“Francis is very intelligent and a very strong advocate. He is able to think on his feet in court.” – Chambers Asia-Pacific
Francis is Rajah & Tann Singapore LLP’s Regional Head of the Dispute Resolution Group; he practises international arbitration (both commercial and investor-state) and cross-border commercial litigation.
A veteran in the field, Francis has 37 years of legal practice and is actively involved in cross-border commercial disputes in the areas of corporate, banking, property, financial and investment-related claims. Francis has a track record of being involved in novel and unprecedented cases.
He is currently heavily involved in a number of investor-state claims, primarily as arbitrator.
Francis is recognised as a leading disputes lawyer in:
- Chambers Global and Chambers Asia-Pacific – Ranked Lawyer in Dispute Resolution: Litigation and Dispute Resolution: Arbitration (2026; previous: 2016-2025)
- The Legal 500 Asia-Pacific – Leading Partner in Dispute Resolution and Recommended Lawyer in International Arbitration (2026; previous: 2014-2019, 2021-2025)
- Lexology Index (formerly Who’s Who Legal) – Thought Leader in Commercial Litigation; Highly Recommended in Arbitration; Recommended in Commercial Mediation, and Employment & Labour; Recommended in Southeast Asia – Arbitration, Commercial Litigation, Commercial Mediation, and Labour, Employment & Benefits (2026; previous: 2016, 2018-2025)
- The Best Lawyers in Singapore – Arbitration and Mediation; Litigation (2026; previous: 2013, 2022, 2024-2025)
- Benchmark Litigation Asia-Pacific – Litigation Star in Commercial and Transactions and International Arbitration (2019-2025)
- Asialaw Profiles – Elite Practioner in Dispute Resolution (2024-2025; previous: 2009, 2017-2023)
- Asia Business Law Journal – Singapore’s Top 100 Lawyers (2023-2025)
- Asian Legal Business – Asia’s Top 15 Litigators (2021)
- Corporate Insider – Business Excellence Award (2019)
- Global Arbitration Review (2010)
He has appeared as counsel and acted as arbitrator (both party-appointed and presiding) in a large number of arbitrations (both ad hoc and institutional) administered under the rules of the ICSID, ICC, SIAC, LCIA, AIAC, ICA, HKIAC, BANI and the Permanent Court of Arbitration.
Francis is a Chartered Arbitrator and has acted for a number of parties (including several Asian and European governments and investors) in investment treaty disputes. He is extremely well-versed in international disputes, including those between sovereign states, covering diverse areas ranging from boundary disputes to defence and military procurement. He is presently assisting several governments in setting up their international arbitration framework.
He is a past global President of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (2020) and also a Past President of the Inter-Pacific Bar Association (2019-2020).
He is the General Editor of three major publications – Charting New Waters: The Singapore International Commercial Court After Ten Years (SAL Academy Publishing, 2025), Civil Litigation in Singapore (Sweet & Maxwell, 2017) and Arbitration in Singapore: A Practical Guide (2nd Edition, Sweet & Maxwell, 2018).
He is the Chair of the AAA-ICDR Asia Advisory Council.
He is the Chairman of the Listings Appeals Committee, Singapore Exchange (SGX). He is also the Chairman of the Inquiry Panel of the Law Society of Singapore.
EXPERIENCE (as Arbitrator) - a sampling
Representative Cases
- ABH Holdings S.A. v Ukraine (ARB/24/1) – party-appointed arbitrator in an ongoing high-profile ICSID arbitration concerning a claim (estimated to be over US$1 billion) arising out of the nationalisation of a large Ukrainian bank.
- Presiding arbitrator in an ongoing RM1.2 billion AIAC arbitration seated in Malaysia, concerning a contract between two Malaysian entities for the supply of electricity to an integrated complex (forming part of a broader state-sponsored industrial park) for the manufacture of various mineral products.
- Party-appointed arbitrator in an ongoing €47 million SIAC arbitration seated in Singapore, concerning the sale and purchase of liquefied natural gas between a Singaporean entity and a Polish entity.
- Party-appointed arbitrator in an ongoing US$30 million SIAC arbitration seated in India, concerning multiple contracts relating to the building of a large coal-fired power plant (pursuant to enhanced economic cooperation efforts between two states) between a UAE entity and an Indian state-owned entity.
- Party-appointed arbitrator in an ongoing LCIA arbitration concerning contracts for the supply of coal between a Swiss entity and a Singaporean entity.
- Presiding arbitrator in a US$193 million SIAC arbitration seated in Singapore, concerning the alleged vitiation (due to a change in government and national policy) of an agreement for the sale and purchase of shares between a North Asian entity and a European state-owned entity.
- Presiding arbitrator in a SIAC arbitration concerning the supply of transmission line hardware and accessories between a Bangladeshi state-owned entity and an Indian entity.
- Presiding arbitrator in a PCA arbitration seated in Singapore between a joint venture consortium (comprising a European company and a South Asian company) and a South Asian gas transmission company, concerning an alleged failure to comply with a Dispute Board decision.
- Party-appointed arbitrator in a ৳1.49 billion SIAC arbitration seated in Singapore, concerning a disputed fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) distributorship agreement between an Indian entity and a Bangladeshi entity.
- Sole arbitrator in an ICC arbitration seated in Singapore, concerning a Technology License Agreement and other related contracts between a European entity and a North Asian entity.
- Sole arbitrator in a US$13.8 million SIAC arbitration seated in Singapore between two Southeast Asian entities, concerning a Technical Services and Management Consulting Agreement relating to the development of a mine located in a Southeast Asian country.
- Sole arbitrator in a SIAC arbitration concerning the alleged repudiation of an agreement for the purchase of shares between Singaporean, British Virgin Islands and Indonesian entities.
- Sole arbitrator in a SIAC arbitration concerning works done pursuant to contracts for drilling and oilfield services between a Chinese entity and an Indonesian entity.
- Sole arbitrator in a SIAC arbitration concerning a minority shareholder oppression claim between a Singaporean entity and a Bermudian entity.
- Sole arbitrator in an emergency SIAC arbitration concerning the alleged novation of agreements for the sale of whey powder between Chinese, Belarusian and Russian entities.
- Sole arbitrator in an emergency SIAC arbitration seated in Singapore, concerning a tri-party agreement between a North Asian distributor and two European companies which granted the distributor exclusive rights to deal in certain dairy products in a North Asian country.
- Sole arbitrator in an Indian Council of Arbitration (ICA) arbitration seated in New Delhi, concerning payment for the purchase price of marine armaments between a Russian entity and an Asian State.
EXPERIENCE (as Counsel) - a sampling
International Arbitrations (both Investor-State and Commercial)
- Rafat Ali Rizvi v The Republic of Indonesia (ICSID Case No. ARB/11/13) – acted as lead counsel for the Respondent in annulment proceedings against an ICSID Tribunal’s negative award on jurisdiction.
- Sanum Investments v ST Group Co, ST Vegas Co and Sithat Xaysoulivong (ICC Case No. 25100/PTA/XZG) – acted as lead counsel for the Respondents in a US$175 million ICC arbitration seated in Macau, concerning alleged breaches of various joint venture agreements for the development and operation of casinos and slot clubs in Laos.
- Acted as lead counsel for the Respondent in a US$1.6 billion SIAC arbitration seated in Singapore, concerning alleged breaches of certain non-disclosure agreements relating to a substantial mining concession.
- Acted as lead counsel for the Respondent, a state-owned entity, in a US$145 million SIAC arbitration seated in Singapore (with the Tribunal comprising two former Justices of the Singapore Court of Appeal), concerning a concession agreement between the Respondent and an English company for the reclamation and development of land.
- Acted as lead counsel for the Respondent, a sovereign government, in a US$120 million SIAC arbitration seated in Singapore (with the Tribunal comprising two former Justices of the Singapore Court of Appeal), concerning a joint venture agreement between the Respondent and a British Virgin Islands company for the reclamation and development of land.
Court Actions related to International Arbitrations
- DJP and others v DJO [2025] SGCA(I) 2.
- CZT v CZU [2024] SGCA(I) 6.
- Navayo International AG and another v Ministry of Defence, Government of Indonesia [2024] SGHC(I) 10.
- ST Group Co Ltd and others v Sanum Investments Ltd [2022] SGCA 2.
- CLQ v CLR [2021] SGHC(I) 15.
- CJM and others v CJT [2021] SGHC(I) 4.
- CBX and another v CBZ and others [2020] SGHC(I) 21.
- CBX and another v CBZ and others [2020] SGHC(I) 17.
- ST Group Co Ltd and others vs Sanum Investments Limited [2019] SGCA 65.
- BXY and others v BXX and others [2019] SGHC(I) 11.
- Sanum Investments Limited v ST Group Co, Ltd and others [2018] SGHC 141.
- Marty Limited v Hualon Corporation (Malaysia)) Sdn Bhd (OS 501 of 2016) [2017] SGHC 127.
Other Reported Judgments
- BCBC Singapore Pte Ltd and another v PT Bayan Resources TBK and another [2023] SGCA(I) 8.
- BCBC Singapore Pte Ltd and another v PT Bayan Resources TBK and another [2022] SGHC(I) 17.
