Year in Review 2023
Foreword
2023 was especially meaningful as we celebrated a number of milestones for our member firms in China, Malaysia, Myanmar, and Laos. Our people across the region showed their drive for achievement and excellence, and unity of vision and purpose, as we embraced a year of expansion, innovation, and growth. RTA received numerous prestigious awards in 2023, including the “Asian Law Firm of the Year Grand Prize” at the Asia Legal Awards, the “Regional Law Firm of the Year” and “Most Innovative Law Firm of the Year” at The Legal 500 Southeast Asia Awards, and the “Southeast Asia Law Firm of the Year” at the ALB SE Asia Law Awards. Our increasing focus on sustainability was recognised and we were named among the top 15 ESG law firms in Asia and received the Net-zero Transition Award.
We kept up our commitment to our clients in many significant cases, and major deals and transactions in 2023, and were heartened by their constant and reassuring support which we deeply appreciate. We enhanced our services to our clients with the establishment of our Data & Digital Economy Regional Sector Group which combines our legal, technology, and cybersecurity skills to strengthen our support to clients in the modern digital world. We also formalised the establishment of our Aviation Practice, helmed by the leading aviation lawyer, Paul Ng, one of the significant additions to the ranks of our equity partnership in 2023. In another key boost to our team, we welcomed to RTA the veteran international arbitration practitioner Hew Kian Heong and his team, who will leverage on their firm presence and formidable reputation in China to even better serve our clients. Christopher & Lee Ong also welcomed the addition of the heavyweight team of Adrian Chee, Jennifer Lee, Justin Chua, Jacyn Phuah, and Adrian Yap, who will bring our capabilities in M&A, Equity and Debt Capital Markets, and Banking & Finance in Malaysia to a whole new level.
2023 has been a most exciting and fulfilling year for our network and we look forward to an equally, if not even more, gratifying year ahead. Thank you for your continued support and partnership.
MALAYSIA
The new teams are market leaders and recognised as leading lawyers and rising stars in Malaysia by clients, peers, and legal publications. They bring a wealth of experience and industry insights, aligning seamlessly with Christopher & Lee Ong‘s culture and client-focused
approach.
Adrian Chee, a familiar name across major corporate practice areas, will be part of the Corporate M&A Practice, as the Head of M&A. Alongside him, will be Jacyn, who carries an extensive experience in the corporate M&A practice.
Jennifer and Adrian Yap with their focused knowledge and experience as banking, finance, and debt capital market lawyers, covering both conventional and Islamic finance, will expand the Firm’s distinguished Banking and Finance Practice Group.
Justin Chua, who has in-depth experience in equity capital market transactions across a broad range of sectors, will bolster the Firm’s prominent Capital Markets Practice Group (co-headed by Yon See Ting and Annette Soh).
CHINA
Hew Kian Heong is a veteran China-based international arbitration lawyer and is a leading lawyer in international construction and infrastructure disputes in China. Hew brings with him more than 30 years of global experience. He has advised and represented major Chinese and international corporations on arbitrations, litigations and mediations in China, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Stockholm, Geneva, and London, and on projects stretching from Asia to South America.
Hew’s appointment is part of a larger plan by Rajah & Tann Asia to expand its presence in China. It also comes at a time when China and Singapore have taken their bilateral ties a notch higher with the recent signing of the China-Singapore Free Trade Agreement.
Hew joined R&T as a partner on 1 Jan 2024 and is based in the China office.
SINGAPORE
Paul Ng brings with him 30 years of practice experience and has advised on some of the largest and most complex aviation transactions in the region involving asset-backed financing and bond issuances, tax leasing, multi-billion-dollar aircraft acquisitions and initial public offerings (IPO). He regularly acts for major lenders, leasing companies, borrowers, lessees, airlines and arrangers.
Led by Paul, R&T’s Aviation Practice will be supported by a multi-disciplinary team of lawyers who have done work in the aviation sector including advising on corporate and regulatory matters that range from contract administration of an international airport to addressing multifarious ground operations concerns. The firm has also been involved in intellectual property and patent issues that arise in aviation matters. Its dispute resolution experience includes several arbitrations and court hearings, and advising victims involved in an aviation accident in China.
The Aviation practice comprises Francis Xavier SC, Angela Lim, Winston Kwek and Terence Quek, as well as other lawyers across the Rajah & Tann Asia network.
Together with Paul, the team will continue to support aviation clients in the region, by delivering world-class advice and top-notch legal counsel.
We are dedicated to harnessing the power of digital technology to evolve our practice and help our clients meet the demands and challenges of the data and digital economy.
Data & Digital Economy (DDE) Regional Sector Group
New regional group brings together law, technology and cybersecurity in collaborative, multi-disciplinary approach
New Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Legal-tech Solution
Rajah & Tann pioneers automated anti-money laundering platform for property developers to comply with new AML rules
LegalTech Events
Our Viewpoints on the Digital Economy
Sustainability Matters
Asia’s Top 15 ESG Law Firms 2023
Winner-
Net-zero Transition Award 2023
Recommended Firm
The Legal 500 Green Guide 2024
The Legal 500's Green Guide is the first worldwide guide to recognise the top law firms advising on issues around climate change, governance and sustainability.
Green GC Powerlist Cocktail Reception
Rajah & Tann is the official partner of the inaugural Green GC Powerlist: Southeast Asia 2023 by The Legal 500. The Green GC Powerlist highlighted the most prominent general counsel, heads of legal and sustainability officers in Southeast Asia that are driving sustainability and helping their organisations move towards a green transition.
