Economic activity in Malaysia is still low in comparison with pre-pandemic figures, with a slower rate of recovery than other global markets. This can partly be attributed to the lack of funding across various sectors, as the government focuses on specific parts of the economy, such as healthcare. However, the capital markets arena has been buoyant with a surge in interest of domestic and multinational companies looking to list on the Malaysian stock exchange, in comparison with the depletion of IPOs recorded last year.

On the contentious side, there has been a slight increase in cases heading to trial, with a rise in fraud disputes, investigations and insolvency proceedings. However, on the whole, many disputes continue to be settled outside of court, which couples with a lack of enthusiasm for virtual proceedings. From an energy standpoint, there has been a continued trend towards long-term gas projects, with the government looking to achieve its zero-carbon initiative. There is increased interest in green power, with many firms in the market working on the development of solar farms, battery storage projects and charging infrastructure for EVs.

Well-established firms, including Skrine, Adnan Sundra & Low, Shearn Delamore & Co and Christopher & Lee Ong, maintain a strong presence in the region and continue to advise on high-end banking, commercial and corporate mandates. Firms with niche expertise include dispute resolution experts Cecil Abraham And Partners, IP and technology boutique Wong Jin Nee & Teo, and shipping specialists Joseph & Partners.