Zul Rafique & Partners > Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia > Firm Profile

Zul Rafique & Partners Offices

Zul Rafique & Partners
D3-3-8 SOLARIS DUTAMAS
NO 1 JALAN DUTAMAS 1
50480 KUALA LUMPUR
Malaysia
Visit website 60 3 6209 8228 60 3 6209 8221

Zul Rafique & Partners > The Legal 500 Rankings

Malaysia > Banking and finance Tier 1

With a fine record in securing big-ticket engagements from Malaysia’s largest banks, as well as an array of international corporations, the practice at Zul Rafique & Partners showcases expertise in cross-border financing, asset-based securitisation transactions, Islamic financing, and offshore lending. The firm boasts a wealth of experience in advising on debt capital raising exercises, securitisation, and continues to work on medium term note programmes. Loh Mei Mei leads the team and is regularly consulted by regulatory authorities and corporations to provide insight on innovative products, policy guidelines, and financing structures. Celine Rangithan is well-versed in investment banking matters and Sukuk issuances. Chan Kwan Hoe, Ashela Ramaya, and Kung Suan Im are key members of the department.

Practice head(s):

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

Testimonials

‘The team is easy to work with and able to deliver on their part.’

‘Ashela Ramaya is very organised in her work.’

‘A well-resourced and talented team. Responsive, commercial, and a pleasure to deal with.’

‘Celine Rangithan is excellent. Commercial and diligent, she makes navigating the entry into Malaysia for our offshore clients easy.’

Key clients

Maxis Berhad

Standard Chartered Bank Group (Standard Chartered Bank (Malaysia) Berhad, Standard Chartered Saadiq Berhad)

Maybank Group (Maybank Investment Bank Berhad, Maybank Islamic Berhad, Malayan Banking Berhad, Maybank International (L) Ltd, other Malayan Banking Berhad branches, ie China, Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi)

Bank of China (Malaysia) Berhad

Affin Group (Affin Bank Berhad, Affin Hwang Investment Bank Berhad, Affin Islamic Bank Berhad)

HSBC Group (HSBC Bank Malaysia Berhad, HSBC Amanah Malaysia Berhad)

CIMB Bank Group (CIMB Bank Berhad, CIMB Islamic Bank Berhad, CIMB Investment Bank Berhad, CIMB Bank (L) Ltd)

OCBC Group (OCBC Bank (Malaysia) Berhad, OCBC Al-Amin Berhad, Oversea-Chinese Banking Limited Corporation, Labuan Branch)

Genting Berhad

RHB Group (RHB Bank Berhad, RHB Investment Bank Berhad, RHB Islamic Bank Berhad, RHB Bank (L) Ltd)

MIDF Group (MIDF Amanah Investment Bank Berhad, MIDF Investment Bank Berhad)

Bank Islam Malaysia Berhad

Bank Kerjasama Rakyat Malaysia

Cathay United Bank

MUFG Bank (Malaysia) Berhad

Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation Malaysia Berhad

United Overseas Bank (Malaysia) Berhad

Work highlights

  • Advised HSBC Bank Malaysia on the establishment of a RM1bn Sukuk Wakalah Programme and Sustainability-Linked Sukuk Wakalah by Yinson Holdings.
  • Advised AmInvestment Bank on an Islamic medium term notes programme of up to RM500m established by JB Cocoa.
  • Advised Maybank Investment Bank and OCBC Al-Amin Bank on an Islamic medium term notes programme of up to RM3bn established by Edotco (Malaysia).

Malaysia > Capital markets Tier 1

Zul Rafique & Partners has a fine track record in advising its bank of clients on the full spectrum of financing matters, both conventional and Islamic. Engaged by Malaysia’s major banks and financial institutions, the group frequently handles debt capital raising exercises, asset-backed securitisation matters, offshore lending, and corporate debt rescheduling concerns. Recent standout work includes the team’s provision of advice to HSBC Amanah Malaysia Berhad on the establishment of a RM1bn sustainability-linked Sukuk issuance. Loh Mei Mei, an industry veteran, leads on banking and finance matters and has demonstrated expertise in syndications, structured finance, and corporate banking. Kung Suan Im, Ashela Ramaya, Celine Rangithan, and Chan Kwan Hoe, also collectively lead the team and boast a wealth of capital markets experience between them.

Practice head(s):

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

Key clients

Maxis Berhad

Standard Chartered Bank Group (Standard Chartered Bank (Malaysia) Berhad, Standard Chartered Saadiq Berhad)

Maybank Group (Maybank Investment Bank Berhad, Maybank Islamic Berhad, Malayan Banking Berhad, Maybank International (L) Ltd, other Malayan Banking Berhad branches, ie China, Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi)

Bank of China (Malaysia) Berhad

Affin Group (Affin Bank Berhad, Affin Hwang Investment Bank Berhad, Affin Islamic Bank Berhad)

HSBC Group (HSBC Bank Malaysia Berhad, HSBC Amanah Malaysia Berhad)

CIMB Bank Group (CIMB Bank Berhad, CIMB Islamic Bank Berhad, CIMB Investment Bank Berhad, CIMB Bank (L) Ltd)