Sustainable finance trends and challenges in ASEAN
In The Legal 500’s ASEAN Sustainable Conversations Video series, Lee Weilin, Head of Rajah & Tann Singapore’s Sustainability Practice, speaks on sustainable finance developments in the region, and shares her knowledge on sustainable financing trends and challenges in Southeast Asia, as well as the roles of transition and blended finance.
LearningBytes Lunchtime Seminar: Keeping Pulse on Sustainability Developments and What it Means to you
At our Rajah & Tann LearningBytes lunchtime series, Partners from our Singapore’s Sustainability Practice Lee Weilin, Cynthia Wu, Priscilla Soh and Alvin Tan shared about the current climate change issues and developments, overcoming challenges in sustainability reporting, sustainability developments from a cross-border trade perspective, and minimising and managing legal risks arising from ESG issues.
Data ownership is not something that can be left to chance, especially in the sustainability space
Rajesh Sreenivasan, Head of Rajah & Tann Singapore’s TMT practice shares on the interplay between technology and ESG in the region. Rajesh provides some key insights into the opportunities and legal challenges arising from data analytics, artificial intelligence and blockchain technology in the implementation of ESG projects in ASEAN.
Indonesia Renewable Energy Outlook Event
The Indonesia Renewable Energy Outlook event was held at the Assegaf Hamzah & Partners (“AHP”) office on 20 March. Esteemed industry leaders gathered to discuss Indonesia’s energy transition journey from a state-owned enterprise’s (“SOE”) business perspective. Partner Kanya Satwika, from the Banking, Finance & Projects Practice, and Kiersten Korczynski, a representative from the Association of International Energy Negotiators (AIEN) delivered insightful speeches. Amien Sunaryadi, President Commissioner & Independent Commissioner of PLN (“PLN”) and AHP’s Partner from the Fraud & Forensics Investigation Practice, discussed PLN’s plan for energy transition. Dannif Danusaputro, CEO of Pertamina New & Renewable Energy, emphasised the importance of innovation and collaboration in achieving a sustainable energy future.
Drivers of the green transition
“Transitioning to a more diverse and locally sourced energy supply, like renewable energy, would definitely help to improve security and reduce dependency for ASEAN countries.” Partner Loh Yong Hui, shares with The Legal 500 on the energy transition in Southeast Asia. Yong Hui shares his extensive knowledge on the projects driving this transition and some of the investment, development, and legal challenges they face.
Doing our part for a greener world
R&T Green Week: Lunch time talks on dispelling common misconceptions about recycling and sharing strategies to address material waste
Rajah & Tann Singapore invited a speaker from Green Nudge to share insights and dispel common misconceptions about recycling and shared practical tips on waste reduction. Chief Sustainability Officer Collin Liu also shared insights into our ongoing sustainability journey. Our Sustainability Coordinator Lee Yen-Ling engaged participants with her thought-provoking exploration of innovative strategies to address material waste.
R&T Green Week: Workshop on repurposing coffee grounds
Participants from Rajah & Tann Singapore discovered an innovative way to repurpose coffee grounds into all-natural body scrubs, reducing waste and giving our skin some much needed TLC! The hands-on workshop taught participants to create their own personalised coffee scrubs using simple ingredients commonly found in the kitchen.
R&T Green Week: Coastal Clean up
Singapore’s coastal clean-up initiative shed light on the concerning rise of flotsam along our shores. Together, we took action to make a difference! Rajah & Tann Singapore organised a coastal clean up at Yishun dam and to our surprise, we gathered 122.5kg of debris in just 2 hours.
Garden City Fund’s Plant-A-Tree Programme
Rajah & Tann Singapore’s Corporate Commercial Practice supported the Garden City Fund’s Plant-A-Tree Programme through donation and tree-planting. In partnership with ZEDRA Group Singapore, a total of 55 trees were planted along Pasir Ris Street, Singapore.
The Seeds of Sustainable Philanthropy
Rajah & Tann Singapore supported the ComChest 40th Anniversary Event: The Seeds of Sustainable Philanthropy. Every tree planted will contribute to the OneMillionTrees Movement, which aims to plant one million more trees across Singapore over 10 years till 2030. Read more here.
HCS-WSG Masterclass: ESG Skills for Accelerating Change & Improving Business Outcomes
Rajah & Tann Singapore is proud to be a Supporting Partner of the event. Graced by Minister Dr Amy Khor, this meaningful event delved into the power of ESG factors as catalysts for positive change and enhanced business outcomes. Read more here.
ESG Deals
Groundbreaking largest solar power plant in Southeast Asia
Assegaf Hamzah & Partners is involved in the groundbreaking Cirata Floating Solar Power Plant Project. This cutting-edge initiative is the largest in Southeast Asia and is set to revolutionise Indonesia’s energy landscape and pave the way for a more sustainable future.
First-of-its-kind commercial-hydrogen value chain that contributes towards Singapore’s climate action plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase energy consumption efficiency
Rajah & Tann Singapore is appointed by the Mitsubishi Group to advise their implementation of a commercial-scale hydrogen value chain to supply hydrogen to Singapore to be used mainly by local generation companies for power generation.
