Firms To Watch: Labour and employment

Alwin Rajasurya spearheads the Petaling Jaya-based practice at Messrs Alwin Rajasurya and advises on a range of employment litigation and advisory matters, from dismissals and termination cases to navigating the employment aspects of M&A.
Following its seperation from Chooi & Company in March 2023, Cheang & Ariff houses a team of labour and employment practitioners, including industrial relation disputes expert Ke Xin Lim.

Firms in the Spotlight Labour and employment

Chambers of R. Sivagnanam & Associates

Chambers of R. Sivagnanam & Associates logo

The Chambers of R Sivagnanam & Associates or “RSA Chambers” as we have come to be known, was established in July 1999. At the beginning we stood at the threshold of “Y2k” and the aftermath of the 1997 Economic crisis.

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Labour and employment in Malaysia

Lee Hishammuddin Allen & Gledhill

The practice at Lee Hishammuddin Allen & Gledhill is led by Lim Seng Heng, who is highly regarded for his ‘deep knowledge’ in labour, employment and industrial relations mandates in Malaysia. The team handles a broad range of matters, including advisory issues concerning misconduct alleged by employees, constructive dismissal, poor performance and restructuring exercises, in addition regulatory mandates involving aspects of contract law, from drafting to ensuring compliance. Industrial relations expert Shariffullah Majeed is regularly supported by senior associate Nurul Aisyah Hassan, while Amardeep Singh Toor frequently appears in the Industrial Court to defend employers in unjust dismissal claims. Tan Hooi Ping, who was promoted to partner in January 2023, is another key contact in the group.

Practice head(s):

Lim Heng Seng


Other key lawyers:

Shariffullah Majeed; Amardeep Singh Toor; Tan Hooi Ping; Nurul Aisyah Hassan; Summer Chong Yue Han; Arissa Ahrom


Testimonials

‘Shariffullah Majeed gives perspectives from all angles in a timely fashion.’

‘Lim Heng Seng has deep knowledge. Tan Hooi Ping is practical and provides actionable advice. Summer Chong Yue Han is responsive and able to understand the clients’ needs.’

‘Amardeep Singh Toor is very friendly and provides clarification on our doubts whenever we approach him.’

‘The team is highly competent, knowledgeable and friendly too. Their quality of work is exceptional.’

‘What I treasure the most is that they are very helpful and ever-willing to assist you.’

‘Easy to work with and approachable, they think strategically to safeguard the best interests of the client.’

‘Shariffullah Majeed is strategic-thinking, and easy to communicate and work with. Arissa Ahrom is communicative and efficient, as is Nurul Aisyah Hassan.’

‘Tan Hooi Ping and Summer Chong Yue Han are very professional, with a lot of experience. They are always able to put themselves in the shoes of the customer.’

Key clients

United States of America


TH Plantations Berhad


BASF (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd


Maxis Berhad


Telekom Malaysia Berhad


DHL Asia Pacific Shared Services Sdn Bhd


FGV Holdings Berhad


Hai Di Lao Malaysia Sdn Bhd


ExxonMobil Exploration and Production Malaysia Inc


Petroliam Nasional Berhad (PETRONAS)


Work highlights


  • Represented the USA in an appeal to the apex Federal Court against the decision of the Court of Appeal which had set aside the determination of the High Court declaring that the dismissal of a security guard engaged by the Embassy of the USA in Kuala Lumpur is immune from the jurisdiction of the Industrial Court.
  • Defended the subsidiary of FGV Holdings Berhad, Felda Engineering Services Sdn Bhd successfully against six unfair dismissal claims made by its former employees.
  • Represented Perodua Sales Sdn Bhd successfully in the High Court in three judicial review applications to quash the Industrial Court awards which allowed claims of constructive dismissal by three former employees.

Shearn Delamore & Co

Led by Vijayan Venugopal, the team at Shearn Delamore & Co handles the full range of matters for its roster of clients, including corporate employers, multinational companies and government-linked entities. The practice advises on such aspects as the terms and conditions of complex contracts, disciplinary action and termination proceedings, in addition to union issues. Sivabalah Nadarajah is noted for his expertise in trade union disputes, while Raymond Low frequently appears before the Court of Appeal, High Court, Industrial Court and Labour Court in Malaysia.

