Firms To Watch: Real estate and construction

Led by Aaron Gerard Sankar, the team at boutique firm Aaron Sankar & Co. advises local and international clients on property development projects, sale and leaseback transactions, and acquisitions of land.
Boutique firm Hsian & Co. advises on the regulatory and structuring elements of real estate mandates, in addition to handling property disposals. The team is led by Yong Hsian Siong, who has experience in real estate M&A transactions.

Real estate and construction in Malaysia

Lee Hishammuddin Allen & Gledhill

The robust real estate offering at Lee Hishammuddin Allen & Gledhill is co-led by Tay Weng Hwee, an expert in advising on property finance and joint ventures, and Nitin Nadkarni, a specialist in the field of multi-jurisdictional construction disputes. Recognised as a ‘strong team with business acumen’, the practice handles the full spectrum of real estate matters across the hospitality, retail, industrial, and housing sectors. Acting for a range of leading Malaysian and international developers, investors, contractors, and financiers, the team’s work includes both transactional and contentious elements. Darshendev Singh is a well-versed construction litigator who is praised for his ‘deep expertise and specialisation’, while Bella Chu Chai Yee advises on all aspects of commercial and residential development, in addition to real estate financing considerations.

Practice head(s):

Tay Weng Hwee; Nitin Nadkarni


Other key lawyers:

Darshendev Singh; Bella Chu Chai Yee; Crystal Wong; Lim Chee Yong; Ho Ai Ting; Teh Wai Fung


Testimonials

‘Nitin Nadkarni offers strategic legal solutions with sound commercial reasoning.’ 

‘Very strong team with business acumen, availability and reactivity.’

‘Darshendev Singh is diligent, thorough, and pays attention to all details.’

‘The team delivers all-round and practical solutions that allow businesses to achieve their ultimate business goals.’

‘Fast, efficient, and accurate.’

‘Bella Chu Chai Yee and her team are a class above the rest for real estate work. They are efficient, communicate well, and diligent.’

‘The team has expertise in the area of construction, ranging from railway projects, high-rise buildings, infrastructure project etc. The team is also committed to collaborate with clients and other law firms in approaching cases.’

‘Darshendev Singh possesses deep expertise and specialisation in the practice area of construction, which instils confidence in client on his abilities to handle complex legal matters.’

Key clients

Bharat Serums and Vaccines Limited


UEM Sunrise Berhad


Mapletree Logistics Trust Management Ltd


Lagenda Properties Berhad


KIP Real Estate Investment Trust


The Holstein Milk Company (M) Sdn Bhd (a wholly owned subsidiary of Farm Fresh Berhad, a public company listed on the Main Market of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad)


Accurate Industrial Steel Sdn Bhd


DHL Express (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd (DHL)


Cypark Sdn Bhd


Global Wall (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of Italy’s Permasteelisa Group


Sime Darby Property (Ara Damansara) Sdn Bhd


MTD ACPI Engineering Sdn Bhd


Telekom Malaysia Berhad


Setia Eco Templer Sdn Bhd (“SET”), a subsidiary of S P Setia Berhad


Work highlights


  • Represent Global Wall (Malaysia) in its dispute with Samsung C&T Corporation UEM Construction, relating to the construction of the Menara Merdeka 118.
  • Acting for Mapletree Logistics Trust Management in its acquisition of industrial lands located in Selangor.
     
  • Took action against Telekom Malaysia (TM) for seeking additional land compensation arising from partial compulsory acquisition of TM’s land for MRT2, the second line of the multibillion-dollar Klang Valley MRT project.

Rahmat Lim & Partners

Rahmat Lim & Partners’ strong practice advises on the full spectrum of corporate real estate and real estate-related matters including property developments and joint ventures, property acquisitions and divestments, listings of real estate investment trusts, and due diligence concerns. Engaged by a host of local and international investors, private corporations, and property funds, the firm has a fine track record of handling complex and high-value property transactions involving retail malls, data centre operators, and retail malls. Kamilah Kasim is praised for her ‘knowledge and experience’, Chong Yee Leong specialises in power and infrastructure projects, and Dzuhairi Jaafar Thani focuses on various engineering, construction, and procurement contracts. Lee Yee Ling is an expert in sale and leaseback transactions and commercial leases, while Lim Teong Sit covers various corporate-related matters. All named individuals collectively lead the department.

Practice head(s):

Lim Teong Sit; Dzuhairi bin Jaafar Thani; Chong Yee Leong; Kamilah Kasim; Lee Yee Ling


Other key lawyers:

Amelia Koo; Joycelyn Ang; Zandra Tan; Cheryl Lee


Testimonials

‘Knowledgeable, quick to respond, and provides solutions attentive to the client’s needs.’

‘Kamilah Kasim is very interactive with her clients. She possesses enormous experience in the industry.’

