Beijing Celue law firm official Chen Zhen exchanging documents with Alicia Wong, founding partner of Ang & Wong Advocates & Solicitors, after the signing ceremony in Guangzhou
KUALA LUMPUR: With trade and economic relations between Malaysia and China set to further flourish in the coming year, the private sectors on both sides are preparing ahead of the anticipated boom.
With the number of Chinese companies eyeing Malaysia for investments on the rise, a legal framework agreement signed between two law firms from both sides will give things a boost.
The Beijing Celue law firm, reputed to be one of China’s largest legal outfits, inked the cooperation agreement with Malaysian legal firm Ang & Wong Advocates & Solicitors (AW-Legal) in Guangzhou recently.
The collaboration aims to bridge gaps in legal systems, streamline investment processes and offer end-to-end solutions for businesses navigating Malaysia’s regulatory landscape.
The signing marked the first time that Celue established a partnership with an overseas legal institution, serving as a key step in the firm’s expansion into international markets, particularly in countries and regions involved in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
Present to witness the signing was the Acting Investment Consul of the Malaysian consulate-general in Guangzhou, Safwan Nizar Johari, who is also acting director of the Malaysia Investment Development Authority.
He said he expected the next two years to hit the peak in China-Malaysia trade relations, with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between both countries in 2024 seeing significant achievements.
Safwan Nizar said the legal agreement would help facilitate Chinese investments into Malaysia and assist with strategic planning and policy advocacy.
Welcoming Chinese investors, he highlighted Malaysia’s position as a top choice for foreign investments.
Quoting the 2024 Milken Institute Global Opportunity Index, he said: “Malaysia ranks as the country with the best overall investment conditions among Asia’s emerging and developing nations.
“This recognition highlights our robust policies, strong fundamentals and investor-friendly environment.”
Safwan Nizar also emphasised the role of Investment Guarantee Agreements which Malaysia has signed with more than 60 countries.
“These agreements ensure that foreign investors are protected, fostering confidence and providing a secure platform for businesses to grow and thrive,” he added.
Representing the law firms concerned were Chen Zhen, director of the Celue Guangzhou Management Committee, and Alicia Wong, founding partner of AW-Legal.
Chen Zhen said the legal profession played an important role in providing legal safeguards for the BRI.
“This collaboration between the two law firms is a direct response to the initiative, aiming to provide high-quality legal services to the countries and regions involved,” he added in his remarks.
He said both law firms would continue to adhere to the “client first” service philosophy, focusing on providing tailored legal solutions.
“In the future, we look forward to deepening cooperation with AW-Legal in areas such as cross-border investment, international trade and intellectual property protection, and jointly enhance service quality to create greater value for our clients,” he added.
In her address, Wong said both firms would work closely together to help Chinese businesses wanting to expand to Malaysia, for mutual benefit and the advancement of business and legal cooperation between the two countries.
“This deal reflects our shared vision to create a seamless pathway for Chinese investors entering Malaysia.
“Malaysia offers unparalleled opportunities with its strategic location, diverse economy and investor-friendly ecosystem.
“By combining our expertise with Celue, we are not just providing legal solutions but fostering confidence, reducing complexities and creating a platform to empower businesses to thrive,” she added.
The event also received support from the China-Malaysia Friendship Association.
“This collaboration between AW-Legal and Celue represents more than a legal agreement – it signifies the deep trust and cooperation between Malaysia and China,” said a representative from the association.
Prominent business leaders and legal experts also attended the event.