Practice head(s):

Vijayan Venugopa


Other key lawyers:

Raymond Low; Vijayan Venugopal; Suganthi Singam; Sivabalah Nadarajah


Key clients

MISC Bhd


Citibank Berhad


TienWah Press Pte Ltd


Shangri-La Hotel, Kuala Lumpur


Marriott International


Malaysia Airlines Berhad


Hilton Kuala Lumpur


Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad


Telekom Malaysia Berhad


Hong Leong Bank Berhad


Skrine

Housing a team of practitioners with ‘impressive track records and impeccable legal skills’, Skrine acts for employers on the full scope of mandates, including investigations into breaches of employee confidentiality, disciplinary actions, reductions in workforce and general compliance issues. The team also advises clients on maintaining minimal exposure throughout disputes, in addition to handling civil actions and cases at the Federal Court, namely in relation to breaches of contract or restrictive covenant, and recovery of funds matters. Selvamalar Alagaratnam leads the practice and Foo Siew Li advises on contentious and non-contentious employment issues, while Siva Kumar Kanagasabai is noted for her expertise in shipping-related employment mandates.

Practice head(s):

Selvamalar Alagaratnam


Other key lawyers:

Siva Kumar Kanagasabai; Sara Lau Der Yin; Foo Siew Li


Testimonials

‘The team consists of individuals with impressive track records and impeccable legal skills.’

‘Selvamalar Alagaratnam and Sara Lau Der Yin give a helicopter view on the matter at hand and provide practical legal solutions therein.’

Key clients

Employees’ Provident Fund


Great Eastern Life Assurance Berhad


Great Eastern General Insurance Berhad


Great Eastern Takaful Berhad


AIA Bhd


Grey Group Malaysia


Cycle & Carriage Bintang Berhad


British American Tobacco GSD (KL) Sdn Bhd


Hess Exploration and Production Malaysia B.V.


MISC Berhad


DHL Information Services (Asia-Pacific) Sdn Bhd


DNV


Work highlights


  • Acted for Germanischer Lloyd Industrial Services Asia Sdn Bhd in a claim of constructive dismissal brought against them.
  • Acting for Kumpulan Wang Simpanan Pekerja in a dispute concerning a former employee’s entitlement to the Staff Provident Fund credits.
  • Acting for Hess Exploration and Production Malaysia B.V. in a claim by a former contractor, who claims that Hess was his de facto employer in a dispute on breach of contract and/or duty of care.

Wong & Partners

Wong & Partners’ team is jointly led by Eddie Chuah and Trishelea Ann Sandosam, who joined the firm from Skrine in January 2023. The practice advises its portfolio of clients on the full range of employment matters and, as such, its workload spans from the hiring of employees, to terminations and redundancies, in addition to assisting employers in cases concerning alleged misappropriation, fraud, breaches of non-competes, and misuse of information. Notably, the team also has experience assisting in sensitive cases, from those involving alleged misconduct and inappropriate behaviour, to the wellbeing of employees. The team is linked more broadly to Baker McKenzie LLP and its connection therein consolidates the firm’s international reach. Brian Chia, who advises on the corporate, commercial and security aspects of employment matters, is another key contact in the group.

Practice head(s):

Trishelea Ann Sandosam; Eddie Chuah


Other key lawyers:

Brian Chia


Key clients

Nike Sales (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd


Unisys (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd


Centek Limited


Dimerco Express Malaysia Sdn Bhd


Alstom Transport Systems Malaysia


FWD Group


McDermott Asia Pacific Sdn Bhd


Work highlights


  • Acting for Victory Maritime against an unfair dismissal claim by a former employee who alleges the Company’s action to suddenly increase her job responsibility and communicating with her subordinate without her knowledge was in complete breach of her contract of employment and justified her plea for constructive dismissal.
  • Representing Lego Trading (Malaysia) in an ongoing matter against an ex-employee, the site lead for the client’s Kuala Lumpur office, responsible for handling key account clients.
  • Representing Centek Group, a market-leading manufacturer of centralisers and stop collars for the oil and gas industries, in a complex action against among others, defendants who were former employees of the group.

Zul Rafique & Partners

Praised for its ‘extensive knowledge and experience’, Zul Rafique & Partners’ labour and employment offering covers the full range of of matters. The practice is collectively overseen by industrial relations and employment expert P Jayasingam, Wong Keat Ching, who has a ‘strong ability to provide a holistic view of a case’Thavaselvi Pararajasingam, who handles matters involving forensic investigation and compliance issues, and Teoh Alvare, who regularly appears in the Industrial Court. The team acts for employers in matters concerning retrenchment, employee misconduct, and unfair dismissal, frequently brought by multiple claimants, in addition to representing clients in disputes before the Court of Appeal. Associate Loh Qiao Wen is another key contact in the group.