- Esben Finance Limited v Neil Wong Hou-Lianq Neil [2022] SGCA(I) 1.
- Esben Finance Limited v Neil Wong Hou-Lianq Neil [2020] SGHC(1) 25
- PT Bayan Resources TBK and another v BCBC Singapore Ltd and another [2019] SGHC(I) 1.
- PT Bayan Resources TBK and another v BCBC Singapore Pte Ltd and another [2018] SGCA(I) 6.
- PT Bayan Resources TBK and another v BCBC Singapore Pte Ltd and another [2018] SGCA(I) 6, Civil Appeal No 154 of 2017.
- Shi Ka Yee v Nasraf Lucas Muzayyin & Anor (OS 682 of 2016) [2016] SGHC 138.
- Abdul Rashid bin Abdul Manaf v Hii Yii Ann (Suit No. 930 of 2015) [2016] SGHCR 1.
- Koh Heng Chew and ors. v Liew Kit Fah and ors (Suit No. 125 of 2014) [2016] SGHC 140.
- Alliance Concrete Singapore Pte Ltd and Sato Kogyo (S) Pte Ltd [2014] SGCA 35.
- TMTA Asia Limited v BHP Billiton Marketing AG (Singapore Branch) and BHP Billiton Marketing Asia Pte Ltd (Suit 580 of 2013) [2015] SGHC 21.
- Law Society of Singapore v Udeh Kumar s/o Sethuraju [2013] SGHC 121.
- Kraze Entertainment (S) Ptd Ltd v Marina Bay Sands Pte Ltd [2013] SGHC 39.
- Energenics Holdings Pte Ltd v Ronendra Nath Hazarika and 4 others (Suit No. 78 of 2012/G).
- Teleoptik-Ziroskopi and others v Westacre Investments Inc and other appeals [2012] SGCA 8.
- Griffin Travel Pte Ltd v Nagender Rao Chilkuri and 6 others (Suit No. 835 of 2011).
- MDIS and MDIS Pte Ltd v Edith Cowan University and 2 others (Suit No. 158 of 2011).
- Law Society of Singapore v Andre Ravindran Saravanapavan Arul [2011] SGHC 224.
- Holcim (Singapore) Pte Ltd v Precise Development Pte Ltd [2011] SGCA 1.
- Ng Swee Hua v Auston International Group Ltd and another [2010] SGHC 362.
- Management Corporation Strata Title Plan No. 301 of Grange Heights v Lee Tat Development Pte Ltd [2010] SGCA 39.
- The Law Society of Singapore v Jasmine Gowrimani d/o Daniel [2010] SGHC 143.
- The Law Society of Singapore v Aqbal Singh s/o Kuldip Singh and Another [2009] SGDT5.
- Sports Connection Private Limited v Deuter Sports GmbH [2009] SGCA 22.
- Susilawati v American Express Bank Limited [2009] SGCA 8.
- Susilawati v American Express Bank Ltd [2007] SGHC 179.
- Ting Sing Ning (alias Malcolm Ding) v Ting Chek Swee (alias Ting Chik Sui) and others [2007] SGCA 49.
- Ting Sing Ning (alias Malcolm Ding) v Ting Chek Swee (alias Ting Chik Sui) and others [2006] SGHC 192.
- ECRC Land Pte Ltd (in liquidation) v 1. Christopher Wing On Ho Shum Sze Keong 3. Lee Yen Kee Ruby 4. Paul Law Kwok Fai 5. E-Zone (Plaza) Pte Ltd 6. The Grande Group Limited 7. East Coast Works Pte Ltd 8. Hong Kong Aberdeen Seafood Restaurant Pte Ltd 9. Nakamichi Pte Ltd 10. Café A1 Fresco Pte Ltd [2006] SGCA 25.
- CHS CPO GmbH and Another v Vikas Goel and Others [2006] SGHC 49.
- CHS CPO GmbH (in bankruptcy) and Another v Vikas Goel and Others [2005] 3 SLR 202; [2005] SGHC 74.
- ECRC Land Pte Ltd (in liquidation) v 1. Christopher Wing On Ho Shum Sze Keong 3. Lee Yen Kee Ruby 4. Paul Law Kwok Fai 5. E-Zone (Plaza) Pte Ltd 6. The Grande Group Limited 7. East Coast Works Pte Ltd 8. Hong Kong Aberdeen Seafood Restaurant Pte Ltd 9. Nakamichi Pte Ltd 10. Café A1 Fresco Pte Ltd [2004] 1 SLR 105.
- Westacre Investments Inc v The State-Owned Company Yugoimport SDPR and 5 others (OS No. 1311 of 2004).
- Leow Tiak Cheow & Anor v Pan-United Industries Pte Ltd [2003] 1 SLR 569.
- Irawan Darsono 2. Arhawishanto International Holdings Pte Ltd v Ong Soon Kiat [2002] 4 SLR 84.
- Flairis Technology Corporation Limited & Anor v Gan Huan Kee & Ors [2002] SGHC 116.
- Sim Yew Thong v Ng Loy Nam Thomas and other appeals [2000] 4 SLR 193.
- Chan Chim Yee v Public Prosecutor [2000] 2 SLR 1.
- The Law Society of Singapore v Khushvinder Singh Chopra [1999] 4 SLR 775.
- Niranjan M. Lilani v Devadas Naidu & Anor [1999] 4 SLR 418.
- Mahendran & Anor v R. Arumuganathan [1999] 2 SLR 579.
- Lau Song Seng & Ors v Public Prosecutor [1998] 1 SLR 663.
- Mooka Pillai Rajagopal & Ors v Khushvinder Singh Chopra [1998] 1 SLR 186.
- Sundara Moorthy Lankatharan v Public Prosecutor [1997] 3 SLR 464.
- Sumitomo Bank Ltd v Kartika Ratna Thahir [1997] 1 SLR 690.
- Essen System Builders (S) Pte Ltd & Anor v Chew Boon Hee [1997] 1 SLR 671.
- Mookka Pillai Rajagopal & Ors v Khushvinder Singh Chopra [1996] 3 SLR 457.
- Khushvinder Singh Chopra v Mookka Pillai Rajagopal & Ors [1996] 2 SLR 379.
- Alrich Development Pte Ltd v Rafiq Jumabhoy [1995] 2 SLR 401.
- Ramond Selva Clement v Public Prosecutor [1994] 3 SLR 515.
- Kartika Ratna Thahir v PT Pertambangan Minyak dan Gas Bumi Negara (Pertamina) [1994] 3 SLR 257.
- Public Prosecutor v Lee Twe Jeat [1994] 3 SLR 219.
- Alrich Development Pte Ltd v Rafiq Jumabhoy [1994] 3 SLR 1.
- Sumitomo Bank Ltd v Kartika Ratna Thahir & Ors and another matter [1993] 1 SLR 735.
Unreported Judgments
- Gavin James Millar v 1. Lee Hsien Loong 2. Lee Kuan Yew, judgment dated 9 July 2007 in Civil Appeal No. 70 of 2007.
- Flairis Technology Corporation Limited 2. Flairis Advanced Manufacturing Pte Ltd v 1. Gan Huan Kee 2. Chan Tien Seng 3. Khong Soo Har @ Khong Fan Kee 4. Wong Kwok Ping, judgment dated 29 May 2002 of Lai Siu Chiu J in Suit No. 723 of 2001/A.
- Sutjiawang Johanis Alias Tjia Eng Liong v Tjia Eng Soei, judgment dated 30 April 2002 of Rubin J in Suit No. 600025 of 2000.
- Finnian Tseng Cheng Yao & anor v Tan Kah Imm, judgment dated 15 November 1999 of Amarjeet Singh JC in OS No. 735 of 1998.
- Ismail Bin Sumali v Public Prosecutor, judgment dated 23 September 1994 of Chao Hick Tin J in CRA16 of 1994.
- Re Arthur Leolin Price, QC, judgment dated 21 December 1994 of K S Rajah JC in OM 109 of 1994.
- Boldward Enterprises Pte Ltd v Hitachi Zosen Singapore Limited, judgment dated 9 July 1997 of Rubin J in Suit No 865 of 1994.
- Management Corporation Strata Title Plan No. 964 v Gordon Industrial Land Pte Ltd & Anor, judgment dated 19 April 1995 of Goh Joon Seng J in Suit No. 258 of 1994 (RA 222 of 1994).
- Management Corporation Strata Title Plan No. 964 v Gordon Industrial Land Pte Ltd & Anor, judgment dated 19 April 1995 of Goh Joon Seng J in Suit No. 258 of 1994 (RA 222 of 1994).
- Fritz Karl Schnell & Anor v Thomas Edward Dorn & Ors, judgment dated 30 May 1997 of Lai Siu Chiu J in Suit No 2140 of 1993.
- Public Prosecutor v Supramaniam A/L P Palani And Anor, judgment dated 27 April 1994 of Amarjeet Singh JC in Criminal Case No. 19 of 1992.
- Public Prosecutor v 1. Yacob S/O Rusmatullah 2. Mohamad Jaffar Bin Abidin, judgment dated 17 July 1993 of Amarjeet Singh JC in Criminal Case No. 15 of 1992.
