The ‘highly knowledgeable’ dispute resolution group at Christopher & Lee Ong is noted for its extensive experience at the trial and appellate courts, with a focus on banking and finance, insolvency, property, and employment litigation. Leveraging its membership of Rajah & Tann Asia, the team regularly participates in cross-border arbitrations. The ’superb’ John Mathew anchors the practice with ample experience as an arbitrator, and with strengths in civil and banking disputes.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Very practical advice. To the point and sound.’

  • ‘John Mathew, a very experienced litigator who is very focused and practical in his advice.’

  • ‘Reputable and strong and long-established global affiliations.’

  • ‘The team is accessible, highly knowledgeable about the law, pragmatic in their approach to resolving matters rather than prolonging, negotiations or propelling disputes and exercise a fair and contentious philosophy.’

  • ‘The team is always ready to respond and give advice timely.’

  • ‘A very versatile team that can turn its hand to a wide range of commercial disputes matters.’

  • ‘John Mathew has a real talent, working very well with instructing foreign counsel. He is able to distil vast amounts of material in a very quick period. His legal drafting is superb, and his knowledge of the local judiciary is second to none. He is ably supported by a strong team of associates.’

  • 'The partners are experienced, and their confidence assures that they are on the top of their game.'

Key clients

  • FGV Prodata Systems Sdn Bhd
  • Malayan Banking Berhad (Beijing Branch)
  • Prasarana Malaysia Berhad & Rapid Ferry Sdn Bhd
  • Prasarana Malaysia Berhad
  • Ayel Bin Ajeb & Nora Binti Tegau

Work highlights

  • Represented the Von Pezolds in their arbitration case against Zimbabwe for land expropriation without compensation, where the ICSID awarded the client over $200m.
  • Represented FGV Prodata Systems in a suit filed by VDSL Technology Sdn Bhd, who alleged that a contract valued at RM417m existed between the two parties, and that there was an alleged breach of contract.
  • Represented the plaintiffs in a case where the first defendant issued a RM71.4m bank guarantee for a Malaysian company at the second defendant’s request, with a counter-guarantee ensuring payment of $19m to the first defendant upon demand.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

John Mathew