Practice head(s):

P Jayasingam; Wong Keat Ching; Thavaselvi Pararajasingam; Teoh Alvare


Other key lawyers:

Loh Qiao Wen


Testimonials

‘Wong Keat Ching and the team’s effective strategy in supporting an organisation to defend a challenging case is impressive. We are very grateful for their industrial relations expertise.’

‘Teoh Alvare is modest and patient in handling clients’ queries and providing clear explanations in layman’s terms. We are confident in their provision of sound legal knowledge.’

‘A great team – easily contactable, fast deliverables, effective communication and extensive experience.’

‘Wong Keat Ching has a strong ability to provide a holistic view of a case and sound advice on what can be done to manage difficult cases that are in court.’

‘Extensive knowledge and experience in laws and industries, they have a firm stand, are approachable and easy to communicate with.’

‘Zul Rafique & Partners boasts a team of highly skilled attorneys, who are leaders in the practice of industrial relations. The team has years of experience with a passion for solving complex legal challenges.’

Key clients

Petroliam Nasional Berhad


Tenaga Nasional Berhad


Public Bank Berhad


PricewaterhouseCoopers


KLCC Property Holdings Sdn Bhd


KLCC Projeks Services Sdn Bhd


Sime Darby Berhad


Sime Darby Property Berhad


Sime Darby Plantation Berhad


Sime Darby Industrial Sdn Bhd


CIMB Bank Berhad


RHB Bank Berhad


Maxis Broadband Sdn Bhd


Megasteel Sdn Bhd


Gamuda Berhad


Malaysia Airlines Berhad


United Overseas Bank (Malaysia) Bhd


Malayan Banking Berhad


Putrajaya Properties Sdn Bhd


Etiqa Life Insurance Bhd


Johnson Matthey Sdn Bhd


Microsoft (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd


Standard Chartered Global Business Services Sdn Bhd


Liberty Insurance Berhad


Adabi Consumer Industries Sdn Bhd


Seri Pacific Corporation Sdn Bhd


Legoland Malaysia (LL Malaysia Taman Tema)


Destination Resorts and Hotels Sdn Bhd


Work highlights


  • Represented Megasteel Sdn Bhd successfully at the Court of Appeal in relation to the decision of the High Court to quash the order of the Industrial Court for the Company to pay the employee’s Notice Pay within 60 days of the awards.
  • Acted for Petroliam Nasional Berhad successfully in an unfair dismissal claim made for alleged misconduct relating to conflict of interest where the claimant had attended a golf trip which was paid for by a registered contract of the company and received gifts and entertainment in the form of, among others, spa massages and meals during the trip.
  • Acted for Legoland Malaysia successfully at the Johor Bahru Labour Court in relation to the termination of the complainant for their alleged failure to obey the Company’s instructions to be vaccinated despite sufficient effort from the Company to educate the Complainant on the importance during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Christopher & Lee Ong

Christopher & Lee Ong’s team advises its client roster on the full scope of labour and employment work, including domestic and cross-border advisory matters ranging from unfair dismissal, breaches of contract and redundancies to mandates concerning alleged force labour and harassment in the workplace. The practice also has demonstrable experience in handling litigious cases, a key focus for Rubini Murugesan. Yau Yee Ming jointly spearheads the team alongside Kelvin Kho, who takes a ‘solutions-oriented approach and provides high-quality advice’ on employment compliance issues.

Practice head(s):

Yau Yee Ming; Kelvin Kho


Other key lawyers:

Rubini Murugesan


Testimonials

‘Kelvin Kho bears a high-level of business sense – he can understand and capture the essence of a business out of context and then advise accordingly.’

‘With his Kelvin Kho’s experience and advice, we are clearer on the path of human resources planning.’

‘Kelvin Kho works with us side-by-side, as if our colleague and has been able to capture the business context and has problem-solved thusly. He has a solutions-oriented approach and provides high-quality advice.’

Donovan & Ho

Noted for it expertise in the hospitality, IT, construction and manufacturing sectors, Donovan & Ho handles a broad range of matters concerning employment contracts and policies, compliance with employment legislation, termination and management of employees, in addition to unfair dismissal claims. Praised for its ‘successful track record and unique strengths’, the team also has demonstrable experience before the Industrial Court and the Director General of Labour. Donovan Cheah leads the team and handles the full spectrum of contentious and non-contentious employment mandates, while Th'ng Yan Nie represents clients in Industrial Court proceedings.

Practice head(s):

Donovan Cheah


Other key lawyers:

Adelyn Fang; Th’ng Yan Nie


Testimonials

‘The firm stands out in terms of specialisation, client-centricity, innovative problem solving, legal expertise, a successful track record and unique strengths.’