Connecting new wind farm to the Philippines’ Luzon Power Grid
Debt financing platform for sustainable infrastructure projects to reduce climate change
Indonesia’s first floating solar power plant and the largest of its kind in Southeast Asia
Assegaf Hamzah & Partners is involved in the groundbreaking 145MW Cirata Floating Solar Power Plant Project with Masdar (Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company) and PMSE (Pembangkitan Jawa Bali Masdar Solar Energi), Indonesia’s first floating solar power plant and the largest of its kind in Southeast Asia.
US$1.251 billion financing for the development of the largest hydropower plant in Sumatra
Assegaf Hamzah & Partners acted as the Indonesian legal counsel to the PT North Sumatera Hydro Energy (NSHE) in relation to the USD 1.251 billion financing for the development of 510 MW Batang Toru Hydroelectric Power Plant, which will be the largest hydropower plant in Sumatra, with project value around IDR 21 trillion.
The project won Project Finance Deal of the Year from ALB Indonesia Law Awards 2023.
PT Barito Renewables Energy IPO
Assegaf Hamzah & Partners is advising PT Barito Renewables Energy Tbk (BREN) on its successful Initial Public Offering, with a total of 4.015 billion shares listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange.
Connecting the Lamut-Asipulo Mini-Hydroelectric Power Plant to the Philippines’ Luzon Power Grid
C&G Law is representing the client in proceedings before the Energy Regulatory Commission for authority to develop and own or operate dedicated point-to-point limited transmission facilities to connect the Lamut-Asipulo Mini-Hydroelectric Power Plant Project to the Philippines’ Luzon Power Grid.
Developing a solar plant for Philippines’ Luzon Power Grid
C&G Law is representing the client in proceedings before the Energy Regulatory Commission for authority to develop and own or operate dedicated point-to-point limited transmission facilities to connect a 68MWac solar plant, to the Philippines’ Luzon Power Grid to promote the use of solar energy and help alleviate possible power shortages in the future.
Potential acquisition of a stake in a developer of a 10MW solar power plant in the Philippines to promote renewable energy as a primary source of energy
C&G Law is advising the solar energy arm of a leading China-headquartered intelligent energy solutions provider in its potential acquisition of a stake in a developer of a 10MW solar power plant in Butuan City in the Philippines. This project is under the Green Energy Auction Program which aims to promote renewable energy as a primary source of energy through competitive selection of renewable energy output.
Our Regional Deals
Andrea Tan
Daryl Sim
Davis Tan
Doreen Chia
Ho Zi Wei
John Rolan
Loh Yong Hui
Priscilla Soh
Shanti Geoffrey
Tao Tao
Celebrating Milestones
CHINA
Shanghai Representative Office's 20th Anniversary
MALAYSIA
Christopher & Lee Ong’s 10th Anniversary
Christopher & Lee Ong hosted clients and regional network partners at their 10th Anniversary Dinner held at the St Regis Hotel in Kuala Lumpur on 13 July to celebrate the past decade of excellence and dedication.
Decked out in hues of sapphire blue and dazzling silver, esteemed guests including regional partners and valued clients joined our Malaysia colleagues for a “Starry Night” of festivities.
Read more about the celebrations here.
MYANMAR
Rajah & Tann Myanmar's 10th Anniversary
Rajah & Tann Myanmar held a celebratory dinner was held on 28 March 2023 to celebrate 10 years of its founding. We are grateful to have Her Excellency Vanessa Chan, Singapore’s Ambassador to Myanmar to grace the occasion.
Read more about the celebrations here.
LAO PDR
Rajah & Tann Lao's 10th Anniversary
Over the past decade, Rajah & Tann Laos has evolved into a key player in strengthening our network’s presence in Indochina. Our lawyers and staff have consistently embraced and surmounted challenges, harnessed opportunities, and nurtured a culture of unwavering commitment to clients. We look forward to our Laos office’s achievements in the years ahead!
Diversity & Inclusion
We celebrate the unique perspectives and limitless potentials of our diverse team and it remains our privilege to nurture and spotlight the advancement of women in the legal profession.
Publications & Viewpoints
In 2023, we continued to publish regular legal updates to keep our clients and community abreast of the key legal and regulatory developments that may have an impact on them. Additionally, two comparative legal guides on greenwashing risks and real estate laws in the region and a thought leadership piece on the Metaverse were published. Visit eOasis, our publications portal, to learn more.
In addition, our lawyers contribute regularly to renowned publications and share their insights in projects that promote the convergence of business laws in Asia. Some of these authored publications are highlighted below.
Talent & Recruitment
AWARD
The Straits Times Singapore’s Best Employers 2023
Rajah & Tann Singapore is honoured to be the top ranked law firm and the only law firm recognised in The Straits Times Singapore’s Best Employers 2023 survey. Read more here.
PODCAST
Day In the Life at R&T
Our Dynamic Disputes Lawyer Dives into a Day in the Life at Rajah & Tann!
Alvin Tay, Associate of Rajah & Tann Singapore’s Commercial Litigation Practice, participated in the “Law on Tour” podcast channel to shed light on the captivating world of disputes law and the unique essence of life at our firm.
Learning & Development
We are committed to investing in the professional development of our legal and business professionals regionally.
In this regard, we have developed a Regional Lawyer Development Framework, which enhances the delivery of structured in-person, virtual and online courses by our dedicated Learning & Development arm – the Rajah & Tann Asia Academy. These wide-ranging courses and initiatives focus on legal & non-legal skills and competencies for our regional community.
These initiatives enable us to support our lawyers learn and grow to be future-ready and create opportunities to connect, bond and collaborate regardless of practice area and jurisdiction. Our online courses are particularly helpful as our legal and business professionals are empowered to take control of what they learn.