‘The real estate team has excellent knowledge of the real estate market and the relevant laws and regulations. They gave sound legal advice and provided practical solutions when faced with challenges. They were meticulous and checked every detail to make sure that our interests were protected.’

‘Kamilah Kasim’s vast knowledge, experience, and quickness helps us a lot in dealing with our projects and disputes.’

Work highlights


  • Advising MRT Lingkaran Sdn Bhd and reviewing and drafting various agreements in relation to the design, construction and completion of the MRT 3 project including the project management consultancy services agreement and civil main contractor agreement.
  • Advising Micron Memory Malaysia on the second phase of the development and construction of a centre of excellence for the assembly, testing, and manufacturing of solid-state drives and related facilities in Batu Kawan, Penang.
  • Advised Pavilion Real Estate Investment Trust’s (Pavilion REIT) in connection with its proposed acquisition of Pavilion Bukit Jalil mall from a subsidiary of Malton Bhd for RM2.2bn.

Shearn Delamore & Co

Shearn Delamore & Co’s practice is jointly led by specialist Grace Yeoh and Rodney Gomez, who offers expertise in construction litigation and infrastructure projects. The firm counts local and international property developers, listed companies, multinational corporations, and financial institutions among its key roster of clients, and advises on the full spectrum of corporate real estate issues. The team advises on sales and leasebacks, joint ventures and property developments, leases and tenancies, and property acquisitions and divestments. On the construction front, the department handles both contentious and non-contentious elements and frequently covers high value building development projects and contract documentation. Anita Balakrishnan is a notable member of the group and is experienced in acquisitions and disposals, in addition to advising on Islamic financing principles.

Practice head(s):

Grace Yeoh; Rodney Gomez


Other key lawyers:

Anita Balakrishnan; Michelle Wong Min Er; Alexius Lee; Sar Sau Yee


Key clients

CRSE Sdn Bhd (formerly known as Colas Rail System Engineering Sdn Bhd)


Hitachi Rail


MCC Overseas (M) Sdn Bhd


Exyte Asia-Pacific Holdings Ltd


Muhibbah Engineering (M) Bhd


Ircon International Limited


Integrated Project Services LLC


Pestech Technology Sdn Bhd


Mammoth Empire Holding Sdn Bhd


Malaysian Resources Corporation Berhad


Setia-Wood Industries Sdn Bhd


Yuk Tung Construction Sdn Bhd


Tenaga Nasional Berhad


Worldwide Holdings Berhad


Onetexx Sdn Bhd


Sime Darby Berhad


Prudential Assurance Malaysia Berhad


Alibaba KLIA Aeropolis Sdn Bhd


Eco World Development Group Berhad


SP Setia Berhad


HSBC Bank Malaysia Berhad


BBCC Development Sdn Bhd


Sime Darby


Paramount Corporation Berhad


MCBride Malaysia Sdn Bhd


Malakoff R&D Sdn Bhd


Dutch Lady Milk Industries Berhad


Work highlights


  • Advised BBCC Development Sdn Bhd on its sale of a hotel building to UDA Holdings Bhd.
  • Advised Eco Business Park 2 on its sale of industrial land to Haitian Group.

Wong & Partners

The ‘top-notch team’ at Wong & Partners is jointly led by Ai Leen Tang, an expert in real estate financing matters, and Janice Tay, who specialises in construction and engineering disputes. The full-service real estate offering handles complex infrastructure projects, high-value commercial agreements that span various industries, joint venture transactions, and data centre development work. Advising tenants, landlords, and multinational corporations, the practice also possesses build-to-suit leasing expertise. On the construction front, it is well-placed to provide advice on sophisticated manufacturing, distribution, and warehousing operations. May Chua is a valuable member of the group and has strong know-how on property acquisitions and compliance considerations, while senior associate Chih-wen Ooi focuses on arbitration disputes involving construction and engineering matters.

Practice head(s):

Janice Tay; Ai Leen Tang


Other key lawyers:

May Chua; Chih-Wen Ooi


Testimonials

‘Knowledge of the law and the ability to narrow down legal issues in dispute.’

‘Top-notch team in Kuala Lumpur with outstanding results derived from a detailed process and strategy driven work.’

‘Janice Tay is a great leader and is able to see the big picture.’

Key clients

Employees Provident Fund


GDS IDC Services (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd.


Iskandar Investment Berhad


Lagenda Properties Berhad


Mattel (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd.


Naza Corporation


Royal Group of Companies


Sime Darby Property Berhad


Tropicana Corporation Berhad


Work highlights


  • Acted for the Employees Provident Fund (EPF) of Malaysia in its investment into a logistics hub located in Klang, Malaysia. The hub will be equipped with the first Automated Storage and Retrieval System (ASRS) in the country, providing increased efficiency and flexibility for tenants.
  • Advising an assisting GDS IDC Services (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., the Malaysian subsidiary of GDS Holdings (GDS) in its RM70m acquisition of a plot of industrial land from Nusajaya Tech Park Sdn. Bhd., a joint venture between CapitaLand and UEM Sunrise.
  • Advising and assisting Sime Darby (Bukit Raja) Sdn. Bhd., a wholly owned subsidiary of Sime Darby Property Berhad, in its sale of three parcels of land in Selangor by entering into a conditional sale-and-purchase agreement with Inta Development Sdn. Bhd.

