Firms To Watch: Capital markets

Azmi & Associates’ team, which is led by Serina Abdul Samad and Moo Eng Thing, handles a range of capital markets advisory work.
Established by Lim Wei Chien in 2015, the capital markets team at Wei Chien & Partners advises on due diligence compliance, the subscription of shares and the acquisition of equity shares.

Capital markets in Malaysia

Adnan Sundra & Low

Managing partner Deepak Sadasivan and Adrian Chee Meng Yang, who have demonstrable experience in Shariah-compliance matters, lead the offering at Adnan Sundra & Low alongside Putri Norlisa Najib, Edward Ng Foo Yuen, Wong Chin Chin, Tracy Ng Tsu Ynn, Jennifer Lee Tze-Hui and Chua Ee Ghee. In addition to working on the conventional corporate structures for local and international clients, there is a niche focus in the team on Islamic finance and capital markets. The practice is equipped to advise on IPOs, primary and secondary placement transactions, M&A, and ESG standards. Key clients include large Malaysian investment banks and equity capital markets specialist Justin Chua has the knowledge to ensure that all issues are resolved’ in his cases.

Practice head(s):

Deepak Sadasivan; Putri Norlisa Najib; Edward Ng Foo Yuen; Wong Chin Chin; Tracy Ng Tsu Ynn; Adrian Chee Meng Yang; Jennifer Lee Tze-Hui; Chua Ee Ghee

Other key lawyers:

Justin Chua; Dilys Tan Yee Yeh; Gan Kok Ling; Murni Zuyati Zulkifli Aziz; Goh Chai Ling

Testimonials

‘Adnan Sundra & Low have been a key counsel for various capital markets transactions we have been involved in. They provide sound advice on issues with practical solutions, to ensure the agreements are negotiated by both parties with ease.’

‘Adnan Sundra & Low is our preferred counsel on all transactions, as they have the knowledge and understanding beyond others. The working relationship, from negotiation to the end of the transaction, including billing, is completed professionally and promptly.’

‘The working relationship with this team is seamless as they are familiar with the standards required by our institution and therefore able to provide the best advice. Justin Chua is directly involved in all of our transactions wherein major issues or pushbacks arise from the other party, is always available and has the knowledge to ensure that the issues are resolved. We are appreciative of their partnership.’

Key clients

AmInvestment Bank Berhad

BNP Paribas

CIMB Investment Bank Berhad

Citigroup Global Markets Limited

Credit Suisse Securities (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd

Credit Suisse (Singapore) Limited

CTOS Digital Berhad

DBS Bank Ltd

Fusang Corp

Government of Malaysia

Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited

Hong Leong Investment Bank Berhad

JPMorgan Securities (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd

J.P. Morgan Securities Plc

M&A Securities Sdn Bhd

Malayan Banking Berhad

Malaysia Wakala Sukuk Berhad

Maybank Investment Bank Berhad

Merrill Lynch (Singapore) Pte Ltd

MIDF Amanah Investment Bank Berhad

MUFG Securities Asia Limited

OCBC Al-Amin Bank Berhad

OCBC Bank (Malaysia) Berhad

RHB Investment Bank Berhad

United Overseas Bank (Malaysia) Berhad

HSBC Amanah Malaysia Berhad

Work highlights

  • Advised Malaysia Wakala Sukuk Berhad and the Government of Malaysia on world’s first sovereign US dollar sustainability Sukuk issuance by the Government of Malaysia of value up to $1.3bn.
  • Advised Hong Leong Investment Bank, OCBC Bank (Malaysia) Berhad and United Overseas Bank (Malaysia) Bhd on Infracap Resources Sdn Bhd’s Sukuk Murabahah programme of up to RM15bn in nominal value under the Shariah principle of Murabahah.
  • Advised CTOS Digital Berhad on its IPO.

Albar & Partners

Lily Tan Chea Li and Chung Swee Loong co-lead the capital markets team at Albar & Partners. Its workload is comprised of advisory work, including debt, equity and equity-linked products. In addition, the practice is equipped to advise clients on such post-issue elements as restructuring and refinancing. Its debt work includes advising on perpetual instruments, asset backed securities and subordinated debt, whilst its equity work includes handling all aspects of domestic and cross-border transactions, which Cassandra Hogg has notable expertise in. Sharifah Dalilah Albar, who has demonstrable experience in Islamic banking and finance work, often advising investment banks on compliance with the Shariah principle, is another key member of the group.

