Legal Forum 2024: A Remarkable Gathering!

What an extraordinary event! I’d like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Thomson Reuters Malaysia , the ten sponsoring law firms, and the Asian International Arbitration Centre (AIAC) for hosting an exceptional two and a half days of enriching sessions and invaluable networking.

It was truly a momentous occasion, bringing together students, practitioners, and esteemed members of the judiciary—a rare and inspiring convergence of legal minds across generations.

A Moment to Reflect on Malaysia's Federalism

Moderating the first day’s session on “The Future of Federalism in Malaysia” alongside the ever-impressive Tunku Zain Al-'Abidin ibni Tuanku Muhriz was a personal highlight. His insights added real depth to the discussion, and it was an honour to explore this critical topic with someone of his intellect and dedication. His contributions to public discourse on federalism have been pivotal, and I was thrilled to facilitate this exchange before a captivated audience.

Memorable Connections with the Judiciary

One of the Forum's most impactful elements was the presence of senior judiciary members. Meeting Malaysia’s Chief Justice, The Right Honourable Tun Tengku Maimun binti Tuan Mat, was an immense privilege, as was connecting with Federal Court Judges, The Honourable Tan Sri Datuk Nallini Pathmanathan and Tan Sri Harmindar Singh Dhaliwal.

Court of Appeal judges Datuk Nantha Balan and Dato Lee Swee Seng, alongside High Court judges from Sabah, Sarawak, and Peninsular Malaysia, brought a deep sense of unity and purpose. Their commitment to engaging with students and practitioners was evident, underscoring the judiciary’s dedication to fostering a more connected and accessible legal community.

A Reunion of Past and Present

One particular highlight was reuniting with Dato Mah Weng Kwai now a retired Court of Appeal judge after nearly three decades. As a young prosecutor in 1991 whilst employed with the Crown Prosecution Service, I undertook a mini-pupillage in his chambers. To see him participating in the Forum with the same enthusiasm and dedication reminded me of the continuity and evolution of our profession.

New Friends and Familiar Faces

I’m pleased to have met so many talented and committed professionals, forming connections I hope will endure well beyond this event. A special shout out to some of the fantastic people who made this experience even more memorable (in no particular order): Girish Kamat , Rachel Jaques from Thomson Reuters Malaysia , Raymond Mah, Mathew Kurien , Shanti Abraham & Associates and her husband, Muhamad Nizar, Nick Azli, Lavinia Kumaraendran , Balan Nair, Raj, Ong & Yudistra (Yudistra Dorai), and Michael Soo. Their warmth and camaraderie enriched my time at the Forum.

An Outstanding Effort from the Organising Team

Thank you to S. Saravana Kumar and the dedicated partners from RDS Partnership , ( D P Naban , Rosli Dahlan , Ooi Bee Hong , Raphael Tay , Lim Zhi Jian , Falisa Abu Bakar , Amira Azhar , Chia Loong Thye, Vinayak Sri Ram , Raphael Tay , Kenny Kian Yip L. , Austen Pereira and the entire RDS organising team and volunteers who meticulously planned and delivered this remarkable event.

Their hard work transformed this forum into an occasion to cherish, packed with substantive discussions, constructive networking, and the kind of engagement that elevates our profession.

Special Thanks to My Director of Clerking

Lastly, my gratitude goes to my Director of Clerking, Daren Milton from 2KBW , who expertly managed my diary, allowing both of us to fully participate in this outstanding event. His support made it possible for me to be part of these significant discussions and to connect with such an esteemed group.