Interview with…

Soo Chuan Cheah, Exco Partner

Soo Chuan Cheah, Exco Partner

Exco Partner Soo Chuan Cheah explains how the firm is adapting to clients’ changing needs

What do you see as the main points that differentiate Tay & Partners from your competitors?

Tay & Partners offers a wide range of legal services, including corporate and commercial law, intellectual property, and dispute resolution. Our deep knowledge in these areas allows us to provide tailored solutions to complex legal issues faced by our clients. This together with our client-centric approach, ensuring personalized attention and customized legal strategies, are what set us apart from our competitors.

Which practices do you see growing in the next 12 months? What are the drivers behind that?

Labour and employment, intellectual property, dispute resolution, arbitration, mergers and acquisitions, just to name a few. Malaysia’s robust economic performance increased foreign investment and ongoing regulatory changes have driven demand and created more opportunities for legal services in the next 12 months.

What's the main change you've made in the firm that will benefit clients?

We have expanded our capacity in terms of headcount, increased the level of capability among our lawyers, and diversified into new and emerging practice areas, such as data privacy, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and ESG compliance.

Is technology changing the way you interact with your clients, and the services you can provide them?

More and more clients have become conscious of the need for data security and protection in the way they interact and share sensitive information with law firms. In this regard, we are enhancing our IT infrastructure and security to better serve our clients. We will also further integrate advanced legal technologies, such as artificial intelligence, to streamline processes and offer more efficient services.

Can you give us a practical example of how you have helped a client to add value to their business?

We have helped clients to identify potential legal risks and recommend preventive measures to avoid costly litigation and regulatory penalties. This proactive risk management approach added significant value by safeguarding the clients’ business interest.

Are clients looking for stability and strategic direction from their law firms - where do you see the firm in three years’ time?

Yes, clients are increasingly looking for stability and strategic direction from their law firms. In three years, Tay & Partners is likely to continue its trajectory of growth and innovation. We aspire to be a leading law firm which can provide practical and reliable service to our clients and help them navigate complex legal landscapes with a clear strategic vision.