Chambers Asia Pacific (2023)
R&T Sok & Heng - Cambodia
General Business Law - Band 2
Ranked Lawyers:
Deline Siang – General Business Law (Band 4)
Heng Chhay – General Business Law (Band 2)
Sophonnora Tiv – General Business Law (Band 2)
Sotheary Hout – General Business Law (Band 4)
What the team is known for
Working with the wider Rajah & Tann network, R&T Sok & Heng regularly advises an international clientele on domestic law. The firm retains a strong market reputation for work on cross-border transactions, including project finance and joint ventures, as well as banking and real estate matters. The firm’s Phnom Penh office additionally handles dispute resolution and offers significant knowledge of Cambodian securities law, as well as e-commerce and licensing issues. The legal team acts for a broad mix of Asian and global clients as well as domestic Cambodian corporations. Clients include Meta Platforms, Khmer Cold Chain and Cambodia Post Bank.
Strengths
“The Rajah & Tann team have knowledge of local leg- islation and can provide clients with advice on how to handle issues. They also check with regulators if an item or request is not clear to the client.”
“The firm has well-integrated networks in South-East Asia and a very well-connected leadership team.”
Work highlights
R&T Sok & Heng advised Industrial and Commercial Bank of China on the acquisition, construction and operation of a 700 MW coal power plant in the province of Sihanoukville, Cambodia.
Notable practitioners
Heng Chhay covers a range of legal areas including commercial, real estate and finance. He also advises e-commerce companies on a range of compliance matters.
Tiv Sophonnora is experienced in a range of areas including finance, commercial and investment-related issues.
Sieng Deline is a seasoned banking and finance lawyer with past experience as in-house counsel. He is regularly mandated by lenders and borrowers to handle financing and refinancing matters.
Hout Sotheary heads the firm’s corporate and commercial practice. She handles a range of matters including technology, energy and antitrust regulations.
Assegaf Hamzah & Partners – Indonesia
Banking & Finance - Band 2
Capital Markets - Band 1
Competition and Antitrust - Band 1
Corporate/M&A - Band 1
Dispute Resolution - Band 1
Employment - Band 1
Intellectual Property - Band 3
Projects & Energy - Band 2
Real Estate - Band 3
Technology, Media, Telecommunications - Band 1
Asia Pacific Region – Islamic Finance (Band 3)
Ranked Lawyers:
Ahmad Fikri Assegaf – Capital Markets, Corporate/ M&A (Eminent Practitioners)
Ahmad Maulana - Employment (Band 1)
Asep Ridwan – Competition & Antitrust (Band 1)
Assegaf Ibrahim Sjarief – Banking & Finance (Band 2)
Bono Adji – Capital Markets, Corporate/ M&A (Band 1)
Chandra M Hamzah – Dispute Resolution (Senior Statespeople)
Dewi Soeharto – Intellectual Property (Band 3)
Eko Basyuni - Corporate/ M&A (Band 3)
Eri Hertiawan - Dispute Resolution (Band 1)
Iqsan Sirie Muhammad – TMT (Up and coming individuals)*
Kanya Satwika – Project & Energy (Band 2)
Nasution Farid – Competition & Antitrust (Band 1)
Paramita Intan – Capital Markets (Up and coming individuals)
Putu Suryastuti – Capital Markets (Band 2)
Renaldi Zulkarnain Mohammad – Capital Markets (Up and coming individuals)
Rizkiyana Rikrik – Competition/ Antitrust (Senior Statespeople)
Situmorang Albert Boy – Competition & Antitrust (Associate to watch)
Valerie Ngooi Ming Hui - Corporate/ M&A (Band 2)
Zacky Z Husein - TMT (Band 1)
Banking & Finance
What the team is known for
Assegaf Hamzah & Partners is a notable full-service law firm in Indonesia, regularly advising borrowers and lenders on a broad range of conventional and Shari’a-compliant deals. The firm assists clients with acquisition, asset and structured financings, advising leading Indonesian and overseas banks and corporates. The team is also well placed to handle project and infrastructure finance, fintech issues, restructuring and insolvency mandates and bank merger deals. Clients include Bank Rakyat Indonesia and Bank Mandiri.
Strengths
“They are committed to the project that they are involved with, which is reflected in the excellent service and response time they provide to us.”
“AHP has excellent associate depth and also a broad range of experts within the partnership.”
Work highlights
Assegaf Hamzah & Partners advised Garuda Indonesia on the proposed restructuring of all its financial and trade debts and aircraft leases, as well as its business transformation.
Notable practitioners
Ibrahim Sjarief Assegaf represents top Indonesian and international banks in a range of acquisition finance, project finance and refinancing deals, as well as debt restructuring.
Capital Markets
What the team is known for
Assegaf Hamzah & Partners offers a full suite of legal services for capital markets, including advising on convertible bonds, IPOs and private placements in Indonesia. Additionally the team is adept at advising on Shari’a-compliant sovereign debt issuances. The group is particularly active for issuers, advising several of Indonesia’s largest corporates in the energy, mining and TMT sectors. The firm also represents government entities and financial institutions in capital markets transactions. Medco Power, GoTo and Bukalapak are among the team’s clients.
Strengths
“Their understanding of the matters is good, and they are able to provide solutions to the problem.”
“Assegaf Hamzah & Partners is a solid firm and a reliable name in the market.”
Work highlights
Assegaf Hamzah & Partners acted for Medco Energi on the issuance of a 144A/Reg S USD400 million bond with a 6.95% coupon.
Notable practitioners
Ahmad Fikri Assegaf is a seasoned lawyer in Jakarta with a broad practice covering capital markets, M&A and finance. He is experienced in representing issuers in bond transactions.
Bono Adji is recognised by market commentators as a highly experienced and sought-after lawyer in Indonesia for capital markets and public M&A matters. He advises on both debt and equity deals.
Putu Suryastuti acts for issuers and banks on bond issuances and rights issues in Indonesia, and is notably active representing financial institutions in their capital-raising activities.
Intan Paramita is an emerging name in Indonesia’s capital markets legal space, often advising leading corporates on bond and rights issues, as well as IPOs. Her deals cover a range of sectors, including TMT, energy and natural resources.
Mohammad Renaldi Zulkarnain is an up-and-coming capital markets lawyer in Indonesia whose expertise includes advising government entities on sovereign bonds. He handles both debt and equity issuances.
Competition and Antitrust
What the team is known for
Assegaf Hamzah & Partners possesses expertise across a wide range of competition and antitrust legal matters, including representing clients in major cartel investigations before the KPPU. The firm also handles cartel and price-fixing cases, alongside merger notifications and competition audits. The group is entrusted by multinational and domestic clients from the automotive, technology, transportation and manufacturing sectors, among others. Its competition team includes former KPPU employees, who provide additional regulatory expertise, and in-house economists. The firm’s clients include China Petroleum & Chemical, Tirta Investama and Salam Pacific Indonesia Lines.
Strengths
“Assegaf Hamzah & Partners has good experience and sufficient resources to handle complex work.”
“Their advice is practical.”
Work highlights
Assegaf Hamzah & Partners assisted Sinochem with the process of notification of its share acquisition in Luxi Group.
Notable practitioners
Rikrik Rizkiyana is a highly respected competition lawyer who is noted for his experience in Indonesia.
He has a broad practice encompassing merger control and KPPU investigations.
Farid Nasution has an active practice in transactional and contentious competition law matters in Indonesia. He is able to draw on his experience working for the KPPU to assist clients.
Asep Ridwan is recognised by commentators for his proficiency in handling contentious and non-contentious competition law matters in Indonesia. His expertise includes price fixing and discriminatory practice mandates.
Albert Boy Situmorang is a senior associate in Jakarta who is well versed in merger control issues, acting for companies in the oil and gas, technology, automotive and banking sectors. He also assists clients with internal antitrust law analyses.
Corporate / M&A
What the team is known for
Assegaf Hamzah & Partners has a market-leading corporate law practice in Jakarta, active on some of the largest and most complex M&A transactions in the region. The corporate team advises major Indonesian clients and prominent international companies on joint ventures, foreign direct investment and private equity. The firm is also valued for its work in real estate, particularly on development deals and lease agreements. The real estate team regularly handles acquisitions pertaining to industrial and retail properties. The team’s clients include Supreme Energy, Alim Investindo and Pelabuhan Indonesia Maspion.
Strengths
“AHP has the manpower capacity to conduct large transactions and is capable due to having highly regarded individuals who are experts in the industry.”
“They are always responsive and able to meet tight deadlines.”
Work highlights
Assegaf Hamzah & Partners acted for Haji Financial Management Agency on its acquisition of Bank Muamalat Indonesia. The team also assisted Petrokimia Gresik with assessing and formulating a mechanism to manage its land and building assets.
Notable practitioners
Ahmad Fikri Assegaf is an established figure in Jakarta’s legal market. He is best known for handling notable transactions in the financial services and oil and gas sectors.
Bono Adji is a highly respected M&A lawyer in Jakarta. He has significant expertise in assisting major Indonesian, regional and international corporates with structuring transactions.
