Salutations

Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,

Assalamualaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh and a very good morning.

Introduction

[1]  I would like to extend my sincere thanks to the Legal & Business Academy of Malaysia (LBAM) for the kind invitation to speak at the Young Lawyers Forum 2025. It is truly an honour to address you all today. I also wish to convey my heartfelt congratulations to LBAM for its commendable efforts in organising this forum for the very first time – a significant and laudable initiative for the legal fraternity.

[2] The theme of this forum, `Empowering The Next Generation of Legal Leaders in Malaysia', underscores the vital importance of nurturing leadership within the legal fraternity. Preparing future legal practitioners with the knowledge, skills, and mindset needed to navigate emerging challenges is essential to ensuring the continued strength, relevance, and integrity of our profession.

Ethics And Integrity In The Profession

[3] I would like to begin by emphasising the paramount importance of ethical practice and the unwavering commitment to integrity within the legal profession. These are not merely abstract ideals or aspirational concepts –they are the very foundation upon which our field is built. Integrity is not simply a value to be admired; it is the cornerstone of public trust and the essential pillar that upholds the credibility and effective functioning of our legal system. Without it, the justice system falters, and the confidence of those we serve is eroded.

[4] In the legal profession – whether one serves in the Government as a Magistrate or Deputy Public Prosecutor, practices at the Bar, or operates as an in-house counsel – integrity is paramount. It translates directly into credibility, and ultimately, into trust. Without the trust of the public, the law loses its authority, and the very notion of justice is undermined. Each time a lawyer acts without integrity or engages in dishonest conduct, public confidence in the legal system is diminished, rendering the entire legal framework vulnerable.

[5] It is therefore important that we remain unwavering in our commitment to uphold the integrity of our profession. In doing so, we not only honour the traditions and values handed down through generations of legal practitioners, as it translates directly into credibility and ultimately trust. Without the trust of the public, the law loses its meaning, and the very idea of justice is compromised. Each time a lawyer acts dishonestly or lacks integrity, the public confidence in our system is eroded, and the entire legal infrastructure becomes vulnerable. It is vital, therefore, that we remain steadfast in our commitment to upholding the integrity of the legal profession. By doing so, we honour the traditions and values that have been passed down through generations of legal professionals, while ensuring that justice remains accessible, fair, and equitable for all.

[6] As young lawyers, you may be familiar with the Legal Profession (Practice and Etiquette) Rules 1978 (`the Rules'), prescribed guidelines designed to regulate the behaviour of practitioners within the profession. It is important to remember what these rules represent and how lawyers can uphold them. The Rules are not just a list of dos and don'ts; they embody the core values that guide our day-to-day actions. Lawyers are often seen as the moral compass of society, and it is through strict adherence to these ethical codes that we maintain the dignity of our profession. The Rules, while specific in their directives, are ultimately about ensuring that our actions align with the greater good.

[7] The Rules are there not just to protect the interests of clients or colleagues, but also to promote dignity, respect, trust and above all professionalism in every aspect of the legal profession. These Guidelines emphasise respect: for our clients, our peers, the Judiciary, and the law itself. A lawyer who abides by these Rules is not only avoiding misconduct but also affirming his or her commitment to the principle that justice must be pursued in a manner that is just and fair to all parties involved.

[8] Ethics provide the framework for decision-making. In the legal field, legal ethics form the foundation of professional conduct, rooted in principles such as honesty, integrity, professional independence, respect for the law and respect for the Judiciary. Legal ethics provide a standard of practice where lawyers can be held accountable in both the profession and society at large. These standards, which foster a culture of professionalism within the industry, are essential for fostering an independent, competent, and accountable legal profession.

[9] A strong foundation in ethics ensures that the law is used for its intended purpose, to promote justice rather than for personal gain or power. Legal ethics set the foundation for a legal profession that is not only competent but also responsible and accountable. They create an environment where professionalism can flourish, an environment where we, as lawyers, are expected to uphold the highest standards. These ethics are essential to ensure that the legal profession remains independent, that lawyers are competent in their practice, and that they are answerable to the rule of law.

[10] The role of lawyers in society is an extraordinary one. Lawyers serve as guardians of justice, carrying a heavy responsibility to ensure fairness in every case. The choices that we make, both in and outside of the courtroom, directly affect the public trust in the legal system. Ideals such as the presumption of innocence in criminal trials, the speedy resolution of disputes and the protection of fundamental rights are meaningless if one is unable to secure competent and efficient legal counsel.

[11] The manner in which we conduct ourselves and how we behave shapes how the public views not just individual cases, but the legal system as a whole. The integrity of the profession is thus built upon the ethical conduct of each and every lawyer. When we act ethically and diligently, we not only serve our clients but also contribute to a legal system that upholds fairness, equality, and justice.

Leadership And Mentorship In The Legal Fraternity

[12] To become a successful lawyer, it is not just about expanding your legal knowledge. It entails learning how to lead with a purpose. Leadership and mentorship are essential pillars in shaping the future of the legal industry.