Virtual Training on Legal Topics, Essential Skills and Competencies
Practice Group Heads Strategy & Action Camp in Kuala Lumpur
Our regional community of leaders gathered in Kuala Lumpur to share best practices in leadership, management strategies and explore future synergies efforts.
Leadership Transition Programme in Jakarta
RTA Academy Learning Management System
Rajah & Tann Asia Gives Back
Corporate Social Responsibility has always been a big part of our culture. We are constantly reaching out to communities around the region in our on-going commitment to bring about positive changes in the societies we live in and beyond.
Network of Winning Firms
We pride our growth and success on the support we receive from our clients as we continue to innovate and drive service excellence across the network.
Asian Law Firm of the Year
Asia Legal Awards 2023
Rajah & Tann Singapore has been named the Asian Law Firm of the Year Grand Prize winner at the Asia Legal Awards 2023. The firm has emerged as the clear winner among a highly competitive field of international finalists.
We would like to extend our gratitude to the judging panel and Law.com International Asia Pacific’s editorial staff for considering our growth, strategy and vision, investment in people and practices, deal representation and broad successes across the region.
We are also proud to be noted for our growing expertise around digital assets and crypto-related deals and matters in recent months, as well as our non-linear attitude and approach to our broader growth strategy and people. This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team and we are grateful for this recognition.
Thank you to everyone who has supported us along the way!
Top 20 Most Innovative Law Firms in Asia Pacific
Financial Times’ list of most innovative law firms in Asia Pacific 2023
Rajah & Tann Singapore is ranked as the Most Innovative Southeast Asia law firm in the 2023 Financial Times (FT) Innovative Lawyers Asia-Pacific report. In 16th place, the firm is also the only Singapore and Southeast Asia law firm to be ranked in FT’s league of the top 20 most innovative law firms in the Asia-Pacific region, marking our 10th consecutive year on the list.
We also clinched the Most Innovative Lawyers in Cybersecurity & Data Governance accolade at this year’s FT Innovative Lawyers Asia-Pacific awards.
The firm was shortlisted in several categories including Most Innovative Lawyers in Digital Assets, Innovation in Training & Development and Innovative Individual Leaders where Managing Partner Patrick Ang was featured among the law firm leaders who demonstrated a blend of empathy, dynamism and vision. FT noted that since his appointment in 2019, Patrick has focused on promoting young lawyers into leadership roles, which he said keeps the firm vibrant and dynamic.
On the firm’s outstanding achievements in this year’s FT rankings, Patrick said: "The recognition from FT, one of the world’s top business publications, is testament to R&T’s commitment to innovation and excellence in the practice of law.
“Rajah & Tann is one of the first, if not the first law firm in Southeast Asia, to embrace tech innovation because we have long recognised that legal tech would transform the practice of law. Our tech savvy lawyers work closely with allied professionals skilled in data and cybersecurity, and are well placed to advise clients in the fast-evolving digital economy across the region.”
FT's Innovative Lawyers Asia 2023 rankings report uses a scoring methodology devised by FT and its research partner RSGI to evaluate lawyers, law firms, and in-house legal teams on their ability to deliver exceptional value to society using technological advancements and innovative approaches.
Click here to read about our winning and shortlisted entries.
SE Asia Law Firm of the Year
Singapore Law Firm of the Year
Debt Market Deal of the Year (Premium)
ALB SE Asia Law Awards 2023
- SE Asia Law Firm of the Year
- Singapore Law Firm of the Year
- Debt Market Deal of the Year (Premium Asian Law Firm of the Year)
- Data Privacy and Protection Lawyer of the Year (Steve Tan)
- Woman Lawyer of the Year (Sandy Foo)
Rajah & Tann is thrilled to have achieved top honours at the Asian Legal Business SE Asia Law Awards 2023.
Rajah & Tann Singapore took home the biggest award of the evening, SE Asia Law Firm of the Year, for the second year running. The firm also won Singapore Law Firm of the Year. This is a testament to the firm’s eminence in the legal field both in Singapore and throughout the region. Our Indonesian network firm, Assegaf Hamzah & Partners, also clinched the Debt Market Deal of the Year (Premium) for its stellar work relating to the Republic of Indonesia’s triple tranche sukuk offering.
Managing Partner Patrick Ang remarked, "We are very honoured to be recognised as being the leading law firm not just in Singapore but in the region. Receiving the coveted Southeast Asia Law Firm of the Year award is a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence and keeping pace with the technological advancements shaping the economy and our profession. I am immensely proud of our team's achievements across various practice areas, showcasing our dedication to delivering exceptional value and driving innovation in the legal industry. I would also like to thank my colleagues in Singapore and across our RTA network firms for their invaluable contributions to our network’s success."
Find out more about the awards here.
Indonesia Law Firm of the Year
Competition and Antitrust Law Firm of the Year
Litigation Law Firm of the Year
Project Finance Deal of the Year
IPO Deal of the Year
Debt Market Deal of the Year
ALB Indonesia Law Awards 2023
Out of the 24 categories for which Assegaf Hamah & Partners was nominated, the firm won the prestigious Indonesia Law Firm of the Year award, as well as awards in the following categories:
- Competition and Antitrust Law Firm of the Year
- Litigation Law Firm of the Year
- Project Finance Deal of the Year: Project Financing of 510 MW Batang Toru Hydropower
- IPO Deal of the Year: IPO of PT Amman Mineral Internasional Tbk
- Debt Market Deal of the Year: The Government of Indonesia’s Switch and Cash Tender Offer Exercise and Issuance of SEC Shelf Registered Bonds
- Dispute Resolution Lawyer of the Year (Asep Ridwan)
The ALB Indonesia Law Awards recognise the outstanding work of private practitioners and in-house teams in Indonesia and the surrounding region. We are grateful for the nominations and hope that we can continue to provide the best service to our clients.