Christopher & Lee Ong

Christopher & Lee Ong’s real estate practice is jointly led by Lim Hui Ming, who is praised for her ‘exceptional knowledge’ of property and financing matters, and Por Chuei Ying. The firm has a track record for handling large-scale real estate transactions both in Malaysia and neighbouring ASEAN countries. Acting for a range of local and international investors, government-linked corporations, and property funds, the team regularly advises on leases and tenancies, construction disputes, property development, conveyancing, and acquisition financing.

Practice head(s):

Lim Hui Ming; Por Chuei Ying


Other key lawyers:

Kelvin Kho


Testimonials

‘The team are responsive, communicative, precise, and clear.’

‘Lim Hui Ming is approachable, dependable, professional, and sharp.’ 

‘CLO has been very responsive. They keep excellent records for important deadlines, always provide guidance, and they are easy to work with.’ 

‘Lim Hui Ming has exceptional knowledge.’

Key clients

Sime Darby Property (Bukit Tunku) Sdn Bhd


B. Grimm Public Company Limited


A Malaysian SPV company in the telecoms industry


Work highlights


  • Acted for Sime Darby Property (Bukit Tunku) Sdn Bhd, a wholly owned subsidiary of Sime Darby Property Berhad in the purchase of 949 acres of freehold land in Kapar, Klang from Sime Darby Plantation Bhd for RM618m.

Raja, Darryl & Loh

Raja, Darryl & Loh’s real estate and construction practice is co-led by Chong Mei Mei, who boasts an impressive portfolio of real estate transactions, and Ooi Huey Miin, who primarily covers project and construction disputes. The firm acts for various property developers, commercial contractors, and real estate investment trusts, and frequently advises on joint venture agreements, residential and commercial developments, and construction cases. Hor Shirley is noted for her expertise in construction and infrastructure litigation, and also offers advice on the management of industrial incidents and environmental issues.

Practice head(s):

Chong Mei Mei; Ooi Huey Miin


Other key lawyers:

Chong Kok Seng; Wong Quan Sean; Hor Shirley; Giselle Yeow Win Yean


Testimonials

‘The firm understands the business and operational aspects of our company.’

‘Ooi Huey Miin gives valuable and key insights.’

‘RDL has comprehensive legal services.’

‘Hor Shirley understands the business and operations well.’

Key clients

Marriott International Group


Petron Malaysia Refining & Marketing Bhd


Petron Fuel International Sdn Bhd


Prasarana Malaysia Berhad


Perbadanan PR1MA Malaysia


Mass Rapid Transit Corporation Sdn Bhd


Muhibbah Engineering Berhad


Petron Malaysia Refining & Marketing Sdn Bhd


FGV Berhad


UEM Sunrise Berhad


China Construction Engineering (SEA) Malaysia Sdn Bhd,


Sime Darby Group


Work highlights


  • Advised CapitaLand (Singapore) in connection with the sale of properties in Queensbay Mall, Penang, for the sum of RM990,500,000.
  • Successfully acted for the main contractor in an arbitration against the developer of a high-end luxury mixed development project, obtaining an award of approximately USD70m and procuring the dismissal of the developer’s counterclaim in its entirety.
  • Successfully represented KL Eco City at the High Court and subsequently in the Court of Appeal, obtaining judgment against the main contractor for liquidated ascertained damages.

Skrine

Skrine’s well-established practice is collectively led by Ivan Loo and Ashok Kumar Mahadev Ranai, who specialise in construction and infrastructure-related disputes, projects-focused Richard Khoo, and consultant Theresa Chong, who handles various project development matters. The firm has demonstrable expertise in handling large-scale property development projects, advising on agreements for rail infrastructure works, and helping clients navigate financial and regulatory concerns. Tatvaruban Subramaniam is a valuable member of the group and primarily focuses on construction and engineering disputes, as is Jesy Ooi, who frequently advises on the acquisition and disposal of properties.

Practice head(s):

Ivan Loo; Ashok Kumar; Richard Khoo; Theresa Chong


Other key lawyers:

Jesy Ooi; Tatvaruban Subramaniam; Khoo Guan Huat; Loshini Ramarmuty; Laarnia Rajandran; Shannon Rajan; Lee Ai Hsian; Jocelyn Lim Yean Tse


Testimonials

‘While the team is knowledgeable in the law, they also take into consideration the commercial aspect and practicality of the matter, in order for parties to resolve the dispute promptly, while ensuring our interest is still protected.’

‘Ivan Loo and Loshini Ramarmuty listen to and understand our issues well, giving us sound advice. They are very accessible and attentive to our matters.’