Practice head(s):

Lily Tan Chea Li; Chung Swee Loong

Other key lawyers:

Sharifah Dalilah Alba; Peh Suan Wan; Datin Seet Hooi Ping; Cassandra Hogg

Key clients

AmBank (M) Berhad/AmInvestment Bank Berhad

CIMB Bank Berhad/CIMB Investment Bank Berhad

Hong Leong Bank Berhad/Hong Leong Investment Bank Berhad

IGB Berhad

Leong Hup International Berhad

Malayan Banking Berhad/Maybank Investment Bank Berhad

MR D.I.Y. Group (M) Berhad

MMC Corporation Berhad

RHB Bank Berhad/RHB Investment Bank Berhad

Sapura Energy Berhad

Work highlights

  • Advised on the issuance of RM270m Perpetual Sukuk programme based on the Shariah principle of Musharakah.
  • Advised on the Medium-Term Notes (MTNs) Programme, of up to RM5bn, established by IGB Commercial Reit Sdn Bhd as the Issuer.
  • Advised on the privatisation of MMC Corporation Berhad through the selective capital reduction and repayment exercise pursuant to section 116 of the Malaysian Companies Act 2016.

Zaid Ibrahim & Co (in association with KPMG Law)

The offering at Zaid Ibrahim & Co (in association with KPMG Law) is co-headed by Chin Sook Kwan and Lilian Liew, who is praised for her ‘unparalleled negotiating skills’. The team is noted for its capability in debt capital markets work and is well-equipped to deal with high-value and often international transactions involving high-yield, convertible and exchangeable bonds, commercial papers and medium tone notes, under conventional, as well as Islamic principles of law, an area with its own dedicated sub-team. Furthermore, the practice is at the forefront of developing securitisation and structured finance law.

Practice head(s):

Lilian Liew; Chin Sook Kwan

Other key lawyers:

Yong Wee Hoo

Testimonials

‘The team is led by long-standing, experienced practitioners in the DCM space and supported by competent associates.’

‘Lilian Liew has unparalleled negotiating skills.’

Work highlights

  • Acted as counsel to CIMB Investment Bank Berhad as the lead arranger, manager and facility agent for the Sukuk Wakalah Programme of RM15bn under the Shariah principle of Wakalah Bi Al-Istithmar and completed its first rated tier 2 Sustainability Sukuk Wakalah issuance of RM100m in 2021.
  • Acted for the joint lead managers in the Government of Malaysia’s $800m 10-year and $500m 30-year sustainability sukuk, issued via a special purpose vehicle, Malaysia Wakala Sukuk Berhad.
  • Acted as local counsel to The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited, CIMB Investment Bank Berhad, Citigroup Global Markets Limited and Standard Chartered Bank (Singapore) Limited.

Zul Rafique & Partners

Zul Rafique & Partners has demonstrable experience in handling high-value capital markets matters and counts established banks, such as HSBC Malaysia, among its key roster of clients, where the team advised on the implementation of the first sustainability-linked Sukuk issuance in the region. The dedicated and resourceful’ Loh Mei Mei leads on banking and finance mandates, with expertise across corporate banking, debt capital markets, Sukuk issuance, securitisation, as well as domestic, Islamic and cross-border financing. Other key members of the practice include Kung Suan Im, Ashela Ramaya and Chan Kwan Hoe, and Celine Rangithan, who has experience in capital markets, structured and Islamic financing. All named partners collectively lead the team.

Practice head(s):

Loh Mei Mei; Kung Suan Im; Ashela Ramaya; Celine Rangithan; Chan Kwan Hoe

Testimonials

‘Dedicated and proficient in handling deals.’

‘Loh Mei Mei is a dedicated and resourceful team member.’

Key clients

Maxis Bhd

Astro Malaysia Holdings Bhd

Measat Satelite Systems Sdn Bhd

Standard Chartered Bank Group (Standard Chartered Bank (Malaysia)) Bhd

Standard Chartered Saadiq Bhd

Maybank Group

Bank of China (Malaysia) Bhd

Affin Group

HSBC Group

CIMB Bank Group

OCBC Group

Genting Berhad

RHB Group

MIDF Group

Bank Islam Malaysia Berhad

Bank Kerjasama Rakyat Malaysia

Cathay United Bank

Natixis

ING Bank N.V. (Labuan)

Bahrain Mumtalakat

Allied Irish Bank PLC

Work highlights

  • Advised HSBC Amanah Malaysia Berhad as principal adviser and lead arranger on the establishment of an Islamic medium term notes programme of up to RM1bn and the issuance thereunder of the first sustainability-linked Sukuk issuance in Malaysia.
  • Advised Hong Leong Investment Bank Berhad on the implementation of an asset-backed securitisation transaction by way of issuance of medium term notes under an asset-backed securitisation programme of RM300m.
  • Advised RHB Investment Bank Berhad on the establishment of an unrated Islamic medium term notes programme of up to RM500m by Cenviro Sdn. Bhd and the issuance of the sustainability-linked Sukuk thereunder.