- Public Prosecutor v 1) Tan Chee Hwee 2) Soon Kin Liang Joseph @ Sun Jianliang Joseph, judgment dated 31 October 1992 of Rubin JC in Criminal Case No 12 of 1991.
Other Qualifications/ Appointments
Other Appointments
- Founder Member and Advisor (AI & Law), Alliance for AI and Humanity.
- Senior Advisor, Beihai Asia International Arbitration Centre (BAIAC).
- Advisory Board, GeneJunction Pte Ltd.
- Member, Next Generation Russian Arbitrators (NGAR) Advisory Board.
- Member, International Advisory Committee of the Indian Council of Arbitration, New Delhi.
- Board member, Russian Arbitration Center at the Russian Institute of Modern Arbitration, Moscow; and Chair, International Arbitration Committee, RAC.
- Member, Asia Advisory Committee, American Arbitration Association, International Centre for Dispute Resolution (AAA-ICDR).
- Member, Advisory Committee of the Centre for International Alternative Dispute Resolution (CIAdr), Bangladesh.
- Member, Advisory Board, Kovise Foundation Conflict Resolution International, Chennai.
- Referee, appointed under 5.43 of The Industrial Relations Act for a further 2-year term (from April 2024), Industrial Arbitration Court, Singapore.
- Member, Global Advisory Board, Hyderabad Arbitration Centre
- Member, Indian Council of Arbitration, New Delhi
- Member, Users’ Council, Singapore International Arbitration Centre.
- Member, Council of Law Reporting, Singapore Academy of Law
- Member, Professional Affairs Committee, Professional Values Chapter, Singapore Academy of Law
- Regional Pathway Leader and Faculty member, Approved Faculty of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (UK).
- Member, CIArb Global Professional Development Advisory Group
- Member, Panel of Neutrals – Law Society Neutral Evaluation and Determination Scheme (Singapore).
- Member, Panel of Arbitrators, Law Society Arbitration Scheme (Singapore).
- Founder and Chairman, Persatuan Kebajikan dan Pendidikin Bumi Alam (NGO, Malaysia).
- Patron – MyCulture (NGO, Malaysia).
Previous Appointments
- Member of the Rules Committee, Singapore Academy of Law (from 2018 to 2022)
- He was appointed to the Singapore Appeal Advisory Panels (constituted under the Business Trusts Act, Financial Advisers Act, Insurance Act, Securities and Futures Act and Trust Companies Act) by then Deputy PM Tharman Shanmugaratnam for two consecutive 2-year terms (1 October 2017 to 30 September 2021).
- Chairman, IPBA Committee for the promulgation of Guidelines on Privilege and Attorney Secrecy in International Arbitration (2016-2020); released in 2019.
- Chairman, Junior College Law Conference Organising Committee, Singapore Academy of Law (2009 to 2021).
- Vice Chairman, Committee on Legal Education and Studies, Singapore Academy of Law (2015).
- Member, International Promotion of Singapore Law Committee, Singapore Academy of Law.
- Member, Complaints Panel of the Singapore Pharmacy Council.
- Jurisdictional Council Member (Singapore), Inter Pacific Bar Association.
- Chairman, Entrapment Practice Review Committee of the Law Society of Singapore (2007 to 2009)
- Appointed by the Minister for Law (pursuant to s 48 of the Legal Profession Act) to serve on the Council, Law Society of Singapore -January 2005 – December 2008.
- Member, Executive Committee of the Council of the Law Society (2008).
- Chairman, Law Society Regulatory Oversight Committee (2008).
- Member, Ad Hoc Committee to Review Rule 31, Legal Profession (Professional Conduct) Rules (PCR) (2008).
- Member, Law Society Finance Committee (2008).
- Law Society Council Representative, Civil Practice Committee (2008).
- Chairman, Motor Insurance Practice Review Committee of the Law Society of Singapore (2006/2007).
- Member, Sub-Committee to the Corporate Practice Committee of the Law Society to Review Proposed Legal Changes on Insider Dealing (2001).
- Member, Continuing Legal Education Committee of the Law Society of Singapore (1999 to 2001).
- Member, Advocacy Committee of the Law Society of Singapore (1995 to 2006).
- Member, Criminal Law Special Assignments Committee of the Law Society of Singapore (1989 to 2001).
- Member, Independent Committee of Investigation, National Technological University (2004).
- Member, Law Society Audit Committee (2009).
Awards
- Aviation Lawyer of the Year – Global Awards (2020)
- Public Service Medal Award, National Day Awards, 23 November 2014 (for his role in the Singapore Academy of Law Committee on Legal Education and Studies)
- Merit Award, Singapore Academy of Law (2013)
- Criminal Legal Aid Scheme, Volunteer Award, Law Society of Singapore (2007)
PUBLICATIONS
Articles
- “A Multilateral Investment Court – A Mirage in the Horizon”, IPBA Journal, June 2021
- “A Presumption in the Implied Choice of Law Governing Arbitration Agreements? Sulamerica Reconsidered in Singapore” published in 2016 Bangladesh International Arbitration Centre 5th Anniversary book.
- “When is recourse available to the Singapore Courts for an anti-arbitration injunction?” Thought Leadership Experts published on 30 September 2015 Expert Guides.
- “The Issue of Extra-Territoriality in Securities Litigation: A Comparative View” published in 2011 Bloomberg Finance L.P. in the Vol. 4, No. 6 edition of the Bloomberg Law Reports – Asia-Pacific.
- “The Rome Convention Dealing with Damages Caused By Foreign Aircraft to Third Parties” published in Lawlines, (Volume 9, Issue 2), June 2007.
- “The Impact of Free Trade Agreements on Labour Mobility”, published in the Law Gazette, December 2006.
- “Workplace Influenza Pandemic – Legal Boundaries and Best Practice” published in Lawlines, (Volume 8 Issue 1), March 2006.
- The Singapore perspective – “Pandemics and the Workplace, A Regional Analysis”, being part of an Asian-wide publication coordinated by Johnson Stokes and Masters, January 2006.
- “Recent Developments In the Garnishment of Retention Monies” published in Lawlines, (Volume 7 Issue 3), September 2005.
- “Drafting of Charges in Disciplinary Proceedings” published in Lawlines, (Volume 4 Issue 2), May 2002.
- “The Domestic and International Arbitration Regimes in Singapore”’ published in Lawlines, (Volume 3 Issue 3), September 2001.
- “An Overview of Arbitration Internationally and in Singapore” published in the Singapore Law Gazette, August 2001.
- “Arbitration as a Method of Dispute Resolution” published in Lawlines (Vol 3, Issue 1), December 2000.
- “Disciplinary Proceedings in the Medical Profession” published in the Singapore Law Gazette, May 2000.
- Author, article on “Disciplinary Proceedings in the Medical Profession” published in the Singapore Law Gazette, May 2000.
Books
- General Editor, Charting New Waters: The Singapore International Commercial Court After Ten Years (SAL Academy Publishing, 2025).
- Contributor on the Chapter on “The Rise of International Commercial Courts” in Legal Research on Investment and Financing of Chinese Enterprises in the Singapore, Switzerland and Germany, the fifth series of Legal Research on overseas Investment and Financing for Chinese Enterprises (2019).
- General Editor, Civil Litigation in Singapore (Sweet & Maxwell, 2018).
- General Editor, Arbitration in Singapore: A Practical Guide (2nd Edition, Sweet & Maxwell, 2018).
- Contributor on the Chapter on Advocacy in the SICC in “Modern Advocacy – More Perspectives from Singapore” SAL Academy Publishing (2019).
- Contributor, report on “Women, Business and the Law 2018” (published by the World Bank Group).
- The Singapore Chapter, Women, Business and the Law 2014 and 2015: Removing Restrictions to Enhance Gender Equality (published by World Bank, IFC).
- The Singapore Chapter, the International Comparative Legal Guide: Enforcement of Foreign Judgments, Global Legal Group (2016).
- “Perspectives on Preserving Electronic Evidence when Litigation is Contemplated or has Commenced” published in “International Conference on Electronic Litigation” (2012).
- 2nd Edition of the report entitled Women, Business and the Law 2012: Removing Barriers to Economic Inclusion (World Bank).
- Contributor, Singapore Precedents of Pleadings (Sweet & Maxwell Asia, 2006 Edition).
- Contributor, Business Torts and Business Crimes in the Law of Rights and Obligations of Business in Singapore, Singapore Business Development Series (1996 Edition, Addison –Wesley).
- 25th Anniversary Publication on the Historical Development of the Law Society of Singapore, 1995.
- Specialist Editor – Mallal’s Digest of Malaysian and Singapore Case Law (Fourth Edition – 1991) – Volume 5 (Criminal Procedure).
Talks Delivered
- Panelist, “Voices in Arbitration: Let’s Discuss”, hosted by Asian International Arbitration Centre, Malaysia, November 2025.
- Trainer (via zoom), “Roles and Processess of Review Committee & Inquiry Committee”, hosted by Inquiry Panel, Singapore, September 2025.
- Speaker on “Investor-State Disputes and Commercial Arbitration”, organised by International and Comparative Law Research Center, Singapore Convention Week, Singapore, August 2025.
- Panel Speaker on “Investor-State Dispute Settlement in Southeast Asia”, co-organized by ICSID and Rajah & Tann, Singapore Convention Week, Singapore, August 2025.