‘Donovan & Ho, is a standout practice that distinguishes itself through a combination of key strengths and innovative approaches. They are committed to client satisfaction, go above and beyond to understand each client’s unique needs and objectives, tailoring legal solutions to achieve optimal outcomes.’

Key clients

Marriott


Thermo Fisher


L’Oreal


7-Eleven Malaysia


PPG Industries


DFDL


ADK Malaysia


Majorel


Coway Malaysia


Work highlights


  • Represented 7-Eleven Malaysia successfully in a landmark case, where the Court of Appeal held that employees claiming damages for unfair dismissal are barred from pursuing claims in the civil court, as the correct forum is the Industrial Court.
  • Represented a senior business leader successfully in obtaining an Industrial Court award of more than RM2m in damages for unfair dismissal.
  • Advising the seller of a business in a multi-million-dollar acquisition on employment law issues such as the migration of its 200-strong workforce for business continuity.

Peter Ling & van Geyzel

Praised as a 'creative and pragmatic lawyer', Marcus van Geyzel leads the 'responsive and highly commercial' team at Peter Ling & van Geyzel. The practice advises on employee restructurings, including the employee-related aspects of acquisitions, in addition to retrenchments and redundancies, workplace health and safety cases, and contentious staff management mandates. It is also well-equipped to advise on compliance issues relating to contracts, policies and legislation.

Practice head(s):

Marcus van Geyzel


Testimonials

‘Marcus van Geyzel is a creative and pragmatic lawyer.’

‘Fantastic team, responsive and highly commercial.’

‘Marcus van Geyzel delivers useful, practical advice within budget and within tight deadlines where required.’

Key clients

AT&T


Danaher Corp.


Electronic Arts (EA)


Knauf


PVH Corp.


Tencent


Zoom


Work highlights


  • Advised a US-based multinational client in the chemical manufacturing industry on employment issues related to its RM300m acquisition of another business.
  • Advised a global technology company on a retrenchment exercise involving 30 employees, and successfully defending a subsequent unfair dismissal claim by an C-suite executive.
  • Negotiating and agreeing a favourable settlement for a NYSE-listed employer client following a multi-million dollar constructive dismissal and breach of contract claim brought against it by its former Regional Legal Counsel.

Rahmat Lim & Partners

Housing a team of 'experienced professionals, who are business-savvy yet compassionate', Rahmat Lim & Partners handles employment disputes, including unfair dismissals, enforcement of confidentiality clauses and disciplinary proceedings, in addition to restructuring and reorganisation exercises. Head of the firm's litigation department, Jack Yow leads the team and has experience in industrial relations and employment disputes.

Practice head(s):

Jack Yow


Other key lawyers:

Kwong Chiew Ee


Testimonials

‘They are very efficient and informative. They provide all the necessary and relevant information and have been very helpful.’

‘The team has been extremely pleasant and supportive, giving their best in dealing with our cases by providing both best and worst-case scenarios.’

‘The team is formed of experienced professionals, who are business-savvy yet compassionate.’

‘Jack Yow will have your back when needed, striking a balance between the technical and human elements of service provision.’

Work highlights


  • Carried out a third restructuring and reorganisation exercise and retrenched several executive and managerial level employees in 2018.
  • Assisted Tasek Concrete to interview potential witnesses whom the claimant had solicited bribes from and prepared the necessary papers in respect of the lodging of a report to Malaysia Anti-Corruption Commission.
  • Acting for MHE-Demag in a forced resignation claim brought by its former employee.

Raja, Darryl & Loh

The team at Raja, Darryl & Loh acts for employers in mandates concerning alleged unfair dismissals and agreed contract dissolution, in addition to cases before the Industrial Court. Ravindra Kumar Rengasamy leads the practice and focuses on matters involving redundancies and retrenchments, as well as advising on contractual aspects of employment mandates, from contract formation to separation agreements. Praised as ‘responsive and accommodating to clients’ needs’, Tham Li Vyen is another key contact in the group.

Practice head(s):

Ravindra Kumar Rengasamy


Other key lawyers:

Tham Li Vyen


Testimonials

‘The team has a hands-on approach and is very attentive to its clients’ needs.’

‘Tham Li Vyen is responsive and accommodating to clients’ needs.’

Key clients

Kossan Rubber Industries Bhd


Work highlights


  • Defended AYER Holdings Berhad successful in the Industrial Court which held that the dismissal of the claimant was with just cause and excuse and that since full and free opportunity had been given to the claimant to present himself at the Domestic Inquiry and defend himself.
  • Defended Ideal Quality Sdn Bhd successfully in the Industrial Court which held that for an employee occupying a senior or managerial role, the need for warning and opportunity to improve is much less apparent before a decision to terminate is made.
  • Defended Glenmark Pharmaceuticals (M) Berhad successfully in the Industrial Court which reaffirmed the position that a mutual separation agreement mutually and freely arrived at between the parties to dissolve the relationship of an employee and his employer must be given effect to and that in law it is not a dismissal.

