Comparative Guide
Construction
Singapore
Lynette Chew, Kelvin Aw, Asya Jamaludin, Grace Lu & Andy Yeo
The team at CMS handles international mandates, with a focus on SIA arbitrations and high court proceedings. Praised by clients for his ‘uniquely strategic perspective’, co-head Kelvin Aw often advises on major rail projects, in addition to energy sector work. ’Top tier practitioner’ and co-lead Lynette Chew routinely acts as an arbitrator and mediator in construction disputes. Asya Jamaludin stands out for her specialism in energy disputes, and Grace Lu is well-placed to advise contractors, consultants, and project owners on arbitrations and disputes before the Singapore Court of Appeal, the ICC, and the SIAC.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Strong construction disputes team.’
'Very good and resourceful in construction disputes.'
‘Lynette Chew is a top-tier practitioner and well-recognised in the market.’
‘What sets this practice apart is its deep and nuanced understanding of Singapore’s construction laws, particularly the Security of Payment Act and contractual frameworks, which they apply with precision and creativity. Their responsiveness is also exceptional, especially in time-sensitive situations such as adjudications or disputes arising from unexpected site events.’
‘Among the individuals we’ve worked with, Kelvin Aw stands out distinctly as the anchor of the team. As the lead partner, his deep familiarity with the construction industry, both within Singapore and internationally, gives him a uniquely strategic perspective that goes well beyond the legal dimension.'
'Kelvin Aw brings a calm and composed presence to even the most complex and high-pressure situations, providing clear and confident guidance that inspires trust. What we value most is his ability to quickly distil intricate issues into practical, actionable legal solutions that are both precise and commercially sound.'
'Kelvin Aw's depth of knowledge is complemented by a wide and well-established network within the construction ecosystem, which has been invaluable in matters that require input from professionals outside the legal domain. This combination of technical expertise, industry insight, and strategic clarity truly sets him apart from his peers and has made him a trusted advisor to our business across a range of challenging scenarios.’
‘Kelvin Aw and his team places great emphasis on details and understanding for each case. They follow up closely at each juncture within stipulated time frame which is extremely critical in the epilogue of each situation and are conveyed to us for understanding. The confidence instilled to the client is critical going further into a case. The efforts stands out from other practitioners that we have worked with.’
Key clients
- Samsung C&T Corporation
- Cluny Development Pte Ltd
- Logistics Construction Pte Ltd
- The Management Corporation – Strata Title Plan No. 4572
- CTCI Singapore Pte. Ltd.
- Otis Elevator Company (S) Pte Ltd
- China Jingye Engineering Corporation Ltd
Work highlights
Representing Samsung C&T Corporation in a SIA arbitration concerning a landmark mixed-use development in Singapore, involving over SGD 58 million in claims and counterclaims with a specialist M&E sub-contractor, with bifurcated proceedings on liability and quantum.
Representing CTCI Singapore Pte. Ltd., the Singapore arm of a Taiwanese EPC contractor, in adjudication and court proceedings arising from a polymer manufacturing plant project, involving complex disputes with multiple subcontractors over contractual performance and project execution.
Advising China Jingye Engineering Corporation Ltd on contentious and non-contentious matters arising from the Bedok South Station and Changi East Depot rail infrastructure projects, including adjudications, High Court and Appellate Division proceedings concerning performance bond enforcement, sub-contractual liabilities, and COVID-19-related claims.
Practice head
Kelvin Aw; Lynette Chew
Other key lawyers
Asya Jamaludin; Grace Lu; Andy Yeo