OCBC Group (OCBC Bank (Malaysia) Berhad, OCBC Al-Amin Berhad, Oversea-Chinese Banking Limited Corporation, Labuan Branch)

Genting Berhad

RHB Group (RHB Bank Berhad, RHB Investment Bank Berhad, RHB Islamic Bank Berhad, RHB Bank (L) Ltd)

MIDF Group (MIDF Amanah Investment Bank Berhad, MIDF Investment Bank Berhad)

Bank Islam Malaysia Berhad

Bank Kerjasama Rakyat Malaysia

Cathay United Bank

MUFG Bank (Malaysia) Berhad

Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation Malaysia Berhad

United Overseas Bank (Malaysia) Berhad

Work highlights

  • Advised HSBC Bank Malaysia Berhad on the establishment of RM1bn Sukuk Wakalah Programme and issuance of Sukuk Wakalah and/or Sustainability-Linked Sukuk Wakalah and/or Sustainability Sukuk Wakalah by Yinson Holdings Berhad.
  • Advised AmInvestment Bank Berhad on an Islamic medium term notes programme of up to RM500m established by JB Cocoa Sdn Bhd.
  • Advised Maybank Investment Bank Berhad and OCBC Al-Amin Bank Berhad on an Islamic medium term notes programme of up to RM3bn established by Edotco (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd.

Malaysia > Islamic finance Tier 1

With strong foundations in banking and finance and debt capital markets, Zul Rafique & Partners’ Islamic finance practice is well-equipped to advise an array of local and international financial institutions. The firm frequently advises on Islamic medium-term notes programmes and commercial papers, in addition to structures involving Shariah principles such as Musyarakah, Mudharaba, Murabaha, Istisna, and Ijarah. Expert Loh Mei Mei leads the team alongside Ashela Ramaya, Kung Suan Im, Celine Rangithan , and Chan Kwan Hoe, all of whom have demonstrable experience in sustainability-linked Sukuks.

Practice head(s):

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

Key clients

Maxis Berhad

Standard Chartered Bank Group (Standard Chartered Bank (Malaysia) Berhad, Standard Chartered Saadiq Berhad)

Maybank Group (Maybank Investment Bank Berhad, Maybank Islamic Berhad, Malayan Banking Berhad, Maybank International (L) Ltd, other Malayan Banking Berhad branches, ie China, Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi)

Bank of China (Malaysia) Berhad

Affin Group (Affin Bank Berhad, Affin Hwang Investment Bank Berhad, Affin Islamic Bank Berhad)

HSBC Group (HSBC Bank Malaysia Berhad, HSBC Amanah Malaysia Berhad)

CIMB Bank Group (CIMB Bank Berhad, CIMB Islamic Bank Berhad, CIMB Investment Bank Berhad, CIMB Bank (L) Ltd)

OCBC Group (OCBC Bank (Malaysia) Berhad, OCBC Al-Amin Berhad, Oversea-Chinese Banking Limited Corporation, Labuan Branch)

Genting Berhad

RHB Group (RHB Bank Berhad, RHB Investment Bank Berhad, RHB Islamic Bank Berhad, RHB Bank (L) Ltd)

MIDF Group (MIDF Amanah Investment Bank Berhad, MIDF Investment Bank Berhad)

Bank Islam Malaysia Berhad

Bank Kerjasama Rakyat Malaysia

Cathay United Bank

MUFG Bank (Malaysia) Berhad

Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation Malaysia Berhad

United Overseas Bank (Malaysia) Berhad

Work highlights

  • Advised HSBC Bank Malaysia Berhad on the establishment of RM1bn Sukuk Wakalah Programme and issuance of Sustainability-Linked Sukuk Wakalah by Yinson Holdings Berhad.
  • Advised AmInvestment Bank Berhad on an Islamic medium term notes programme of up to RM500m Million established by JB Cocoa.
  • Advised Maybank Investment Bank Berhad and OCBC Al-Amin Bank Berhad on an Islamic medium term notes programme of up to RM3bn established by Edotco Malaysia.

Malaysia > Labour and employment Tier 1

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.

Malaysia > Dispute resolution Tier 2

Zul Rafique & Partners’ disputes department represents clients on a wide spectrum of commercial, corporate, and civil claims. With a particular focus on product liability, media and defamation, securities and derivative actions, and insurance and coverage disputes, the firm is also well-equipped to handle arbitration and alternative dispute resolution procedures. The practice is collectively led by T. Kuhendran, Idza Hajar Ahmad Idzam, P. Jayasingam, Shahul Hameed Amirudin, Farah Shuhadah Razali, and Bailey Leong Pui Yee, who are all experienced in various elements of the field, such as construction and corporate insolvency.

Practice head(s):

P. Jayasingam; Shahul Hameed Amirudin; T. Kuhendran; Idza Hajar Ahmad Idzam; Farah Shuhadah Razali; Bailey Leong Pui Yee

Testimonials

‘The team works very well with us. They provide sound advice and are always there to assist us with our matters.’ 

‘Idza Hajar Ahmad Idzam has a great personality. She is very professional with her work and is a very knowledgeable person. She has assisted us in many of our complex litigation matters.’