- Speaker on “Revised IBA Guidelines on Conflicts of Interest In International Arbitration (2024)”, hosted by ICC Malaysia, June 2025.
- Panel Speaker on “Silence, Please: How Culture, Communication, and Conflict Intersect in Arbitration”, co-organised by AAA-ICDR and IPBA Panel, Chicago, April 2025.
- Speaker (via zoom) “ASEAN Business & Investment Law Training Course 2024 – hosted by Chulalongkorn University, March 2025.
- Speaker, “Seeking Interim Reliefs through Emergency Arbitration in India” – ICDR India Conference, Delhi, October 2024.
- Panel Speaker on ICSID’s Post- Award Remedies and Enforcement: “An Asian Perspective” – Thailand ADR Week , September 2024.
- Trainer (via zoom), “Alternative Dispute Resolution Training” organised by the African Legal Support Facility (“ALSF”), May and June 2024
- Lead Trainer, “International Commercial Arbitration Workshop”, organised by the US Commercial Law Development Program, Lao, Vientiane, April 2024.
- Speaker (via zoom), Interlocutory Applications In Arbitration” hosted by Borneo International Centre for Arbitration and Mediation, March 2024.
- Speaker (via zoom), “ASEAN Business & Investment Law Training Course 2024 – hosted by Chulalongkorn University, March 2024.
- Speaker, “An International Investor Court”, Yangtze River Delta Financial Legal Forum, March 2024.
- Speaker, “International Arbitration in Change Time : Meeting Challenges, Bridging Divide”, APRAG Conference 2023 hosted by Asia Pacific Regional Arbitration Group and Beijing International Arbitration Center, Beijing, China, November 2023.
- Speaker, “International Dispute Resolution Consultations”, organised by the US Commercial Law Development Program, Lao, Vientaine, November 2023.
- Lead Trainer, International Commercial Arbitration Workshop: Best Practices for the Mongolian International Arbitration Centre, organised by the US Commercial Law Development Program, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, September 2023.
- Panelist, “Validity and Challenges on Enforcement of Emergency Arbitral Awards”, hosted by International Arbitration And Mediation Centre, Hyderabad, July 2023.
- Speaker, “Unveiling Lessons From the Past; Unearthing Strategies For The Future in ADR”, plenary session hosted by Borneo International Centre For Arbitration and Mediation in conjunction with its opening, Sabah, July 2023.
- Speaker, “Dispute Resolution for the Start-Up Ecosystem: SIAC’s Offerings”, Bengaluru Conference 2023 hosted by Singapore International Arbitration Centre, Bangalore, June 2023.
- Lead Trainer, International Commercial Arbitration Workshop for the Maldivian AGO, organised by the US Commercial Law Development Program, Male, May 2023.
- Speaker, “New SICC Rules”, hosted by Law Society Litigation Conference, Singapore, April 2023.
- Moderator (In person/via zoom), “The Mediation of Investor-State Disputes – What does the Future Hold?” jointly organised by CIArb Singapore Branch, Centre for International Law and International Law Arbitration, February 2023, Singapore.
- Speaker (via zoom), “Art of Cross-Examination in International Arbitration” hosted by Asia Pacific Centre for Arbitration & Mediation, New Delhi, February 2023.
- Speaker, session on “Corruption in Arbiration : Knowing the Unknown” hosted by Delhi International Arbitration Centre, Delhi Arbitration Weekend, February 2023.
- Speaker, (via zoom), conducted an Advocacy Workshop on cross examination on January 2023 organised by the Russian Institute of Modern Arbitration, Moscow.
- Trainer, Arbitration Award Writing, Maldives, International Arbitration Centre, Maldives, December 2022.
- Speaker (via zoom), “International, Arbitration 2023 : Paradigm Shifts”, Conference hosted by Russian National Committee of the International Chambers of Commerce (ICC Russia), Moscow, December 2022.
- Speaker, “What’s next for Arbitration & ADR”, BAIC Symposium 2022, hosted by Beihai Asia International Arbitration Centre, Singapore, November 2022.
- Panelist (via zoom) “Settlement Facilitations in Southeast Asia”, Berlin, November 2022.
- Panelist (via zoom), “The Sphere of Justice – Harmonization of private and public interest in law enforcement”, organised by the Russian Institute of Modern Arbitration, Moscow, October 2022.
- Speaker, “Disputes from Different Perspectives”, hosted by UKSLSS, Singapore, August 2022.
- Trainer, Maldivian Judiciary together with SIMC, Maldives, August 2022.
- Trainer, “Knowledge and Experience on International Arbitration”, hosted by Vietnam International Arbitration Centre, Ho Ci Minh, July 2022.
- Panelist (via zoom), “Civil-Commercial and International Law – Key Developments, hosted by CIArb, London, July 2022
- Panelist (via zoom), “ Hybrid Arbitration Proceedings – the Next Step after the Pandemic”, hosted by Thailand Arbitration Centre, Bangkok, July 2022.
- Panelist, “Arbitrators : The Constitution of Arbitral Tribunals in the Current Reality” , St Petersburg International, Forum, Moscow, June 2022.
- Speaker, “Investment Pitfalls in ASEAN”, hosted by Singapore Business Federation/Ministry of Trade and Industry, Singapore, June 2022.
- Trainer, “Jurisdictional Issues and Challenges to the Arbitral Tribunals”, hosted by AIAC, Kuala Lumpur, May 2022.
- Speaker, “Pre-Litigation Strategy Under the New Rules of Court”, hosted by Law Society Litigation Conference, Singapore, May 2022.
- Speaker, “Arbitration in the Era of Globalization – The Fourth Edition”, Conference hosted by Indian Council Arbitration/Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Dubai, 1March 2022.
- Speaker, “Effective Submissions in the Age of Virtual Hearings”, webinar hosted by The Law Society of Singapore, November 2021.
- Panelist, Public International Law Webinar Series – “New Horizons for Investor – States Disputes, Singapore, October 2021.
- Speaker, “Spanish Arbitration Day In Beijing – Sixth Edition : ESG and Arbitration. A Global Perspective”, webinar hosted by Club Espanol del Arbitraje and China International Economic and Trade Arbitration Commission, September 2021.
- Panelist, “Arbitration in Litigation: First Hand Experience at the Singapore International Commercial Court”, Singapore Convention Week 2021), webinar hosted by SICC, September 2021.
- Speaker, “ADR goes online! Changes and Innovations demanded by the new global situation”, webinar hosted by Thailand Arbitration Center (THAC) and ADR ODR International, August 2021.
- Speaker, “Rethinking Dispute Resolution amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic”, ICC event, Singapore, July 2021.
- Moderator, “Turbulence in the Airlines Industry – Issues in Debt Restructuring”, Singapore, June 2021.
- Speaker, “The SIAC Advantage for Russia-related Projects and Transactions”, webinar hosted by SIAC, August 2021.
- Speaker, “International co-operation and government guidelines on dispute resolution during the COVID-19 pandemic”, London International Disputes Week, United Kingdom, May 2021.
- Plenary Address on (Webinar) ‘Treaty Arbitration and the Future of ISDS’, IPBA Annual Conference, Shanghai, April 2021.
- Lead Trainer, “Treaty Arbitration – Substantive Obligations and Key Developments” in Partnership with SIAC, Jakarta, April 2021.
- Speaker, “The Sphere of Justice”, conference hosted by Moscow State Law Academy, April 2021.
- Lead Trainer, “Time and Cost Savers at SIAC : Emergency Arbitration, Expedited Procedure and Early Dismissal (Virtual Edition)”, SIAC Academy for the Middle-East, April 2021
- Panelist, “CIArb Student Open Day on Career Choices” webinar hosted by CIArb UK, February 2021.
- Keynote Speaker, “Role of CiArb in Tackling Key Challenges faced by ADR Practitioners Globally”, Ecuador Arbitration Day, Quito, February 2021.
- Panelist, “Roundtable Discussion on Singapore’s implementation of the ASEAN Comprehensive Investment Agreement,”, hosted by ASEAN Law Association, Singapore, February 2021.
- Speaker, “Arbitrability of Disputes – a cornerstone for Arbitration”, webinar hosted by Maadhyam International Council for Conflict Resolution, India, December 2020.
- Moderator, “2020 Annual Summit on Commercial Dispute Resolution in China” webinar hosted by CIARB & Beijing International Arbitration Center, Beijing, November 2020.
- Panelist, “Theme: Africa And ADR In An Evolving Landscape”, webinar hosted by CIArb Kenya Branch 4th International Arbitration Conference, Nairobi, November 2020.
- Panelist, “Alexander Lecture 2020”, webinar hosted by Alexander Lecture 2020, London, November 2020.
- Delivering welcome address, “Virtual Congress Conference 2020” webinar hosted by CIArb, United Kingdom, November 2020.
- Speaker, “The Use of Mediation in ISDS” webinar hosted by Asian Academy of International Law, Hong Kong SAR, November 2020.
- Faculty, “SIAC South Asia Academy 2020 (Virtual Edition) – Details (The Making of an Advocate and an Arbitrator)”, webinar hosted by SIAC South Asia Academy, Singapore, November 2020.