‘A substantially strong team with centralised communication to avoid confusion. Flexible and nimble.’

‘Ivan Loo is an expert in construction law, he gives clear and precise legal advice and puts forward options that are practical and coherent.’

‘Shannon Rajan is very diligent, competent, and responsive. He provides thoughtful analysis for the best legal solutions for clients.’

‘Everyone in the firm is knowledgeable, responsive, and friendly.’ 

‘Jesy Ooi is a consummate professional who delivers consistent and timely advice.’

‘Substantially strong team with centralised communication.’

Key clients

Insulet Corporation


Employees Provident Fund of Malaysia (EPF)


Hunza Properties (Gurney) Sdn Bhd, Hunza Properties


MCC Overseas (M) Sdn. Bhd.


Astana Modal Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of LBS Group


Dhaya Maju LTAT Sdn Bhd


Consortium of Sunway Construction Sdn. Bhd. and Power Engineering Consulting Joint Stock Company 2


Genting Malaysia Berhad (GenM)


Majlis Perbandaran Ampang Jaya


Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad, Malaysia Airports (Sepang) Sdn Bhd


Work highlights


  • Acting for NEXTDC, Australia’s leading data centre operator, in the setting up of its first international data centre (KL1) in Malaysia.
  • Advised the consortium of Sunway Construction Sdn. Bhd. and Power Engineering Consulting Joint Stock Company 2 on the USD2.42bn construction of the Song Hau 2 Thermal Power Plant Project in Vietnam.
  • Representing Dhaya Maju LTAT Sdn Bhd (DM-LTAT) in a civil suit commenced against a third-party consultant where the claim is for the tort of inducing the Government of Malaysia to breach its construction contract with DM-LTAT by virtue of the consultant’s interference in the Government’s decision to terminate the contract on public interest grounds.

Zain & Co

The ‘highly skilled’ Mariza Azen Mat Rasip leads the practice at Zain & Co and focuses on sale and leaseback tenancies and the licensing of various properties. Engaged by government-linked companies and conglomerates, the firm has experience advising on large-scale property acquisitions and disposals, joint ventures, and on the structuring of mixed-use developments in Kuala Lumpur. Advice also extends to carrying out due diligence on target properties in addition to offering real estate financing expertise. Associate Lee Chea Shinh is another key member of the team and primarily works on real estate and banking transactions. Zain Azlan Zain Azahari retired in December 2022.

Practice head(s):

Mariza Azen Mat Rasip


Other key lawyers:

Lee Chea Shinh; Zain Azrin Zain Azahari


Testimonials

‘The team provides actionable and practical solutions that suit the industry.’

‘Mariza Azen Mat Rasip is attentive and addresses concerns objectively.’

‘Zain & Co delivers legal services to the utmost professionalism, never short of quality whilst achieving client’s business objective. With their global affiliation and equipped with resourceful team of legal practitioners and support, Zain & Co. is one amongst the top law firms in Malaysia’

Key clients

PNB Retail Mall Sdn Bhd


Lembaga Tabung Angkatan Tentera


Employees Provident Fund Board (EPF)


Seriemas Development Sdn Bhd


Work highlights


  • Advising a client on its proposed licensing and use as anchor licensee/co-locator of a three (3) storey data centre known as Sea Data Center spanning approximately 535,000 square feet with up to 72MW capacity to be constructed by the YTL Power International Berhad Group in Kulai, Johor, Malaysia and the provision of services by the YTL Power International Berhad Group to the client during the term of the licence.
  • Advising PNB Retail Mall Sdn Bhd in respect of the template tenancy, lease and licensing agreements to be entered into with individual retailers and tenants.
  • Advising Lembaga Tabung Angkatan Tentera on its disposal of two thousand Parcels of individual apartment units housed in four building towers.

Gan Partnership

The real estate practice at Gan Partnership is led by Foo Joon Liang, who is known for his broad-ranging experience in advising on construction disputes. Acting for government-linked corporations and agencies, developers, contractors, and consultants, the firm is frequently involved in high-value construction litigation. Elsewhere, the team advises on project management matters, housing developments, and various issues arising from tenancies and leases of commercial development. Tan Min Lee is another key contact in the team.