‘Working with T. Kuhendran’s team was an overall satisfying experience. The team was very resourceful when it came to tackling the subject matter and provided solutions to every issue.’

‘Good teamwork, very easy to communicate with, and reliable. The team thinks strategically to safeguard the interests of the client.’

‘Idza Hajar Ahmad Idzam thinks strategically, gives reliable advice, and is easy to communicate with.’ 

‘They listened to us and advised us step by step. The team’s strength is definitely communication and time management.’

Key clients

Ace Dynamic Team Sdn Bhd

Ace Capital Growth Sdn Bhd

Senibina Sentral Sdn Bhd

CHEP Brambles Ltd

SAMTEC Inc.

East Coast Economic Region Development Council

PETRONAS Dagangan Berhad

Labuan Shipyard & Engineering Sdn Bhd

Sapura Industrial Berhad

Bank Pembangunan Malaysia Berhad

Bank Kerjasama Rakyat Malaysia Berhad

Small Medium Enterprise Development Bank Malaysia Berhad

PC Manufacturing Solutions Holdings Sdn Bhd

Iskandar Investment Bhd

NAZA TTDI

CMC Engineering Sdn Bhd

Federal Land Development Authority (FELDA)

Far East Orchard Limited

Malaysia Airlines Berhad

Sim Leisure Group

Lembaga Tabung Haji

AirAsia Digital

PETRONAS Refinery and Petrochemical Corp

Medivest Sdn Bhd

Cita Kapital Sdn Bhd

Radimax Group Sdn Bhd

KLCC Property Holdings Bhd.

IMETA and Southeast Asia at Bramble

Sapura Group

Digi Telecommunications Sdn Bhd

SJIC Bina Sdn Bhd

Iskandar Investment Bhd

Pembinaan Mitrajaya Sdn Bhd

Ferrier Hodgson MH Sdn Bhd

Public Bank Berhad

Telekom Malaysia

Kebabangan Petroleum Operating Company Sdn Bhd

MTD Group

SGC ETEC E&C (M) Sdn Bhd

Quantum Metro Development Sdn Bhd

Iskandar Investment Berhad

East Coast Economic Region Development Council

Samsung C&T (KL) Sdn Bhd

Ferrier Hodgson MH Sdn Bhd

Pembinaan Mitrajaya Sdn Bhd

Telekom Malaysia

Kebabangan Petroleum Operating Company Sdn Bhd

MTD Group

Petroliam Nasional Berhad (PETRONAS)

SGC ETEC E&C (M) Sdn Bhd

Work highlights

  • Advised and successfully defended Ace Dynamic Team against a minority oppression claim filed by one of its minority shareholders.
  • Successfully represented Seriemas Development and resisted an appeal filed by appellant and defended the High Court judge’s decision.
  • Acted for Scomi Group and successfully obtained an order in the High Court in respect of an application for leave to hold a scheme creditor meeting and a three-month restraining order against all current, pending, or future proceedings against the client and its assets.

Malaysia > Corporate and M&A Tier 3

Zul Rafique & Partners’ team is led by ‘deeply experienced and phenomenal partner’ Jerry Ong, who has demonstrable experience advising on high-value M&A. The team is well-equipped to assist its roster of domestic clients on a broad range of matters, including share purchase agreements, cross-border and domestic acquisitions, and restructurings, in addition to the documentation and due diligence aspects of such mandates. Chin Lit Fwu, who joined from Wong Beh & Toh in October 2022, is another key contact in the group.

Practice head(s):

Jerry Ong

Other key lawyers:

Cathryn Chay; Chin Lit Fwu

Testimonials

‘Jerry Ong’s leadership sees that his team maintains a prompt and well-researched output of advice.’

‘Jerry Ong is a deeply experienced and phenomenal partner, who understands the clients’ legal points. He brings decades of insights to bear in an impactful way.’

‘Prompt responses are put into simple terms for clients’ understanding.’

‘What makes the team unique is the level of hands-on attention you receive from every member of the team.’

‘Jerry Ong is extremely well-versed in mergers and acquisitions. Jerry has the ability to seamlessly unpick the issues and provide succinct advice on what courses of action ought to be taken. ’

‘Jerry Ong is very hands-on and commercially-driven.’

‘A solid M&A team led by Jerry Ong.’

‘Jerry Ong is a leading M&A practitioner. He provided clear, practical and innovative solutions during our acquisition of a high-value target.’

Key clients

Boost Holdings Sdn Bhd

Celcom Axiata Berhad

Axiata Group Berhad

Celcom Mobile Sdn Bhd

Tropicana Corporation Berhad

Sanlam Emerging Markets Proprietary Limited

Naval Elite Limited

Le Mercier’s Capital Pte Ltd

Jotun Paints (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd

Work highlights

  • Advised Boost Holdings Sdn Bhd in the application for a licence for a digital bank and in the operational readiness requirements that the Digital Bank is required to comply with.
  • Advised Celcom Mobile Sdn Bhd and Celcom Axiata Berhad on the subscription of equity stakes in 5G single wholesale network provider Digital Nasional Berhad.
  • Advised an ACRA-registered entity incorporated in Singapore, as local counsel, in the sale of 819,700 ordinary shares representing 81.97% of the share capital of a Malaysian company engaged in Indonesian coal projects to an existing shareholder which will become the sole owner.