Valerie Ngooi Ming Hui is an experienced foreign legal consultant within the Indonesian market, according to market commentators. She represents foreign investors and local clients in acquisitions, sales and joint ventures.
Eko Basyuni handles M&A, foreign direct investment and restructuring deals in Indonesia. His experience spans technology, banking and healthcare deals.
Dispute Resolution
What the team is known for
Assegaf Hamzah & Partners maintains an excellent reputation as a leading law firm in Indonesia for contentious matters, ranging from commercial disputes to competition litigation. The team’s areas of focus include employment, land, transportation, natural resources and mining-related cases. The firm especially acts for leading domestic corporates, as well as foreign entities, and is active on complex arbitration, frequently appearing in BANI proceedings. Clients further benefit from the firm’s membership of the Rajah & Tann Asia network, as well as its other practice area departments in Jakarta, which often work in conjunction with the disputes team. Garuda Indonesia, Meratus Line and Tirta Investama feature among the firm’s clientele.
Strengths
“Assegaf Hamzah has great knowledge and experience, and is well connected.”
“They provide good services and are very responsive.”
Work highlights
Assegaf Hamzah & Partners acted for Tokopedia on a civil lawsuit submitted before Central Jakarta District Court, which related to a data theft incident.
Notable practitioners
Chandra Hamzah is a co-founder of Assegaf Hamzah & Partners and a respected figure in Indonesia’s legal community. He represents Indonesian and international clients in several high-profile matters, including in relation to shipping, broadcasting and anti-corruption.
Eri Hertiawan is a leading lawyer for litigation and arbitration in Indonesia, with expertise in such areas as aviation, natural resources and general contractual disputes.
Intellectual Property
What the team is known for
Assegaf Hamzah & Partners is a full-service law firm in Indonesia with an emerging IP practice. The team is well versed in the negotiation of IP licensing agreements, including copyright and trade marks, and is also active on trade mark registration and copyright infringement disputes. The firm is able to leverage its strength in dispute resolution to assist clients with IP litigation. Assegaf Hamzah & Partners represents global and Indonesian corporates from a range of sectors including media and entertainment, TMT, retail, healthcare and banking. Clients include Lions Gate Entertainment, TikTok and Tirta Investama.
Strengths
“Assegaf Hamzah & Partners has professionally handled all the enquiries we have had throughout the process.”
Work highlights
Assegaf Hamzah & Partners assisted Columbia Asia Healthcare with the review of its existing IP licence agreements in Indonesia and the recordal of each with the Intellectual Property Office.
Notable practitioners
Dewi Soeharto is well known for her trade mark legal practice in Indonesia. She also advises on copyright and IP licensing agreements and is especially noted for her representation of media companies.
Projects & Energy
What the team is known for
Assegaf Hamzah & Partners is noted for advising some of the region’s largest energy and resources companies, as well as government entities and export credit agencies, on legal matters in Indonesia. The team is proficient in handling project-related transactions, financings and development in the oil and gas, renewable energy and petrochemical spaces, as well as mining, road and port infrastructure developments. The firm is frequently involved in cross-border matters for both lenders and project companies. Clients include Aneka Tambang, Indonesia Asahan Aluminium and Penjaminan Infrastruktur Indonesia.
Strengths
“The team is very knowledgeable on the legal aspects of our issues and is able to give easy to understand explanations to non-legal experts.”
“Assegaf Hamzah & Partners is very commercially minded and delivers high-quality work.”
Work highlights
Assegaf Hamzah & Partners advised Aneka Tambang on the structuring, development and procurement of the Haltim Feni Power Plant in East Halmahera.
Notable practitioners
Kanya Satwika has expertise in Indonesia’s oil and gas and power space, including renewable energy, as well as infrastructure projects.
Technology, Media, Telecoms (TMT)
What the team is known for
Assegaf Hamzah & Partners has a well-reputed legal team in Indonesia, routinely instructed by leading telecoms and technology companies on commercial and regulatory mandates. The team often advises on cloud, e-commerce and data centre mandates. The group also demonstrates expertise in data protection and cybersecurity matters, as well as regulatory issues involving satellites.
Assegaf Hamzah & Partners regularly works alongside its other practice area departments, including in relation to M&A and fundraising issues within the TMT sector.
Strengths
“Assegaf Hamzah & Partners’ team has really strong legal knowledge on relevant issues and can advise by comparing against current industry practice. They are able to give practical legal advice.”
Notable practitioners
Zacky Zainal Husein heads the TMT law team at Assegaf Hamzah & Partners in Jakarta. He has strong regulatory expertise across cloud, data protection, cybersecurity and OTT services.
Muhammad Iqsan Sirie is a partner at Assegaf Hamzah & Partners in Jakarta. He is active on a range of TMT matters, including telecoms regulatory, cloud and data centre matters, as well as transactions.
Asia – Pacific Region- Islamic Finance
What the team is known for
Leading Indonesian corporate law firm Assegaf Hamzah & Partners has a strong focus on DCM, regularly representing issuers in sukuk deals. The team is also well versed in Shari’a-compliant banking regulations. Its clients include CIMB and Dubai Islamic Bank.
Work highlights
Assegaf Hamzah & Partners advised the joint lead managers, including CIMB Investment Bank, on a USD3.25 billion sukuk issuance by the Republic of Indonesia.
Notable practitioners
Ahmad Fikri Assegaf and Mohammad Renaldi Zulkarnain are key contacts.
Christopher & Lee Ong – Malaysia
Banking & Finance - Band 2
Competition/Antitrust – Leading Firms
Corporate/M&A - Band 2
Dispute Resolution - Band 5
Intellectual Property - Band 3
Projects, Infrastructure & Energy - Band 1
Real Estate - Band 1
Shipping - Band 2
Technology, Media, Telecoms (TMT) - Band 1
Ranked Lawyers:
Christopher Lee – Projects, Infrastructure & Energy (Band 1)
Clive Navin Selvapandian – Shipping (Band 2)
Deepak Pillai – TMT (Band 1)
Fiona Sequerah - Banking & Finance (Band 4)
Intan Haryati Mohd Zulkifli – TMT (Band 2)
Jack Chor – Banking & Finance (Band 4), Projects, Infrastructure & Energy (Band 3)
Kuok Yew Chen – TMT (Band 2), Corporate/ M&A (Band 3)
Lee Hock Chye – Real Estate (Band 2)
Lim Hui Ming – Real Estate (Band 2)
Lim Siaw Wan - Projects, Infrastructure & Energy (Up and Coming)
Mathew John – Dispute Resolution (Band 5)
Ng Kim Poh – Intellectual Property (Band 3)
Sri Sarguna Raj- Intellectual Property (Band 3)
Yon See Ting – Competition & Antitrust (Band 2), Corporate/M&A (Band 4)
Banking & Finance
What the team is known for
Christopher & Lee Ong has an established and experienced legal team in Kuala Lumpur handling a comprehensive range of finance matters, on behalf of both Malaysian and international banks. The team often advises energy companies on project financing, while also handling syndicated loans, real estate finance and refinancing. The firm handles deals in the energy, hospitality and construction sectors and is conversant in both conventional and Islamic finance.
Notable practitioners
Jack Chor is a partner who especially advises clients on project financing deals in Malaysia, acting for both lenders and borrowers. He is active in cross-border financing involving power projects and industrial nfacilities.
Fiona Sequerah is a partner at Christopher & Lee Ong in Kuala Lumpur. She is experienced in advising financial institutions on conventional and Islamic DCM, debt restructuring, term loans and asset finance.
Competition & Antitrust
What the team is known for
Christopher & Lee Ong ably assists clients with competition regulatory investigations, as well as often advising on company collaborations in the Malaysian legal market. It also has experience advising on merger control in the aviation and telecoms sectors. The firm represents Malaysian and international conglomerates across sectors that include insurance, food and beverages, financial services and manufacturing. Prudential Assurance is a notable client.
Strengths
“The team is able to provide commercially sound advice and adhere to the timeline provided. It has sufficient ability to deal with matters which are urgent.”
“The firm has good insights and commercial sense.”
Work highlights
Christopher & Lee Ong assisted SIAEC with a merger notification in relation to its proposed acquisition of 49% of the issued and paid-up share capital of Pos Aviation Engineering Services.
Notable practitioners
Yon See Ting is a highly regarded competition lawyer who frequently advises on Malaysia Competition Commission investigations, as well as resale price maintenance, merger control and competition compliance.
Corporate/M&A
What the team is known for
Christopher & Lee Ong has a well-regarded team of corporate lawyers in Kuala Lumpur, advising clients on a broad range of transactional and regulatory issues in Malaysia. The firm acts for domestic and international clients on public and private M&A, private equity deals and corporate restructuring, including cross-border transactions, for which it leverages its regional network. The team is especially active in the healthcare, manufacturing, technology and retail sectors. Starlight Asset, Esteel Enterprise and Edenor Technology are examples of the team’s clientele.
Strengths
“Christopher & Lee Ong have set a high standard in terms of quality of work and commitment to deliver within deadlines. They are always ready to assist in carrying out further due diligence investigation whenever necessary.”
