Profile
Position
Partner, Christopher & Lee Ong, Malaysia
- Shipping & International Trade
Career
Jainil Bhandari is qualified to practice law in Singapore and Malaysia. He is also a partner of Rajah & Tann’s Malaysian associate office Christopher & Lee Ong, and a director of Rajah & Tann NK Legal Myanmar Company Ltd. He has also been named as a Senior Accredited Specialist for Maritime and Shipping Law by the Singapore Academy of Law’s Specialist Accreditation Scheme.
Jainil has been consistently ranked as a leading lawyer in shipping law by The Asia Legal Pacific 500, Chambers Asia Pacific and Global, Asialaw Profiles and Who’s Who Legal: Singapore.
Jainil has been in active litigation and arbitration practice since 1989, appearing in both the Singapore and Malaysian courts and in ad hoc as well as institutional commercial arbitrations administered under SIAC, SCMA, KLRCA, LMAA and UNCITRAL Rules. He is also experienced in arbitrations administered by various trade bodies such as GAFTA, FOSFA and PORAM. He specializes in shipping and trading disputes relating among other matters to bills of lading, charter parties and transportation contracts, offshore construction projects, marine insurance, shipping casualties and international commodity contracts.
Jainil was an adjunct tutor for the basic advocacy course at the National University of Singapore from 1990 to 1997. In addition, he tutors Admiralty law for the Preparatory Course Leading to Part B of the Singapore Bar Examinations (formerly known as the Postgraduate Practical Law Course).
Memberships
- Member, Singapore Academy of Law
- Member, Law Society of Singapore
- Member, Bar Council of Malaysia
- Fellow, Chartered Institute of Arbitrators
- Teaching fellow, Singapore Institute of Legal Education
- Member, Maritime Law Association of Singapore
- Panel of Arbitrators in the Kuala Lumpur Regional Centre for Arbitration
Education
- LLB (Hons), National University of Singapore
- Advocate & Solicitor, Singapore
- Advocate & Solicitor, Malaysia
- Fellow, Chartered Institute of Arbitrators
- Acc. Spec. (Maritime and Shipping), Singapore Academy of Law
Content supplied by Christopher & Lee Ong
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘The lawyers at Christopher & Lee Ong are distinguished by their exceptional knowledge, strategic thinking, and client-oriented approach.'
- 'Clive Navin Selvapandian is a standout figure in the shipping practice, recognised for his deep expertise in maritime law and his ability to deliver innovative solutions to complex legal issues. Clients value his sharp analytical skills and practical advice that aligns with their business objectives.’
- ‘The practice stands out for its delivery of commercially realistic legal advice. They combine deep legal expertise with an understanding of business needs, offering practical, strategic solutions. They are responsive and able to simplify complex issues, making them more than just legal advisors, but trusted business partners.’
- ‘Christopher & Lee Ong’s shipping practice is one of Malaysia’s leading legal teams in the maritime sector. The team is renowned for its expertise in handling contentious and non-contentious shipping matters, including vessel financing, charter party disputes, and regulatory compliance. Their ability to navigate Malaysia’s complex maritime laws, combined with their deep understanding of international shipping regulations, makes them a trusted partner.’
- ‘Clive Navin Selvapandian stands out for his responsiveness and genuine willingness to assist. Clive is approachable, solutions-oriented, and consistently goes the extra mile, making him a reliable partner who is truly invested in supporting his clients’ needs.’
- ‘This practice stands out for its practical, hands-on legal advice that clients can immediately apply. The team is commercially savvy and responsive.’
Key clients
- Aesen Pte Ltd
- Marine & General Berhad
- Jasa Merin (M) Sdn Bhd
- Helios Petroleum Sdn Bhd