Malaysia > Real estate and construction Tier 3

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.

Malaysia > TMT (including Fintech) Tier 3

Handling regulatory and operational agreements and procurement work for key clients, including Telekom Malaysia and EdgePoint Infrastructure, showcases the telecoms expertise at Zul Rafique & Partners. Darren Kor Yit Meng heads up the practice and has a proven track record in drafting access agreements and reference access offerings for both fixed and mobile networks.

Practice head(s):

Darren Kor Yit Meng

Testimonials

‘The partners are hands-on. The team is responsive to last minute requests and changes and put in the time and effort to turn around as quickly as possible.’

‘Darren Kor Yit Meng has sound legal knowledge, is responsive to client’s needs and understands the issues faced by the client.’

‘Super in-depth knowledge on telco regulation.’

‘We have worked with Darren Kor Yit Meng who has delivered great and valuable legal services and advice.’

‘Darren Kor Yit Meng has deep industrial experience and knowledge which sets him apart from his competitors.’

Key clients

Telekom Malaysia Berhad

Axiata Group Berhad

Edgepoint Infrastructure Group of Companies

TIME DotCom Sdn Bhd

Zul Rafique & Partners > Firm Profile

Zul Rafique & Partners (ZRp), established in December 1999 by the esteemed Dato’ Zulkifly Rafique, stands as a prominent Kuala Lumpur-based law firm that has undergone remarkable growth, evolving into a comprehensive and dynamic commercial legal practice.

Under the leadership of Co-Managing Partners Lukman Sheriff Alias and P. Jayasingam, ZRp strategically channels its resources into specialized practice groups. This deliberate approach allows us to harness the full extent of our legal ability, providing clients with the best of our expertise and experience.

Whether you seek sophisticated corporate solutions or require insight into the complexities of a certain legislation, our dedicated team is poised to deliver the right solutions. As we continue to evolve, our commitment to excellence and client satisfaction remains unwavering.

Main Contacts

Department Name Email Telephone
Co-Managing Partner Lukman Sheriff Alias lukman@zulrafique.com.my 603-6209 8213
Co-Managing Partner P Jayasingam jaya@zulrafique.com.my 603-6209 8260
Projects & Corporate Advisory (Head of Department) Khairuzzaman Muhammad zaman@zulrafique.com.my 603-6209 8232
Corporate/Mergers & Acquisitions (Head of Department); Capital Markets (Head of Department) Jerry Ong jerry@zulrafique.com.my 603-6209 8218
Infrastructure and Construction (Head of Department) Tunku Alizan alizan@zulrafique.com.my 603-6209 8229
Banking & Finance (Head of Department); Capital Markets Loh Mei Mei lmm@zulrafique.com.my 603-6209 8244
Construction Dispute Resolution (Head of Department) T Kuhendran devan@zulrafique.com.my 603-6209 8265
Communications and Multimedia (Head of Department); Intellectual Property (Head of Department) Darren Kor Yit Meng darren@zulrafique.com.my 603-6209 8247
Banking & Finance Kung Suan Im suanim@zulrafique.com.my 603-6209 8243
Employment & Industrial Relations Wong Keat Ching keat_ching@zulrafique.com.my 603-6209 8381
Employment & Industrial Relations Thavaselvi Pararajasingam selvi@zulrafique.com.my 603-6209 8269
Litigation Idza Hajar Ahmad Idzam idza.hajar@zulrafique.com.my 603-6209 8281
Corporate/Mergers & Acquisitions Cathryn Chay cathryn@zulrafique.com.my 603-6209 8316
Communications & Multimedia Farah Mohamed Said farah@zulrafique.com.my 603-6209 8247
Banking & Finance Ashela Ramaya ashela@zulrafique.com.my 603-6209 8250
Corporate Real Estate Leong May Ling mayling.leong@zulrafique.com.my 603-6209 8255
Banking & Finance Chan Kwan Hoe chan_kwanhoe@zulrafique.com.my 603-6209 8242
Banking & Finance Celine Rangithan celine@zulrafique.com.my 603-6209 8244
Energy & Utilities Hamdi Abdullah hamdi.abdullah@zulrafique.com.my 603-6209 8315
Corporate/Mergers & Acquisitions David Lee Lai Huat david.lee@zulrafique.com.my 603-6209 8216
Energy & Utilities Teh Hooi Woon thw@zulrafique.com.my 603-6209 8215
Tax Feruz Anwar Seth feruz.anwar@zulrafique.com.my 603-6209 8282
Employment & Industrial Relations Teoh Alvare teoh_alvare@zulrafique.com.my 603-6209 8268
Construction Dispute Resolution Susan Tan Shu Shuen susan.tan@zulrafique.com.my 603-6209 8265
Intellectual Property; Knowledge Management Amylia Soraya Aminuddin amylia.soraya@zulrafique.com.my 603-6209 8225
Banking & Finance Jayden Chuah jayden.chuah@zulrafique.com.my 603-6209 8250
Litigation; Shariah Nan Muhammad Ridhwan Rosnan ridhwan.rosnan@zulrafique.com.my 603-6209 8278
Litigation Nur Syafinaz Vani syafinaz.vani@zulrafique.com.my 603-6209 8281