Chooi & Company and Cheang & Ariff

The team at Chooi & Company and Cheang & Ariff focuses on equity capital markets, acting for domestic and international clients across multiple industries, including technology, renewable energy, manufacturing and distribution. The practice regularly handles equity fundraising exercises, as well as the listing of high-value IPOs, a key area of speciality for Tan Ming-li, who led on the team’s advice to several financial institutions across Malaysia, the US and the UK on one of the largest IPOs on Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad in 2021.

Other key lawyers:

Tan Ming-li; Yoon Ming Sun; Yeat Soo Ching; Cindy Cheang Foong Kim

Testimonials

‘The team is cohesive, professional, technically competent and provides practical solutions to issues.’

‘Always prepared for meetings and sensitive to timelines and the demands of clients. Partners we worked with and recommend are Tan Ming-li and Cindy Cheang.’

‘The partners are very professional, always available to provide advice, integrity and professionalism.’

‘They are responsive and deliver to deadlines.’

Deol & Gill

The capital markets practice at Deol & Gill is led by Suraj Singh Gill, who is praised as ‘meticulous in assisting clients with all stages of a transaction’Michael Raj and Sathish Ramachandran. The team has a strong capability in advisory work, with notable experience in the energy, water, investment and insurance industries. It regularly works on IPOs, takeovers and mergers, obtaining shareholders’ approval for acquisitions and disposals, and equity interest mandates. The practice also handles due diligence matters regarding proposed listings.

Practice head(s):

Suraj Singh Gill; Michael Raj; Sathish Ramachandran

Other key lawyers:

Muhammad Azim Che Mokhtar; Sandy Quah Li Yen

Testimonials

‘Deol & Gill work in a proactive and approachable manner, having regard to commercial and industry practices.’

‘The partners of this firm provide a combination of stellar experience and sterling specialist expertise. They are efficient and very personable in their approach when dealing with clients. Deol & Gill has strategic alliances with regional firms and it was seamless to execute our cross-borders transactions.’

‘Suraj Singh Gill believes in building long-term and productive working relationships with clients of Deol & Gill. He has an eye for detail and is very meticulous in assisting clients with all stages of a transaction; from origination, to execution, to closing.’

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 Dagang NeXchange Berhad in respect of its issuance of a circular to its shareholders to obtain their approval at an extraordinary general meeting, for the joint acquisition of the entire equity interest in in Silterra Malaysia Sdn Bhd.
  • Represented Dagang NeXchange Berhad in respect of its issuance of a circular to its shareholders, for the acquisition of 60% equity interest in Ping Petroleum Limited, a company in the United Kingdom which holds offshore oil & gas assets in the North Sea.
  • Represented MAA Group Berhad in respect of its issuance of an offer document to the remaining shareholders of Turiya Berhad, a public listed company.

Lee Hishammuddin Allen & Gledhill

Weng Hwee Tay leads the corporate offering at Lee Hishammuddin Allen & Gledhill. The team’s workload includes a broad range of transactional work across various industry sectors, for both domestic and international clients. A key area of expertise includes advising on financial services and Islamic finance, the latter being Megat Hizaini Hassan’s area of specialty owing to his work on Shariah-compliance. Mandates often involve complex elements such as the issuance of equity, equity-linked instruments, structured products, private debt instruments and asset-backed securities.

Practice head(s):

Weng Hwee Tay

Other key lawyers:

Megat Hizaini Hassan; Bella Chu Chai Yee

Key clients

OSK Holdings Berhad

Lim Seong Hai Capital Berhad

Work highlights

  • Advised Bank Pembangunan Malaysia Berhad as the issuer of the Sustainable Development Sukuk tranche (“ESG Tranche”) under the Islamic medium-term notes programme of value up to MYR5bn based on the Shariah principle of Wakalah Bi Al-Istithmar.
  • Advising in relation to the proposed listing of Lim Seong Hai Capital Berhad on the LEAP Market of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad (Proposed Listing), conducting due diligence, advising on the structure and transaction documents and assisting with drafting for the proposed listing.
  • Advised OSK Holdings Berhad in respect of Shariah-compliant financing services offered by Lyte Malaysia Sdn Bhd, a 51% subsidiary of OSK with regard to selected development projects in Malaysia through a payment platform known as LytePay.