Shook Lin & Bok

Shook Lin & Bok acts for employers in disputes brought by employees alleging unfair dismissal and pursuing claims against employees wherein gross misconduct or fraud is being claimed, in addition handling disputes surrounding the alleged wrongful registration of trade unions. Key sectors of expertise include oil and gas, broadcasting and manufacturing. Mehala Marimuthoo, who is praised as ‘committed in safeguarding clients’ interests’, jointly leads the team alongside Romesh Abraham.

Practice head(s):

Romesh Abraham; Mehala Marimuthoo


Other key lawyers:

Gavinesh Siva Dharma


Testimonials

‘The team provides comprehensive advice on each legal issue. They are consistent with best industry practices.’

‘Mehala Marimuthoo, from the very start, was attentive to all our queries and advised us on arising legal issues and addressed our concerns. She was approachable and gave us the necessary comfort in managing and mitigating legal risk and exposure in our employment-related matters.’

‘Mehala Marimuthoo is committed in safeguarding clients’ interests, which is reflected in her attention-to-detail.’

‘Quick, reliable, friendly and professional as a team.’

‘Mehala Marimuthoo serves as our primary labour lawyer. She not only comprehends the legal cases at hand but has also invested time into understanding our business intricacies, operations and staff.’

‘Mehala Marimuthoo’s responsiveness and concentrated approach stands out, as she clearly dedicates ample time to preparing well in advance for cases. Her professionalism is remarkable, and she upholds strong ethical standards in her role.’

Key clients

HICOM Automotive Manufacturers (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd


Petroliam Nasional Berhad (Petronas)


Measat Broadcast Network Systems Sdn Bhd


Guocera Tile Industries Meru Sdn Bhd


RHB Bank Berhad


Jambatan Kedua Sdn Bhd


AmBank (M) Berhad


Edra Power Holdings Sdn. Bhd.


Hong Leong Manufacturing Group Sdn. Bhd.


Work highlights


  • Represented HICOM Automotive Manufacturers (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd in defending its dismissal of eight executives who signed a petition to remove the Company’s CEO from his position.
  • Represented Ambank (M) Bhd, defending its dismissal of an employee who was subjected to a Performance Improvement Plan of 19 months, considering whether the PIP that was carried out constitutes sufficient guidance and assistance for the claimant to improve his performance.
  • Represented RHB Bank Berhad in defending its dismissal of an employee who had performed numerous fictitious cash deposit transactions into the bank’s customer’s account before the actual receipt of cash from the customer to facilitate the clearance of cheques issued by the customer.

Tay & Partners

Led by Leonard Yeoh, Tay & Partners’ team assists on mandates ranging from employee contract and documentation creation, wrongful dismissals, and occupational safety to sensitive cases such as those involving claims of harassment in the workplace, and those involving issues of immigration. The team also advises clients on compliance issues associated with the Employment (Amendment) Act 2022. According to clients, Yeoh and associate Pua Jun Wen are ‘in a league of their own’ and stand out for ‘their indefatigable commitment to their clients’.

Practice head(s):

Leonard Yeoh


Other key lawyers:

Pua Jun Wen


Testimonials

‘Tay & Partners stands out distinctly in the landscape of labour and employment practices. Their uniqueness stems from their keen ability to marry tradition with modernity, and expertise with empathy.’

‘Leonard Yeoh and Pua Jun Wen are indeed in a league of their own. What makes them stand out is their indefatigable commitment to their clients. They do not merely see the cases or projects but truly understand the overarching business objectives and personal stakes involved.’

Key clients

Goodyear


Integer Engineering Sdn Bhd


Masimo Corporation / Masimo Medical Technologies (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd.


Costa Express Malaysian Sdn Bhd.


Luk Fook Group / Luk Fook Prestige Malaysia Sdn Bhd.


SDP Packaging Sdn Bhd


Cuckoo International (MAL) Sdn Bhd


Samsung SDI Energy Malaysia Sdn Bhd


Maxis Broadband Sdn Bhd / Maxis Berhad


Red Hat


Amdocs


Workday, Inc


Country Garden Pacificview Sdn Bhd


Pilot Cargo (M) Sdn Bhd


NIIT (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd


Showa Denko K.K.