Lawyer Profiles

Photo Name Position Profile
Hamdi Abdullah photo Mr Hamdi Abdullah Hamdi Abdullah is a Partner of the Corporate and Energy & Utilities practice… View Profile
Wilfred Abraham photo Mr Wilfred Abraham Wilfred Abraham is a Consultant to ZUL RAFIQUE & partners. He was admitted… View Profile
Idza Hajar Ahmad Izham photo Ms Idza Hajar Ahmad Izham Idza Hajar Ahmad Idzam is a Partner in the Litigation, Intellectual Property and… View Profile
Lukman Sheriff Alias photo Mr Lukman Sheriff Alias Lukman is one of the Co-Managing Partners at Zul Rafique & Partners… View Profile
Amylia Soraya Aminuddin photo Ms Amylia Soraya Aminuddin AMYLIA SORAYA AMINUDDIN is a Partner under the Knowledge Management, Research and Training… View Profile
Shahul Hameed Amirudin photo Mr Shahul Hameed Amirudin Shahul Hameed Amirudin is a Consultant to ZUL RAFIQUE & partners. He is… View Profile
Feruz Anwar Seth photo Feruz Anwar Seth Feruz Anwar Seth is a Partner in the Tax practice group at… View Profile
Cathryn Chay photo Ms Cathryn Chay Cathryn Chay is a Partner in the Corporate Finance practice group. She obtained… View Profile
Jayden Chuah photo Mr Jayden Chuah JAYDEN CHUAH is a Partner in the Banking & Finance practice group.… View Profile
Teh Hooi Woon photo Ms Teh Hooi Woon Teh Hooi Woon is a Partner in the Energy & Utilities practice group.… View Profile
Wong Keat Ching photo Ms Wong Keat Ching Wong Keat Ching is a Partner in the Employment & Industrial Relations, Litigation… View Profile
Darren Kor Yit Meng photo Mr Darren Kor Yit Meng Darren Kor Yit Meng heads the Communications & Multimedia and the Intellectual Property… View Profile
Chan Kwan Hoe photo Mr Chan Kwan Hoe Chan Kwan Hoe is a partner in the Banking & Finance practice… View Profile
David Lee Lai Huat photo Mr David Lee Lai Huat David Lee Lai Huat is a Partner in the Corporate practice group, with… View Profile
Chin Lit Fwu photo Mr Chin Lit Fwu Chin Lit Fwu is a Partner in the Corporate/Mergers & Acquisitions practice group.… View Profile
Chin Lit Fwu photo Mr Chin Lit Fwu Chin Lit Fwu is a Partner in the Corporate/Mergers & Acquisitions practice group.… View Profile
Leong May Ling photo Ms Leong May Ling Leong May Ling is a Partner and Head of the Corporate Real Estate… View Profile
Loh Mei Mei photo Ms Loh Mei Mei Loh Mei Mei is the Head of the Banking & Finance practice group.… View Profile
Farah Mohamed Said photo Ms Farah Mohamed Said FARAH MOHAMED SAID is a Partner in the Communications & Multimedia, Corporate Liability… View Profile
Khairuzzaman Muhammad photo Mr Khairuzzaman Muhammad Khairuzzaman Muhammad is a Partner in the Projects and Corporate Advisory practice group.… View Profile
Jerry Ong photo Mr Jerry Ong Jerry heads the Corporate/Mergers & Acquisitions and the Capital Markets practice groups in… View Profile
Jayasingam P photo Mr Jayasingam P P Jayasingam (“Jaya”) is one of the Co-Managing Partners at Zul Rafique… View Profile
Thavaselvi Pararajasingam photo Ms Thavaselvi Pararajasingam Thavaselvi Pararajasingam (“Selvi”) is a Partner of the Litigation and Employment & Industrial Relations… View Profile
Tunku Alizan RM Alias photo Tunku Alizan RM Alias Tunku Alizan is the lead Partner in the Infrastructure & Construction practice group.… View Profile
Ashela Ramaya photo Ms Ashela Ramaya Ashela Ramaya is a partner in the Banking & Finance practice group.… View Profile
Celine Rangithan photo Ms Celine Rangithan Celine Rangithan is a partner in the Banking & Finance practice group.… View Profile
Nan Muhammad Ridhwan Rosnan photo Mr Nan Muhammad Ridhwan Rosnan RIDHWAN is a Partner in the Litigation and Shariah practice groups respectively.… View Profile
Kung Suan Im photo Ms Kung Suan Im Kung Suan Im is a Partner in the Banking and Finance practice group.… View Profile
Kuhendran T photo Mr Kuhendran T KUHENDRAN THANAPALASINGAM is the Head of the Construction Dispute Resolution practice group. He… View Profile
Susan Tan Shu Shuen photo Ms Susan Tan Shu Shuen SUSAN TAN SHU SHUEN is a partner in the Construction Dispute Resolution practice… View Profile
Alvare Teoh photo Ms Alvare Teoh TEOH ALVARE is a partner in the Employment & Industrial Relations and… View Profile
Nur Syafinaz Vani photo Ms Nur Syafinaz Vani SYAFINAZ is a partner in the Litigation practice group. She holds a… View Profile

