Global Vice-Chair and ASEAN CEO Philip Jeyaretnam S.C. was recently interviewed for a feature article in Singapore’s leading Chinese daily, Lianhe Zaobao. The article focuses on Philip’s 32 years in the legal profession particularly his views on international arbitration, the legal profession and thoughts about education and careers. These are some of the highlights of the interview.

As the Chairman of Maxwell Chambers, the world’s first integrated alternative dispute resolution complex, Philip was instrumental in the upgrading and expansion of its facilities in 2019 to meet the increased demand for dispute resolution work in Singapore. Singapore has become the most popular seat of arbitration in Asia and third most popular in the world, after London and Paris.

In Philip’s opinion, the work of a lawyer is always challenging. However, it brings great satisfaction as you are always learning something new. A good lawyer must present his client in the best light, be determined to find the winning strategy and not give up in the face of obstacles. He values having the support of a good team, as his High Court, SICC, Court of Appeal and arbitration schedule can be quite packed.

In 2016, “the world came to Singapore” – Philip helmed the combination with Dentons, the world’s largest law firm. He firmly believes lawyers have an important role to play with internationalisation and growing cross-border trade and investment.

As a member of Singapore’s Public Service Commission (PSC), Philip contributes to choosing the recipients of the PSC scholarships. He feels young people should take a less conventional path so that they can benefit from different perspectives and bring to society novel ideas. He would also like to see more young lawyers working in emerging economies to expand their horizons.

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