The wide-ranging practice at Rajah & Tann Asia ‘stands out for its combination of technical excellence, commercial acumen, and its client-first approach’. The group’s significant disputes strength is spearheaded by team co-lead Leong Kah Wah and Toh Kian Sing SC, who have extensive experience in both shipping litigation and arbitration; collisions and casualties, alleged fraud cases, shipping insolvencies, and the environmental impact of maritime disputes all make up part of the regular workload. Also acting as co-lead is Nathanael Lin, who handles contentious work, and has been instructed with increasing regularity by banks, traders, oil terminals and underwriters to advise on sanctions. Other recommended practitioners include Kendall Tan and Jainil Bhandari.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The team can quickly master the critical elements of a complicated case and come up with an appropriate strategy.’
‘Leong Kah Wah can formulate a convincing concept to drive the argument of a case.’
‘They are very knowledgeable and have strength in depth. They can handle major shipping cases in Singapore or in London and have a good feel for how to manage such cases to get the best possible result.’
‘Nathanael Lin is a standout performer on the shipping and commodities side. He has real insight into the business and is focused on getting a result, whether that be via settlement discussions or a hearing.’
‘Very strong and deep practice, with strong presence in South East Asia. In my view, this is the most sophisticated firm in Singapore.’
'The speed of response is electric with a touch of empathy. They possess a solid acumen and still provide a realistic framework for execution. The most unique aspect is the firm advising the client not to go too far on a legal route, even though it would benefit the firm economically.'
Key clients
- Owners of the vessel “X-Press Pearl” and others
- Owners, Managers and liability insurers of the container ship “Dali”
- Bank Syndicate (The Export-Import Bank of China Shanghai Branch / China Construction Bank Corporation Shanghai Branch Bank of Communications Co, Ltd Shanghai Branch)
- COSCO Shipping Specialized Carriers Co Ltd
- CSZ Shipping Co Limited and CSSC Energy Pte Ltd
- China Aviation Oil (Singapore) Corporation Ltd
- Bank Of India, Singapore Branch
- A subsidiary of YTL Corporation, Malaysia
- Visa Commodities AG
- PACC Offshore Services Holdings Ltd. and Owners of “Posh Eagle”
Work highlights
Acting for the owners of the vessel X-Press Pearl in a claim following the vessel catching fire in Sri Lankan waters and eventually sinking.
Acting for owners, managers and liability insurers of the container ship Dali in a claim arising from a bridge contact incident in Baltimore.
Advising a bank syndicate comprising The Export-Import Bank of China Shanghai Branch, the China Construction Bank Corporation Shanghai Branch, and the Bank of Communications Co, Ltd Shanghai Branch on the default of a $1.5bn facility to China Minsheng Investment.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Leong Kah Wah; Nathanael Lin
Other key lawyers
Kendall Tan; Toh Kian Sing SC; Jainil Bhandari