Staff Figures

Number of lawyers : 88
Number of consultants : 2

Languages

English
Bahasa Malaysia
Mandarin and other local Chinese and Indian dialects

International Capabilities


China Desk

As one of the largest independent law firms in Malaysia with over 90 lawyers, ZRp recognises the significance of recent developments in China including the introduction of the One Belt One Road (OBOR) initiative and have established a China Desk dedicated to support and provide legal services to Chinese clients and corporations.

Our dedicated ZRp China Desk team, drawn from across our various practice groups, are equipped with the necessary cultural knowledge, language skills and legal experience in order to best cater to our clients’ needs. Our lawyers have also advised a wide range of clients from listed companies to private investors in Chinese investment projects, cross-border transactions, international arbitration and legal disputes as well as issues in and out of China.

Awards and Achievements

In addition, some of our globally-recognised awards in the past year (2022/2023) include:

Asialaw Profiles 2023

Zul Rafique & Partners maintains a sweet spot in the market for its banking and finance, capital markets, construction and employment expertise. It has a standout banking practice, highly respected for its handling of complex debt restructuring, asset-backed securities, Islamic and project finance. The firm is also skilled in debt capital markets work, particularly with sukuks.

  • Banking & Finance: Outstanding
  • Capital Markets: Outstanding
  • Banking & Financial Services: Highly Recommended
  • Capital Markets: Outstanding
  • Technology & Telecommunications: Notable
  • Construction: Highly Recommended
  • Corporate/M&A: Recommended
  • Real Estate: Highly Recommended
  • Labour and Employment: Outstanding
  • Energy: Recommended
  • Infrastructure: Recommended
  • Dispute Resolution: Recommended

IFLR1000 2023

  • Tier 1: Banking and Finance
  • Tier 1: Capital markets: Debt
  • Tier 2: Capital markets: Equity
  • Tier 2: Project Development: Infrastructure
  • Tier 3: M&A

Benchmark Litigation Asia Pacific 2023

  • Tier 1: Construction
  • Tier 1: Labour and Employment
  • Tier 3: Commercial and Transaction
  • Recommended: White Collar Crime

Islamic Finance News

Deal of the Year 2023 – Perpetual Deal of the Year

Client Testimonials


CLIENT: Director, Debt Capital Markets

COMPANY/FIRM: Maybank Investment Bank

TESTIMONIAL: The ZRP team has always demonstrated exceptional professionalism, with the ability to deliver transactions within the required timeframe and yet pro-active and responsive in their approach. We also highly value their deep industry knowledge, having received practical and clear advice across myriad of DCM products be it corporate, perpetual or securitisation transactions. We would highly recommend the team especially in transactions, where sound legal advice through a commercial lens is required.

CLIENT: Head, Corporate Finance

COMPANY/FIRM: Hibiscus Petroleum Berhad

TESTIMONIAL: The team led by Loh Mei Mei and Ashela worked on our maiden debt facility. They were highly engaged, solution-oriented, detailed and ensured our interests were protected. Since then, we have engaged them to work on subsequent debt facilities and they have continued to deliver excellent work within a short space of time.

CLIENT: Manager, Corporate Banking

COMPANY/FIRM: Malayan Banking Berhad

TESTIMONIAL: We have worked with Zul Rafique & Partners over the years on several deals. Ashela’s team (including Nurishqa and Jayden) are always on their toes providing precise legal advice and resolutions despite having to find a common ground with various stakeholders. Documentation (including amendments after few years apart) are being handled professionally and swiftly. Despite immense pressure, the team are highly susceptible and pleasure to work with.

CLIENT: Cheah Cheng Wei

COMPANY/FIRM: EdgePoint Infrastructure Sdn. Bhd.

TESTIMONIAL: I go to Darren Kor for his in-depth legal and regulatory experience in the telecommunications sector and insightful legal advice on TMT / M&A matters. His team is ever-available to assist and very pleasant to work with, with their practical approach in drafting and comprehensive legal advice.

CLIENT: Masdura Haizal Mohd Pokoh

COMPANY/FIRM: Telekom Malaysia Berhad

TESTIMONIAL: Mr Darren Kor is an expert in telco matters both legal and regulatory which provides value add to its client. He is very knowledgeable on technology laws in Malaysia and understand the latest technology which is important in providing comprehensive advice. He is the go-to lawyer for telco issues as he provides relevant, actionable and practical solutions. I have full confidence in his work and he has assisted in completing and winning complex telco regulatory issues. Despite the high demand of its client, Mr Darren provides efficient and effective advice which has invaluable in supporting its client.

