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What the team is known for
Standout corporate group, with a deep bench of lawyers servicing a high-profile domestic and international clientele. Notable for its cross-border expertise, the team has impressive credentials in M&A, franchise, private equity and venture capital deals, particularly in relation to the insurance, TMT, education and banking sectors. Also continues to advise clients on equity issuances.
Strengths
The team is "very responsive and provides sharp, practical and commercially focused advice," say clients. Other interviewees add: "Their attention to detail is second to none. They are able to cater to all our requests, provide in-depth analyses" and "understand business needs."
The firm's international reach is a key strength, according to clients. Interviewees commend the team's "fast response time, practical advice, and up-to-date industry knowledge in relation to legal and technical developments across key jurisdictions. Their worldwide Baker McKenzie network enables the quick gathering of information, especially for cross-jurisdictional issues."
Work highlights
Acted for DRB-HICOM on the sale of its interest in Lotus Advance Technology to Zhejiang Geely and Etika Automotive, as well as simultaneously advising DRB-HICOM on Zhejiang Geely's investment in PROTON Holdings, in a deal worth MYR3.79 billion.
Advised S P Setia on the MYR3.65 billion acquisition of I&P Group from Permodalan Nasional, AmanahRaya Trustees and an individual seller.
Notable practitioners
Andre Gan continues to handle high-profile M&A and private equity deals in sectors such as fintech and education. Clients report: "His knowledge of the law, professionalism and attention to detail has impressed us. He is able to understand and analyse situations very quickly, and also has impressive customer-handling and people skills."
Brian Chia maintains an excellent reputation in the market, and is capable of handling an array of private equity, corporate restructuring and M&A deals. Interviewees highlight that he "has significant legal knowledge and experience, impressive commercial nous, and a very good understanding of the Malaysian commercial landscape."
Munir Abdul Aziz represents leading international and domestic companies on M&A, private equity transactions, joint ventures and ECM. Clients say: "Munir is fantastic to work with; I love when you have partners who are accessible enough to have a conversation with," adding: "He anticipates and understands clients' needs."
Stephanie Phua is praised by clients as "a very strong lawyer who is extremely responsive and goes above and beyond to meet client expectations." She is routinely instructed to handle private equity and M&A deals.
