Halim Hong & Quek (‘HHQ’), the Malaysian law firm member of Andersen Global, has appointed Ong Johnson and Lo Khai Yi as joint heads of its newly launched Technology Practice Group. The group is set up to collaborate closely with clients, aiding them in navigating legal, regulatory, and commercial challenges associated with technology and capitalising on the industry’s growing opportunities. The effective date of their appointment is December 1, 2023. Expressing his thoughts on the appointment, Johnson stated, "Given the spotlight on technology and its global impact, assuming this role is particularly exciting. As legal frameworks catch up with the swift digitalisation of economies, our clients are confronted with both challenges and opportunities. I eagerly anticipate collaborating more closely with our talented colleagues in HHQ and Andersen Global members across the Asia-Pacific (APAC) to harness our collective strategic capabilities and keep our clients ahead of the curve." In addition, Khai Yi shared his perspective, stating, "I am honoured to take on the role of co-head of the Technology Group at such a pivotal time. The evolving landscape of technology law presents a spectrum of opportunities and complexities. Collaborating with Johnson and the esteemed HHQ team, I look forward to contributing to the growth and success of our clients in this dynamic sector."  "...Every company is now a technology company...." Dato' quek ngee meng The launch of the practice aligns with heightened activity in the Asia Pacific region, according to Dato’ Quek Ngee Meng, Managing Partner of HHQ. He remarked, "The APAC region is experiencing increased activity as the demand for technology accelerates. Given the rapid development of technology and artificial intelligence, every company is now a tech company. Therefore, the Technology sector is of utmost importance to our clients and our firm. Johnson and Khai Yi, both rising star partners, bring technical expertise and innovative mindsets that will prove highly valuable to our clients. We eagerly anticipate their contributions to HHQ."Founded in the year 2000, HHQ has seamlessly integrated top-notch legal proficiency and effective stewardship to provide outstanding service and outcome-oriented solutions. It has gained recognition as a prominent firm in the Asia Pacific region, particularly in the areas of Real Estate and Corporate/M&A practices. As of January 1, 2023, HHQ proudly became a member firm of Andersen Global, an association of legally separate, independent member firms spanning across more than 170 countries globally.

We are thrilled to announce our latest initiative in elevating our employee benefits. It is with great delight that we present an exclusive opportunity for our Partners, Senior Associates, and Managers to enhance their career and to enroll in post-graduate programs such as Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Taxation, and Master of Law in Taxation offered by the University of San Francisco without any clawback, as the firm will cover the cost of these programs. This is a testament to our commitment in nurturing talent and empowering our team members to reach new heights in their careers.

Dispute Resolution (Construction and Arbitration) Semangat Global Sdn Bhd vs China Construction Pearl River (M) Sdn Bhd [2023] Our senior partner, Thoo Yee Huan together with our Construction Team partner, Ankit R Sanghvi and assisted by our senior Associate Chau Yen Shen successfully resisted the application for leave to appeal to the Federal Court, pertaining to a performance bond issue in a construction dispute.

On 24th February 2023, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, the Prime Minister and Finance Minister of Malaysia has retabled the much-awaited revised Budget 2023 with the underlying theme of “Membangun Malaysia Madani” (“Revised Budget 2023”) in Parliament.