What are the most significant cases or transactions that your legal team has recently been involved in?

One notable achievement of our legal team was successfully negotiating a contract with an external client for our new revenue stream, an e-fulfilment solution known as ZALORA One Stock Solution, which provides a comprehensive and integrated platform to efficiently manage a client’s multi-channel fulfilment operations, leveraging our logistics network and technology infrastructure. Another important project led by our legal team was the application for a license to operate our business functions, which involved close engagement with regulators and internal stakeholders. Our legal team also facilitated employment contract changes to other entities within the company group during our internal restructuring. In the area of data protection, our legal team conducts internal data audits with the aim of assessing and ensuring data compliance, integrity and security within our organisation.

How do you see the general counsel role evolving in Malaysia over the next five-ten years?

As a general counsel, I envision the role growing significantly in Malaysia over the next five to ten years. Firstly, there will be significant integration of technology into legal operations. Legal technology tools such as contract management systems and AI-based analytics will increase efficiency and enable effective legal risk management. Second, the general counsel will assume a more prominent position as a strategic advisor and risk manager. They will provide insight into the legal implications and assist in making informed decisions. Finally, the focus on data privacy and cyber security will intensify. The general counsel will play a key role in ensuring compliance with data protection laws, handling data breaches, and implementing robust cyber security measures. These changes reflect the evolving legal landscape, where general counsel must adapt to regulatory developments and leverage technology to deliver effective legal support.

As we enter the next decade, what skills will a corporate legal team need to succeed in the modern in-house industry?

The first skill a corporate legal team needs to succeed in the modern in-house industry is business acumen. The in-house legal team needs to develop a deep understanding of the company’s business and align their legal advice accordingly by providing solutions that enable and support business growth. Secondly, in a rapidly changing legal landscape, in-house legal professionals must be adaptable and open to learning. Keeping up with legal and industry trends, attending relevant conferences and continuing professional development will help us stay ahead of the curve and respond effectively to changing circumstances, including the emergence of technology that should simplify our role rather than make us redundant. Finally, in addition to providing legal advice, corporate legal teams should develop strategic thinking skills. We need to be proactive in identifying legal issues, finding innovative solutions and anticipating potential risks. Critical thinking, analytical and good decision-making skills are essential in laying the foundation of a successful corporate legal team. Once the in-house legal team positions itself as a “trusted advisor” by demonstrating its ability to provide innovative solutions and make informed decisions, the team will always the opportunity to contribute at the beginning of an initiative, as opposed to the conventional support role.