Beaudrey Asia Sdn Bhd


Delivery Hero Malaysia Sdn Bhd (Foodpanda)


Linde Engineering Malaysia Sdn Bhd


PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) Malaysia


Work highlights


  • Advised Goodyear Malaysia on the finalisation of the settlement agreement involving settlement sum up to millions of Ringgit Malaysia.
  • Represented and defended Cuckoo International (MAL) Sdn Bhd at the High Court against the criminal charge on the alleged failure to pay SOCSO contribution for its employees.
  • Represented SDP Packaging Sdn Bhd for 4 judicial review applications against 4 industrial court awards at the High Court.

Harold & Lam Partnership

Led by Rohan Arasoo Jeyabalah, the team at Harold & Lam Partnership acts for both claimants and defendants in cases of alleged unfair dismissal, often as a result of restructuring or retrenchment, in addition to representing employees alleging to have been unfairly placed under performance improvement plans. Key work highlights include representing an employer in a RM1m dispute against former employees regarding claims of conspiracy and fraud.

Practice head(s):

Rohan Arasoo Jeyabalah


Other key lawyers:

Teoh Yen Yee


Testimonials

‘They are very organised and professional.’

‘Rohan Arasoo Jeyabalah is professional in terms of case-handling and provides very practical and reliable advice.’

Key clients

Codemax Sdn Bhd


Kooka Paper Manufacturing Sdn Bhd


Cengkam Kota Sdn Bhd


Seri Pajam Development Sdn Bhd


Ravi a/l Retnam


Datin Norlaili Alias


Thanaraj A/L Letchumanan


Asian Institution of Alternative Dispute Resolutin


Malaysian Maritime Academy Sdn Bhd


Kwan Hon Nyee


Jesslyn Wong Mei Kwan


Josephine, L K Chow & Co

Housing a 'team of knowledgeable professionals', Josephine, L K Chow & Co is well-equipped to advise clients on matters involving such issues as claims of discrimination, in addition to unfair dismissal claims. Litigator Edward Saw Keat Leong, who frequently appears before the Industrial Courts and the Civil Courts, jointly leads the team alongside commercial and employment expert Josephine Ng Bee Leng and Yip Huen Weng.

Practice head(s):

Edward Andrew Saw Keat Leong; Yip Huen Weng; Josephine Ng Bee Leng


Testimonials

‘A people-friendly environment and a team of knowledgeable professionals.’

‘They are very knowledgeable, keep abreast with current case laws and judgements, and act very professionally.’

Key clients

RSM Corporate Advisory (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd


Grundfos Pumps Sdn Bhd


LAW Partnership

LAW Partnership’s team, praised for its ’employment expertise’, advises on a range of employment regulatory matters, namely contracts, policies and procedures. Additionally, with support of the firm’s wider disputes offering, the team is well-placed to handle such contentious matters as allegations of unfair dismissal, and demands for unpaid funds, as well as assisting companies in placing employees under performance reviews. Nimisha Jaya Gobi leads the team and consultant Fredrick Nicholas joined the practice from Shui-Tai Advocates & Solicitors in July 2023.

Practice head(s):

Nimisha Jaya Gobi


Other key lawyers:

Fredrick Nicholas


Testimonials

‘They have employment expertise across the board.’

‘Nimisha Jaya Gobi provides spot-on advice.’

Key clients

RSM Corporate Advisory (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd


Grundfos Pumps Sdn Bhd


Steven Thiru & Sudhar Partnership

Steven Thiru & Sudhar Partnership handles unfair dismissal claims, often involving allegations of misconduct, for its portfolio of clients, including employer defendants and employee claimants. ‘Knowledgeable’ Janice Anne Leo, who advises on contentious employment and labour issues at the Industrial Court, High Court and Appellate Courts, jointly leads the team alongside ‘sharp and strategic’ Steven Thiruneelakandan.

Practice head(s):

Janice Anne Leo; Steven Thiruneelakandan


Other key lawyers:

David Ng Yew Kiat; Adrienne Sena; Ilyssa Jace Chakrabarty


Testimonials

‘The team understands the nature of our business, as well as its complexity. Therefore, the advice, recommendations or views given are more appropriate and relevant, taking into consideration all aspects of the business.’

‘Ilyssa Jace was very helpful and competent. She asked the right questions and managed the documents accordingly for the court and trials.’

‘STSP is without a doubt among the top employment and industrial relations law firms in Malaysia. The team is highly skilled with a strong depth of knowledge and experience in labour and employment law.’

‘The team is well-versed in the law and pleasant to work with. They are always pragmatic and solution-oriented with a lot of understanding for clients’ concerns.’