Practice head(s):

Foo Joon Liang


Other key lawyers:

Tan Min Lee


Key clients

KSK Group of Companies


Ekovest Construction Sdn Bhd


IWG Group of Companies


Acoolade Land Sdn Bhd


Zelan Construction Sdn Bhd


Pinggir Mentari Sdn Bhd


IGB Group of Companies


Sunshine Construction Sdn Bhd


Antah Schindler Sdn Bhd


KONE Elevator (M) Sdn Bhd


Bina Puri Group of Companies


Dorsett Bukit Bintang Sdn Bhd


Perkasa Jauhari Sdn Bhd


Seal Properties (KL) Sdn Bhd


LLC Infra Sdn Bhd


LBS Group of Companies


Swee Premix Sdn Bhd


DSL Setia Sdn Bhd


Temokin Builder Sdn Bhd


China Communications Construction Company (M) Sdn Bhd


Tune Talk Sdn Bhd


BBR Construction Systems (M) Sdn Bhd


Lingkaran Nikmat Sdn Bhd


Eng Han Engineering Sdn Bhd


Country Wheels Sdn Bhd


Jelang Vista Sdn Bhd


Ideal Heights Development Sdn Bhd


Work highlights


  • Represented Masenang Sdn Bhd as the main contractor of a project in a complex million-dollar construction disputes involved jurisdictional disputes between courts in East and West Malaysia over a Kuala Lumpur-seated arbitration.
  • Advised MGB International For Industry, a Malaysian precast concrete supplier concerning its joint venture with an internationally renowned developer for the development of housing projects in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
  • Represented the consultant engineer in a state commission inquiry to inquire into the collapse of a temporary slope in an ongoing construction.

Halim Hong & Quek

The ‘efficient and friendly’ real estate team at Halim Hong & Quek is led by Lim Justine, who is well-equipped to advise on the full range of conveyancing matters. The group’s scope of work primarily includes advising on the acquisition, development, and construction of projects, licensing and permits, and handling procurement strategy cases. Elsewhere, the firm also regularly handles construction litigation and contract management.

Practice head(s):

Lim Justine


Other key lawyers:

Lim Yoke Wah; Leon Gan Han Chen; Goh Li Fei; Quek Ngee Meng; Hee Sue Ann; Chong Lee Hui


Testimonials

‘The team from Halim Hong & Quek is very professional and provides good services to their clients. As they were formed from a sizeable group of lawyers, they are able to provide advice from a diverse perspective and therefore give a wholesome angle for consideration.’

‘Efficient and friendly.’

‘The team is very professional and humble to work with.’

‘Lim Justine has been very helpful by sharing any market information and changes if there are updates in the law, as well as case studies.’

‘Knowledgeable and provide a good service.’

‘Efficient in the preparation of sale and purchase agreement documents.’

Key clients

Real Estate & Housing Developers’ Association (REHDA) Malaysia


Bandar Rimbayu Sdn Bhd


Cicet Asia Development Sdn Bhd


EcoWorld Development Group Berhad


DSS Capital Sdn Bhd


EXSIM Suria Sdn Bhd


GLM Emerald Square (Cheras) Sdn Bhd


Golden Land Berhad


Ideal Property Group


Jayamas Property Group


Mah Sing Group Berhad


Mah Sing Property Group


Maybank Group


MCT Berhad


OSK Property Holdings Berhad


OSRAM Opto Semiconductors (Malaysia) Sd Bhd


Parkwood Holdings Berhad


Plenary Vision Consultancy Sdn Bhd


Polygon properties


Scientex Park (M) Sdn Bhd


SDB


Sime Darby Property (Bukit Raja) Sdn Bhd


Solveneed premium solutions


SP Setia


Spastic Children’s Association Wilayah Persekutuan Selangor


TSLaw Group


UOA Development Bhd


Worldwide Ventures Sdn Bhd


Work highlights


  • Engaged to lead the REHDA task force committee on the reformation of the Malaysian Housing Development (Control and Licensing) Act 1996 (Act 118).
  • Engaged by EcoWorld to provide professional services relating to the formation of management corporation for many of the client’s Klang Valley developments.
  • Engaged by EcoWorld to provide a professional service and offer legal advice to address strata issues in the client’s 19.4-acre integrated development located at the Golden Triangle of Kuala Lumpur.

MahWengKwai & Associates

MahWengKwai & Associates’ real estate offering is co-led by construction litigation expert Raymond Mah, and Denise Phang, who frequently handles high-end land disputes, in addition to advising on planning and development matters. The team offers an array of services including the drafting of construction contracts, engaging in construction adjudication, and handling breaches of land-related contracts.

Practice head(s):

Raymond Mah; Denise Phang


Testimonials

‘The team is responsive and works closely with their clients. They are clear in their strategy and offer tactical solutions. They are updated and are very approachable.’

‘Denise Phang is attentive, extremely capable, and has a very engaging personality.’

Key clients

Northern Green Ventures Sdn Bhd


Chong Chee Piao & 2 Ors


G&P Professional Sdn Bhd


Aman Wangi Development Sdn Bhd


Tan Wei Mia & 2 Ors


Rajendran A/L Sinniah & 3 Ors


Pristine Power Sdn Bhd


Iskandar Waterfront Sdn Bhd


Metropolitan Square Joint Management Body


Work highlights


  • Advised Northern Green Venture in a claim for RM22.2m as compensation for the acquisition of its land in Cheras, KL from the High Court, Court of Appeal and Federal Court.
  • Advised Iskandar Waterfront Sdn Bhd in its claim for compensation in the sum of RM709m and posed a novel question of law pertaining to the grant of right of way as an alternative to land acquisition.
  • Advised KH Tan Builders Sdn Bhd in opposing an application for injunction by its contractor on the client’s call of performance bond in the sum of RM7.65m at the High Court and Court of Appeal.

