Recognised for strengths in major oil and gas and LNG transactions across Southeast Asia, K&L Gates Straits Law LLC acts for national oil companies and key upstream players on complex M&A, project development, and infrastructure optimisation. The team is at the forefront of renewable energy and power markets, supporting offshore wind, solar PV, and cross-border transmission projects. The team is jointly steered by Marius Toime, a key port of call for grantors, sponsors, joint venture participants and financiers, on key projects in the energy, utilities, resources, and transport sectors. Alongside, is Henry Kim, a seasoned construction and infrastructure expert, who focuses on oil and gas infrastructure projects, offshore construction and disputes.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • 'K&L Gates Straits Law LLC demonstrates a uniquely collaborative and commercially attuned approach to complex cross-border energy matters. What stands out is their ability to combine deep sectoral knowledge with practical, solution-oriented advice that aligns with government and regulatory expectations in the Asia-Pacific region.'
  • 'The team’s responsiveness, and clarity in communication make them a valued partner. Their ability to operate seamlessly across jurisdictions, while leveraging local insights and international standards, distinguishes them from many other foreign firms. We also appreciate their transparent billing practices, diversity within the team, and the use of technology to streamline engagements.’
  • ‘Eric Yong has been a consistently impressive and dependable advisor. He brings a calm, strategic lens to high-stakes issues and offers advice that is both technically sound and tailored to the client’s commercial priorities. His responsiveness and ability to navigate sensitivities across multiple stakeholders stand out.' 

  • ‘Partners at K&L can speak multiple languages, which makes the client more comfortable. Given that the law firm office and client office resides in similar time zone, there is no difficulty with regard to communication.’

  • ‘K&L Gates strongly support us to respond many unexpected arguments related to LNG contract and provide various market practice, trend, and insight from various angles.’

  • ‘Henry Kim can always discuss closely whenever I face or prepare complicated situation and discussion related to legally binding contracts. He is very capable to advise on all matters relating to LNG.’

Key clients

  • PT Pertamina Hulu Energi
  • PT Pertamina
  • GAIL Global Singapore Pte. Ltd.
  • Bakrie Petroleum International Pte Ltd.
  • Murphy Oil Corporation
  • PT Kilang Pertamina Internasional
  • Foran Energy Group Co. Ltd

Work highlights

Advising PT Pertamina Hulu Energi on the landmark agreement with Malaysia’s Petronas to acquire Shell’s 35% participating interest in the Masela Block.
Advising PT Pertamina International Shipping, the shipping and logistics arm of Indonesia’s state-owned energy company Pertamina, on its strategic collaboration with Japan’s NYK Line, one of the world’s largest and most advanced shipping companies.
Advising PT Pertamina (Persero) on a detailed regulatory analysis and comparison of the oil and gas sectors in South Africa, Kenya, Mozambique and Democratic Republic of Congo.

Lawyers

Leading associates

Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.

Alexandra Jones

Practice head

Marius Toime; Henry Kim

Other key lawyers

Eric Yong; Alexandra Jones