Mohamed Ridza & Co

Mohamed Ridza Abdullah, Mohamad Nazran Basirun and Naseem Mohamed Abdulla co-head the offering at Mohamed Ridza & Co. The team has a strong reputation for its broad array of work on corporate matters, advising on the listing of companies, joint ventures and consortium agreements and venture capitalist transactions. The practice advises multiple regional and international clients on various aspects of financing in compliance with Islamic law and Shariah-compliant bonds. Senior associate Shazana Abdul Aziz is another key member of the team.

Practice head(s):

Mohamed Ridza Abdullah; Mohamad Nazran Basirun; Naseem Mohamed Abdulla

Other key lawyers:

Shazana Abdul Aziz

Key clients

AmInvestment Bank Berhad

CIMB Investment Bank Berhad

Maybank Investment Berhad

RHB Investment Bank Berhad

Lembaga Tabung Haji

Damansara REIT Managers Sdn Bhd

Sarawak Cable Berhad

Work highlights

  • Advised multiple Berhad investment banks in respect of the Islamic Commercial Papers and Islamic Medium Term Notes Programme of value up to RM71bn., issued by DanaInfra Nasional Berhad.
  • Represented Lembaga Tabung Haji in respect of the proposed transfer of underperforming assets worth RM19.9bn to a special purpose vehicle owned by the Ministry of Finance, Malaysia.
  • Advised Damansara REIT Managers Sdn Bhd in respect of the proposed recurrent related party transaction mandate.

Rahmat Lim & Partners

The ‘knowledgeable’ financial services offering at Rahmat Lim & Partners is led by Wan Kai Chee. The equity markets sub-team counts IPOs across Malaysia, Singapore and Hong Kong in its workload. Elsewhere, the debt capital markets practice acts on bond and notice issuances and medium term notes programmes. Most notable is the team’s activity in renewable energy debt capital, as demonstrated by its advice on the issuance of sukuk by the project owner of a solar photovoltaic plant. Kelvin Loh, who is noted for his expertise in bond and Sukuk transaction work, is another key contact in the group.

Practice head(s):

Wan Kai Chee

Other key lawyers:

Zandra Tan; Tan Yan Yan; Kelvin Loh

Testimonials

‘The team is very up-to-date on regulation requirements and is able to provide very quick turnaround solutions to address technical issues.’

‘Both Zandra Tan and Tan Yan Yan have quick turnaround times and excellent attention-to-detail. They are both very reliable and professional.’

‘A trusted advisory team that assists clients in working towards tight deadlines.’

‘A knowledgeable team who offer practical solutions and advice.’

Work highlights

  • Advised Siam Makro Public Company Ltd. as Malaysian counsel, in relation to its public offering of its shares.
  • Advised on the establishment of IGB Commercial REIT with its initial portfolio being ten commercial and office buildings located in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and the initial public official and listing of units in IGB Commercial REIT on the Main Market of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad.
  • Advised OCBC Al-Amin Bank Berhad in respect of the establishment of an Islamic commercial papers programme for the issuance of Islamic commercial papers based on the Shariah principle of Murabahah and an Islamic medium term notes programme for the issuance of Islamic medium term notes based on the Shariah principle of Murabahah.

Wong & Partners

Member firm of Baker McKenzie, Wong & Partners’ capital markets team is co-led by Munir Abdul Aziz and Mark Lim, and counts domestic and international entities among its key roster of clients. The practice has demonstrable experience in debt and equity securities, and compliance work involving both Islamic and conventional law. Notably, it assisted Press Metal Aluminium Holdings Berhad with the private placement of its shares in 2022. Esther Chik, who advises on debt capital markets transactions, is another key member of the team.

Practice head(s):

Munir Abdul Aziz; Mark Lim.

Other key lawyers:

Brian Chia; Esther Chik; Sue Wan Wong

Key clients

Maybank Investment Bank Berhad

AmInvestment Bank Berhad

Maybank Group

CIMB Group

RHB Banking Group

Press Metal Aluminium Holdings Berhad

DRB-HICOM Berhad

Work highlights

  • Assisted Press Metal Aluminium Holdings Berhad with the private placement of 163,398,700 new ordinary shares, raising proceeds of MYR970.6m.

Wong Beh & Toh

Praised as ‘one of the most established and experienced law firms in handling IPO cases and capital fund raising exercises in northern Malaysia’, Wong Beh & Toh’s capital markets practice advises clients across a range of industries on high-value mandates involving equity and IPOs. In addition to its regional work, the offering is also equipped to handle cases that are cross-jurisdictional in nature. IPO specialist Yeap Lin Lin frequently leads on the team’s capital markets work and Chin Lit Fwu is another key contact.