[13] Leadership requires us at times to make difficult decisions, often under great pressure, and to guide others through challenges while maintaining the highest ethical standards. The leaders of tomorrow must be able to think critically, act with integrity, and make decisions that are not solely based on immediate gain, but with a long-term vision of what is best for society and the legal system.

[14] Leadership also means nurturing the next generation. You, as emerging legal professionals, have a critical role to play in creating an environment where the values of justice and fairness thrive. As you progress in your career, you will find yourself in positions where you can influence the trajectory of the legal profession. Whether you are taking on a role as a senior lawyer, an advocate for legal reform, or a member of the Judiciary, your leadership will shape the culture of the legal community. Your ability to work collaboratively, inspire those around you, and lead with humility will determine the legacy of your contribution to the legal system.

[15] Just as leadership is integral to the success of the legal profession, so too is mentorship. Mentorship is the bedrock upon which many successful careers are built, and it plays a critical role in ensuring that the next generation of lawyers is well-placed to take on leadership roles in the future. For those of you starting out, having a mentor – someone with experience and wisdom who can provide guidance, support and wisdom – can be a transformative experience.

[16] Experienced lawyers possess a wealth of knowledge that can only come from years of real-world practice. It is this knowledge that is invaluable for young lawyers trying to find their way in the legal world. Balancing a demanding workload, managing client relationships, and navigating complex ethical dilemmas are skills that cannot be fully understood from textbooks alone. Through mentorship, seasoned practitioners offering by example, will teach constructive feedback that not only enhances the technical skills of young lawyers but also bolsters their confidence. Mentorship within the legal fraternity plays a crucial role in helping young lawyers build confidence and navigate the challenges they face. This guidance provides reassurance, fosters self-belief, and encourages them to continuously improve with each task they undertake. This is vital in fostering self-belief, encouraging them to strive for continuous improvement.

[17] However, mentorship is a two-way street. It is not just about receiving advice; it is also how to navigate the challenges of legal practice and to refine your own leadership skills. When you mentor someone, you are often required to think critically, to question assumptions, and to consider the broader implications of your work.

[18] Mentorship also fosters a sense of responsibility. As you gain experience and rise in your career, you too will become mentors to those who follow in your footsteps. This cycle of mentorship ensures that the values of excellence, ethical practice, and leadership are passed down, creating a culture of continuous improvement within the profession.

[19] When leadership and mentorship are actively cultivated, they create a ripple effect that extends far beyond individual lawyers or firms. Hence, it will contribute to the development of a legal system that is stronger, more ethical, and more accessible to all. A legal community that emphasises mentorship ensures that new generations of lawyers are better prepared to handle the evolving demands of the profession and the complexities of modern legal challenges.

Embracing New Innovations/Technology

[20] As we look to the future, one thing is abundantly clear: the legal profession no longer operates in isolation. Technology is no longer an external influence – it has become deeply embedded in the fabric of our daily life. The world around us is evolving rapidly, and we must evolve with it. The digital age has already reshaped legal practice in ways that would have seemed unimaginable just a decade ago.

[21] The legal profession, often regarded as traditional and slow-moving, is at a crossroads. The legal profession has long been associated with paper, lengthy research hours, and slow, deliberate processes. Today, the digital revolution demands active engagement and adaptability. Technology presents a powerful opportunity to reimagine how we work, how we deliver legal services, and how we promote access to justice for all.

[22] Artificial intelligence, blockchain, and automation, once distant, futuristic concepts, are now reshaping the legal landscape. These technologies have revolutionised how we conduct legal research, draft contracts, manage case files, and interact with both clients and the courts.

[23] What once would have been hours of labour-intensive work can now be accomplished in mere seconds. Artificial intelligence-driven technologies are capable of analysing vast datasets, such as case laws and legal precedents, in a fraction of the time it would take a human researcher. The integration of legal templates and software into tools that automatically generate standard legal documents based on user input saves time and reduce errors. Similarly, contract management platforms allow lawyers to track key clauses, deadlines, and amendments with ease, freeing up valuable time for lawyers to focus on their clients.

[24] Nevertheless, the integration of technology into the legal profession is not without its challenges. While these advancements significantly enhance efficiency and productivity, it is important to acknowledge that not all legal practitioners possess the requisite skills to fully capitalise on them. Comprehensive training and continuous upskilling are important to ensure that all members of the legal community – irrespective of their level of experience or the scale of their practice – are adequately prepared to engage with emerging legal technologies.

[25] Then, there is the matter of costs. The implementation of new legal technologies can be expensive, particularly for smaller firms that may struggle to invest in advanced software or training programs. This is where initiatives to democratise access to these technologies become crucial. We must work together to ensure that innovations are accessible to all members of the legal community, ensuring that no firm is left behind in the digital revolution.

