A very good afternoon to:
- The Honourable Dato’ Seri Anwar bin Ibrahim, Prime Minister of Malaysia
- The Right Honourable Tun Tengku Maimun binti Tuan Mat, Chief Justice, Federal Court of Malaysia
- Chief Justices and Heads of Delegation of the Conference of Chief Justices of Asia and the Pacific
- The Honourable Dato’ Sri Azalina Othman Said, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reforms)
- The Right Honourable Tan Sri Datuk Amar Abang Iskandar bin Abang Hashim, President of the Court of Appeal
- Excellencies
- Yang Arif-Yang Arif, Judges of the Federal Court, Court of Appeal, High Court, and Judicial Commissioners
- Mr Shyam Divan, President of LAWASIA
- Ms Karen Cheah Yee Lynn, Chairperson, and other members of the LAWASIA Conference Organising Committee 2024
- Distinguished Guests
- Ladies and Gentlemen
On behalf of the Malaysian Bar, it is my great pleasure to welcome each and every one of you to the 37th LAWASIA Conference, held here in the heart of vibrant Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Today, we gather as more than just legal professionals — we gather as fellow voyagers, navigating an ever-changing legal frontier. In a world reshaped by technological advancements, we stand at the cusp of something extraordinary. This conference, I hope, will be your beacon, not only guiding us toward innovation and progress but sparking the questions we might not have thought to ask.
As we embark on this journey together, I invite you to immerse yourselves fully in the spirit of discovery, both in the rich cultural mosaic of Malaysia and in the conversations we will have about the future of our profession. Together, let us explore what lies beyond the horizon — both in law and in life.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Let me take you back almost 41 years ago — 13 October 1983, to be precise — when Motorola introduced the first mobile phone approved in the United States. Back then, it was revolutionary: a bulky device that gave a tantalising glimpse into the future of communication.
Fast forward to today, and we hold in our hands the incredible power of devices like the Apple iPhone — capable of tasks once thought impossible. These aren’t just phones. They are gateways to global connectivity, supercomputers in our pockets, capable of managing virtual meetings, reviewing legal documents, and assisting us with AI-driven insights — all while allowing us to control our smart homes or stay updated in real-time.
The pace of change has been nothing short of breathtaking. And it’s this very change that makes the theme of this year’s conference, “Navigating the Legal Landscape in the Digital Age,” so timely and so critical. We are at a crossroads, where technology is not just a tool — it is a force, rewriting the very fabric of how we live, work, and yes, practise law.
But here’s the question that should keep us awake at night: Are we evolving fast enough to keep up? How do we, as custodians of the law, navigate this brave new world without losing our way?
As we explore these questions over the next few days, consider this: our profession, though deeply rooted in tradition, cannot afford to be static. The law is a living, breathing entity, and our role is not just to protect it but to ensure its relevance in a world that changes by the minute.
Look at how artificial intelligence is reshaping entire industries, how blockchain is challenging our very notions of trust, and how cybersecurity has become a cornerstone of modern practice. The legal landscape is shifting under our feet, and it’s our job not just to react, but to lead.
So, as we dive into these discussions, remember that the challenges we face today will shape the legacy we leave behind for the legal profession tomorrow.
What more can we do?
At the Malaysian Bar, we are acutely aware of the seismic shifts brought about by the digital age. We are not content to simply keep up — we aim to lead. That’s why we have established specialised committees that are dedicated to helping our Members embrace new technologies while maintaining the ethical and professional standards that define us.
But let me be clear — our goal isn’t just to make our Members tech-savvy. It’s about empowering them to integrate these advancements in a way that enhances their practice and, ultimately, their service to society. This is not about chasing trends; it’s about embracing a future where the law and technology intersect to create better outcomes for everyone.
We are committed to ensuring that no one is left behind as digitalisation takes hold. Whether you are a seasoned practitioner or a newly admitted lawyer, we are working to provide you with the tools, resources, and knowledge necessary to thrive in this new era.
But here’s the exciting part — there’s so much more we can do, and that’s why we are here today. This conference is not just an opportunity to learn — it’s a chance to chart a new course for our profession. I’m confident that the conversations and insights we gain here will help us shape the future of law, ensuring that it remains a force for good, even in the face of rapid change.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
As we stand on the edge of this digital revolution, let us remember that change is inevitable, but progress is a choice. Technology will continue to evolve, but it is up to us to decide how we, as legal professionals, will evolve with it.
To our distinguished speakers, esteemed guests, and all participants — thank you for being here. Your contributions are what will make this conference truly memorable. May the discussions over the next few days inspire us all to embrace the transformative power of technology, to enhance our skills, and to work toward a future where justice is not just accessible, but limitless.
And finally, a special thanks and congratulations to Ms Karen Cheah, Chairperson of the 37th LAWASIA Conference Organising Committee and immediate past president, along with her deputy in the organising committee, Ms Marissa, and members of the organising committee, including the Secretariat of the Malaysian Bar. Your hard work and dedication have made this event possible.
As we conclude, I leave you with this thought:
“AI may sharpen the legal blade,
But judgment and empathy won’t fade.
In the courtroom and in life’s fight,
Human insight remains the guiding light.”
Thank you.