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

As the transportation industry readies itself to reach pre-pandemic levels, the aviation sector is busier than ever. AirAsia has almost reached the pre-pandemic level in terms of number of aircraft and stations. The legal team at Capital A has been busy providing the necessary and efficient legal support in setting up new stations and getting all the aircraft back into operation. In addition to providing legal support for day-to-day operational matters, the legal department has played a leading role in closing financing for the Capital A Group. Some of the most significant transactions include $60m convertible note investment in the fintech vertical of the Capital A Group. In 2021, my legal team and I spearheaded a $150m secured loan for the aviation business. More recently, we closed a $50m secured facility to support the set-up and construction of the hangar space for the aircraft MRO facility.

Capital A Group offers a very dynamic environment with new challenges and the legal department provides that space for legal professionals to grow and succeed in an ever-changing and challenging environment.

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

Kuala Lumpur, in particular, is a very dynamic market and is slowly climbing the ladder of preferred destinations for investment or industry. The uncertainty in Hong Kong has definitely helped Malaysia in being a preferred destination for innovation and investment. Thus, it will be crucial for any legal professional to learn to adapt to changes as the market becomes more dynamic and the role of the general counsel may not be limited to the legal officer but rather a professional who can identify legal issues and at the same time, make valuable contributions to the growth and success of the company.

How do you suggest in-house lawyers build strong relationships with business partners?

Understanding the needs of the company and the mindset of business partners is one of the crucial skill sets for any commercial lawyer. It is important for a legal professional to be patient when explaining legal issues and consequences. It is also important to understand the mindset of the business user. Clear communication plays a key role in building strong and ever business relationships.