CLIENT: Adeline Amanda Jaiyaseelan (Head, Employee & Industrial Relations, Group Human Resources)

COMPANY/FIRM: Sime Darby Plantation

TESTIMONIAL: I have been working with P. Jayasingam and P. Thavaselvi for more than 10 years. They have provided exemplary legal services, with utmost dedication and professionalism. Their advice is not only sound but also practical, balancing between the legal requirements as well as business / operational exigences. They are the best in the industry!

CLIENT: Mary Ng Poh Lyn (Senior General Manager, Human Capital Management)

COMPANY/FIRM: Public Bank Berhad

TESTIMONIAL: Our relationship with Zul Rafique & Partners in particular Jayasingam and Thavaselvi (fondly known as Selvi to us) goes way back about 15 to 20 years. In the recent years, we have been working closely with Selvi on our Industrial Court cases. A high spirited and feisty lawyer, she is also dedicated and responsive to our ad hoc queries on labour and employment related matters. We are extremely lucky to have her and her team working with us on IR matters.

CLIENT: Eunice Ng (Associate Legal Counsel)

COMPANY/FIRM: MIMS Medica Sdn Bhd

TESTIMONIAL: Mr P Jayasingam is an outstanding lawyer, with in-depth knowledge and great experience in employment matters. Highly skilled in extracting the most precious piece of information from witnesses!

CLIENT: Arichana Ravindra Kumar (IR & HR Governance, Group Human Resource)

COMPANY/FIRM: RHB Bank Berhad

TESTIMONIAL: The employment and industrial relations practice group is extremely knowledgeable and experienced in the industry. Ms. Thavaselvi is highly efficient, professional and personable. She has always remained steadfast and delivers excellent standards of work. We are more than happy to recommend the capabilities, quality, standard and services provided by Ms. Thavaselvi and her team at ZRP.

CLIENT: Jessy Chan (Legal & Secretarial)

COMPANY/FIRM: Lion Group Malaysia

TESTIMONIAL: We are very pleased and satisfied with the legal services rendered by Mr P. Jayasingam, the partner in charge together with his team of lawyers in one of our complex deal involving employment matters whereby despite the time constraint, they have gone above and beyond to assist and acted in the best interest of our organisation. The partner’s esteemed experiences in litigation, employment and industrial relations matters coupled with the firm’s provision of sound and practicable solutions greatly helped us to adopt a pragmatic approach towards resolution of the issues arising.

CLIENT: Jackline Mariyam Pillai (Head, Talent & Organizational Capabilities)

COMPANY/FIRM: Liberty Insurance Berhad

TESTIMONIAL: Mr. Jayasingam and Ms. Thavaselvi conduct themselves with integrity and are forthright in providing their opinion which makes the organization to do the right thing.  A very reliable, hardworking and committed team that responses swiftly.

CLIENT: KLCC PROPERTY HOLDINGS BERHAD

COMPANY/FIRM: Zul Rafique & Partners

TESTIMONIAL: Always a great experience working with the Employment Team of Zul Rafique & partners, particularly Ms Wong Keat Ching, Ms Alvare Teoh and Ms Qiao Wen. They provide practical and effective solutions to difficult and complex employment issues. Their advice are concise and easy to understand.

CLIENT: Jefreesyafrizal Ibrahim, Senior Manager, Human Resources

COMPANY/FIRM: Worldwide Holdings Berhad

TESTIMONIAL: When people seek legal advice and services, they hope to have a peace of mind and assurance that their issues are being well taken care of. This is exactly what we got from Zul Rafique and Partners (ZRp). We came to them with an issue that we couldn’t internally manage. Throughout our communication, we could see the depth of knowledge and a holistic approach taken by ZRp to ensure that every possibility and every angle is taken into consideration. Very well thought of and I can say with confidence that we will definitely have ZRp in mind for future legal services.

Press Releases

LEAVE APPLICATION FOR JUDICIAL REVIEW WAS DISMISSED DUE TO INORDINATE DELAY IN FILING THE APPLICATION & IGNORANCE OF THE LAW IS NOT AN ACCEPTABLE REASON

27th September 2023 Teoh Alvare together with Loh Qiao Wen from Zul Rafique & Partners’ Employment and Industrial Relations Practice Group successfully represented Pertubuhan Peladang Kebangsaan (“the Respondent”) at the High Court in respect to the Respondent’s former employee’s (“the Applicant”) application for an extension of time and leave application for judicial review against his dismissal by the Respondent.
 

SINGAPORE’S HIGH COURT UPHOLDS PARTIAL AWARD ISSUED IN TM’S FAVOUR AND TRIBUNAL ISSUES A FINAL AWARD OF USD 3 MILLION IN TM’S FAVOUR

27th September 2023 Our Partner, T Kuhendran and Esther Tan from Zul Rafique & Partner’s Construction Dispute Resolution Practice Group,

MILESTONE DEAL WORTH RM800 MILLION INKED BETWEEN KUALA LINGGI INTERNATIONAL PORT AND CCCC DREDGING SOUTHEAST ASIA

27th September 2023 Our Partners, Lukman Sheriff Alias and Michele J Chong, from Zul Rafique & Partners’ Energy & Utilities practice group have advised and acted for Linggi Base Sdn Bhd, the developer of the Kuala Linggi International Port,

DAYTHREE DIGITAL BERHAD’S SUCCESSFUL LISTING ON ACE MARKET: AN EXCITING JOURNEY AHEAD

27th September 2023 We are thrilled and proud to share Zul Rafique & Partners’ journey with Daythree Digital Berhad, following its successful listing on the ACE Market of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad on Wednesday, 26th July 2023.

