Lim Kar Han, Zaid Ibrahim & Co, Malaysia

Position

 - Senior partner, Zaid Ibrahim & Co

What was your first-ever job? (prior to becoming a lawyer) 

Accounts assistant (whilst at university)

Where did you study? (give dates) 

Universityof Sydney, 1980 - 1984

Have you lived or worked outside your home jurisdiction? What did you learn from it? 

I lived in Sydney for 10 years where I absorbed the values of integrity and respect and learned to appreciate mateship (Aussie for friendship)

When did you become partner? 

1995

What deal/case in your career stands out the most and why?  

The merger and acquisition of three public listed corporations in two jurisdictions leading to the first ever dual primary listing for Bursa Malaysia – an innovative and challenging transaction.

What have been your recent deals?  

Saleof a strategic stake in a listed national automotive corporation; contemporaneous acquisition of the business and assets of 2 public listed corporations; joint venture between a leading foreign automotive corporation and a local car assembler.

What is the biggest challenge facing your market at the moment?  

Recruiting and retaining talented lawyers

What has been the most significant development in your sector in recent years? (this can be legal/technical) 

Impending liberalization of the legal profession

If you hadn’t been a lawyer, what would you have been?  

Auditor/accountant

Which country do you travel to most frequently and which country do you like the best?

Most frequently visited – Singapore

Most liked as a travel destination - UK

What is your favourite book? 

The Hobbit

What is your favourite restaurant?  

Prime at Le Meridien, Kuala Lumpur