We would also like to extend our gratitude to our clients, who have always placed their trust in us. We wouldn't have been able to come this far without your support.
View the full results here.
Energy and Resources Law Firm of the Year
ALB Philippine Law Awards 2023
Gatmaytan Yap Patacsil Gutierrez & Protacio (C&G Law) has been named “Energy and Resources Law Firm of the Year” for the 2nd year running at the Asian Legal Business Philippine Law Awards 2023.
Held annually, the awards spotlight the top law firms and practitioners in the Philippines who have done outstanding work and provided exceptional service in the past year.
This award is a testament to C&G Law’s vast experience and distinctive expertise in the energy and resources sector, having advised and acted for industry giants on major energy and sustainability projects both in the Philippines and abroad.
Indonesia Domestic Law Firm of the Year
Singapore Dispute Resolution Law Firm of the Year
Pro Bono: Outstanding Firm
Chambers and Partners Asia Pacific and Greater China Region Awards 2023
Rajah & Tann Asia have won three awards at the Chambers and Partners Asia Pacific and Greater China Region Awards 2023. The prestigious event recognises a law firm’s pre-eminence in key jurisdictions in the region.
Assegaf Hamzah & Partners took home the “Indonesia Domestic Law Firm of the Year” award while Rajah & Tann Singapore was awarded “Singapore Dispute Resolution Law Firm of the Year” and “Pro Bono: Outstanding Firm”.
The “Indonesia Domestic Law Firm of the Year” award reflects the firm’s achievements over the past 12 months including outstanding work, impressive strategic growth and excellence in client service within the country and is a testament to the firm's dedication and commitment to its clients and their needs.
The “Singapore Dispute Resolution Law Firm of the Year” award is presented to firms that have demonstrated excellence in resolving disputes for their clients and acknowledges the firm’s exceptional skills and experience in handling complex legal disputes and providing successful outcomes for its clients.
The Pro-Bono Outstanding Award celebrates the firm’s dedication in reaching out to their local or global community through pro bono work.
"We are honoured to be recognised for our efforts, which reflect the hard work and dedication of our member firms across the region. We are especially proud to be recognised for our pro-bono efforts, as it speaks to our values and commitment to giving back to our community.
We thank Chambers for this prestigious recognition and look forward to continuing to provide exceptional legal services to our clients and making a positive impact in our communities." Eng Beng Lee SC, Chair of Rajah & Tann Asia.
Regional Law Firm of the Year
Most Innovative Law Firm of the Year
Litigation Law Firm of the Year
Cambodia Law Firm of the Year
Indonesia Law Firm of the Year
The Legal 500 Southeast Asia Awards 2023
Rajah & Tann Asia emerge as the biggest winner with seven awards at The Legal 500 (Legalease) Southeast Asia Awards 2023!
Rajah & Tann Singapore has been named Regional Law Firm of the Year, Most Innovative Law Firm of the Year and Litigation Firm of the Year.
R&T Sok & Heng won Cambodia Law Firm of the Year, while Assegaf Hamzah & Partners won Indonesia Law Firm of the Year.
Partner Sandy Foo, Head of Mergers & Acquisitions at Rajah & Tann Singapore won the Corporate & M&A Lawyer of the Year award while Partner Shemane Chan has been named Projects & Energy Lawyer of the Year.
Eng Beng Lee SC, Chairman of RTA, said: "We are humbled by the record seven regional, country and individual awards that Rajah & Tann has received this year from The Legal 500. Our clients have made this possible for us and we are grateful for their support through the years. Both Sandy and Shemane also deserve special mention for being great role models for our young lawyers.”
Read more about the awards here.
Indonesia Law Firm of the Year
Net-zero Transition Award
Debt and Equity-linked Deal of the Year
Restructuring Deal of the Year
IFLR Asia Awards 2023
Rajah & Tann Asia have clinched several awards at the IFLR1000 Asia-Pacific Awards 2023.
Assegaf Hamzah & Partners won the Indonesia Law Firm of the Year, Debt and Equity-linked Deal of the Year, and Restructuring Deal of the Year awards.
Rajah & Tann Singapore received the Net-zero Transition Award for taking positive steps towards net-zero transition.
We are also pleased to have been shortlisted for the following awards:
Cambodia Law Firm of the Year – R&T Sok & Heng Law Office
Singapore Law Firm of the Year – Rajah & Tann Singapore
Pro Bono specialised award: Rajah & Tann Singapore
Loan deal of the year: Assegaf Hamzah & Partners
Securitisation and structured finance deal of the year: Assegaf Hamzah & Partners
Women Dealmakers Hall of Fame: Sandy Foo – Rajah & Tann Singapore.
Read more here.
Rajah & Tann Asia wins six asialaw awards including Firm of the Year in Cambodia, Indonesia and Singapore
Asialaw Awards 2023
Rajah & Tann Asia shines at the asialaw awards 2023, bagging accolades that speak volumes about our commitment to legal excellence.