- Speaker, “The Arbitration Landscape and the SIAC Rules in a Post Pandemic World”, webinar hosted by Rajah & Tann, Singapore, November 2020.
- Speaker, “International Arbitration Awards” webinar hosted by CPD BEAM, India, November 2020.
- Delivering the welcome address and closing remarks, “All-Party Parliamentary Group for ADR Report launch – securing the UK’s position as a global disputes hub: Lessons from Singapore”, Singapore, October 2020.
- Panelist, “Is Third Party Funding Changing International Arbitration” webinar hosted by ACICA/CIArb, Sydney, October 2020.
- Panelist, “Smart Contracts and blockchain dispute resolution from international and institutional perspectives”, webinar hosted by the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, North American Branch, New York, October 2020.
- Panelist, “Asian Opportunities and Disputes” webinar hosted by GAR Interactive Moscow, October 2020.
- Speaker, “Meet the CIArb leaders” webinar hosted by the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, London, September 2020.
- Speaker, webinar on “Dispute Management in the New World” organised by the Jamaica International Arbitration Centre, Jamaica, August 2020.
- Delivering the opening address, “XIII Dublin Forum on International Dispute Resolution”, Ireland, June 2020.
- Delivering the closing address and moderator, 10th CIArb Roebuck Lecture 2020 delivered by Cherie Blair QC on ‘’Getting ahead of the curve: How arbitration can better meet the needs of parties, people and plant”, London, June 2020.
- Panelist, webinar on “Effects of the Singapore Covid-19 Legislation on Global Businesses and Dispute Resolution”, organised by AAA-ICDR Asia, Singapore, June 2020.
- Sole speaker, webinar on ‘The Impact of the Pandemic on the Future ADR” organised by the Dhaka Centre for International Alternative Dispute Resolution, May 2020.
- Panellist, IPBA Leaders webinar on “Responding to the global impact of the Pandemic”, May 2020.
- Panellist, “Dealing with issues of Force Majeure, Frustration and Material Adverse Change, International Arbitration: An Essential Webinar for users”, organised by SIAC, April 2020.
- Panel speaker, “Judicial Remedies During the Pandemic” webinar of the St Petersburg International Legal Forum April 2020, Moscow (attended by a record 300,000 participants from 102 nations).
- Sole panellist, Webinar on “Effective Arbitration Clauses” organised by KFCRI (Chennai), January 2020.
- Speaker “Arbitration in the era of Globalization – The Third Edition” , February 2020 organised by FICCI, New Delhi.
- Speaker, “The Future of International Commercial Arbitration – A Perspective from Asia”, January 2020, organized by the Atlanta International Arbitration Society, Atlanta.
- Keynote speaker, AEGON Group and Transamerica Life Bermuda’s executive training event, November 2019, Singapore.
- Speaker. “Elements of Persuasive Advocacy and Effective Cross-Examination for International Arbitration”, at the SIAC Academy, November 2019, Singapore.
- Speaker, “Challenges and Promise of the Current Dispute Resolution Landscape” at the Coffee Connect, an Unplugged Talk series organised by the Asia Advisory Committee of the AAA-ICDR, November 2019 (Singapore).
- Speaker, “Expert Summit in International Arbitration in Jakarta” organised by BIAMC on November 2019, Jakarta.
- Guest Speaker for “Asia CMC’s Breakfast series”, organised by Asia Case Management Office, October 2019 at Maxwell Chambers Suites.
- Speaker, “Dispute Resolution in the Singapore International Commercial Court”, organised by the Singapore International Commercial Court” at ABS, MAS Building, Singapore, September 2019.
- Panellist, “Ensuring a Sustainable Framework to Attract and Protect Investment: Drawing on Russia and Singapore’s Experience in the Global and Regional Context” at the Eastern Economic Forum, Vladivostok, Russia, September 2019.
- Speaker, “Privilege or Attorney Secrecy – A contrasting approach” at the Seminar on Privilege in International Arbitration at Singapore Business Federation Center, August 2019.
- Speaker, “Harmonizing Common and Civil Law Perspective in International Commercial Arbitration” at the 2nd Annual Center for the Amicable Resolution of Disputes at the Bayleaf Intramuros, Manila, Phillipines, July 2019.
- Speaker, roundtable discussion “Dispute resolution in Singapore – Does it work?” at a Singapore-focused event for Russian law firms and general counsel, Kempinski Hotel Moika 22, May 2019, Moscow.
- Speaker, “Breakfast with the Singapore International Commercial Court “in conjunction with Inter Pacific Bar Association 2019 hosted by the Singapore International Commercial court, Swisssotel The Stamford, April 2019.
- Speaker, “IPBA Guidelines on Privileges and Attorney Secrecy in International Arbitration” at the Inter Pacific Bar Association 2019, Fairmont Hotel Singapore, April 2019.
- Moderator, session with Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Inter Pacific Bar Association 2019, Fairmont Hotel Singapore, April 2019.
- Speaker, “In-house perspective on the future of dispute resolution” organised by Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, Raffles City Convention Centre, April 2019.
- Moderator, session on “Contemporary Damages Principles in International Arbitration” at the SIAC Kuala Lumpur Conference 2019, March 2019.
- Speaker, “The Rise of International Commercial Courts – Will Arbitration Retreat?” at the IPBA 2019 Singapore Annual Conference, February 2019, Osaka Bar Association, Japan.
- Speaker, “Future Directions of CiArb” at the CIArb Annual Congress Atlanta (USA), November 2018.
- Speaker, IPBA outreach to the NY bar, held at Becker, Glynn, Muffly, Chassin & Hosinski LLP’s offices in New York, November 2018.
- Panellist, “Looking at the Crystal Ball. What will the next 10 years hold for international arbitration?” organised by AIJA’s International Arbitration Commission on October 2018 at Maxwell Chambers.
- Panellist, “The Effect of Illegality in Civil Law Claims”, September 2018 at the Chamber at the Arts House, 1 Old Parliament Lane.
- Speaker, “International Developments in Arbitration”, August 2018 at the Malaysian Institute of Arbitrators 5th Annual Law Review & Conference.
- Speaker, “Treaty Arbitration Thailand and Asia – What has 2018 got in Store”, August 2018 at the Thailand: Annual International Arbitration & Regulatory Summit, Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park.
- Panellist, “Enforcement and Recognition – Asian perspectives”, June 2018 at the Asset Recovery Asia, Intercontinental Singapore.
- Panellist, in Discussion Session “Investment Arbitration: How to Ensure Fair Play Between Foreign Investors and Host States?” (Backlash against Investment Arbitration in Asia), May 2018 at the St. Petersburg International Legal Forum 2018, Russia.
- Speaker, “Future of the Legal Profession”, May 2018 at the St. Petersburg International Legal Forum 2018, Russia.
- Panellist, Tete-a-Tete with Bar Leaders: “Challenges Facing Legal Profession in the New Era!” organised by The Law Society of Singapore, January 2018.
- Panel speaker on “Common Law and Civil Law: The Case of Convergence” organised by Law Society of Singapore on January 2018.
- Speaker, “When all else fails – attack the Tribunal!” at the CIArb South East Branch Event, November 2017 Mandolay Hotel, Surrey, London.
- Speaker, “Effective Methods for Resolution of OBOR and CPEC Disputes” at the Conference on Dispute Resolution, jointly organised by Center for International Investment and Commercial Arbitration (CIICA) and School of Law and Policy (SLP), October 2017, Lahore Pakistan.
- Speaker, “Will there be common grounds in litigation, arbitration and mediation practice? Why or why not?”at the Law Society of Singapore LSS 50th Anniversary Double Bill (incorporating Biennial Lecture 2017 / Annual CPD Day 2017) event, October 2017, Singapore.
- Speaker, “Setting aside of Arbitral Awards” at the 3rd IPBA Asia-Pac Arbitration Day 2017, September 2017 organised by KLRCA Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
- Speaker, “Recent Developments and Trends in Civil Litigation 2017” at the State Courts Judiciary, July 2017.
- Speaker, “Corporate and Complex Business Disputes in Arbitration. New Opportunities and New Challenges”, May 2017 at the St. Petersburg International Legal Forum 2017, Russia.
- Panellist, “The Bear and the Lion: A Comparison of the Regimes for Interim Measures in International Arbitrator in Russia and Singapore – Types, Timing and Tactics”, May 2017 at the St Petersburg International Legal Forum 2017, Russia.
- Speaker, Workshop titled “Written Advocacy in International Arbitration” organised by the Centre for International Investment and Commercial Arbitration, Pakistan at the Sheikh Ahmed Hassan School of Law at the Lahore University of Management Sciences, April 2017.
- Panel speaker “Key to Preparing Expert Witness Reports to Effectively Support your Case” organised by the Centre for International Investment and Commercial Arbitration, Pakistan at the Sheikh Ahmed Hassan School of Law at the Lahore University of Management Sciences, April 2017.
- Moderator, session on Privilege and its impact on discovery/documents production (Dispute Resolution and Arbitration), April 2017, IPBA 2017, Auckland.
- Panel Chair, “The Art of Advocacy: The Civil and Common Law Styles” at the CIArb Dubai Conference, March, Dubai.