“The team is strong and knowledgeable.”
Work highlights
Christopher & Lee Ong acted for Digi.com on its merger with Celcom Axiata.
Notable practitioners
Kuok Yew Chen is a well-regarded partner at Christopher & Lee Ong in Malaysia who receives impressive market recognition. He is experienced in handling large cross-border mergers, acquisitions and joint ventures, particularly in the telecoms sector.
Yon See Ting is the managing partner at Christopher & Lee Ong in Kuala Lumpur. She has a robust practice advising conglomerates on joint ventures and M&A.
Dispute Resolution
What the team is known for
Christopher & Lee Ong houses a well-known disputes outfit, who are skilled at taking on commercial litigations and arbitrations. The team holds expertise on construction mandates, and also takes on contentious labour and employment mandates. Its affiliation with the regional firm Rajah & Tann enables the firm to engage in complex cross-border international disputes as well. The law firm’s clients include Malaysian Institute of Accountants, Malayan Banking and CIMB Bank.
Strengths
“The lawyers are well versed in customary practices regarding guarantee agreements and actively engage in other related matters to assist the client in a holistic manner.”
“The team is efficient with a short turnaround time. It provides practical advice taking into account the current challenges and commercial considerations. The lawyers understand the business requirements and encourage cost saving.”
Work highlights
Christopher & Lee Ong defended FGV Prodata Systems against a claim of approximately MYR171 million made by VDSL Technology alleging breach of contract.
Notable practitioners
John Mat hew is a well-known commercial litigator who frequently acts on projects and banking disputes. He defends clients in disciplinary proceedings and breach of contract mandates.
Intellectual Property
What the team is known for
Christopher & Lee Ong advises on the full gamut of IP legal matters in Malaysia, from prosecution and litigation to advisory and enforcement. The lawyers are often engaged on trade mark, patent and copyright infringement mandates. The team assists multinational companies as well as domestic clients across sectors, including the aviation, TMT, pharmaceutical, energy and retail industries. The firm is able to leverage its affiliation with the Rajah & Tann regional network.
Strengths
“Christopher & Lee Ong always walk extra miles to give us the best services, and they will contact us immediately if they encounter any issues. They are one of the best firms we have ever worked closely with.”
“The team pays attention to details and advises us with multiple options and approaches on handling the cases.”
Work highlights
Christopher & Lee Ong acted for Kao on a brand licensing and ambassadorship deal involving artist Farhanna Qismina Supandi.
Notable practitioners
Ng Kim Poh has a broad practice for IP legal matters. He frequently represents clients in trade mark, copyright and patent litigation in Malaysia, as well as advising on IP registration. Strengths: “Kim Poh is always providing best possible services and is fully aware of commercialities.”
Sri Sarguna Raj in Kuala Lumpur has a robust practice representing clients in trade mark, copyright and patent disputes and advising on prosecution and franchising matters.
Projects, Infrastructure & Energy
What the team is known for
Christopher & Lee Ong has a leading projects legal team in Malaysia, known in the market for its extensive regional expertise in power and infrastructure. The team is able to advise on both project finance and development, frequently acting on renewable energy projects, including hydro and solar energy, as well as infrastructure projects. Additionally, the group is well placed to assist clients with construction and O&M agreements. The firm represents both Malaysian and international clients in the energy and infrastructure sectors, and counts Arcadia Energy and Tadau Energy among its clientele.
Strengths
“Christopher & Lee Ong are among the leaders in the market, building up their strength in oil and gas. They provide us with strong support and are able to produce the deliverables within the timeline.”
Work highlights
Christopher & Lee Ong advised Tadau Energy on a bid to develop a floating solar plant farm with a generating capacity of 50 MW in Batang Ai Reservoir, Sarawak.
Notable practitioners
Christopher Lee is a partner at Christopher & Lee Ong and is based in Kuala Lumpur. A pre-eminent lawyer in this space, he advises on the financing, construction and development of projects in a range of sectors, including renewable energy and infrastructure.
Jack Chor is a partner based in Kuala Lumpur. He has an emerging reputation in Malaysia’s projects market, with notable expertise in renewable energy regulatory issues and project development.
Lim Siaw Wan is a partner based in Kuala Lumpur. She has a growing legal practice and is noted by market commentators for her expertise in this space. She has particular strength in project development, including for infrastructure and power mandates.
Real Estate
What the team is known for
Christopher & Lee Ong in Kuala Lumpur is a member law firm of Rajah & Tann Asia Network. It houses an impressive team of dedicated real estate practitioners, regularly handling high-value transactions. The team advises on the acquisition and development of residential, hotel, retail, office and industrial properties. It frequently acts for leading property developers, as well as corporate investors from the finance industry. Tadau Energy, Hamilton Sundstrand Customer Support Centre and Damansara are some its notable clients.
Strengths
“The team is resourceful in handling complex matters. It is highly professional and always responds in a swift manner.”
“The firm is responsive, very detail-oriented and thorough. The lawyers are polite and always so pleasant to deal with.”
Work highlights
Christopher & Lee Ong assisted Arcadia Energy with its purchase of three plots of land with a biomass facility.
Notable practitioners
Lee Hock Chye is a partner at Christopher & Lee Ong in Kuala Lumpur. He has a robust practice advising on the sale and purchase of land, leases and development, in relation to hotel and residential projects.
Lim Hui Ming is a partner based in Kuala Lumpur. Her work encompasses advising on tenancy negotiations and property transactions, involving a range of office and industrial properties.
Shipping
What the team is known for
Christopher & Lee Ong offers significant cross-border capability owing to its membership of the Rajah & Tann Asia network. The team frequently represents clients in litigation and arbitration proceedings, as well as handling ship arrests. The team handles a range of collision, charter party and cargo cases. The firm is also active on ship finance matters, including advising clients on restructuring and refinancing. The practice often acts for clients in the offshore energy and insurance spaces, as well as ship owners and banks.
Strengths
“Christopher & Lee Ong are very accommodative and responsive towards any enquiries. Their industry knowledge is commendable, and due to that they are able to provide a practical approach to issues.”
“The correct balance between partner and associate input is applied, and the requisite knowledge and competency is clearly evident on the file.”
Work highlights
Christopher & Lee Ong advised Bintang Samudera and Miclyn Express on various proceedings against Sapura entities in an effort to recover sums of money owed.
Notable practitioners
Clive Navin Selvapandian is a partner at Christopher & Lee Ong in Malaysia. He has an active practice advising clients on a broad range of contentious shipping matters.
Technology, Media, Telecoms (TMT)
What the team is known for
Christopher & Lee Ong houses a pre-eminent team of lawyers in Kuala Lumpur for TMT work. It is regularly instructed by leading international corporates, as well as domestic industry associations and mobile operators. The firm advises on a diverse range of matters, including data protection, cybersecurity, blockchain, fintech and IT contracts. It additionally has expertise in regulatory issues in the media space. The team advises a range of clients from such sectors as banking, telecommunications and insurance and leverages the Rajah & Tann regional network to advise on cross-border issues.
Strengths
“Christopher & Lee Ong has been able to advise on both novel and complex matters and is able to clearly explain the issues.”
“The team is very familiar with our requirements and has a strong network in the field.”
Work highlights
Christopher & Lee Ong advised a big data and AI software development company on potential restrictions that could impact its use of web-crawler tools from the perspective of personal data protection law and other regulations.
Notable practitioners
Deepak Pillai is a pre-eminent lawyer for technology matters in Malaysia, with strong expertise in data protection and cybersecurity matters. He is also skilled at navigating clients around IT contracts and fintech regulations.
Intan Haryati Mohd Zulkifli has a robust practice in the TMT space in Malaysia, with particular strength in data regulatory and cloud matters. She frequently advises clients on IT outsourcing contracts.
Kuok Yew Chen has a strong TMT practice and is particularly active on regulatory matters for telecommunications clients in the Malaysian market. He is also noted for his expertise in the technology space.
Rajah & Tann Myanmar – Myanmar
General Business Law: International Firms – Band 1
Ranked Lawyer:
Chester Toh - General Business Law: International Firms (Band 1)
What the team is known for
Rajah & Tann provides a highly effective regional legal platform, with the ability to provide domestic and international law capabilities on matters in Myanmar. It often leads Myanmar matters from its Singapore office with support from its team based in Yangon. The team is particularly active in advising clients on M&A, banking and joint venture matters in Myanmar, as well as significant energy and infrastructure projects. The practice represents an impressive array of Myanmar corporates as well as regional and global clients. Notable clients includes Denko Trading and Eden Agritech.
Strengths
“The speed of response from Rajah & Tann is beyond expectations, sometimes within minutes of a query. The detailed advice and legal documents turnaround time is also very impressive.”
“The team is well equipped to provide solid advice.”
Work highlights
Rajah & Tann Myanmar advised Eden Agritech on its acquisition of a 50% stake in Agri First by Myanmar Agribusiness.