- Cambodia Firm of the Year
- Indonesia Firm of the Year
- Singapore Firm of the Year
- Dispute Resolution Firm of the Year
- 2x Impact Deal and Case awards
One of the winning impact deals involved Rajah & Tann Singapore representing Netease Interactive in a groundbreaking copyright infringement dispute. This is a landmark case in the world of video game copyrights. The deal was represented by Partners Lau Kok Keng and Tng Sheng Rong.
Christopher & Lee Ong was involved in the other winning impact deal involving the RM17.75 billion historic merger of Digi and Celcom Axiata Berhad, forming Malaysia's largest mobile operator and reshaping Malaysia’s telecom landscape. The deal was led by Managing Partner Kuok Yew Chen and Partners Yon See Ting, Tracy Wong, Tan Yi Li, Daphne Lam and Looi Zhi Min.
We are thrilled to share this success and extend our gratitude to our valued clients, friends and colleagues whose trust and support have been unwavering over the years.
Rajah & Tann Asia bags 7 Benchmark Litigation awards
Benchmark Litigation Asia Pacific Awards 2023
Rajah & Tann Asia have amassed seven significant recognitions at the Benchmark Litigation Asia Pacific Awards 2023.
Rajah & Tann Singapore bagged the “Singapore Firm of the Year” award for the 4th year running while Assegaf Hamzah & Partners has been named “Indonesia Firm of the Year” for 3 consecutive years, solidifying our expertise as a leader in the region's dispute resolution landscape.
Our Singapore firm also won “Commercial & Transactions Firm of the Year” and “Impact Case” award for our role in the PDV Marina windup.
Our Malaysia firm, Christopher & Lee Ong, a member firm of Rajah & Tann Asia, secured the “Impact Case” award for our representation in the Persatuan Insurans Am Malaysia v MyCC case.
Partner Murali Pillai, SC has been named “Singapore Lawyer of the Year” while Partner Eri Hertiawan has been named “Indonesia Lawyer of the Year”.
RTA Chairman Eng Beng Lee, SC stated, "We are truly honoured to receive these seven Benchmark Litigation awards, which serve as a recognition of the outstanding litigation and dispute resolution capabilities within the RTA network. We remain dedicated to upholding high standards of legal excellence and providing top-tier solutions in all our regional markets."
Rajah & Tann Asia shines in Chambers Global 2023, garnering the highest number of recognitions in Southeast Asia
Chambers Global 2023
Rajah & Tann Asia has outshone itself in the 2023 edition of Chambers and Partners Global ranking tables. Growing from strength to strength, 64 lawyers have been recognised as leading or notable practitioners and a total of 33 departments have been ranked. With accolades reflected across 11 locations, we have once again amassed the greatest number of rankings for an Asian legal network.
Assegaf Hamzah & Partners, Christopher & Lee Ong and Rajah & Tann Myanmar have held on to its Bands 1 and 2 rankings in all practice areas while the Singapore office has elevated its rankings for Banking & Finance: Domestic to Band 1.
Gatmaytan Yap Patacsil Gutierrez & Protacio (C&G Law) and Rajah & Tann LCT Lawyers have maintained a consistent performance across the board for all categories while our Thailand office is newly ranked for its work in M&A.
According to the publication, “The team at Rajah & Tann has always been able to find solutions even when dealing with counterparties across multiple jurisdictions.” Our lawyers also “demonstrate professionalism in all situations, showing the patience and willingness to achieve the optimum outcome for the client.
We thank our clients for their valued support!
Top Tier in The Legal 500 Asia Pacific
The Legal 500 Asia Pacific 2023
Rajah & Tann Asia is pleased to have secured top rankings and reached new heights in the 2023 edition of The Legal 500 Asia Pacific publication.
Rajah & Tann Singapore has been ranked in Tiers 1 and 2 in all 21 domestic categories with a total of 16 Tier 1 appearances. The firm also sits at Tier 2 in its newly ranked area of Start-up and Venture Capital.
Assegaf Hamzah & Partners has displayed their formidable strength as a top firm, appearing in all 14 domestic categories, of which 12 areas are ranked Tier 1 and the remaining two in Tier 2.
Christopher & Lee Ong shares the network’s stellar achievements with over half of its ranked practices in Tier 1 and five new practitioners joining fellow colleagues in the rankings as leading or next generation lawyers. The firm is also newly ranked for Capital Markets.
Gatmaytan Yap Patacsil Gutierrez & Protacio (C&G Law) sees its Dispute Resolution and Labour and Employment practices both moving up to Tier 1. The fast-growing firm has also seized a new spot in Immigration.
Rajah & Tann LCT Lawyers continues to be ranked in Tier 1 in Vietnam for Data Protection, Real Estate and Construction, Shipping and Aviation, Tax and TMT.
R&T Sok & Heng, Rajah & Tann (Laos), Rajah & Tann Myanmar and R&T Asia (Thailand) held on to leading firm standings in their respective locations.
Clients have commended Rajah & Tann Asia for its “unyielding commitment to service which sets them apart”, where the network “provides excellence at every level” and “[brings] together individual stars to form a multifaceted team who work brilliantly together for the good of the case”.
View the full rankings here.
Rajah & Tann Asia (RTA) continues to maintain a strong performance in the latest IFLR1000 2023 rankings
IFLR1000 2023
Rajah & Tann Asia continue to maintain a strong performance in the IFLR1000 rankings, securing rankings in 39 practice areas with 70 recognised lawyers regionally, out of which 23 have achieved new rankings or improved positions.