Other key lawyers:

Yeap Lin Lin; Chin Lit Fwu; Leong Wei Chung; Cynthia Toh Mei Lee

Testimonials

‘Wong Beh & Toh is one of the most established and experienced law firms in handling IPO cases and capital fund raising exercises in northern Malaysia. Most public listed companies will seek out their advice on corporate matters. They have a strong track-record and strong technical knowledge.’

‘The team is able to provide practical solutions to comply with the latest listing requirements, and relevant laws and regulations. The team is very committed and they respond instantly to clients’ queries.’

‘Yeap Lin Lin is our go-to partner. She is outstanding and has over twenty years’ IPO experience. She has expertise in law and in accounting and finance, so can structure listing schemes and group restructurings for IPO or M&A from a financial angle as well as a legal angle.’

‘Yeap Lin Lin is renowned for her stamp duty exemption application abilities, owing to her accounting background. She is easy-going and pleasant to work with; she understands the clients’ needs very well and is very up-to-date with listing requirements, laws and regulations. She is very dedicated to her works always and super efficient.’

Key clients

Audience Analytics Limited

Ecofirst Consolidated Berhad

AME Elite Consortium Berhad

Aurelius Technologies Berhad

Swift Integrated Logistic Sdn Bhd

AIM Tetap Teguh Group Sdn Bhd

Hibiscus Petroleum Berhad

Sungei Bagan Rubber Company (Malaya) Berhad

Mobilia Holdings Berhad

Pekat Group Berhad

Aztech Global Ltd

Kobay International Berhad

Yenher Holdings Berhad

Astino Berhad

JHM Consolidated Berhad

RGT Berhad

Eng Kah Corporation Berhad

CAB Cakaran Corporation Berhad

Work highlights

  • Acting for Audience Analytics Limited, conducting due diligence on Malaysian-based subsidiaries and advising the Issuer on laws and regulations of Malaysia in relation to its proposed IPO.
  • Advised Mercury Securities Sdn Bhd, CIMB Investment Bank Berhad and AmInvestment Bank Berhad for underwriting and placement of the IPO Shares.
  • Advised Alliance Investment Bank Berhad and CIMB Investment Bank Berhad for underwriting and placement of IPO Shares.

Ben & Partners

Commended for his ‘deep understanding’ of capital markets mandates, Koay Ben Ree leads the team at boutique firm Ben & Partners and has demonstrable experience in transfers of public listed companies, rights issues, warrant issues and private placement exercises. The ‘dedicated, committed and professional’ practice is noted for its capability in corporate finance, restructurings and IPOs, as well as debt restructurings and advisory work.

Practice head(s):

Koay Ben Ree

Other key lawyers:

Heng Tzi Chin

Testimonials

‘Ben & Partners understands clients’ requirements very well and they have been responsive throughout their time working with us.’

‘Mr Koay Ben Ree is the founding partner of the firm, he is hands-on, very accommodating and bears clients’ needs in mind, even where their requirements may be unusual.’

‘The firm has always been dedicated, committed and professional. Any issues that arise are managed in a timely and practical manner. The technical support and legal advice given in our routine due diligence work has consistently been prompt and timely.’

Key clients

Shanghai Geoharbour Construction Group Co Ltd

Siab (M) Sdn Bhd

China Energy Engineering Investment Corporation Limited

Mestron Holdings Berhad

Niche Capital Emas Holdings Berhad

Lay Hong Berhad

Bertam Alliance Berhad

SC Estate Builder Berhad

Work highlights

  • Advised Shanghai Geoharbour Co. Ltd successfully regarding legal due diligence on its Malaysian subsidiaries pursuant to Shanghai Geoharbour IPO on the Shanghai Stock Exchange.
  • Advised Siab successfully as legal due diligence solicitors on its proposed listing on the ACE Market of Malaysia Bursa Malaysia.
  • Advised CEEICL on its proposed acquisition of equity interests in Toyo Ink Group Berhad (“TIGB”) on its power plant project in Vietnam valued at approximately $3.23bn.

Ching, Elaine & Co

The corporate team at boutique firm Ching, Elaine & Co is jointly led by Lim Ching Yong and Lee Elaine. A large portion of the practice’s workload involves advising public listed companies in Malaysia on equity capital markets fundraising activities, in addition to due diligence concerning the transfer of shares between companies across a range of industry sectors.

Practice head(s):

Lim Ching Yong; Lee Elaine

Key clients

Choo Bee Metal Industries Bhd.

Metronic Global Bhd.

CC International Bhd.

BSL Corporation Bhd.

OCR Group Bhd.

TWL Holdings Bhd.

Annum Bhd.

Bina Puri Holdings Bhd.

XOX Technology Bhd.