Mohamed Ridza & Co

The practice at Mohamed Ridza & Co is jointly led by Mohamed Ridza Abdullah, who advises on property development, Naseem Binti Mohamed Abdulla, and Mohamad Nazran Basirun. Acting for a range of corporations and government-linked entities, the team’s scope of work covers the sale and purchase of properties, tenancies, and the leasing of residential and commercial properties.

Practice head(s):

Mohamed Ridza Abdullah; Naseem Binti Mohamed Abdulla; Mohamad Nazran Basirun


Other key lawyers:

Siti Norafiqah Hassanor; Nur Adila Omar; Muhammad Ridzuan Mohd Razif; Muhammad Akhlil Mohamed Ridza; Aimi Nadhirah Ahmad Zulkifli; Najwa Aqilah Mansor


Testimonials

‘Hands-on approach. A very pleasant transaction. The firm is knowledgeable and easy to communicate with.’

‘Meticulous, fast responses, pleasant to deal with and communicative.’

‘Very good teamwork and a synchronised workforce.’

Key clients

Pelaburan Hartanah Berhad


Perbadanan PR1MA Malaysia


Work highlights


  • Appointed by Pelaburan Hartanah Berhad in relation to the eighth assets injection into Amanah Hartanah Bumiputera.
  • Engaged by PR1MA to advise on the PR1MA Housing Scheme and the necessary scope of work and responsibilities, in addition to preparing the relevant sale and purchase agreements.
  • Appointed by Pelaburan Hartanah Berhad in relation to the renewal of lease of five assets injected into Amanah Hartanah Bumiputera.

Zul Rafique & Partners

Leong May Ling heads the real estate team at Zul Rafique & Partners and has demonstrable experience in various property-related corporate transactions. The practice is well-equipped to advise on property acquisitions and divestments, property developments and joint ventures, and the sale and purchase of commercial and industrial premises. Advising a range of local corporations, the group handles the sale and disposal of parcels of leasehold and freehold land, in addition to retail and business financing. Associate Chee Lai Yi is another key contact in the team.

Practice head(s):

Leong May Ling


Other key lawyers:

Connie Ho Suk Mun; Chee Lai Yi


Testimonials

‘The team is strong, unified and is able to deliver quality work according to expectations.’

‘Leong May Ling and Connie Ho Suk Min are professional, reliable, and responsive.’

‘The team is well-versed in real estate matters.’

Key clients

Tropicana Corporation Berhad


KLCC Property Holdings Berhad


Sime Darby Property Berhad


MMC Corporation Berhad


Jotun Paints (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd.


Core Precious Development Sdn. Bhd.


Kumpulan Perangsang Selangor Berhad


Khazanah Nasional Berhad


The New Straits Times Properties Sdn. Bhd.


PNB Development Sdn. Bhd.


CapitaLand Malaysia Trust


Senai Airport City Sdn. Bhd.


Northern Technocity Sdn. Bhd.


BON Estate Sdn. Bhd.


Work highlights


  • Advised and acted for T Industrial Park Sdn. Bhd. in relation to the disposal of various plots of land to Alton Technologies (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, for the consideration of RM57m, RM128m, and RM45.9m respectively.
  • Advised adn acted for Tropicana GP Views Sdn Bhd in relation to the disposal of parcels of land at the sale consideration of RM102.9m.
  • Advised and acted for Tropicana Desa Mentari Sdn Bhd in relation to the disposal of parcels of land for the sale consideration of RM109.8m.

Deol & Gill

Deol & Gill’s real estate offering is jointly led by Suraj Singh Gill, Michael Raj, and Sathish Ramachandran. Acting for a range of local corporations and government-linked companies, the team handles the sale and purchase of lands, lease and sub-lease arrangements, and various project developments.

Practice head(s):

Suraj Singh Gill; Michael Raj; Sathish Ramachandran


Testimonials

‘Good understanding of commercial requirements and provide balanced advice.’

‘Sathish Ramachandran is meticulous.’

Key clients

Dagang NeXchange Berhad


MAA Group Berhad


IRGA Sdn. Bhd.


Perak Corporation Berhad


Tenaga Nasional Berhad


Pos Malaysia Berhad


Soft Space Sdn. Bhd.


HSS Engineers Berhad


Global Oriental Berhad


Lasseters International Holdings Limited


Work highlights


  • Represented Hong Seng Industries in their sub-lease of a vacant land in the Kedah Rubber City, measuring approximately 102.6-acres.
  • Represented HS Petchem Logistics in their sub-lease of a vacant land measuring approximately 28,361 acres.