Rajah & Tann Singapore’s M&A practice has also been elevated to Tier 1.
In the latest rankings, our dedication to excellence has been recognised across the following practice areas:
- Banking and Finance
- Capital Markets (Debt and Equity)
- Financial and Corporate
- Investment Funds
- Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A)
- Project Development
- Project Finance
- Restructuring and Insolvency
View the full rankings here.
Rajah & Tann Asia continues to be highly ranked in Benchmark Litigation Asia Pacific 2023 rankings
Benchmark Litigation Asia-Pacific 2023
Rajah & Tann Asia has maintained its outstanding performance in the 2023 Benchmark Litigation Asia Pacific rankings with five categories improving to the next tier.
These outstanding results demonstrate the dominance and strength of our regional network and our commitment to service excellence.
The annual Benchmark Litigation rankings guide provides current and relevant insights into the region’s top litigators and dispute resolution firms.
View the full rankings here.
Rajah & Tann Asia remains at the forefront in Southeast Asia, reaffirmed by its dominant position in asialaw Leading Lawyers’ 2024 rankings
Asialaw Profiles 2023
In the latest asialaw Leading Lawyers 2024 rankings, Rajah & Tann Asia achieved an impressive feat of 103 practice rankings with a remarkable 73 of our lawyers earning the title of “Leading Lawyer”. Nine partners across the network have been newly recognised as leading lawyers in their fields.
Our commitment to pro-active client collaboration, providing insights into complex issues, and delivering effective solution-driven strategies remain unwavering. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to our valued clients for your constant support!
View the full rankings here.
Best Asian Law Firm for Cross-Border Restructuring & Insolvency
Rajah & Tann Retains Position as the Best Asian Law Firm for Global Restructuring & Insolvency
Rajah & Tann has once again emerged as the top Asian firm for cross-border restructuring and insolvency work according to the 2022 edition of the widely followed Global Restructuring Review’s 30 ("GRR 30").
Ranked 15 among the world’s best firms in this field, this is the 5th consecutive time the firm has been featured in the GRR’s prestigious top 30 list of standout firms. The firm has also retained its position as the top Asian firm to be recognised among the world’s best 30 law firms working on restructuring and insolvency matters.
GRR highlighted that “Rajah & Tann has never not got in the GRR 30 since we started… in 2018.”
Patrick Ang, Managing Partner of Rajah & Tann Singapore, shared: “We are deeply honoured to retain our position as the top Asian law firm for cross-border restructuring and insolvency matters. The team has been involved in nearly all the major insolvencies and restructurings with a connection to Singapore and we continue to be very active in the region. This recognition is a testament of our dedication to excellence, and we are grateful to our clients for their continued trust and support.”
GRR is a leading UK-based information service website providing cross-border restructuring and insolvency news and research. The GRR 30 table is a ranking of the standout firms selected based on several objective criteria including the size of its restructuring and insolvency team, number of countries served, hours billed, types of clients, the value and volume of cases worked on, and the level of complexity and innovation that was required in individual cases.
“Elite” Category in Global Competition Review (GCR) 100
Member firms of Rajah & Tann Asia continue to be highly ranked by Global Competition Review (GCR) 100 in its 2023 edition, displaying its strength as a legal powerhouse in competition & antitrust work.
Maintaining its reputation as the largest competition team in Indonesia, Assegaf Hamzah & Partners has been named as an “Elite” firm for the tenth year. With a dedicated team of ten lawyers in the practice, Rajah & Tann Singapore has also been listed in the “Elite” category for the eighth year. This year, our Malaysia office Christopher & Lee Ong advanced to the next tier as a “Highly Recommended” firm, showing an impressive improvement since its recognition in 2020.
Kala Anandarajah, Head of the Competition & Antitrust and Trade Practice at Rajah & Tann Singapore, said: “Being recognised among the world’s top 100 competition practices by GCR 100 for several of our offices is testament to the quality of people and the dedication they put into work. They enable. The Team thrives on working in partnership with clients and referring law firms to obtain the best
solutions. We get you and get you what you want. We are here. Always. Ready.”
The GCR 100 is a comprehensive listing of the world’s top competition practices, providing a quantitative and qualitative analysis of the law firms and economic consultancies doing the most important antitrust work around the world.
World's Top 100 International Arbitration Practices
Since 2008, Rajah & Tann Asia has been consistently ranked in the GAR 100 rankings by the Global Arbitration Review (GAR). The GAR 100 is an annual survey of the leading international arbitration practices around the world.
Top 100 Firms Worldwide to Handle Sophisticated Cross-border Government-led and Internal Investigations
For eight years running, Rajah & Tann has been recognised among the top 100 firms from around the world to handle sophisticated cross-border government-led and internal investigations by the Global Investigations Review (GIR).
The GIR 100 is an annual guide to the world’s leading practices.
World’s Best Data Law Firms in the Global Data Review 100
Rajah & Tann is recognised amongst the world’s best data law firms in the 2023 edition of the Global Data Review 100, published by Law Business Research.
The GDR 100 examines firms’ privacy and data protection capabilities, and work on all kinds of data law, including data localisation, B2B disputes on data acquisition and breach responsibility, antitrust, use of IP and confidentiality laws to protect proprietary data, and more.
Our Technology, Media & Telecommunications practice leads the market with an A team of elite practitioners holding unparalleled expertise in data. The team is renowned for its introduction of many firsts in the realm of data-related services, supporting clients with legal and data protection prowess.