- Delivered a speech at the Inauguration Ceremony at the CIArb-BIAC Introduction Course, January 2017, Hogan Lovells Lee & Lee’s offices, Singapore.
- Panel speaker, “Cross-Border Financing of Infrastructure Projects”, hosted by Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas & Co and Lex Mundi. Supported by IDEX Legal, New Delhi, India, November 2016.
- Delivered keynote address at the Mona International Centre for Arbitration and Mediation in Jamaica, November 2016.
- Moderator, “Tribunal – Jurisdiction, Power & Duties”, organised by the Singapore Institute of Arbitrators at the SIArb Commercial Arbitration Symposium 2016, September 2016, Singapore.
- Speaker, “A Novel Approach To International Commercial Dispute Resolution” organised by the Singapore International Commercial Court, September 2019, ABS, MAS Building.
- Panel speaker “Ensuring a Sustainable Framework to Attract and Protect Investment : Drawing on Russia and Singapore’s Experience in the Global and Regional Context” at the Eastern Economic Forum, September 2019, Vladivostok, Russia.
- Speaker “Seminar on Privilege in International Arbitration” organised by the Law Society of Singapore, August 2019 at the Singapore Business Federation Center – 160 Robinson Road #06-01.
- Panel speaker, “The SICC and its role in the Resolution of Construction Disputes & Development & Construction Law”, August 2016, Hotel Fort Canning, Singapore.
- Panel speaker, “The role of the arbitral tribunal at the hearing: does the legal tradition matter?” organised by the Swiss Arbitration Association at the launch of its South-East Asia Chapter, June 2016, Maxwell Chambers, Singapore.
- Panel speaker, “Malaysia’s experience in investment treaty arbitration and the Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement” at the APAG Training Day – Best Practices in International Arbitration organised by the International Bar Association and Kuala Lumpur Regional Centre for Arbitration, June 2016, Kuala Lumpur.
- Speaker, “ADR: A Business Development Priority for Bangladesh” at the BIAC 5th anniversary seminar organised by the Bangladesh International Arbitration Centre, June 2016, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
- Panel Speaker, Debate “This house believes the era of international courts is nigh”, May 2016, IBA – Dispute Resolution in the Arab Region, Dubai.
- Panel Speaker, “Recent Developments in Arbitration and Litigation”, May 2016 hosted by McNair Chambers, IBA-Dispute Resolution in the Arab Region, Dubai.
- Panel Speaker, “International Commercial Arbitration: Perspective and Reforms”, St Petersburg International Legal Forum 2016, May 2016, St Petersburg, Russia.
- Panel Speaker, “Comparison between International Arbitration and SICC” May 2016, organised by the Alternative Dispute Resolution Committee of the Law Society, Singapore.
- Moderator, CiARB – SIAC debate,“This House proposes that an arbitral award that has been set aside at the seat may, and often should, be enforced abroad” May 2016 , Singapore
- Trainer, Litigation Conference Workshop 2016 presented by the Civil Practice Committee of The Law Society of Singapore, 2016, Marina Bay Sands Convention Centre.
- Speaker, on “Doing Business in India”, Union Internationale des Avocats – International Association of Lawyers, March 2016, New Delhi
- Moderator and Speaker, “A Roundtable on the challenges faced in ASEAN and participating nations in promoting arbitration and enforcing arbitration agreements” Second ACJM Judicial Training, February 2016, Supreme Court of Singapore.
- Panel Speaker, “Arbitration in the era of globalization”, ICA International Conference, December 2015, Delhi
- Speaker, on “A dispute arising out of an investment in an offshore natural gas platform within a contested area of the continental shelf”, at the Singapore International Arbitration Academy 2015, November 2015, Singapore.
- Panel Speaker, “The seat of the Arbitration – The most important choice in International Arbitration”, IPBA Regional Seminar, October 2015, Dubai.
- Panel Speaker, “Effectively Managing an Investment treaty arbitration – an Asian Perspective”, Singapore Centenary Conference, September 2015, Singapore.
- Speaker, “Challenges, Recognition and Enforcement of Awards”, CiArb (Singapore Branch) Arbitration Training for Vietnamese Bar for CiArb at Vietnam, July/August 2015.
- Speaker, “AEC & ASEAN Competition Laws – Status, Regulator Activity and Red Flags”, May 2015, Thomson Reuters Auditorium, Singapore.
- Speaker, “Employee fraud, Restrictive Covenants and Privacy issues”, organized by Deacons, May 2015, Hong Kong.
- Speaker, “Issues of Enfocement of Foreign Judgments or Arbitral Awards”, hosted by Petronas, April 2015, Kuala Lumpur.
- Panel Speaker, “Impact of International Arbitration on State Development”, organized by the Bangladesh International Arbitration Centre, April 2015, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
- Speaker, “Fundamentals of International Legal Business Practice”, organized by the International Bar Association (IBA) Young Lawyers’ Committee, the IBA Asia Pacific Regional Forum and the Law Society of Singapore, March 2015, Marina Bay Sands, Singapore.
- Panel Speaker, “The need for Speed and Economy in Arbitration”, ICCA 4th Corporate law Officers Summit 2015, February 2015, New Delhi.
- Panel Speaker, ”Employment Labour and Employment Trends around the Region in 180 minutes”, IPBA 25th Annual Meeting & Conference, February 2015, Hong Kong.
- Speaker, “Introduction to International Arbitrator”, Chartered Institute of Arbitrators London, January 2015, UMCCI, Yangon, Myanmar.
- Trainer, “Interim measures in Arbitration” at the 3rd Asia Pacific ADR Conference, November 2014, Korea Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Seoul.
- Panel Speaker, “Arbitration as a Tool to Increase Investment in Developing Countries” at the IPBA Regional Conference in Brazil, September 2014, Windsor Atlântica Hotel, Rio De Janeiro.
- Speaker, “Arbitration in Singapore – Some Recent Developments” organized by Singapore Institute of Arbitrators, July 2014, Singapore.
- Trainer, “Singapore Advanced Advocacy Course 2014” organized by the Singapore Academy of Law in partnership with the Advocacy Training Council from the UK, The International Advocacy Training Council Ltd , The Attorney-General’s Chambers, The Law Society of Singapore, June 2014, Supreme Court Singapore.
- Trainer, “CiArb Training Session on International Arbitration (Special Session) for the Maldivian Judiciary”, June 2014, Singapore.
- Panel Speaker, “Investment Treaty Arbitration in Asia : The Meeting of International Commercial Arbitration and Public International Law”, June 2014, SIAC Congress 2014, Singapore.
- Moderator, “Aviation Disputes – Contractual and Damages Claims in and Outside of an Aircraft”, May 10, IPBA 2014 Conference, Vancouver BC, Canada.Moderator, Distinguished Speaker Lecture on the “Implications of Scientific Memory Research for the Law” organized by the Singapore Academy of Law, December 2013.
- Speaker, “Perspective on Asian Participation in International Investment Arbitration”, organized by National University of Singapore and Centre for International Law, December 2013, Singapore.
- Speaker, “Use of Emergency Arbitrators”, organized by the International Arbitration Academy, November 2013.
- Panel speaker, “Enforcement of Arbitral Awards in India”, organized by the Singapore Corporate Counsel Association, November 2013.
- Speaker, “Arbitration in Progress (Procedural Aspects)” at the Inter-Pacific Bar Association Regional Conference in Zurich, October 2013.
- Speaker, “Public International Law, Dispute Resolution”, for the Legal Department of Indonesian State-Owned Enterprises organized by Universitas Diponegoro, September 2013.
- Speaker, “Talk on International Arbitration” for the Legal Department of Indonesian State-Owned Enterprises, Bandung, September 2013.
- Panel Speaker, “The Future of Legal Services”, 2013 In-House Congress Singapore, September 2013.
- Panel Speaker, “Recent Developments in Dispute Resolution”, 2013 In-House Congress Singapore, September 2013.
- Speaker, “Force Majeure, Delay and Termination: The Perils and Pitfalls to Watch For”, organized by CiArb (Singapore) and Keating Chambers, September 2013.
- Speaker, “Strategic Considerations at the Hearing and Enforcement Stages”, SIAC Oil and Gas Dispute Resolution Conference, Jakarta, June 2013.
- Speaker, “Choice of Law in International Arbitration: Strategy And Transactions”, organized by the Singapore International Arbitration Centre, Shanghai, May 2013.
- Speaker, “Trust Litigation”, jointly organized by the Singapore Academy of Law and the UK Chancery Bar Singapore, April 2013.
- Speaker on three lectures – “The Key to winning a dispute”, “The Singapore International Arbitration Centre and Other Institutions” and “Strategies in International Arbitration” as part of a lecture series on Foreign Arbitration for Indonesian BUMN Legal Officers, Bandung, April 2013.
- Panel Speaker, “Liberalisation of Legal Markets in Asia – Singapore”, the Inter-Pacific Bar Association Conference, April 2013, Seoul, Korea.
- Speaker, “Developments in the Laws of Contract, Restitution & Restraint of Trade”, March 2012, Supreme Court Auditorium, Singapore.
- Speaker, “Dispute Resolution Beyond Civil Law & Common Law”, March 2012, the Inter-Pacific Bar Association Conference, New Delhi, India.