Notable practitioners
Chester Toh in Singapore is highly praised by market sources for his expertise on corporate legal matters. He regularly acts on cross-border M&A, joint ventures and real estate development work.
Gatmaytan Yap Patacsil Gutierrez & Protacio (C&G Law) – Philippines
Banking & Finance - Band 3
Corporate/M&A - Band 2
Corporate/M&A: Real Estate - Band 1
Dispute Resolution - Band 2
Dispute Resolution: Arbitration - Band 2
Employment - Band 3
Projects, Infrastructure & Energy - Band 3
Tax - Band 3
Technology, Media, Telecoms (TMT) – Leading Firms
Ranked Lawyers:
Norma Margarita B Patacsil – Corporate/M&A (Band 2), Corporate/ M&A: Real Estate (Leading Individuals)
Jaime Renato B Gatmaytan - Corporate/M&A (Band 4)
Ben Dominic R Yap – Dispute Resolution (Band 3), Dispute Resolution: Arbitration (Leading Individuals)
Jesus Paolo Protacio - Dispute Resolution (Band 3)
Cesar E. Santamaria , Jr. – Employment (Band 3)
Katipunan Andrea - Projects, Infrastructure & Energy (Up-and-coming individuals)
Anthony Mark A Gutierrez – Tax (Band 2)
Banking & Finance
What the team is known for
Gatmaytan Yap Patacsil Gutierrez & Protacio is a Philippines-based legal team that is noted for its project finance and general loan facilities work. It assists various foreign and domestic banks and corporate borrowers with transactions in the Philippines. The team is also active on fintech matters. Examples of the firm’s clientele include Lendable SPC and SN Aboitiz Power.
Work highlights
Gatmaytan Yap Patacsil Gutierrez& Protacio advised The Export-Import Bank of China on a CNY2.3 billion loan to the government of the Republic of Philippines.
Notable practitioners
Norma Margarita Patacsil is a key point of contact for clients.
Corporate/M&A
What the team is known for
Gatmaytan Yap Patacsil Gutierrez & Protacio provides extensive advice on foreign investments, share and asset acquisitions, as well as regulatory and compliance issues and divestments in the Philippines. The firm is also experienced in assisting clients with the establishment of local businesses. It frequently advises on a range of corporate matters in the energy, aviation and technology industries. Clients benefit from its wide regional coverage and its experience handling cross-border matters. The team is additionally proficient in the real estate sector, often handling tax matters, as well as M&A and leasing mandates.
Work highlights
Gatmaytan Yap Patacsil Gutierrez & Protacio assisted Ayala Land with its five-way merger with four of of its subsidiaries and affiliates. The firm advised AREIT on its listing of PHP3 billion fixed-rate bonds, due 2023.
Notable practitioners
Norma Margarita Patacsil is known to be active on corporate work, while also being recognised for expertise in competition matters. She is also experienced in advising clients on real estate matters, including land acquisitions and divestments of properties.
Jaime Renato Gatmaytan is experienced in equity investments and transactions. He often advises on matters in the projects and energy sectors.
Dispute Resolution
What the team is known for
Gatmaytan Yap Patacsil Gutierrez & Protacio (C&G Law) has a robust team of lawyers in the Philippines able to advise on the full life-cycle of a dispute. The firm is particularly active in international arbitration and is known for representing leading conglomerates. The team is further equipped to handle the full range of litigation matters, including contractual, taxation and environmental disputes before local courts and the Supreme Court. Particularly active on energy and infrastructure disputes, the firm counts Metro Rail Transit, TeaM Energy and STEAG State Power among its clientele.
Strengths
“C&G Law are always prepared, punctual, and ready to help and guide us through the process.”
Work highlights
Gatmaytan Yap Patacsil Gutierrez & Protacio represented Metro Rail Transit in disputes with the local governments of Makati City, Pasay City, Mandaluyong City and Quezon City, relating to whether the EDSA Light Rail Transit System, built by Metro Rail Transit, is subject to real property taxes.
Notable practitioners
Jesus Paolo Protacio is active on a range of commercial and employment disputes and has expertise in cases related to the energy and infrastructure sectors.
Ben Dominic Yap is active on international arbitration and Philippine litigation mandates, including for energy clients.
Employment
What the team is known for
Gatmaytan Yap Patacsil Gutierrez & Protacio’s well-regarded team of lawyers in Manila regularly advises on employee misconduct, employee termination and contractual matters more generally. The practice is well versed in advising on the employment implications of M&A transactions, as well as collective bargaining agreements. The team also handles employment matters for multinational corporates setting up business operations in the Philippines. It counts among its clients multinationals in a range of sectors including technology, energy, shipping and finance.
Work highlights
Gatmaytan Yap Patacsil Gutierrez & Protacio advised a major financial services multinational on over 20 cases against former employees alleged to have committed acts of fraud and harassment.
Notable practitioners
Cesar Santamaria is well versed in advising multinational corporations on a range of employment law issues in the Philippines, from advisory matters and collective bargaining negotiations to illegal dismissal complaints.
Projects, Infrastructure & Energy
What the team is known for
Gatmaytan Yap Patacsil Gutierrez & Protacio is recognised and respected in the legal market for its activity in the Philippines infrastructure and energy arenas. It is well versed in project finance, including in the LNG and renewable energy sectors. The firm demonstrates strong knowledge of the regulatory framework and contractual issues, including in relation to disputes work. It advises both public and private sector clients, including government bodies, significant financial institutions and major corporates, including FGEN LNG, TeaM Energy and AC Energy Corporation.
Strengths
“I have been very pleased to work with the law firm Gatmaytan Yap Patacsil Gutierrez & Protacio for projects, infrastructure and energy disputes.”
Work highlights
Gatmaytan Yap Patacsil Gutierrez & Protacio advised Global Business Power Corporation on various regulatory and contractual issues, including power supply agreement review.
Notable practitioners
Andrea Katipunan advises clientele on a variety of mandates, including project development and regulatory compliance, while maintaining a key focus on the bidding process and government approvals of electricity supply contracts. She is also well equipped to handle energy sector corporate/M&A matters.
Tax
What the team is known for
Gatmaytan Yap Patacsil Gutierrez & Protacio continues to be prominent in tax disputes in the Philippines, with notable experience in challenging tax assessments. The practice is highly active in advisory matters, assisting clients with the tax aspects of transactional matters, including on cross-border aspects. The firm offers considerable expertise in advising clients from the energy sector, as well as the real estate and pharmaceutical industries. Clients include SM Prime Holdings, TeaM Energy and STEAG State Power.
Work highlights
Gatmaytan Yap Patacsil Gutierrez & Protacio advised FGEN LNG on tax matters relating to its USD1 billion LNG infrastructure development project.
Notable practitioners
Anthony Mark Gutierrez is highly active on tax work, advising on a wide range of matters from tax disputes to tax restructuring.
Technology, Media, Telecoms (TMT)
What the team is known for
Gatmaytan Yap Patacsil Gutierrez & Protacio is a well-respected law firm in the Philippines for work in TMT. The practice advises international clients across the full scope of matters, particularly data privacy, gaming regulations, cloud services and telecoms infrastructure. The firm is regularly seen on matters in such industries as media, e-commerce and IT.
Notable practitioners
Mary Thel Mundin is the leader of the firm’s TMT practice, and is a key contact for clients.