Naqiz & Partners

Khairul Ismail leads the real estate team at Naqiz & Partners. Acting for a range of local clients, the practice regularly handles mixed transactional commercial and property matters, property developments, and property finance work, in addition to carrying out due diligence exercises for real-estate backed unit trust funds.

Practice head(s):

Khairul Ismail


Other key lawyers:

Kabir Ram Singh


Rosli Dahlan Saravana Partnership

Rosli Dahlan Saravana Partnership’s real estate practice is led by Ooi Bee Hong, who has demonstrable experience in acting for property developers and individual purchasers in housing development projects. Praised for being 'highly competitive and innovative', the team advises on the acquisition and disposal of real estate assets, commercial and industrial leases, and joint venture developments. The firm’s scope of work also includes drafting sale and purchase agreements, litigating on contentious land issues, and offering regulatory advice.

Practice head(s):

Ooi Bee Hong


Other key lawyers:

Shera Chuah Tien Jing


Testimonials

‘A highly competitive and innovative legal firm offering top-notch services at affordable rates.’

‘Timely responses and adequate advice.’

Key clients

Sunway Medical Centre Sdn Bhd


Sanjay Mohan

Sanjay Mohan’s practice is jointly spearheaded by leading construction lawyer Sanjay Mohanasundaram, and Choon Hon Leng, an expert in the field who recently joined from Raja, Darryl & Loh. The firm specialises in construction disputes and advises a host of major local and international construction companies, regularly taking on contentious and high-value litigation. Additionally, the team handles the drafting and negotiation of contracts, manages real estate projects, and offers various advisory services.

Practice head(s):

Sanjay Mohanasundaram; Choon Hon Leng


Other key lawyers:

Gobinath Karuppan; Wong Li-Wei; Adam Lee Leong Soon


Testimonials

‘Boutique disputes practice focusing on construction disputes.’

‘Experienced in construction disputes and able to quickly understand and decipher issues.’

‘Sanjay Mohanasundaram is very experienced in construction and dispute resolution.’

Key clients

KTCC Mall Sdn Bhd


Johnson Medical International Sdn Bhd


Zimacon Sdn Bhd


MCC Overseas (M) Sdn Bhd


Santarli Sdn Bhd


MKH Berhad


China Railway Engineering Corporation (M) Sdn Bhd


China State Construction Yang Tze River (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd


China State Construction Engineering (M) Sdn Bhd


UEM Edgenta Berhad


CRCC Malaysia Berhad


Iskandar Regional Development Authority


Ssangyong Engineering & Construction Co Ltd


Bauer (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd


Mah Sing Development Sdn Bhd


Sunway Construction Sdn Bhd


Lion Pacific Sdn Bhd


Bintai Kinden Corporation Berhad


Sycal Berhad


Eversendai Corporation Berhad


Amona Ranhill Consortium Sdn Bhd


Work highlights


  • Acting for Tenaga Nasional Berhad in two separate international arbitrations in relation to the upgrading of an existing power plant with the installation of a new combined cycle power plant.
  • Defending Sunway Construction Sdn Bhd in a RM700m dispute in relation to construction of an LRT 3 Station.
  • Acting for Ssyangyong Engineering & Construction Co. Ltd. on various disputes in Malaysia including a claim in excess of RM300m with regard to the construction of a multi-storey building in Kuala Lumpur.

Tay & Partners

Tay & Partners’ real estate offering is led by Chang Hong Yun. The team’s scope of work includes advising on the sale and purchase of plots of land, various land acquisition matters, and development projects. Elsewhere, the firm is recognised for its experience in handling large-scale corporate real estate transactions.

Practice head(s):

Chang Hong Yun


Other key lawyers:

Hoong Wei En


Testimonials

‘Tay & Partners has time and time again demonstrated that the partners in charge dedicate sufficient resources to each and every mandate awarded.’

‘Chang Hong Yun is very capable of anticipating likely scenarios ahead of negotiation with counterparties, and provides legal outcomes and commercially viable solutions to each scenario. This allows the client to enter the toughest of negotiations with the confidence that they will secure a reasonable outcome.’

Key clients

Kwasa Properties Sdn Bhd


Puteri Cove Residences


Megah Rise


AmerBON

AmerBON’s practice is led by Khor Xiou Shan (Valen), a ‘seasoned and accomplished construction lawyer’ who specialises in various construction, infrastructure, and engineering matters. Praised for its ‘steadfast commitment to providing a personalised service’, the team acts for government-linked entities, high-profile individuals, and statutory commissions. Its workload primarily consists of handling construction disputes and advising on contractual matters.

Practice head(s):

Khor Xiou Shan (Valen)


Testimonials

‘Khor Xiou Shan (Valen) is experienced in construction disputes.’

‘Khor Xiou Shan (Valen) is exceptionally helpful, and she is able to resolve multiple construction-related cases.’

‘AmerBON stands as a highly esteemed firm in Malaysia, revered for its unwavering dedication to legal excellence. Comprising a team of experienced lawyers, each armed with a wealth of experience and a shared commitment to delivering outstanding results, AmerBON has earned a stellar reputation in the legal landscape in Malaysia.’