RM52.85 MILLION DEAL SUCCESSFULLY INKED FOR PROPERTIES IN TEMASYA GLENMARIE

27th September 2023 Zul Rafique & Partners' Corporate Real Estate practice group Associate, Nuramira Syahida Binti Mazlan and Wan Anis Yasmine Binti Wan Ismail,

STAY OF RM25 MILLION ADJUDICATION DECISION ON MERDEKA 118 PROJECT SUCCESSFULLY OBTAINED

27th September 2023 T Kuhendran, Daniel Lau and J Agesh from Zul Rafique & Partners’ Construction Dispute Resolution Practice Group,

NEW PRACTICE AREA – SHARIAH

27th September 2023 Zul Rafique & Partners is now registered under the Syarie Legal Profession (Federal Territories) Act 2019.

Zul Rafique & Partners successfully advises Boustead Holdings Berhad for a proposed disposal of 102,910,000 shares

24th January 2022 ZUL RAFIQUE & partners’ Projects & Corporate Advisory together with the Capital Markets team, David Lee Lai Huat, Khairuzzaman Muhammad, Sheree Shezleen Salehaldin (since left), Lee Yee Fern, Evelyn Ng and Anthony Christopher Crimson advised Boustead Holdings Berhad (BHB), which entered into a share sale agreement with UON Holding (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd. (UON) for the proposed disposal of 66.41% stake held by BHB in the University of Nottingham in Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. (UNIM) to UON.

Zul Rafique & Partners successfully obtained a Final Award in favour of the Claimant in the sum of RM 27 million against the Contractor

24th January 2022 Kuhendran, Michael Koh and J. Agesh from ZUL RAFIQUE & Partners’ Construction Dispute Resolution Practice Group, acting for a company (“Claimant”) in an arbitration proceeding, have successfully obtained a Final Award in favour of the Claimant in the sum of RM27 million against the contractor (“Respondent”).

Case Update | Zul Rafique & Partners’ succeeds in setting aside a series of extensions of a Judicial Management Order.

24th January 2022 Idza Hajar Ahmad Idzam, Nan Muhammad Ridhwan Rosnan and Nur Fatin Hafiza Hasham (assisted by Muhammad Hibri Nazim, a Pupil-in-Chambers) from Zul Rafique & Partners’ Litigation Practice Group representing Seriemas Development Sdn Bhd (“Intervener”), have successfully set aside a series of extensions of a Judicial Management Order granted for Macro Resources Sdn Bhd (“Applicant”) in the High Court of Shah Alam.

Zul Rafique & Partners advices UOB Malaysia on landmark first tranche financing in the form of an MYR800 million receivables purchase arrangement to Ericsson Malaysia.

24th January 2022 Our team led by Loh Mei Mei and Chan Kwan Hoe from Zul Rafique & Partners’ Banking and Finance Department recently advised on the landmark first tranche financing provided by UOB Malaysia in the form of an MYR800 million receivables purchase arrangement (RPA) to Ericsson Malaysia which will enable the latter to deliver the initial phases of Digital Nasional Bhd (DNB)’s nationwide 5G network rollout. Zul Rafique & Partners has also been appointed to act for the lead arranger and syndicate banks for the additional MYR2.3 billion syndicated RPA.

Zul Rafique & partners’ Corporate Real Estate team advises Tropicana Senibong Sdn. Bhd. (a wholly-owned subsidiary of Tropicana Corporation Berhad) in relation to an unincorporated joint venture with Puncak Alam Housing Sdn. Bhd.

24th January 2022 Leong May Ling and Connie Ho Suk Mun from ZUL RAFIQUE & partners’ Corporate Real Estate practice group have advised and acted for Tropicana Senibong Sdn. Bhd. (“TSSB”) (a wholly-owned subsidiary of Tropicana Corporation Berhad (“TCB”)) in relation to a joint venture agreement with Puncak Alam Housing Sdn. Bhd. (“Proprietor”) for the development of residential homes on three (3) parcels of leasehold lands measuring approximately 362.742 acres in area, located in Mukim of Ijok, District of Kuala Selangor, State of Selangor Darul Ehsan (“Lands”) (“Joint Venture”).

Zul Rafique & Partners advises on Malaysia’s first Sustainability-Linked Sukuk Wakalah issuance

24th January 2022 Our Partner, Celine Rangithan together with associates, Isabella Ng Ling Ling and Christin Wong Tsui Yuan from Zul Rafique & Partners’ Banking & Finance practice group have advised and acted for HSBC Amanah Malaysia Berhad on the issuance of Malaysia’s first Sustainability-Linked Sukuk Wakalah by Yinson Holdings Berhad pursuant to its Islamic Medium Term Notes Programme of up to RM1 billion in nominal value.