Rajah & Tann Singapore LLP – Singapore
Banking & Finance - Band 1
Banking & Finance: Regulatory - Band 2
Capital Markets - Band 2
Capital Markets: Securitisation & Derivatives - Band 1
Competition/Antitrust - Band 1
Construction - Band 1
Corporate/M&A - Band 2
Corporate Investigations/Anti-Corruption - Band 1
Dispute Resolution: Arbitration: Elite - Band 2
Dispute Resolution: Litigation - Band 1
Employment - Band 1
Insurance - Band 1
Intellectual Property - Band 3
Investment Funds - Band 1
Projects & Energy - Band 2
Real Estate - Band 1
Restructuring/Insolvency - Band 1
Shipping - Band 1
Startups & Emerging Companies - Band 2
Tax - Band 2
TMT - Band 1
India - Dispute Resolution (International Firms) - Desk Abroad - Band 4
Indonesia - Corporate & Finance (International Firms) - Desk Abroad - Band 4
South-East Asia - International Trade/WTO - Band 1
Asia Pacific Region - Arbitration (International) - Band 3
Asia Pacific Region - International Trade/WTO - Band 3
Asia-Pacific Region - Shipping: Finance - Band 3
Asia-Pacific Region - Shipping: Litigation - Band 3
Ranked Lawyers:
Andre Yeap SC - Dispute Resolution: Arbitration (Band 3), Dispute Resolution: Litigation (Band 3)
Angela Lim – Banking & Finance (Band 2)
Ang Tracy-Anne - Startups & Emerging Companies (Band 5)
Anne Yeo - Investment Funds (Band 1)
Arnold Tan - Investment Funds (Band 1)
Brian Ng - Startups & Emerging Companies (Band 2)
Chua Choon King) – Shipping: Domestic: Finance (Band 2)
Danny Lim - Capital Markets (Band 4), Corporate/M&A (Band 5)
Danny Ong - Corporate Investigations/Anti-Corruption (Band 3), Dispute Resolution: Litigation (Band 4), Restructuring & Insolvency (Band 3)
Desmond Wee - Employment (Band 2)
Elaine Tay – Insurance (Band 2)
Evelyn Wee - Capital Markets (Band 4)
Francis Xavier SC - Dispute Resolution: Litigation (Band 2), Dispute Resolution: Arbitration (Band 5)
Hamidul Haq - Corporate Investigations/Anti-Corruption (Band 1)
Jainil Bhandari – Shipping (Band 3)
Jasmine Chew - Investment Funds (Band 4)
Jonathan Yuen - Employment (Band 2)
Kala Anandarajah - Employment (Band 3), Competition/Antitrust (Band 1), South-East Asia – International Trade/WTO (Leading Individuals)
Kendall Tan – Shipping (Band 2)
Lau Kok Keng – Asia-Pacific Region Gaming & Gambling (Band 1), Intellectual Property: Domestic: Litigation (Band 2)
Lee Eng Beng SC - Dispute Resolution: Litigation (Band 1), Restructuring & Insolvency (Band 1)
Lee Weilin - Banking & Finance (Band 4)
Leong Kah Wah – Shipping (Band 1)
Liew Benjamin - Capital Markets: Securitisation & Derivatives (Up-and-coming individuals)
Lionel Tan – TMT (Band 4)
Lionel Tay – Restructuring & Insolvency (Band 4)
Murali Pillai - Employment (Band 2)
Ng Kim Beng - Construction (Band 3)
Ng Sey Ming - Banking & Finance (Band 3), Banking & Finance (International Firms) (Expertise Based Abroad- Indonesia) (Band 4)
Norman Ho – Real Estate (Band 1)
Patrick Ang – Restructuring & Insolvency (Band 1)
Philip Yeo - Investment Funds (Band 4)
Rajesh Sreenivasan -TMT (Band 1)
Raymond Tong - Capital Markets (Band 1)
Regina Liew - Banking & Finance: Regulatory (Band 1), Capital Markets: Securitisation & Derivatives (Band 2)
Sandy Foo - Corporate/M&A (Band 2)
Shemane Chan – Project & Energy (Band 1), Construction (Band 3)
Simon Goh – Insurance (Band 1)
Sim Kwan Kiat – Restructuring & Insolvency (Band 1)
Soh Lip San - Construction (Band 2)
Steve Tan – TMT (Band 2)
Tan Chuan Thye SC - Dispute Resolution: Arbitration (Band 4)
Terence Quek - Startups & Emerging Companies (Band 5)
Thong Chee Kun - Corporate Investigations/Anti-Corruption (Band 3)
Toh Kian Sing SC – Shipping (Band 1)
V Bala – Shipping (Band 4)
Vikna Rajah – Tax (Band 3)
Wang Ying Shuang – Insurance (Up-and-coming individuals)
Winston Kwek – Shipping (Band 3)
Banking & Finance
What the team is known for
Rajah & Tann Singapore’s lawyers are sought after by major banks and corporate borrowers, with an excellent track record in both large and mid-sized work, from traditional banking and syndicated lending to project and real estate finance. The team is capable of handling hari’a-compliant financings and green financing. It additionally offers notable regulatory expertise regarding fintech issues and digital licence application mandates. The regional offering is well placed to handle cross-border instructions due to its network of offices across the region, including in Myanmar, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam and China. Key clients of the department include DBS Group and Citigroup Global Markets.
Strengths
“The team at Rajah & Tann have always been able to find solutions even when dealing with counterparties across multiple jurisdictions.”
“Rajah & Tann has a well-equipped and experienced team. It is always on hand to hear our constraints and provide valuable advice.”
Work highlights
Rajah & Tann advised a special purpose vehicle whose ultimate parent is Sunseap Group on its SGD86.8 million green loan from DBS Bank and United Overseas Bank. The proceeds of the facility will be for the construction and installation of solar photovolatic systems across more than 1200 housing blocks and government sites. Rajah & Tann advised Pace on its payment services licence application with the Monetary Authority of Singapore.
Notable practitioners
Regina Liew has a market-leading regulatory practice in Singapore. She has expertise across a wide range of issues, including digital banking and bank restructuring.
Angela Lim is a well-respected banking and finance lawyer in Singapore, offering specific infrastructure expertise. She also regularly advises on term and bridge loan facilities.
Ng Sey Ming has built a strong reputation for cross-border transactions and acts for major banks and companies. His areas of expertise include real estate finance and sustainability-linked facilities. He is also well placed to advise clients on syndicated loan financings and capital call facilities.
Weilin Lee is a strong transactional practitioner who is well placed to advise lenders on both onshore and offshore financings.
Capital Markets
What the team is known for
Rajah & Tann Singapore offers legal expertise across both debt and equity capital markets and is recognised for being involved in many complex transactions in the market. The firm is highly regarded for advising on IPOs, SPACs and rights offerings, alongside multicurrency debt issuances and convertible notes. The client roster includes issuers as well as underwriters, with key names such as Japfa Comfeed, DBS Bank and Nanyang Technological University. Rajah & Tann has a network of offices across ASEAN and beyond, which adds to the team’s ability to handle cross-border work. Lawyers at the firm in Singapore often assist clients with overseas listings.
Strengths
“Rajah & Tann provides comprehensive advice and executes deals well. The team is very responsive to both client and the counterparty turns and requests.”
“They possess in-depth knowledge of the laws and regulations. The team demonstrates professionalism in all situations, showing the patience and willingness to achieve the optimum outcome for the client.”
Work highlights
Rajah & Tann Singapore advised Bridgetown 2 Holdings, a special purpose acquisition company, on its merger with PropertyGuru and the combined company’s listing on the New York Stock Exchange.
Notable practitioners
Raymond Tong possesses over two decades of experience in the capital markets field. He regularly advises major financial services clients on ECM deals in particular, including IPOs, secondary listings and private placements.
Danny Lim regularly advises clients including Singaporean and foreign listed companies on rights issues and share placements.
Evelyn Wee is well placed to assist clients with IPOs, follow-on offerings and other equity issuances. She has experience of handling deals in the real estate sector.
Competition/Antitrust
What the team is known for
Rajah & Tann Singapore has a highly regarded team with in-depth experience advising international and local clients on merger control issues, cartel investigations and abuse of dominance matters. The team handles multi-jurisdictional merger control cases, in particular those relating to the ASEAN region. The firm boasts an impressive client list which includes major multinational corporates in the technology, manufacturing, financial services and insurance sectors. DBS Bank, Emeritus Institute of Management and SK hynix are some of its clients.
Strengths
“The team at Rajah & Tann is top-notch. I can always rely on them to be fully up-to-date with the law and trends. Service levels are above expectations.”
“They are very engaged as we explain the situation and the help needed from their end. In very complex situations their guidance, advice and recommendations are very helpful.”
Work highlights
Rajah & Tann Singapore advised Japfa on the competition law aspects of its sale of 80% of its shareholding in Greenfields Dairy Singapore.
Notable practitioners
Kala Anandarajah is a highly regarded antitrust lawyer based in Singapore who primarily represents clients facing cartel investigations, as well as advising on transactional issues. Her clients include household names in the manufacturing, transportation and insurance sectors, among others.
Corporate/M&A
What the team is known for
Rajah & Tann Singapore has a highly regarded team of lawyers, leveraging the strength of its network of Asian offices to handle complex cross-border M&A mandates. The firm is active in a range of sectors, including property, manufacturing and healthcare, acting for major banks, funds and corporate clients on public and private M&A transactions, including privatisations, as well as private equity deals. The group offers further expertise handling REIT-related transactions. The corporate team effectively leverages the firm’s wider practice areas on related issues, including capital markets, finance and real estate. Clients advised include Startree Investments, Hi-P International and Sunseap.
Strengths
“Rajah & Tann provides innovative solutions.”
“They have a good bench and lawyers with the appropriate skill and experience level.”
Work highlights
Rajah & Tann Singapore advised Cuscaden Peak on its takeover offer for the acquisition of issued ordinary shares of Singapore Press Holdings for approximately SGD3.9 billion.
Notable practitioners
Sandy Foo is a lawyer in Singapore who regularly advises corporate clients from a wide variety of sectors on sophisticated commercial transactions, with significant experience in public M&A and takeover deals. She is additionally experienced in supporting private equity funds with investments, including REITs.
Danny Lim is recognised for his capabilities in both public and private M&A transactions, with particular expertise in corporate restructuring and exit offers. He is experienced in advising multinational companies, as well as Singaporean entities.
Corporate Investigations/Anti-Corruption
What the team is known for
A prominent team known for handling investigations in the energy and financial sectors, Rajah & Tann frequently assists with high-profile cases relating to fraud, bribery, asset recovery and market manipulation. Several members of the team offer the benefit of their former experience as government prosecutors. The team is involved in a wide range of cross-border investigations, drawing upon the support of the firm’s network across South-East Asia. The office is increasingly involved in matters related to cryptocurrencies. Wirecard, Eagle Hospitality REIT and Grant Thornton appear on the firm’s clientele roster.