‘The team gives practical advice on complicated issues. Overall, it is prompt, responsive and able to deliver good quality work in a timely fashion.’

‘Steven Thiruneelakandan is our trusted legal adviser – sharp and strategic, a brilliant lawyer.’

‘Janice Anne Leo is always available, very knowledgeable and finds pragmatic solutions.’

Key clients

Achi Jaya Plantations Sdn Bhd


Bank Negara Malaysia


Agarcorp Sdn Bhd


Maxis Berhad


Sapura Secured Technologies Sdn Bhd


Weatherford (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd


Sapura Thales Electronics Sdn Bhd


Tenaga Nasional Berhad


Measat Broadcast Network Systems Sdn Bhd


Agrifood Resources Holdings Sdn Bhd


Affin Bank Berhad


Malayan Banking Berhad


British International School Kuala Lumpur


Dagang NeXchange Berhad


WWF Malaysia


British American Tobacco


Work highlights


  • Represented Agarcorp Sdn Bhd in an unfair dismissal representation at the Kuala Lumpur Industrial Court.
  • Represents Affin Bank Berhad in an unfair dismissal representation at the Kuala Lumpur Industrial Court.
  • Represents British American Tobacco in an unfair dismissal claim filed by an employee who was retrenched from the Company.

Zain & Co

Zain & Co’s 'top-notch' team is jointly led by employment disputes expert Sharmini Durai and Rebecca Jeyanthi Selvaraj. The practice acts for corporate clients in unfair dismissal claims before the Industrial Court, in addition to advising on employment-related agreements and contracts, and compliance issues therein. Matters involving the arrangement of employee secondments to foreign jurisdictions is another key area of expertise.

Practice head(s):

Sharmini Durai; Rebecca Jeyanthi Selvaraj


Testimonials

‘They do not just provide a legal analysis of the risks and labour and employment issues, but also consider the practical aspects of managing groups of employees or the individual employee in question.’

‘They offer competitive rates for their top-notch legal service, are very collaborative, responsive and analyse fully the issues we present or consult them with.’

‘The team provides a holistic view of the labour and employment risks experienced by the company and offers advice on trainings and potential risk areas we could address, and not just targeted advice to the specific issue on hand.’

Key clients

Marine & Offshore Solution Sdn Bhd


ON Semiconductor Malaysia Sdn Bhd


Solera Inc.


Stagwell Global Inc.


Yondr Group Limited


Unisys Corporation


NielsenIQ


Crawford & Company


Spirax Sarco


Ringspann GmbH


Hainan Natural Rubber Industry Group Co., Ltd


Thevelia Limited


Blackstone Inc.


IBFD


PECB Group Inc


Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. L.P.


Raya Airways Sdn Bhd


Chooi & Company

Yap Yeong Hui is a key contact in Chooi & Company’s practice, handling a range of employment disputes at the High Court, namely claims of unfair dismissal and in support of both employers and employees. The team also advises on the regulatory and contractual aspects of employment mandates, and is noted for its expertise in the manufacturing, technology and insurance sectors. Ke Xin Lim departed to Cheang & Ariff in March 2023.

Other key lawyers:

Yap Yeong Hui


Key clients

KS Seafood & Frozen Supply Sdn Bhd


Aureumaex Industries (M) Sdn Bhd


Criss-cross (M) Sdn Bhd


Y & L Metal Technology Sdn Bhd


Turcomp BMB (M) Sdn Bhd


SGI Vacation Club Bhd


RPG Commerce Sdn Bhd


Melbourne Capital Group Ltd


TVB Malaysia Sdn Bhd


VF Brands Malaysia Sdn Bhd


Work highlights


  • Acted for Aureumaex Industries (M) Sdn Bhd in the successful defence of a High Court of Muar matter brought by a former employee who commenced an action seeking a declaration that his dismissal was invalid and indirectly asking to be reinstated.
  • Acted successfully for SGI Vacation Club Bhd in relation to a matter at the Industrial Court where an employee alleged constructive dismissal.
  • Assisting VF Brands in relation to amendments to its employee related documentation.

Gan Partnership

The practice at Gan Partnership advises its portfolio of national clients on a range of labour and employment matters, namely those involving claims of unfair dismissal, in addition to matters of retrenchments and restructurings, and the termination of contracts. Gan Khong Aik leads the team and Lee Sze Ching, who focuses on industrial relations disputes, was promoted to partner in January 2023.

Practice head(s):

Gan Khong Aik


Other key lawyers:

Lee Sze Ching


Key clients

United Overseas Bank (Malaysia) Berhad


Philip Morris Sdn. Bhd


ExxonMobil Exploration & Production Inc.