Work highlights

  • Advised on a bonus issue of up to 65,845,464 new ordinary shares in the company, representing value of up to RM143m.
  • Advised on a renounceable rights issue of up to 1,742,433,306 new shares together with up to 580,811,102 free detachable warrants in the company to raise an amount up to RM121.97m.
  • Advised on a proposed IPO of CC International Berhad on Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad with market capitalisation of RM100.42m.

Christopher & Lee Ong

Christopher & Lee Ong is a member firm of Rajah & Tann Singapore LLP, and its Malaysia-based capital markets team is co-headed by Yon See Ting, Anette Soh and Fiona Sequerah. The offering is well-equipped to advise on mandates concerning the listing of companies, IPOs and debt fundraising exercises across Malaysia, Singapore and Hong Kong. The team has demonstrable experience across the IT, telecoms, shipping, banking, infrastructure and energy sectors. Daphne Lam joined the firm from Halim Hong & Quek in October 2021 and soon-after, Anette Soh joined from Azman Davidson & Co in January 2022.

Practice head(s):

Yon See Ting; Annette Soh; Fiona Sequerah

Other key lawyers:

Annette Soh; Daphne Lam

Key clients

Digi.Com Berhad

G.H.Y Culture & Media Holding Co Limited

Work highlights

  • Advising Digi.Com Berhad on the equity markets components of the proposed merger whereby Digi and Axiata Group Berhad (“Axiata”) agreed for Axiata to transfer 100% equity in Celcom for an aggregate consideration of RM17bn.
  • Conducted a due diligence exercise on the Malaysian subsidiary of G.H.Y Culture & Media Holding Co Limited and drafted and reviewed the relevant sections of the offer documents for the IPO.

David Lai & Tan

The corporate offering at boutique firm David Lai & Tan, is led by Tan Yee Boon, who is noted for his ‘dedication and commitment towards his firm and his clients’. The team regularly advises companies on listing rules, regulations and compliance. In addition, it advises Malaysian companies across various industry sectors on IPOs and equity capital. Joaana Keng Li Xin is another key member of the team.

Practice head(s):

Tan Yee Boon

Other key lawyers:

Joaana Keng Li Xin; Stephanie Chan Pik Jia

Testimonials

‘The firm is dedicated to its clients. They have a deep understanding of the equity capital markets and the various corporate exercises undertaken by listed companies.’

‘Tan, as a corporate lawyer, has shown his dedication and commitment towards his firm and his clients. Work performed by them for us has always been timely and professional.’

Key clients

5E Resources Limited

Paragrene Land Berhad

Haily Group Berhad

Swang Chai Chuan Limited

EC Excel Holdings Limited

YB Ventures Berhad (formerly known as Yi-Lai Berhad)

HPP Holdings Berhad

Vizione Holdings Berhad

Ageson Berhad

AppAsia Berhad

G Capital Berhad

CPE Technology Berhad

Work highlights

  • Acted as the sole legal counsel for 5E Resources Limited for its proposed listing on the Catalist Board of the Singapore Exchange Limited.
  • Acted as the legal counsel for Paragrene Land Berhad and advised for its proposed initial public offering on the Main Market of Bursa Securities.
  • Acted as the legal counsel for Haily Group Berhad and advised for its proposed initial public offering on the ACE Market of Bursa Securities.

Jeff Leong, Poon & Wong

Praised for its ‘historical experience in equity markets’, Jeff Leong, Poon & Wong’s team is co-led by Jeff Leong  and Kenny Poon. The team acts for clients listing on the Malaysian stock exchange, as well as advising on IPOs. Noteworthy team changes include the joining of Seow Wee Loong from Shahrizat Rashid & Lee in September 2021, and Eileen Tan from Lee Hishammuddin Allen & Gledhill in June 2022, while Anne Wong departed to Karen Kaur & Anne Wong Partnership in July 2021 and Richard Lee left to Mathews Hun Lachimanan in September 2021.

Practice head(s):

Jeff Leong; Kenny Poon

Other key lawyers:

Seow Wee Loong; Eileen Tan

Testimonials

‘A firm with a rich past and historical experience in equity markets, supported by strong associates with vast experience.’   

‘Easily reached partner with decades of experience in equity market practice and respect in the industry.’   

Key clients

YX Precious Metals Bhd

SFP Tech Holdings Berhad

DS Sigma Holdings Berhad

Work highlights

  • Advised YX Precious Metals Bhd on its chain listing on the Malaysian stock exchange.
  • Advised SFP Tech Holdings Berhad on its listing on the Malaysian stock exchange.
  • Advising DS Sigma Holdings Berhad on its application for listing on the Malaysian stock exchange.

