed companies and government-linked companies.

Construction specialist and partner Kelvin Ng is a key contact at the firm for disputes matters.

A sampling of the firm’s recent highlights includes acting for S Quarry, a contractor of a project known as the Desaru Resort, against the owners for unlawful termination of a rock extraction contract. The High Court found in favour of the landowners. This decision was subsequently reversed by the Court of Appeal who found in favour of the firm’s client and awarded them damages.

In ongoing cases, the team defended a group of companies in an action relating to a conspiracy to defraud and cheating for an alleged multi-million dollar sum. The team also represented a former director of Panasonic Manufacturing Malaysia against a High Court action filed by his former employer over claims of fraud and conspiracy to defraud the company.

The remaining clients that instructed the firm during the research period are confidential.

Vin Cheng & Co consists of seasoned litigators who have built their reputation in their previous firms. The construction team, in particular, has considerable knowledge and experience in construction disputes, including issues relating to payments, variation works, delay, professional negligence, termination and performance bonds. Managing partner Chun Yee (Kelvin) Ng, formerly the co-founder of Vin & Isaac Lee, leads the firm’s construction team. He has vast experience in dispute resolution, notably in construction law, along with adjudication and arbitration. Other key figures include partner Sze Ying Lee.

Client feedback

"Professional attitude and well-prepared." – Construction

"Well-versed in construction contracts and laws. Provides professional advice to secure the client's benefits." – Construction

Chun Yee (Kelvin) Ng

"Professional and always provides great advice and solutions."

Wei Li Tan

"Responsive and helpful."

Wen & Co, established by the esteemed competition lawyer Nicole Leong, provides clients with a customised legal service designed to navigate the dynamic competition landscape in Malaysia. Operating under a focused boutique model, the firm strives to offer the precision and flexibility of a small team combined with the extensive experience typically associated with top-tier law firms. Founding principal Leong has years of experience in the field of competition law. Before founding the firm, Nicole worked at Tay & Partners as a partner specialising in competition law and played an instrumental role in many major and precedent-setting competition matters. In a landmark competition law matter, the firm represented AirAsia in a complex dispute against the Malaysia Competition Commission (MyCC), challenging the regulator's attempt to review its own decision regarding a RM10 million ($2 million) fine.

Wong & Partners has established itself as a prominent dispute resolution practice in Malaysia, offering sophisticated litigation services across commercial, construction, and intellectual property domains. The firm's comprehensive approach encompasses complex disputes involving shareholders agreements, merger and acquisition warranties, distribution contract conflicts, and intricate infrastructure project challenges, with a particular emphasis on cross-border legal strategies. Led by practitioners Kherk Ying Chew and Janice Tay, the firm brings nuanced expertise in intellectual property enforcement, international arbitration, and technical legal challenges across technology and pharmaceutical sectors. Their strategic litigation capabilities are characterised by a deep understanding of complex legal landscapes, enabling precise and innovative legal solutions that address multifaceted commercial and regulatory challenges. The firm's current representation of Brainlab, a pioneering digital medical technology company, underscores their ability to manage sophisticated litigation matters involving multiple defendants and complex technological contexts, demonstrating their capacity to navigate intricate legal terrain with strategic precision.

Client feedback

"Provides updated legal advice and solutions aligned to commercial objectives." – Commercial and transactions

Eddie Chuah

"Gives good partner service, pays full attention, and understands a case well. Has the ability to empathize."

Chih-Wen Ooi

“Advises on disputes and handles them in legal proceedings very well."

Wong Jin Nee & Teo is a specialized intellectual property law firm with a focused approach to contentious IP matters. The firm's litigation practice handles complex intellectual property disputes across trademark, copyright, and patent domains, representing multinational clients in high-stakes enforcement actions. Its dispute resolution capabilities encompass comprehensive litigation strategies, including pursuing interlocutory reliefs such as injunctions and Anton Piller orders, as well as conducting full trials in intellectual property conflicts. Founding partner Bong Kwang Teo leads the firm's litigation and patent departments, bringing over three decades of intellectual property expertise. In a significant intellectual property dispute, the firm is representing Single Buoy Moorings in a patent infringement lawsuit filed at the Kuala Lumpur Intellectual Property High Court against Samsung Heavy Industries and related entities.

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. 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. Other key figures in the team include construction partner Vatsala Ratnasabapathy. In a significant litigation matter, the firm successfully defended Amanah Saham Nasional (ASNB) against complex allegations of fraud, misrepresentation, and negligence by the administrator of a deceased unit holder's estate.

Client feedback

"The law firm excels in delivering comprehensive and efficient legal services in estate planning, administration, and dispute resolution. Their strengths lie in meticulous preparation, such as drafting detailed executor reports, ensuring compliance with all legal obligations, and maintaining transparency throughout the process. They demonstrate exceptional skill in estate management, coordinating asset valuation, tax compliance, and debt resolution to ensure seamless administration and timely distribution of assets. In dispute resolution, the firm is highly proficient in facilitating arbitration and mediation, resolving conflicts among beneficiaries with a focus on preserving relationships and avoiding costly litigation. Their client-centric approach, attention to detail, and ability to handle complex matters set them apart in the field." – Commercial and transactions

Vatsala Ratnasabapathy

"Vatsala Ratnasabapathy is highly skilled, detail-oriented, and approachable. She excels in legal expertise, providing clear and practical advice tailored to her client’s needs. Her strengths include thorough preparation, effective communication, and the ability to mediate disputes efficiently. She is known for her professionalism, empathy, and dedication to achieving favorable outcomes for clients while maintaining trust and transparency throughout the process."

Anita Sockalingam

"Anita is a highly competent and reliable lawyer who conducts thorough research, provides honest assessments of your chances of success, values integrity, and is responsive to clients' needs."

The experienced and sizeable dispute resolution team at Zul Rafique & Partners covers civil, commercial and corporate dispute claims. Its construction and employment practices are highly regarded in the market. Litigation head and employment specialist P Jayasingam, and senior partner and construction dispute resolution head Kuhendran Thanapalasingam are the main contacts for the practice. Keat Ching Wong is noted for her labor and employment work, while Idza Hajar Ahmad Idzam is recognized on the commercial litigation front. Employment specialist Thavaselvi Pararajasingam is another key name to note. In a significant construction arbitration matter, the firm successfully represented a main contractor in enforcing an arbitral award concerning technical pile cap works defects.

Client feedback

Idza Hajar

"She is knowledgeable about the matters she works on and takes accountability for any shortcomings from their team. She is also responsive and easy to work with."

Thavaselvi Pararajasingam

"Thavaselvi is highly regarded for her meticulous attention to detail and deep expertise in employment law. She demonstrates exceptional analytical skills, quickly identifying key issues and formulating effective strategies. Her professionalism and ability to communicate complex legal concepts in a clear and concise manner are invaluable. Additionally, her responsiveness and commitment to delivering well-thought-out advice ensure that clients feel supported and confident in her counsel. Her ability to balance strategic thinking with a practical approach makes her an outstanding legal professional."

Jayasingam Poopalasingam and Thavaselvi Pararajasingam

"Jayasingam and Thavaselvi from Zul Rafique & Partners stood out for their meticulous preparation and strategic approach in handling our case. Their deep understanding of employment law, coupled with their ability to present compelling arguments, was instrumental in achieving a favorable outcome. Both were responsive, professional, and consistently provided practical and sound legal advice. Their ability to manage complex issues with clarity and confidence reflects the firm’s high standards of excellence."