Strengths
“The team has been able to tap into the very senior resources if and when needed in a timely and efficient manner.”
“They strike a good balance between robust and aggressive approaches. They have good professional courage, they’re not risk-takers but have strong courage in the sense of what can and can’t be done.”
Work highlights
Rajah & Tann assisted AIM with obtaining freezing orders in Singapore and Switzerland.
Notable practitioners
Hamidul Haq is considered an authority on white-collar criminal cases and anti-corruption mandates,frequently acting for both multinationals and private clients in litigation and investigation. He is often singled out for his prior experience at the AGC and the CAD.
Danny Ong has a successful practice spanning white-collar crime investigations, restructuring and insolvency and litigation, with a particular focus on matters involving fraud and asset tracing in the crypto space.
Thong Chee Kun is especially knowledgeable in money laundering, fraud and financial investigation.
Dispute Resolution: Arbitration
What the team is known for
Rajah & Tann’s legal practice in Singapore harbours an impressive line-up of experienced arbitration lawyers with deep connections throughout the Singapore and Asian markets. The firm often handles energy and shipping disputes, and BIT arbitration. The practice is involved in UNCITRAL arbitrations in Singapore, as well as matters before the ICC. The department is well placed to provide specialist advice on construction-related disputes. The Republic of the Philippines, Hilton and Vedanta feature amongst the firm’s client roster.
Strengths
“Rajah & Tann has insight into commercial aspects and can dissect the problem and come up with a clear, consistent and workable strategy.”
“They are adept in terms of how the industry operates and are very focused on delivering results – even if it calls for unconventional strategies.”
Work highlights
Rajah & Tann represented Vedanta in matters related to Singapore-seated treaty arbitration under UNCITRAL Rules again the Republic of India, concerning India’s retrospective usage of legislation to impose capital gains taxes and interest for sale proceeds.
Notable practitioners
Andre Yeap SC in Singapore has defended breach of contract arbitrations for sovereign states and also sits as an arbitrator.
Tan Chuan Thye SC has worked on ICC and SIAC arbitrations with recent experience advising on disputes within the hospitality sector.
Francis Xavier SC is a well-respected lawyer who acts in commercial and investor-state arbitrations. He is well versed in shareholder and land disputes.
Dispute Resolution: Litigation
What the team is known for
Rajah & Tann’s prolific litigation team offers plentiful expertise in big-ticket domestic and cross-border disputes. The firm represents clients at all levels of the Singapore courts. Thefirm has particular experience in financial disputes, including those relating to cryptocurrencies, while it also possesses expertise in contentious joint venture, shareholder and insolvency matters. The team is well placed to act on multi-jurisdictional matters due to its network of offices and alliances in the wider region. Members of the team have notable expertise handling cases connected to the South-East Asia, India and China markets. Siemens, Eagle Hospitality Trust and Keppel Fels are notable clients of the firm.
Strengths
“Rajah & Tann’s work is always incredibly well done and sophisticated, with a quick turnaround and good understanding of business needs.”
“They strike a good balance between robust and aggressive approaches.”
Work highlights
Rajah & Tann represented Senda International Capital in minority oppression claims brought in the SICC by its joint venture partner Kiri Industries relating to the affairs of Dystar Global Holdings.
Notable practitioners
Lee Eng Beng SC has long been an esteemed figure in the market. He is active on complex business law disputes before the Court of Appeal.
Francis Xavier SC has experience before the SICC and the Court of Appeal, acting on cross-border disputes concerning alleged breaches of obligations
Andre Yeap SC has acted on cross-border issues before the High Court, including arbitral enforcement relating to investment treaties and against sovereign states.
Danny Ong is someone clients turn to for advice on fraud litigation and breach of contract. He has experience in the cryptocurrency and finance spaces.
Employment
What the team is known for
Rajah & Tann Singapore has a market-leading reputation for contentious employment law matters, with further expertise in non-contentious work. The large team is able to provide a full-service offering, with notable expertise in handling company and internal investigations, trade union issues and workplace harassment cases. The lawyers are well placed to assist with regional work due to the firm’s network of offices throughout Asia. The firm acts for multinational corporations from a range of sectors, including technology, insurance, finance and manufacturing and also advises clients on employment policies and contracts. Mandiri Investment Management is a notable client of the firm.
Strengths
“Rajah & Tann team is outstanding. Their quality is consistently top-notch; responsiveness and strategic thinking are strengths. They are always driving for the client’s commercial goal and focused on recovery.”
“They are able to see the big picture in rendering advice.”
Work highlights
Rajah & Tann Singapore acted for Prudential Assurance Company in a High Court suit against its former senior agency leader and PTO Management and Consultancy for allegedly soliciting over 240 agents originally tied to Prudential to competitors in breach of contract.
Notable practitioners
Murali Pillai SC possesses a wealth of experience handling employment law disputes in Singapore, representing corporate clients from various industries.
Desmond Wee has a well-regarded practice handling non-contentious employment work in Singapore, with experience in multi-jurisdictional retrenchment exercises as well as formulating and implementing employment policies.
Jonathan Yuen is a contentious employment law specialist who represents corporate clients.
Kala Anandarajah is well known for the breadth of her practice, including employment law as well as competition and trade.
Insurance
What the team is known for
Rajah & Tann is a long-standing local firm with strength in both contentious and non-contentious insurance matters. The insurance and reinsurance team regularly acts for major international general and life insurers as well as domestic companies, and is especially active assisting clients with regulatory and corporate insurance work. Local law capability and rights of audience before Singapore courts allows the firm to provide a full-service offering. AIG Insurance, Hannover Reinsurance and Swiss Reinsurance are amongst the key clients that the firm advises.
Strengths
“The team has the ability to quickly understand the issues and provide commercial and practical solutions.”
“They understand the regulatory framework in Singapore very well, including the historical aspects of it. The senior and junior partners work well together.”
Work highlights
Rajah & Tann defended the National Parks Board against claims for injuries suffered by members of the public due to wild boar attacks in Singapore.
Notable practitioners
Simon Goh is head of the insurance and reinsurance practice group at Rajah & Tann. An influential senior adviser, he sits atop the Singapore insurance market with a broad practice encompassing claims work and insurance-related corporate matters. He is lauded for his robust sector-wide contributions by clients.
Elaine Tay is able to assist global insurers with a range of contentious matters, including financial lines and professional indemnity claims, and can also offer transactional and regulatory advice.
Wang Ying Shuang is an up-and-coming insurance practitioner who is well versed at handling cross-border mandates, often acting as local counsel and advising clients on the regulatory implications of the matters. She is also engages on contentious insurance issues.
Intellectual Property
What the team is known for
Rajah & Tann Singapore’s established IP law department is involved with contentious and non-contentious cases concerning patents, trade marks and copyrights. The team is well known for advising clients on IP licensing and brand protection, and advises on transactional deals in relation to the transfer and licensing of IP rights. The firm is active across a wide range of sectors, such as manufacturing, media, technology and insurance. The examples of clients include Singapore National Olympic Council, Sony Interactive Entertainment and Alila Hotels & Resorts.
Strengths
“They are able to quickly understand situational context and propose various options for consideration.”
“Their depth of knowledge and experience in handling complex and sophisticated matters is demonstrated by their holistic, practical and effective solutions and advice provided for such matters.”
Work highlights
Rajah & Tann advised Sony and carried out authentication work on Sony-branded counterfeit goods seized by the police during a raid.
Notable practitioners
Lau Kok Keng leads Rajah & Tann Singapore’s IP department. His work includes trade mark infringement proceedings and enforcement.
Investment Funds
What the team is known for
Rajah & Tann Singapore frequently provides advice to a variety of leading global funds groups that encompass a broad spectrum of strategies including hedge, venture capital, private equity and real estate funds. The team is adept in offering advice to major investment groups on corporate reorganisation and M&A. It is particularly distinguished for its work on the creation and management of private funds. The team is well placed to advise institutional investors and sovereign wealth funds. It regularly assists clients with Singapore-domiciled funds.
Strengths
“Rajah & Tann provides practical and useful advice through the entire process, and the support provided has been instrumental to the successful conclusion of the deal. It is one of the most commercially-aware and mindful legal teams in Singapore that we’ve had the pleasure of working with.”
“The lawyers all display in-depth knowledge and expertise, with high levels of commercial awareness.”
Notable practitioners
Arnold Tan is a pre-eminent investment funds lawyer who is particularly well placed to advise on the formation of major offshore funds as well as Singapore-an-domiciled funds.
Anne Yeo has a leading reputation in the investment funds space with a broad practice, often acting for sovereign wealth funds and institutional investors.
Jasmine Chew has a strong practice and regularly offers regulatory advice relating to MAS applications and listing funds under the VCC scheme.
Philip Yeo has a broad funds practice with particular strength in venture capital mandates. He also has experience advising on private equity, real estate and private debt vehicles.