View the full guide here.
Recognised for Shipping at China Business Law Awards 2023
Rajah & Tann Singapore is the only Southeast Asian firm to be recognised for Shipping (International Firms) at the China Business Law Awards 2023 conducted by the China Business Law Journal.
This award serves as a recognition of our capabilities to support multi-jurisdictional work and our dedication to working closely with network firms across the Rajah & Tann Asia network. This has enabled us to provide top-notch legal services across borders and navigate complex regional regulations with finesses.
The China Business Law Awards recognise outstanding firms in various practices and sectors through months of research and evaluation of law firm submissions as well as gathering of industry feedback.
View the full awards list here.
Foreign Law Firm of the Year at the India Legal Award
Rajah & Tann have been awarded Foreign Law Firm of the Year at the India Legal Awards 2023.
The India Legal Awards 2023, organised by Biz Integration and supported by the Society Of Indian Law Firms (SILF), showcases the achievements of India’s business law community.
We look forward to continuing our journey of delivering exceptional legal services across South Asia.
All Southeast Asian Jurisdictions Ranked in ALB M&A Rankings 2023
Rajah & Tann Asia is pleased to share that our offices have been featured once again in all Southeast Asian jurisdictions ranked in the ALB M&A Rankings 2023 report by Asian Legal Business.
This recognition is testament to our offices’ comprehensive expertise in all aspects of this area. Congratulations to our regional M&A teams on your outstanding performance and recognition!
We would like to extend our sincerest gratitude to our clients and peers for their unwavering support, which has enabled us to maintain our reputation as Asia’s leading firms for M&A.
ALB’s research draws information from firm submissions, Thomson Reuters M&A data, interviews, editorial resources and market suggestions to identify and rank the top firms for M&A work in Asia.
Band 1 ranking in Family Offices & Funds Structuring
Rajah & Tann Singapore has achieved its Band 1 ranking in Family Offices & Funds Structuring in the latest High Net Worth guide by Chambers and Partners and maintained its Band 2 ranking for Private Wealth Law.
Vikna Rajah, Head of Tax and Trust & Private Client Practices, continues his strong standing as a Band 1 lawyer for Private Wealth Law.
Chambers High Net Worth 2023 ranks the best legal talent for international private wealth by identifying law firms and lawyers globally.
Tier 1 for Customs
Rajah & Tann Asia’s member firms have upheld their standings in the 2024 ITR World Tax Rankings with our Thai office landing a Tier 1 spot in the Customs category.
Our performance is backed by ITR’s review of entries from than 140 different jurisdictions, garnering feedback from over 25,000 clients and 4,800 legal practitioners, to be placed in their definitive and comprehensive guide on the world’s leading tax and transfer pricing firms and leaders.
"Law Firm of the Year" and winner in 15 categories at ABLJ Indonesia Law Firm Awards 2023
Assegaf Hamzah & Partners has won the "Law Firm of the Year" award at the Asia Business Law Journal Indonesia Law Firm Awards 2023. This recognition comes against the backdrop of Indonesia's remarkable economic resilience in the face of global challenges. Each year, ABLJ highlights the remarkable contributions of a diverse range of law firms, and in this edition, AHP not only stood out but also won in 15 other well-deserving categories, including "Best Overall Law Firms".
View the full awards list here.
"Law Firm of the Year" and "Best Overall Law Firm", alongside being recognised in 15 practice areas in the Asia Business Law Journal Malaysia Law Firm Awards 2023
Christopher & Lee Ong has been named Law Firm of the Year and Best Overall Law Firm, alongside being recognised in 15 practice areas in the Asia Business Law Journal Malaysia Law Firm Awards 2023.
The awards feature leading firms selected based on votes, references, and qualitative information received from in-house counsel and other legal professionals in Malaysia and around the world.
View the full awards list here.
One of the top Competition & Antitrust Firms of the Year at ABLJ Philippines Law Firm Awards 2022
Gatmaytan Yap Patacsil Gutierrez & Protacio (C&G Law) has been named as one of the top Competition & Antitrust Firms of the Year at the Asia Business Law Journal Philippines Law Firm Awards 2022. The award recognises C&G Law as an outstanding firm in advising local and foreign clients on competition law concerns and related regulatory matters.
View the full awards list here.
Winner in Aviation, Data Compliance & Cybersecurity, Fintech, Labour & Employment, and Litigation ABLJ Vietnam Law Firm Awards 2023
Rajah & Tann LCT Lawyers has won in multiple categories at the Vietnam Law Firm Awards, presented by Asia Business Law Journal.
The winning categories include:
- Aviation
- Data Compliance & Cybersecurity
- Fintech
- Labour & Employment
- Litigation
View the full awards list here.
Winner in Labour & Employment, Litigation and IP Litigation in ABLJ Thailand Law Firm Awards 2023
R&T Asia (Thailand) has been recognised among top four law firms in the Thailand Law Firm Awards 2023 by Asia Business Law Journal, for the categories of Labour & Employment, Litigation and IP Litigation.
The awards identify law firms that have proven to be the best of the best, even amid the dynamic landscape of economic growth and political change. These firm have been selected based on votes, references and qualitative information received from in-house counsel and other legal professionals in Thailand and the world.
View the full awards list here.
New Partners & International Counsel 2023/34
It is our pleasure to announce our new partners and international counsel, whose distinguished leadership abilities and dedication to excellence will fuel our future growth and continued success as a network.