Schlumberger Limited and its subsidiaries


Suez Capital Sdn. Bhd.


Brazil Embassy


Celcom Axiata Bhd


Sunsuria Group


GM Corporation Sdn. Bhd. (Japanese owned company)


United Kotak Berhad


ECI Software Solutions (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd


GS Paperboard and Packaging Sdn Bhd


Juice Plus International (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd


Asian Offshore Services Sdn Bhd


SKC Tours Sdn Bhd


Power Root Marketing Sdn Bhd


Lendlease Projects (M) Sdn Bhd


Work highlights


  • Defended the United Overseas Bank (Malaysia) Bhd successfully in an unjust dismissal claim by its employee who was dismissed due to misconduct.
  • Acted in the Industrial Court to defend Schlumberger WTA (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd against an unjust dismissal claim by its employee who was retrenched due to redundancy.
  • Acted in the Industrial Court to defend Lendlease Projects (M) Sdn Bhd against an unjust dismissal claim by its employee who was dismissed for poor performance and failure to complete the performance review plan.

MahWengKwai & Associates

Raymond Mah leads the team at MahWengKwai & Associates with the support of John Chan. Counting SMEs and family-run enterprises among its key roster of clients, the practice advises on trade union-related matters, claims of unfair dismissal brought against employers, and claims of misconduct brought against employees. The team acts for business clients on effective cost-cutting measures, reductions of workforces, terminations, management of performance and disciplinary procedures. Praised as ‘calm, composed and understanding’, senior associate Naveen Joshua Solomon is another key contact in the group.

Practice head(s):

Raymond Mah


Other key lawyers:

John Chan; Naveen Joshua Solomon; Jasmine Wong


Testimonials

‘Strong support and cooperation from the team, which is efficient and diverse.’

‘Naveen Joshua Solomon is a calm, composed and understanding. A quick-thinking lawyer who is able to manage multiple cases – he is also knowledgeable and resourceful and always able to complement our legal work with the support needed.’

Key clients

ASSA Abloy Opening Solutions Sdn Bhd


National Union of Bank Employees


Aizat Syamil v National Union of Bank Employees


New Zealand Unlimited Restaurants Sdn Bhd


ETeam Workforce Sdn Bhd


Steelbro (M) Sdn Bhd


Tan Kiak Soon


Woo Kian Lee


Paktor Pte Ltd & Paktor MY Sdn Bhd


SHH Construction Sdn Bhd


Max Yiew Cze Yoong


Matt Liew


Ong Siew Ling


Arnaud Henri Claude Lobry


Tan Chin Seng


Lim Choon Meng


Work highlights


  • Representing Assa Abloy Opening Solutions Malaysia Sdn Bhd in the Industrial Court to oppose an unfair dismissal claim commenced by a former external consultant claiming to be a former employee.
  • Advising and representing one of the biggest Trade Unions in Peninsular Malaysia with regards to a trade dispute involving derogatory and defamatory social media postings and publications made by the trade union against HSBC Bank Malaysia Berhad.
  • Representing one of the biggest Trade Unions in Peninsular Malaysia to act against HSBC Bank Malaysia Berhad in the Industrial Court.

Richard Wee Chambers

Praised as 'creative and a master planner', Richard Wee leads the practice at Richard Wee Chambers alongside Darren Lai, which is well-equipped to advise Malaysian corporate clients on sports law-related employment matters. This niche specialism sees the team act for such well-known national entities as National Sports Institute of Malaysia and Kuala Lumpur United Football Club, advising on contractual and procedural mandates, with demonstrable capability in handling claims of unfair dismissal.

Practice head(s):

Richard Wee; Darren Lai


Testimonials

‘The team at RWC provides a very personalised and complete service. Its rapid response, insight and foresight of any current and potential issues are of great benefit to our organisation.’

‘Richard Wee and his associates provide insightful details on our issues and provide advice that is quick and concise.’

‘We value their determination in getting the right things done in the right way.’

Key clients

National Sports Institute of Malaysia (ISN)


VSure Tech Sdn. Bhd.


Kuala Lumpur United Football ClubSdn. Bhd. (KL United Sdn. Bhd.)


Badminton Association of Malaysia


Pilots of AirAsia v AirAsia


Moby Money Sdn. Bhd.


Work highlights


  • Revamped the entire contractual and employment mechanism, inserting sports law and regulations into all the professional contracts for the Badminton Association of Malaysia.
  • Advising former employees of AirAsia as regards their claim that the selection process for their dismissal during company retrenchment may have been unfair.
  • Advising KL United Sdn. Bhd. on employment, football players’ contracts and regulatory issues.