Projects & Energy
What the team is known for
Rajah & Tann Singapore is a well-known law firm in the market, recognised for its comprehensive regional legal network, with an established presence in Indonesia, Myanmar and Malaysia. The team is highly sought after for its expertise in power and strong experience on PPP infrastructure projects. The practice is also experienced in the oil and gas and renewable energy sectors. The firm is further noted for its focus on the construction and development aspects of projects, with additional expertise regarding project finance. Rajah & Tann’s clientele includes Land Transport Authority of Singapore, M1 and Energy Market Authority of Singapore.
Strengths
“Rajah & Tann’s lawyers are very commercial and problem solvers for complex deals and issues.”
Work highlights
Rajah & Tann Singapore advised Land Transport Authority of Singapore on its appointment of two separate private train operators for the Jurong Regional Line and Cross Island Line.
Notable practitioners
Shemane Chan specialises in energy, utilities and infrastructure project development and SPAs, including on renewable energy mandates. She has strong expertise advising public bodies on regulatory developments in Singapore.
Real Estate
What the team is known for
Rajah & Tann Singapore’s corporate real estate team is noted for its deft handling of legal work for major developers, financial institutions and REITs. The firm covers the full suite of real estate issues, the team is adept at handling acquisitions, lease agreements and conveyancing issues for both domestic and foreign clients. Rajah & Tann is active on collective real estate sales and advice relating to data centre projects, and has experience in real estate financing. The team counts Boustead Industrial Fund Management and Golden Paramount among its clientele.
Strengths
“The lawyers at Rajah & Tann have relevant real estate experience and are able to provide valuable comments during negotiation.”
“The team worked hard in the deal, responded immediately to queries and turned around the paperwork in a quick efficient way. They were sophisticated and knowledgeable in handling a complex situation and able to provide a commercial solution to the client.”
Work highlights
Rajah & Tann acted for Kheng Leong Company in the SGD213 million acquisition of a group of companies from Far East Consortium International.
Notable practitioners
Norman Ho is well regarded for his experience handling a range of real estate transactions. He advises property developers, investors and institutions.
Restructuring/Insolvency
What the team is known for
Rajah & Tann Singapore has a stellar legal practice based in Singapore, noted for its deep bench of lawyers. The team assists clients involved in high-value judicial management and insolvency matters, including debtors, creditors, committees of noteholders and liquidators. The practice is also well placed to advise on the enforcement of creditors’ rights. Rajah & Tann draws on its regional network to advise on cross-border matters, and offers specialist expertise from within the firm in areas such as shipping, construction and energy. Hin Leong, Hyflux and Ezion are the among the firm’s clientele.
Strengths
“They have a big bench and give really solid and timely advice, which is commercial as well. If it’s big ticket, you go to Rajah & Tann.”
“Their strength is that they have a lot of depth in terms of various people within the firm, and the breadth.”
Work highlights
Rajah & Tann advised a large coalition of banks in opposition to the restructuring application of Agritrade International.
Notable practitioners
Patrick Ang is a pre-eminent lawyer in Singapore with extensive experience acting for major banks and judicial managers on restructuring mandates. He is a highly regarded figure in the market.
Lee Eng Beng SC remains a market-leading figure with notable expertise in restructuring and insolvency matters in Singapore. He has particularly notable experience on restructuring litigation and arbitration mandates. He often works on behalf of creditors, as well as judicial managers and debtors.
Sim Kwan Kiat is a highly esteemed lawyer in Singapore, who is renowned for working on high-value restructurings. He acts on behalf of lenders, noteholders, judicial managers and liquidators.
Danny Ong has a robust practice in Singapore, with experience advising debtors and liquidators on contentious insolvency mandates.
Lionel Tay is an experienced lawyer in Singapore with a well-established contentious practice. He acts for steering committees of noteholders, judicial managers and lenders on insolvency proceedings.
Shipping
What the team is known for
Rajah & Tann Singapore’s pre-eminent shipping law practice is renowned for the size and strength of its litigation team. The firm covers the full range of contentious matters, including ship arrests, bunker payment claims, vessel collisions and casualty dispute cases. The team offers additional strength in ship financing as well as shipping-related restructuring, with clients benefiting from its regional network of offices in South-East Asia. The firm frequently advises international banks and commodity houses, as well as ship owners and judicial managers. Counts Hin Leong Trading, DBS Bank and ING Bank among its clientele.
Strengths
“Rajah & Tann’s strength is that they have a lot of depth and breadth in terms of various people within the firm.”
Work highlights
Rajah & Tann Singapore acted for Natixis in a breach of contract of carriage and cargo misdelivery claim against the owners of the ‘Miracle Hope’ vessel.
Notable practitioners
Leong Kah Wah is widely viewed as a prominent shipping litigator in Singapore. He assists clients with complex liability and salvage matters arising out of ship collisions and groundings.
Toh Kian SingSC offers significant expertise in the full range of shipping disputes in Singapore, from charter party and enforcement cases to claims arising out of ship casualties and collisions.
Chua Choon King has well-established experience in the area of shipping finance in Singapore, regularly acting for notable banks. He offers clients knowledge of ship sale and purchase agreements as well as leasing work.
Kendall Tan has a wealth of experience in shipping disputes in Singapore, regularly advising clients on wet matters including cargo and damages claims.
Jainil Bhandari is a distinguished lawyer in Singapore and also has expertise in Malaysian shipping matters. He has substantial experience in shipping disputes, assisting clients with ship safety and cargo damage matters.
Winston Kwek offers clients a wealth of experience across a range of different matters in Singapore, including major restructuring-related litigation and fraud disputes. He regularly assists international banks and corporate clients in the shipping industry.
V Bala is well versed in wet and dry shipping litigation in Singapore, including restructuring and charter party disputes, as well as fraud cases.
Startups & Emerging Companies
What the team is known for
Rajah & Tann Singapore is a full-service law firm, well known for its activity in the startup space. The firm represents a range of VC funds and private equity investors in startup financing matters, with further capabilities acting for growth-stage companies on early-stage fundraising rounds. The team has particular expertise in technology-sector mandates, such as e-commerce, whilst clients also benefit from the firm’s M&A, TMT and intellectual property practices as well as its extensive network of regional offices. Clients include iCart, Doctor Anywhere and Trusting Social.
Strengths
“At Rajah & Tann, you can get high-quality advice from the partner, and excellent transaction support, with attention to detail, from the associates. They are able to focus on the end game and closing an effective transaction, instead of winning irrelevant negotiating points.”
“They are very responsive over different communication channels.”
Work highlights
Rajah & Tann Singapore acted for Pluang Technologies on its Series A, B and C fund-raising rounds respectively, worth an aggregate total of USD110 million.
Notable practitioners
Brian Ng is Singapore law qualified and well versed in advising investors and VC funds on startup financing. He also has further experience acting for emerging companies on financing rounds.
Tracy-Anne Ang in Singapore has notable experience handling venture capital and private equity transactions. She acts for startups, corporate investors and funds.
Terence Quek is noted by market commentators as an up-and-coming lawyer in Singapore’s startup space. He has experience acting for both investors and emerging companies on investment and financing mandates.
Tax
What the team is known for
Rajah & Tann Singapore has a well established tax group, providing assistance with tax elements of cross-border transactions, inbound and outbound investments and tax disputes. The firm offers wide sector expertise, having experience in tax issues in the financial services, insurance and technology sectors. The team is also able to execute tax-efficient capital markets transactions and assists with exchange of information requests from tax authorities.
Strengths
“Rajah & Tann’s team provide very commercial advice,not overly theoretical input. They are pragmatic and appreciate the bigger picture. They are also responsive and thorough. Responses to our queries are very well researched and they are very much up-to-date with issues that are relevant.”
“The team is well versed in their area of knowledge and each team member is able to contribute positively.”
Notable practitioners
Vikna Rajah is the lead partner in Rajah & Tann’s tax and private client team, with a significant tax litigation practice. He is also active on transactional tax matters.
Technology, Media, Telecoms (TMT)
What the team is known for
Rajah & Tann Singapore fields a team of seasoned lawyers who are well placed to provide expertise on telecoms and technology regulatory matters as well as licensing, data protection and data centre projects. It acts for an impressive roster of high-end domestic and multinational social media, electronics and telecoms companies. It often provides advice in relation to cybersecurity issues, including drafting of cyber-breach readiness and response plans, and in ensuring compliance with the provisions of Singapore’s Personal Data Protection Act. It is well placed to handle cross-border mandates and offers clients support in the wider region through the firm’s extensive network of offices and associated firms. Key clients include Splunk, American Express and DBS Bank.
Strengths
“They are very responsive and have a very strong ability to handle complex and sophisticated matters.”
“Rajah & Tann have strong business acumen and are solution-oriented.”
Work highlights
Rajah & Tann assisted ByteDance and its subsidiaries TikTok and Lark with the regulatory, commercial and licensing issues of their growing South-East Asia operations.
Notable practitioners
Rajesh Sreenivasan is a pre-eminent TMT lawyer who is particularly adept at handling complex, multi-jurisdictional matters. He is best known for his work on cybersecurity and data protection.