Key clients

Rigid Development Group Sdn Bhd


Sumber Khazanah Sdn Bhd


Mujur Sepakat Sdn Bhd


Work highlights


  • Representing Rigid Development Group Sdn Bhd in the recovery of outstanding payments for subcontract works executed and completed for the development of a 50MV Solar Photovoltaic Energy Producing Power Plant in Jasin, Melaka.
  • Representing Sumber Khazanah Sdn Bhd in court proceedings to recover outstanding payments amounting to RM37,248,241.18 for works executed and completed for the prestigious Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) project.
  • Representing Mujur Sepakat Sdn Bhd in defending claims brought by its sub-contractor for a total sum of RM9,244,991.48 concerning purported outstanding payments for mechanical and electrical works.

Harold & Lam Partnership

Harold & Lam Partnership is co-led by Lam Wai Loon and Serene Hiew Mun Yi, who are both well-versed in providing advice on construction contracts, project management matters, and various infrastructure works. The boutique firm is praised for its ‘dedication to excellence’ and ‘client-centric approach’, and handles an array of construction-related disputes for both local and international developers and contractors.

Practice head(s):

Lam Wai Loon; Serene Hiew Mun Yi


Other key lawyers:

Amy Hiew Kar Yi; Pan Yan Teng; Ooi Hui Ying


Testimonials

‘My experience with Harold & Lam Partnership (HLP) has been nothing short of exceptional. The firm’s dedication to excellence and their client-centric approach set them apart as a standout player in the Malaysia’s legal industry.’

‘HLP’s team has a very impressive and comprehensive skill set that encompasses every aspect of the construction process from the initial stage of the project for advisory and drafting of construction contracts to dispute works’

Key clients

Econpile (M) Sdn Bhd


Crest Builder Sdn Bhd


Usahasama Norwest Bina


Fajarbaru Builder Sdn Bhd


China Railway Engineering Corporation (M) Sdn Bhd


Mudajaya Corporation Berhad


Sunway Construction Sdn Bhd


Sinbery Corporation Sdn Bhd


Kejuruteraan QKS Sdn Bhd – Construction


TCS Construction Sdn Bhd


Work highlights


  • Represented Econpile in an adjudication proceeding against ASM Development (Kuala Lumpur) and successfully obtained an adjudication decision and supplemental decision in Econpile’s favour.
  • Acted as counsel for Econpile at the Court of Appeal and Federal Court in a case pertaining to the applicable principles relating to the interpretation of the provisions of the Construction Industry Payment and Adjudication Act 2012 (CIPAA).
  • Represented and successfully assisted BCEG International in partially enforcing an adjudication decision as an order of the High Court, and resisted the setting aside and stay applications filed by the employer, Integral Acres.

Lee & Koh

Melynda Lee Mee Yoong leads the team at Lee & Koh, which primarily focuses on project conveyancing and finance-related real estate matters. The firm handles a range of advisory and documentation work, in addition to advising notable Malaysian developers on construction projects.

Practice head(s):

Melynda Lee Mee Yoong


Key clients

Gamuda Land (Kemuning) Sdn Bhd


Highpark Development Sdn Bhd


Bandar Serai Sdn Bhd


Jade Homes Sdn Bhd


Work highlights


  • Advised Gamuda (Kemuning) on the launch of various project developments.
  • Advised Jade Homes on the launch of two project developments.
  • Advised Bandar Serai on their launch of the RM250m Gaia Residences in Gamuda Gardens.

Ooi & Ooi

Boutique litigation firm Ooi & Ooi is led by Nicholas Ooi and Natalie Ooi, who are praised as ‘outstanding lawyers’. Acting for local corporations, the team has experience in construction disputes, in addition to advising on non-contentious real estate work.

Practice head(s):

Nicholas Ooi; Natalie Ooi


Testimonials

‘I felt that the company’s interests were well taken care of.’

‘Nicholas Ooi and Natalie Ooi are outstanding lawyers.’

‘The partners and associates are very competent to deal with the contractual disputes arising from the construction projects.’

Key clients

BCB Berhad


Country Heights Damansara Kuala Lumpur Residents’ Association


Jub Padu


Metabuild Engineering Sdn. Bhd.


Work highlights


  • Acted for BCB Berhad and successfully removed the arbitrator of an ad hoc arbitration under the new Malaysian Arbitration Act 2005 due to material breaches of natural justice.
  • Acted for Geoforce East and successfully argued at the Federal Court that companies who fail to pay adjudicated sums awarded under the Construction Industry Payment and Adjudication Act 2012 (CIPAA) should be wound up notwithstanding the interim finality of adjudicated sums awarded under CIPAA.
  • Acting for BCB and obtained ex-parte interim injunction and Anton Piller orders to prevent a RM74m land sale from taking place to other parties.