Kadir Andri & Partners

Tan Kong Yam, who has experience in handling capital markets and corporate matters, leads the team at Kadir Andri & Partners. A recent highlight includes advising on a cross-jurisdictional IPO, which raised RHN1bn for the client and its shareholders. Norinne Dewal retired in October 2021, following the departure of Ahlan Nasri Nasi in September 2021. ‘Attentive’ Andy Teoh Tuck, who focuses on capital markets, was promoted to partner in April 2022.

Practice head(s):

Tan Kong Yam

Other key lawyers:

Samuel Hong; Chin Wee Sing; Andy Teoh Tuck Wah; Jeremy Chia

Testimonials

‘A very knowledgeable team, responsive to their clients’ needs.’

‘Andy Teoh Tuck Wah is very helpful, detailed, friendly and, most importantly, very attentive to clients’ requests – even those made at the very last minute.’

‘Jeremy Chia is very responsible and hardworking.’

‘We are happy to have engaged with this team for our corporate work.’

Key clients

CIMB Investment Banks

Maybank Investment Bank

Credit Suisse (Singapore) Limited

Credit Suisse Securities (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd

RHB Investment Bank Berhad

Hong Leong Investment Bank Berhad

Am Investment Bank Berhad

Affin Hwang Investment Bank Berhad

LHN Logistics Limited

Work highlights

  • Advised the joint global coordinators in respect of the IPO and listing of Farm Fresh Berhad on the Main Market of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad.
  • Advised LHN Logistics Limited in respect of the IPO and listing of LHN Logistics Limited on Singapore Exchange’s Catalist Board.

Mah-Kamariyah & Philip Koh

Mah-Kamariyah & Philip Koh’s team is co-headed by Philip Koh and Adrian Koh, who is praised as an ‘excellent lawyer in capital markets in Malaysia’. Recent work highlights include advising on the IPO and listing of one of the largest consumer electrical and electronics retailers on the main market of Bursa Malaysia. The team is also well-equipped to handle the private placement and issuance of shares in the regional market. According to one client, ‘all matters, big or small, are addressed with dedication and professionalism’.

Practice head(s):

Philip Koh; Adrian Koh

Other key lawyers:

Yee Chew Yan

Testimonials

‘MKP has vast experience in advising on legal aspects of corporate matters including M&A and equity fundraising exercises. Its specialisation in corporate and commercial law gives the firm a broad base of relevant experience, allowing it to share its insights to the deals it is involved in.’

‘Its clientele ranges from local entrepreneurs to some of the largest companies listed on the main market of Bursa Malaysia and it provides the same high levels of service to all clients.’

‘All matters, big or small, are addressed with dedication and professionalism. We find the team to be very helpful, and their insights helped to ensure the smooth and successful completion of our clients’ corporate exercises.’

‘Adrian Koh is a very experienced and practical lawyer. His constant practical and commercially viable solutions have helped us in the smooth, fast and efficient execution of many exercises.’

‘Adrian Koh is an excellent lawyer in capital markets in Malaysia, in particular, in his understanding of the Capital Markets and Services Act 2007. His associates likewise are able to render their services accordingly under the guidance of Adrian Koh.’

Key clients

AmInvestment Bank Berhad

Hong Leong Investment Bank

Mercury Securities Sdn Bhd

Maybank Investment Bank Berhad

RHB Investment Bank Berhad

Affin Hwang Investment Bank Berhad

Sunway Berhad

Powerwell Holdings Berhad

Optimax Holdings Berhad

Omesti Berhad

WZ Satu Berhad

Sunway Real Estate Investment Trust

Lagenda Properties Berhad

Green Ocean Corporation Berhad

Pemaju Industries Berhad

Peter Ling & van Geyzel

Peter Ling & van Geyzel’s capital markets team, which is praised as ‘truly exceptional’, is led by Peter Ling. Noted for its broad experience, the practice assists clients in both regional and overseas transactions. Its workload includes advising on the private placement of shares, proposed listings, the establishment of private equity funds, as well as proposed business diversifications.

Practice head(s):

Peter Ling

Testimonials

‘The practice is very unique in its thorough understanding of the venture capital and private markets playbook.’

‘The firm is able to provide innovative arrangements and solutions, as well as understand and resolve complex issues.’

‘The individuals in the firm are very accessible, great listeners and have a desire to fully understand the problems faced by clients. Once the crux of the issue or roadblock has been identified, associates work towards a rapid turnaround time with a solution provided within days as there is a clear and genuine desire to ensure the client’s best interest is taken care of at all times.’