Steve Tan is a well-reputed lawyer who advises on data breaches, conducting investigations and internal audits of compliance with data protection law.
Lionel Tan is a well-regarded litigator with a solid TMT practice, often representing clients in data and IT disputes. He also advises clients on non-contentious fintech and cybersecurity issues.
India – Dispute Resolution (International Firms) – Desk Abroad
What the team is known for
Rajah & Tann is a long-standing presence in both Singapore and regional South-East and South Asian disputes, handling both arbitration and litigation, with additional capabilities for acting as arbitrator, securing interim measures and challenging or enforcing arbitral awards. The team is also well equipped to handle investment treaty arbitrations and often acts for clients in the energy, tech and logistics sectors.
Strengths
“They are able to balance business imperatives and legal constraints extremely well.”
Work highlights
Rajah & Tann represented Indian businessman Shantanu Prakash in connection with a conspiracy claim involving a joint venture in which he was a major shareholder. The matter raised novel issues concerning the extent to which directors can be personally held liable for breaches committed by their company.
Notable practitioners
Singapore-based Kelvin Poon is a key contact.
Indonesia- Corporate & Finance (Expertise Based Abroad)
What the team is known for
Rajah & Tann Singapore leverages its network of law offices across the Asia-Pacific region to advise on a significant volume of cross-border mandates. The team provides Indonesia law advice through its associate firm, Assegaf Hamzah & Partners. The group’s expertise covers banking and finance, dispute resolution, M&A and projects. The firm possesses notable language capabilities in the group’s Singapore office, includingIndonesian.
Strengths
“Rajah & Tann is an excellent business partner.”
“They are always within reach and respond quickly to our queries.”
Work highlights
Rajah & Tann Singapore advised Japfa Comfeed on its USD350 million sustainability-linked bond issuance.
Notable practitioners
Ng Sey Ming is an active banking lawyer in Singapore who often handles Indonesia-related financing transactions, including term and revolving credit loans.
South-East Asia – International Trade/WTO
What the team is known for
Rajah & Tann offers in-depth legal expertise in trade matters concerning South-East Asian countries. The team excels in a range of areas, including anti-dumping, export controls, safeguards and the structuring of trade flows, as well as handling customs regulatory compliance for international companies operating across a number of sectors, with particular expertise in the metal, energy, technology, consumer goods and finance spaces. The firm also works on matters involving free trade agreements and tariffs. Rajah & Tann maintains a strong reputation for its handling of Indonesia, Thailand and Malaysia-related matters.
Notable practitioners
Kala Anandarajah leads the competition and trade law department at Rajah & Tann Singapore. She advises extensively on customs issues and trade remedies across the region.
Melisa Uremovic demonstrates a strong South-East Asia-focused trade practice from her base in Thailand. Her recent work spans anti-dumping and customs issues as well as WTO proceedings.
Asia Pacific Region – Arbitration (International)
What the team is known for
A leading Singapore firm, Rajah & Tann is highlighted for its specialist arbitration practice and impressive regional range, extending to the Middle East, including especially notable coverage of Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam and maintaining an acknowledged profile in Philippines-related matters. The firm is particularly noted for handling investor-state and energy cases, regularly instructed in matters involving the operations of Chinese companies in other Asian jurisdictions and highly active in disputes generated by regional construction projects. It is additionally well placed to act on arbitration-related litigation in the Singapore courts, where it often provides assistance to international firms. The Republic of the Philippines, Hilton and Vedanta feature amongst the firm’s client roster.
Strengths
“Rajah & Tann has insight into commercial aspects and can dissect the problem and come up with a clear, consistent and workable strategy.”
“They are always within reach and respond quickly to our queries.”
Work highlights
Rajah & Tann represented Vedanta in matters related to Singapore-seated treaty arbitration under UNCITRAL Rules against the Republic of India, concerning India’s retrospective usage of legislation to impose capital gains taxes and interest for sale proceeds.
Notable practitioners
Kelvin Poon is head of the firm’s international arbitration department.
Asia-Pacific Region – Shipping: Litigation
What the team is known for
Rajah & Tann Singapore’s pre-eminent shipping law practice is renowned for the size and strength of its litigation team. The firm covers the full range of contentious matters, including ship arrests, bunker payment claims, vessel collisions and casualty dispute cases. The team offers additional strength in ship financing as well as shipping-related restructuring, with clients benefiting from its regional network of offices in South-East Asia. The firm frequently advises international banks and commodity houses, as well as ship owners and judicial managers.
Strengths
“Rajah & Tann’s strength is that they have a lot of depth and breadth in terms of various people within the firm.”
Work highlights
Rajah & Tann Singapore acted for Natixis in a breach of contract of carriage and cargo misdelivery claim against the owners of the ‘Miracle Hope’ vessel.
Notable practitioners
Leong Kah Wah and Kian Sing Toh SC are key contacts for the firm.
R&T Asia (Thailand) Limited – Thailand
Corporate M&A - Band 4
Dispute Resolution – Band 3
Tax – Band 3
Technology, Media, Telecoms (TMT) – Band 3
Ranked Lawyers:
Surasak Vajasit – Dispute Resolution (Band 1)
Uremovic Melisa - South-East Asia – International Trade/WTO (Leading Individuals)
Nuttaphol Arammuang – Intellectual Property (Band 4)
Dispute Resolution
What the team is known for
Rajah & Tann is a regional law firm with a solid reputation in the litigation space, regularly advising on a variety of corporate and administrative cases. The litigation team is especially active on disputes involving customs and tax, employment and energy, on behalf of both domestic and international clients. The lawyers handle contractual and shareholder cases, often representing clients before the Courts of Appeal and the Thai Supreme Court.
Strengths
“Rajah & Tann provides clear pros and cons and is very quick to respond.”
Notable practitioners
Surasak Vajasit has expertise in customs, energy, finance and shareholder disputes. He covers cases involving both arbitration and litigation.
Rajah & Tann LCT Lawyers – Vietnam
Corporate/M&A – Band 3
Dispute Resolution – Band 3
Employment – Band 2
Real Estate- Band 4
Technology, Media, Telecoms (TMT) – Band 3
Ranked Lawyers:
Vu Thi Que – Employment (Band 2), Corporate/M&A (Band 4)
Chau Huy Quang – Dispute Resolution (Band 3)
Corporate/M&A
What the team is known for
Rajah & Tann LCT Lawyers is a well-regarded law firm which combines local expertise with the support of the firm’s network of offices in the region. The team regularly assists foreign clients including MNCs and regional companies with their cross-border transactions. The firm is especially adept in handling real estate, manufacturing and technology sector deals, including joint ventures and mergers.
Notable practitioners
Vu Thi Que is a partner at Rajah & Tann LCT Lawyers. She is a well-regarded corporate lawyer who regularly assists foreign clients with acquisitions, as well as general commercial matters such as the setting up of company and other operational matters.
Dispute Resolution
What the team is known for
The legal team at Rajah & Tann LCT Lawyers in Vietnam advises on both international arbitration and domestic litigation, including in-depth experience of SIAC and ICC proceedings. The firm is especially active for regional and international clients, often handling cross-border construction disputes. The department also handles a range of real estate and shipping cases. The team is experienced in assisting foreign clients with the enforcement of arbitral awards in Vietnam.
Notable practitioners
Chau Huy Quang is the managing partner at Rajah & Tann LCT Lawyers in Vietnam. He regularly represents clients in both litigation and arbitration. He has experience acting for a range of international companies on arbitration matters, including in VIAC and ICC proceedings.
Employment
What the team is known for
Rajah & Tann LCT Lawyers has an experienced team of lawyers working on terminations and labour litigation in Vietnam, alongside daily operational employment matters. The firm also shows expertise in workforce restructuring and retrenchment activities, as well as issues involving health and safety regulations. The team represents many international clients in Vietnam across such sectors as finance, retail and technology.
Notable practitioners
Vu Thi Que is a partner at Rajah & Tann LCT Vietnam. She handles terminations, drafting of employment contracts, changes to benefits packages and company-wide retrenchments, among other issues.
Real Estate
What the team is known for
Rajah & Tann LCT Lawyers acts on a variety of real estate legal matters in Vietnam, including in relation to office, residential and industrial premises. The practice advises clients on construction agreements, property acquisitions and divestments, project development and land leasing matters. Clients for real estate matters include companies in the hospitality and energy sectors, as well as property developers.
Notable practitioners
Vu Thi Que is a key point of contact for Rajah & Tann LCT Lawyers’ real estate law practice.
Technology, Media, Telecoms (TMT)
What the team is known for
Rajah & Tann LCT Lawyers is a full-service law firm in Vietnam with significant experience assisting clients with regulatory issues such as technology licensing and agreements. The firm houses an impressive client base comprising multinational technology companies, start-ups and investors seeking to invest in fintech and other technology companies. The department is particularly experienced in handling e-commerce, data protection and cryptocurrency matters.
Notable practitioners
Vu Thi Que and Logan Leung are key points of contact for clients.