[26] We must not lose sight of our ethical responsibilities. While technological advances offer a wealth of benefits, they also present new challenges in areas such as data security, privacy, and over-reliance on automation. As legal professionals, we are entrusted with confidential client information, and it is incumbent upon us to ensure that these digital tools do not compromise our ability to protect that information.

[27] As we navigate this complex digital transformation, it is imperative to strike a careful balance between embracing technological innovation and upholding the fundamental values that define the legal profession. While technology offers extraordinary opportunities to enhance our efficiency and reach, we must always remain vigilant to ensure that automation does not supplant the human judgment, ethical reasoning, and professional integrity that lie at the heart of our practice.

[28] The digital revolution within the legal field is not a phenomenon we can afford to overlook. We stand at the threshold of a new era – one that carries immense potential for the evolution of legal practice. To fully realise this potential, we must demonstrate a willingness to adapt, to continuously learn, and to foster innovation. My advice to all young lawyers, as the future leaders of legal profession, to approach this transformation with both enthusiasm and a profound sense of responsibility.

Challenges And Opportunities For Growth

[29] Before I conclude, it is pertinent to take note of some of the challenges and opportunities faced by young lawyers. These are not unique to our country but are part of broader global trends.

Ethical Dilemmas And Professional Integrity

[30] As young professionals in the legal field, you will at times be confronted with difficult ethical dilemmas. The pressure to deliver results, meet deadlines, and secure clients may sometimes conflict with the ethical standards that guide our practice. Sometimes, upholding these principles in the face of external pressures is no small feat.

[31] As young professionals, you must remain steadfast in upholding the ethical standards of the legal profession, particularly when faced with difficult decisions that challenge your core values. Such unwavering commitment is essential not only in the moment but as a foundation for long-term professional integrity and the trust placed in us.

Economic Pressures And Job Market Competition

[32] One of the most immediate challenges faced by young lawyers is the present state of the economy. Many of you may find that the demand for legal services is not as predictable as it once was, particularly in the current global economic climate. There is increased competition in the job market, and for young lawyers just starting out, securing a position in a reputable law firm or in an in-house legal department can be daunting.

[33] The reality is that while Malaysia has a thriving legal community, it is no longer enough to simply have a law degree and the traditional skills that have served lawyers well for decades. As the global economy and technology evolve, new areas of law are emerging. Fields such as technology law, data privacy, cryptocurrency regulations, and environmental law are all gaining prominence, both in Malaysia and internationally. As young lawyers, you have the unique opportunity to shape and specialise in these emerging fields. Seize the opportunity. Do not remain as passive observers as the world evolves – be active participants in driving the transformation of the legal profession.

Adapting To Technological Changes

[34] Earlier, I spoke about the rise of artificial intelligence in our profession. Alongside this, another significant challenge you will encounter as young lawyers is the rapid and continuous advancement of technology. While it serves as a powerful tool – enhancing efficiency, streamlining administrative processes, and introducing new modes of legal practice – it also presents complex challenges that require thoughtful navigation. Technology is undeniably reshaping the legal landscape. Those who are adept with digital tools will possess a marked advantage in an increasingly competitive market. From legal tech platforms to Al-driven research solutions, the opportunity to incorporate innovation into your practice is not only immense but necessary for long-term success.

[35] As young lawyers, you must be prepared to utilise technological tools not only to remain competitive but to meet the evolving needs of clients who are more digitally savvy than ever before.

Work-Life Balance

[36] Finally, but a very important factor is the importance of work-life balance. Undeniably the legal profession is demanding, and many young lawyers feel the strain of long hours and intense workloads. The pressure to perform can sometimes lead to burnout, which can affect not only your mental and physical well-being but also your ability to perform effectively in your professional capacity.

[37] While the desire to succeed and establish your reputation within the legal world is admirable, it is essential to remember that your health and mental well-being must remain a top priority. Always make time for yourself, your family, and your loved ones. Engage in activities that bring you joy – whether it is listening to music, dancing, exercising, gardening, fishing, or simply taking a moment to unwind. A well-balanced life is not only vital for personal fulfilment but also for sustaining a long and meaningful career in the legal profession.

Conclusion

[38] As young lawyers of today, you hold both the privilege and the responsibility of shaping the future of the legal profession. Though the path ahead may at times be demanding, never lose sight of the enduring values that define our calling. Our unwavering commitment to ethics, integrity, and justice must remain our guiding principles – the very foundation upon which the credibility and trustworthiness of the legal system are built. Never take lightly the responsibility that comes with this trust. Uphold the highest standards of professionalism in all that you do.

[39] Ladies and gentlemen, the future is yours to shape and mold. May the insights and lessons you have gained today serve as a compass as you grow into the leaders the legal profession and our society so greatly needs. I wish each and every one of you continued success and fulfilment in your journey ahead.

Thank you.

* Delivered At The Young Lawyers Forum, Asian International Arbitration Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Saturday, 22 February 2025.