Key clients

CSH Alliance Berhad

ECA Integrated Solution Berhad

Hong Seng Consolidated Berhad

Minetech Resources Berhad

MMAG Holdings Berhad

Rosli Dahlan Saravana Partnership

Praised for his ‘in-depth knowledge’, the capital markets team at Rosli Dahlan Saravana Partnership is led by Eu Jin Ong, who advises on due diligence relating to listings, as well as IPOs, rights issues and bond issuances, both locally and occasionally on cross-border matters. The team also has the capability to advise on Sukuk issuances and Islamic law principles, a key area of expertise for senior associate Lily Lee Zai Lii.

Practice head(s):

Eu Jin Ong

Other key lawyers:

Lily Lee Zai Lii; Vincent Kow Lit Han; Diane Ngu Dai En

Testimonials

‘The team under Eu Jin Ong has in-depth knowledge in this practice area and has provided solutions to our various needs consistently. Mr Ong is very approachable and commits appropriate time to his clients.’

‘The team has proven to us to be dedicated, knowledgeable, prompt, diligent in their work and consistently able to meet deadlines.’

‘Key strengths and capabilities are the fast deliverables, as well as the guidance and solutions consistently provided.’   

Key clients

Unitrade Industries Berhad

SNS Network Technology Berhad

Naza TTDI Sdn Bhd

Axis REIT Managers Berhad

AME Elite Consortium Berhad

Seng Fong Holdings Berhad

Ecomate Holdings Berhad

MyKris International Berhad

Work highlights

  • Acting for Naza TTDI Sdn Bhd in respect of the proposed unrated Islamic medium term note programme of RM300m based on the Shariah principle of Murabahah.
  • Acted for an industrial space solution provider in respect of the establishment of a real estate investment trust.
  • Acted for Ecomate Sdn Bhd in respect of the IPO and listing of the company on the Ace Market of Bursa Malaysia.

Shearn Delamore & Co

Shearn Delamore & Co’s team is co-headed by debt specialist Pamela Kung, who is equipped to handle Islamic and conventional matters, and equity specialist Nicholas Tan Choi Chuan. The practice has experience advising on mandates involving the listing of companies, the issuance of shares, proposed acquisitions of equity interests, corporate debt restructurings, as well as regulatory issues. Its client roster includes key Malaysian investment banks.

Testimonials

‘The firm and the partners in charge have an acute understanding of our needs and the issues requiring solutions.’   

‘Pamela Kung gives her best to ensure that our queries and issues are attended to. She understands the business and commercial considerations in rendering her advice.’   

Key clients

Scientex Berhad

LTKM Berhad

OCBC Bank (Malaysia) Berhad

OCBC Al-Amin Bank Berhad

AmBank Islamic Berhad

AmBank (M) Berhad

HSBC Bank Malaysia Berhad

HSBC Amanah Malaysia Bank Berhad

CIMB Bank Berhad

CIMB Islamic Bank Berhad

Standard Chartered Bank Malaysia Berhad

Standard Chartered Saadiq Berhad

Kenanga Investment Bank Berhad

Malayan Banking Berhad

Maybank Islamic Berhad

MIDF Amanah Investment Bank Berhad

Bank of China (Malaysia) Berhad

BNP Paribas

Société Générale

Standard Chartered PLC

The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited

Oversea-Chinese Banking Corporation Limited

CIMB Bank Berhad, Singapore Branch

United Overseas Bank Limited

Malayan Banking Berhad, Singapore Branch

The Standard Bank of South Africa Limited, Isle of Man Branch

Wafra Inc

Cainiao KLIA Aeropolis Sdn Bhd

Ekovest Berhad

Iskandar Waterfront Sdn Bhd

Malakoff Corporation Berhad

IJM Corporation Berhad

SP Setia Berhad

Paramount Corporation Berhad

Country Garden Real Estate Sdn Bhd

Country Garden Pacificview Sdn Bhd

ZJ Advisory Sdn Bhd

RHB Investment Bank Berhad

CIMB Investment Bank Berhad

Gas Malaysia Distribution Sdn Bhd

Cahya Mata Sarawak Berhad

Mega First Corporation Berhad

CapitaLand Malaysia Mall Trust

Scientex Berhad

Jentayu Sustainables Berhad (formerly known as Ipmuda Berhad)

KIP Real Estate Investment Trust

Jaycorp Berhad

Work highlights

  • Acted for RHB Investment Bank Berhad and CIMB Investment Bank Berhad as joint lead arrangers and joint lead managers in respect of the Sukuk Murabahah programme of up to RM4.5bn.
  • Acted for Scientex Berhad in its unconditional voluntary take-over offer to acquire shares and warrants in Daibochi Berhad.
  • Acted for Jentayu Sustainables Berhad in their equity capital markets work.