- Speaker, “Cross-Border Dispute Resolution in Asia: Key Consideration”, January 2012, Jakarta.
- Panel speaker, “Criminal Litigation: Advocacy and Appeals”, Criminal Law Conference 2011, October 2011, Supreme Court Auditorium, Singapore.
- Speaker, ‘Who Knows what the Future Holds? Risk and the In-House Counsel’, Singapore In-House Congress, September 2011, Singapore.
- Speaker, “Aviation, Marine and Environmental Disasters – Reaction and Anticipation”, Rajah & Tann Regulatory Day 2011, May 2011, Singapore.
- Speaker, “Arbitrating in Indonesia’s Investment Landscape”, organized by Singapore International Arbitration Centre, May 2011, Indonesia.
- Speaker, “Commencement: Key Considerations, The Efficient Arbitration”, the Inter-Pacific Bar Association Conference – April 2011, Kyoto Japan.
- Speaker, “AEIC, Pre-Trial Preparation for Examination in Chief, Cross-Examination” – jointly organized by Singapore Academy of Law, the Subordinate Courts and Senior Counsel Forum, April 2011, Auditorium, Subordinate Courts
- Panel Chair, “Transferring Personal Information and Data Across Borders: What Every Employment lawyer Needs to know”, September 2010, London.
- Speaker, “Key Developments in Dispute Resolution” at the 2010 In-House Congress, September 2010, Singapore.
- Speaker, “Pitfalls & Remedies in International Arbitration: Country Perspectives” at the International Dispute Resolution Conference – May 2010, Kuala Lumpur.
- Panel Chair and speaker, “Critical Considerations & Clauses in Drafting Employment Agreements to Avoid Disputes: Are there differences for the Director, the Executive & the Junior Level Employee” at the IPBA Conference – May 2010, Singapore.
- Panel Chair and presenter, “Disputes in the Global Economic Crisis – Perspectives and Strategies”, 4th Annual Dispute Resolution Summit – May 2009, Singapore.
- Speaker, “Dealing with Employee Misconduct”, IPBA Conference – May 2008, Manila.
- Speaker, “Avoiding Litigation, the Role that all Managers, Supervisors and Human Resource Professional Plays”, presented to Sybase, Inc – April 2009, Singapore
- Speaker, “The Joys and Pains of Arbitration in Singapore: Perspective of an Arbitrator and Counsel” at a Seminar on Strengthening Arbitration In India – Sharing Knowledge and Building Connections organized by the SIAC and NPAC – March 2009, Chennai, India.
- Panel member, session on “Best Practices in Legal Practice Management” – 10th Legal Practice management Course, March 2009.
- Speaker, “Merits of International Arbitration” organized by The Singapore Academy of Law, Rajah & Tann LLP and Kim & Chang, Korea – September 2008 held in Korea.
- Speaker – “Tackling the Legal Talent Shortage: Effective remedies to recruit and retain your prime assets” at Business Law Asia 2008, June 2008.
- Presenter, “Law Relating to Trade Secrets, Confidential Information Abuse and Trade Restraint” – Dell Computers Asia in-house legal forum, March 2008.
- Speaker – “Issues Arising From Sports Management and Participation: A Legal Perspective” at the 2007 SEA Games Scientific Congress, December 2007, Bangkok.
- Speaker – Indonesian Seminar on “Legal Risks and Disputes in Joint Venture Agreements”, Aug 2007.
- Speaker – Talk on “Managing Arbitration Disputes in the Region” , Aug 2007.
- Speaker – “The Conduct of International Arbitration Proceedings” is organized by the Singapore International Arbitration Centre (SIAC) & Bismark Solusi Konsultan, July 2007 held in Bandung, Indonesia.
- Speaker – “Legal Practice – Globalization of Practices and Associated Risks, Limited Liability, Removal of Admission Barriers – A Regional Perspective” , June 2007 at the 20th Biennial Lawasia Conference in Hong Kong.
- Speaker – “Institutional vs Ad Hoc Arbitration” – organized by Singapore International Arbitration Centre (SIAC), January 2007 at SIAC Hearing Room, City Hall, Singapore.
- Speaker – “The Applicable Law & The Singapore Law Nexus” – organized by Singapore International Arbitration Centre (SIAC), November 2006, Bogor, Indonesia.
- Speaker – “Role of Institutional Arbitration in Construction Disputes – Institutional Vs Ad Hoc Arbitration” – organized by Singapore International Arbitration Centre (SIAC), November 2006 at New Delhi, India.
- Speaker – “Corporate Fraud & Insolvency – What Directors must look out for” organized by Singapore Institute of Directors (SID), October 2006.
- Panel Chairman – “How to Effectively Work with Asian and Pacific Rim Businesses – Human Resource and Legal Roundtable” at the Employment Law Alliance Seventh Annual Meeting, Hong Kong, October 2006.
- Chairperson – “Work-life balance for YLs – an impossible dream?” at the Young Lawyers Forum 2006 held at the POLA Conference in Singapore, August 2006 hosted by the Law Society of Singapore.
- Speaker – Talk on “Mergers & Acquisition in Malaysia” organized by Key Media Conferences, July 2006, Singapore.
- Speaker – Talk on “The Impact of Free Trade Agreements on Labour Mobility” at The Inter-Pacific Bar Association Conference 2006, April/May 2006; in Sydney, Australia.
- Speaker – Talk on “Pandemics And The Workplace” being a client seminar by Rajah & Tann, April 2006.
- Speaker – Talk on “The Conflict of Laws in Singapore 2001-2005” delivered with Professor Tan Yock Lin, organized by the Singapore Academy of Law Conference 2006 on “Developments in Singapore Law Between 2001 and 2005”, January 2006 at the Supreme Court.
- Chairperson at the following sessions of the aviation symposium ‘Toward Open Skies’: “Examining Recent Legal, Regulatory and Commercial issues of the Aviation Industry” jointly organized by Lexis Nexis and Rajah & Tann slated for October 2005:
- The Aviation Regulatory Regime, and
- Liability under the Montreal Convention
- Chairman, Symposium on “The Singapore India Comprehensive Economic Co-operation Agreement: Analysis of Positive Business Impact”, July 2005 at the Supreme Court Auditorium.
- Speaker – “Labor and Employment Law and Human Resources Trends Worldwide”, ELA Global Employer Conference, Puerto Rico, May 2005.
- Speaker – “Protecting Trade Secrets and Employee Privacy: What Every Company Must Know”, IPBA Conference, Seoul, Korea, May 2004.
- Speaker – Talk on “Insider Trading” at a conference on ‘Company & Securities Law” organized by The Asia Business Forum, January 2004.
- Speaker – Talk on “Leases and Disputes Involving Leases” at the Singapore Conference Hall for SISV Services Pte Ltd, September 2003.
- Speaker – Talk on “An Overview of Fraud and Property Offences” at the HDB Annual Legal Seminar, September 2002.
- Panel Speaker on the two following panels:
- ‘Arbitration in Asia’ and
- ‘Enforcing the Award – an International Survey’ at the International Arbitration Symposium organized by Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP, Rajah & Tann and Derains & Associes, January 2002.
- Chairman, and speaker on “Corporate Fraud – on Overview of the Law” to senior management of Temasek Management Service Pte Ltd, September 2001.
- Speaker – Talk on “The Impact of the recent amendments to the Immigration Act on the Serviced Apartment Industry in Singapore to the Serviced Apartments Association”, June 2001.
- Panel Chairman – Seminar of “Corporate Fraud – Control and Prevention”, May 2001 to the Singapore Institute of Directors.
- Speaker – Seminar on “Function and Powers of the Jurong Town Corporation” to management and staff of JTC, April 2001.
- Speaker – Talk on “Directors’ Duties and Liabilities in Tort” to senior members and management representatives of the insurance industry – November 2000.
- Presenter – Seminar on “Translating an Award or Judgment into Compensation: Legal Enforcement Mechanisms” – delivered, May 2000.
- Speaker – Talk on Banking Law & Practice to Staff of OCBC Bank, November 1999.
- Speaker – Talk on “Nuts & Bolts” – Civil Procedure on ‘Appeals’ for the Law Society of Singapore – 1999.
- Speaker – Talk on “Execution Proceedings” to OCBC Bank Management, July 1999.
- Speaker – Talk on “Offence and Prosecution of Criminal Breach of Trust By Company Directors”, as part of a Seminar on Rights, Duties and Liabilities of Company Directors in Singapore held by the Asia Pacific Institute, May 1996.
Recommendations
- “Francis Xavier [is] truly one of a kind and [an] individual personality.” – The Legal 500 Asia-Pacific, 2026
- “Francis is a leader in the arbitration space. He’s unnervingly intelligent and absolutely brilliant!” – Chambers Asia-Pacific, 2025
- “Francis is very intelligent and a very strong advocate. He is able to think on his feet in court.” – Chambers Asia-Pacific, 2025
- “Francis is a well-respected lawyer who has deep experience before the SICC and the Court of Appeal acting on cross-border disputes concerning alleged breaches of obligations. He is also well-versed in commercial and investor-state arbitrations, as well as shareholder and land disputes.” – Chambers Asia-Pacific, 2025
- “Francis has been able to turn things around for us”; “Francis is a very intelligent lawyer who thinks out of the box”; and “I especially recommend Francis Xavier for his input. He is an outstanding advocate.” – Chambers Asia-Pacific, 2024
- “Francis has considerable experience and expertise in Singapore and South East Asia.” – The Legal 500 Asia-Pacific, 2024
- “He has considerable experience and expertise and is one of the dominant market players in Singapore and Southeast Asia.” – The Legal 500 Asia-Pacific, 2023
- “Francis stands out for his depth of experience in cross-border commercial litigation, with notable expertise in banking, property and investment claims.” – Lexology Index, 2023
- “Francis Xavier SC has been recognised by Who’s Who Legal Arbitration 2020 for his expertise in resolving complex international disputes and excellence across a wide range of matters. Through nomination from peers and clients, they have been highlighted as leading names in the field.” – Whos’ Who Legal: Arbitration, 2020
- Named as part of India Business Law Journal’s International A-List – the top 100 India-focused legal experts 2019, 2020
- Named as Who’s Who Legal: Thought leaders – Labour & Employment 2019.
- Named as Dispute Resolution Star for Commercial Disputes International in Leading Lawyers in Benchmark Litigation Asia-Pacific 2018 Edition.
- “Francis Xavier SC is ‘tenacious, innovative and has a well-prepared team,’ say market commentators. Another source praises his ‘fair-minded, honourable way of presenting the case.’ He is best known for representing clients on banking, property and investment disputes”. – Chambers Global, 2019 Edition
- “The ‘excellent’ Francis Xavier SC provides clients with expert advice on a broad range of commercial litigation matters in sectors including banking and real estate. Lately this has included acting for the majority shareholders of the Samwoh Group against claims brought by minority shareholders seeking an order to buy out their shares, valued at approximately S$300 million” – Chambers Global, 2018 Edition
- Named as Singapore’s top 100 lawyers by Asia Business Law Journal 17 September 2018 – “John Fellas, a partner at Hughes Hubbard & Reed in the US, has this to say about Francis Xavier, senior counsel at Rajah & Tann in Singapore: ‘I have worked directly with Francis and he is a brilliant strategist in international litigation’.”
- Named as Dispute Resolution Star for Commercial Disputes International in Leading Lawyers in Benchmark Litigation Asia-Pacific, 2018 Edition
- Dispute Resolution – “Francis Xavier SC has a ‘strong legal mind’ and ‘a good rapport with the bench’.” – The Legal 500 Asia-Pacific, 2018 Edition
- Rajah & Tann acts for clients such as Hewlett – Packard and Procter & Gamble. The sizeable team includes Francis Xavier SC, who heads the contentious side of the practice, and Desmond Wee, who leads in non-contentious work. – The Legal 500 Asia-Pacific, 2018 Edition
- “Market-leading lawyer Francis Xavier, regional leader of the dispute resolution practice, is defending several majority shareholders of Samwoh, a construction and infrastructure company, against minority shareholders in an important minority oppression case.” – Asialaw Profiles, 2018
- “Francis Xavier SC handles a range of commercial disputes, regularly instructed to appear on banking, real estate and financial cases. Peers acknowledged him as ‘a good lawyer who is well liked by clients’.” – Chambers Asia-Pacific, 2017
- “Head of the regional disputes practice, Francis Xavier SC is recognised as an ‘excellent lawyer.’ He recently represented the original claimants in an Indonesian coal upgrading plant dispute with multi-jurisdictional elements, including concurrent Australian litigation”. – Chambers Asia-Pacific, 2015
- “Francis Xavier SC heads the dispute resolution team and is particularly well honed where banking and finance matters are concerned. He recently acted for Standard Chartered Bank, defending it against claims of alleged misrepresentation brought by customers whose money had been invested in funds associated with disgraced financier Bernie Madoff. Clients extol him as ‘savvy, charismatic and a superb problem solver. He understands the roots of problems, sees our objectives and figures out a way to reach them’”. – Chambers Asia-Pacific, 2014
- “Head of the dispute practice Francis Xavier SC focuses on issues arising in the corporate, banking and finance, investment and property spheres and is praised by clients for his ‘excellent relationship with the bench.’ He recently acted for White Energy and its subsidiary BCBC Singapore in a dispute with Bayan Resources and Bayan International, relating to a joint venture for processing coal in Indonesia”. – Chambers Global, 2014
- “[Rajah & Tann Singapore LLP] – has a ‘high level of expertise’, and is noted for its ‘depth and work ethic’. Its very busy practice acts not only for a range of multinationals, but also across sectors from shipping to telecommunications. Andre Yeap SC leads the department and Francis Xavier SC ‘speaks with authority’.” – The Legal 500 Asia-Pacific, 2014
- “In terms of individual practice areas, Drew and R&T were banded 1 – the top ranking – in litigation. Drew’s Mr Singh, Cavinder Bull, Jimmy Yim and Hri Kumar – all Senior Counsels – were named as key individuals, as were R&T’s Senior Counsel Francis Xavier, Senior Counsel Andre Yeap and Mohammed Reza”. – Chambers Asia-Pacific, 2013
- “With a ‘responsive’ and ‘pragmatic’ team, Rajah & Tann LLP is billed as ‘second to none’ for insolvency and dispute advisory work. Andre Yeap SC acted for the provisional liquidators of MF Global in a sanction by the High Court for the interim distribution of $350m of customers’ funds. Leading figure Eng Beng Lee SC has experience in judicial reviews. Francis Xavier SC heads the team, and Wei Na Sim was recently promoted to partner.” – The Legal 500 Asia-Pacific, 2013
- “Francis Xavier SC heads the litigation department and is highly thought of among Singaporean advocates. ‘He is honest, frank, very energetic, listens carefully, grasps things quickly and has a remarkable intellect and sense of logic,’ interviewees say. In a recent high-profile case he successfully argued for the appellant, Holcim (Singapore), on a commercial contract dispute”. – Chambers Global, 2013
- “Key individual Francis Xavier is a prominent and talented member of the group. He led on the team’s representation of Holcim in one of the many disputes arising out of the Indonesian sand ban of 2007.” – Chambers Asia-Pacific Guide, 2012
- “Rajah & Tann, the other law to share the award for international arbitration law firm of the year with Allen & Gledhill, was also said to possess a ‘brilliant and commercially savvy team.’ Impressive partner and senior counsel, Francis Xavier impressed international and domestic clients alike with his dedication, quick turn-around times and excellent communication skills.” – Asian Legal Business, 2012
- “Practice head Francis Xavier acted for Holcim in an appeal against the High Court decision relating to the 2007 Indonesian Sand Ban”. – The Legal 500 Asia-Pacific, 2012
- “Francis Xavier is a prominent and talented member of the group. He led on the team’s representation of Holcim in one of the many disputes arising out of the Indonesian sand ban of 2007”. – Chambers Global, 2012
- “Francis Xavier is a prominent and talented member of the group. He led on the team’s representation of Holcim in one of the many disputes arising out of the Indonesian sand ban of 2007”. – Chambers Asia-Pacific, 2011
- “Francis Xavier SC ‘comes up with clever arguments and is well liked by the courts,’ revealed sources. He is particularly skilled in corporate disputes, particularly banking and investment cases”. – Chambers Asia-Pacific, 2011
- “The fast, ‘commercially-minded’ team, led by Francis Xavier, appears in high-profile cases, notably representing the liquidators of Lehman Brothers entities across Asia.” – The Legal 500 Asia-Pacific, 2010/2011
- “Fielding a ‘professional, efficient and high quality team’ of five senior counsel, including recently appointed practice head Francis Xavier…’ – The Legal 500 Asia-Pacific, 2009/2010
- “Rajah & Tann LLP’s ‘leading litigation practice’ include six senior counsels and is headed by Francis Xavier.” – The Legal 500 Asia-Pacific, 2008/2009
- Cited as key practitioner in labour and employment. – Asialaw Leading Lawyers, 2009
- Cited as a key practitioner in dispute resolution. – Asia Law and Practice Profiles, 2007
- “VK Rajah SC left Rajah & Tann to take the position as Judicial Commissioner of the High Court of Singapore in 2004. However, the continued presence of Francis Xavier, skilled in fraud and aviation matters, and Chandra Mohan, a contracts expert, means the firm retains litigators of commensurate aptitude.” – The Legal 500 Asia-Pacific, 2004/2005
- “Rajah & Tann acted for the Boeing Company in a class action suit taken out by the estates and dependent of the victims of the crash of Silk Air flight in Indonesia in 1997. Other highlights include advising on a case concerning banking secrecy in Singapore. The firm also acted on numerous cross-border disputes in Asia.”
- “Francis Xavier is also building an excellent name for quick and clear advice in litigation matters.” – The Legal 500 Asia-Pacific (2003/2004)
- “Rajah & Tann has a strong focus on debt restructuring and insolvency cases. Head of practice VK Rajah SC, Francis Xavier and Chong Boon Leong are all experienced. Highlights include advising a major oil producer on the enforcement of a US$260 million arbitration award, and an ongoing dispute between two listed electronics companies in Singapore in relation to misuse of trade secrets and breach of fiduciary duty.” – The Legal 500 Asia-Pacific, The Guide to Asia’s Commercial Law Firms (2002/2003)
