Shaping the Future of Law Yearbook 2024-2025
CONTENTS 2 MESSAGE FROM OUR DEAN 3 OUR MISSION STATEMENT 4 OUR PEOPLE Advisory Board Distinguished Fellow Former Distinguished Fellows Faculty Members Visiting Professorships: Highlights Feature: Bidding Farewell to our Long-Serving Faculty – Professor Liu Kung Chung, Professor David Llewelyn & Associate Professor Low Kee Yang Feature: Our Administrative Staff – Siow Junhao and Pixie Seet 18 RESEARCH Message from Associate Dean (Research & Faculty Matters) Research Overview Research Centres Significant Faculty Achievements 28 KWA GEOK CHOO LAW LIBRARY Feature: Our Law Librarians Samantha Lim & Bryan Leow 32 PROFESSIONAL & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENTS 36 ACADEMIC PROGRAMMES Message from Associate Deans for Curriculum & Teaching Academic Programmes Overview Teaching Excellence Awards 42 STUDENT HIGHLIGHTS & ACHIEVEMENTS Message from Associate Deans (Student & Alumni Affairs; Director, Ian R. Taylor International Moots Programme) Feature: James Ethan Ang Student Publications Student Highlights Feature: Our Jessup-Winning Team & Coaches Student Activities 58 ALUMNI HIGHLIGHTS & ACHIEVEMENTS Alumni Highlights Alumni Achievements Feature: Rodney Yap, Class of 2018 (LLB and BBM) 64 OUR DONORS List of Donors & Benefactors 2024-2025 YEARBOOK 2024-2025 1
MESSAGE FROM OUR DEAN It is with great pleasure that we present this digital edition of our 2024/2025 Yearbook, capturing an incredibly encouraging and memorable year for the SMU Yong Pung How School of Law. We are thrilled to share that in the year under review, our students have continued to blaze new trails, most notably in international moots and Alternative Dispute Resolution competitions. In a historic triumph, our team ended a 24year trophy drought to bring the Philip C. Jessup International Law Moot Championship home to Singapore, beating over 800 teams from around the world. This intrepid spirit was echoed in numerous other major competitions, demonstrating a steadfast pursuit of excellence. Our academic offerings continue to grow in breadth and impact. The undergraduate programme has expanded with new overseas internship opportunities and collaborations, such as the fast-tracked LLM pathway with Melbourne Law School. Our postgraduate programmes are also seeing robust demand in the JD programme and rapid growth in the LLM programme. Our research centres – the Centre for Digital Law, the Centre for Commercial Law in Asia, and the Singapore International Dispute Resolution Academy – continue to drive meaningful academic and societal impact by working closely with industry and policymakers. Our faculty’s contributions have been recognised through prestigious awards and appointments, reflecting a shared commitment to scholarship that benefits our community. A key facet of our education is cultivating a spirit of empathy and generosity. The SMU Pro Bono Centre advances this aim with an expanding range of activities, even taking students overseas to serve different communities and understand their legal needs. Indeed, this sense of community is at the heart of the law school. We are therefore pleased to introduce in this yearbook a number of dialogues to capture the voices of faculty, staff, students and alumni. Finally, I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to our friends, alumni, and supporters. The SMU Yong Pung How School of Law is a special community that advances legal knowledge, nurtures talent, and uplifts the less privileged – all made possible by your heartfelt and steadfast support. I hope you enjoy this publication. Warmly, Lee Pey Woan Professor Lee Pey Woan Dean, SMU Yong Pung How School of Law 2 SHAPING THE FUTURE OF LAW Message From Our Dean Kwa Geok Choo Law Library Our People Our Mission Statement Research
SERVICE TO COMMUNITY MEANINGFUL & IMPACTFUL RESEARCH INNOVATIVE & PRACTICE-RELEVANT LEGAL TRAINING OUR MISSION STATEMENT YEARBOOK 2024-2025 3 Alumni Highlights & Achievements Our Donors Academic Programmes Professional & Community Engagements Student Highlights & Achievements
OUR PEOPLE At SMU Yong Pung How School of Law, our distinguished board and faculty shape legal discourse through impactful scholarship and community engagement, inspiring students to think critically, contribute meaningfully, and lead the future of law. 4 SHAPING THE FUTURE OF LAW Message From Our Dean Kwa Geok Choo Law Library Our People Our Mission Statement Research
YEARBOOK 2024-2025 5 Alumni Highlights & Achievements Our Donors Academic Programmes Professional & Community Engagements Student Highlights & Achievements
Justice Judith Prakash Senior Judge Supreme Court of Singapore DISTINGUISHED FELLOW ADVISORY BOARD OUR PEOPLE The Honourable Justice Ang Cheng Hock Chairman Justice of the Court of Appeal (as of 1 Oct 2025) Mr Chong Ik Wei Partner/Managing Director, Asia Clyde & Co Clasis Singapore Pte. Ltd. Mr Nakul Dewan, KC Senior Advocate & Barrister Twenty Essex Mr Antony Cook Corporate Vice President and Deputy General Counsel Microsoft Corporation The Honourable Justice Hoo Sheau Peng Judge Supreme Court of Singapore Ms Sophie Mathur Partner - Corporate Linklaters Singapore Pte Ltd 6 SHAPING THE FUTURE OF LAW Message From Our Dean Kwa Geok Choo Law Library Our People Our Mission Statement Research
Dr Chao Hick Tin Former Attorney-General of Singapore Former Judge of Appeal of the Supreme Court of Singapore FORMER DISTINGUISHED FELLOWS Mr V K Rajah SC Member, Duxton Hill Chambers (Singapore Group Practice) Former Attorney-General of Singapore Former Judge of Appeal of the Supreme Court of Singapore Mr Charles Lim Sing Siong General Counsel (Managing Director) Legal and Compliance; Member of GIC’s Group Executive Committee GIC Private Limited Mr Jason Chan Tai-Hui, SC Partner Allen & Gledhill LLP Mr Tan Boon Gin Chief Executive Officer Singapore Exchange Regulation (SGX RegCo) Dr Cheng Tai-Heng Partner and Global Co-Head International Arbitration Sidley Austin LLP Mr Lam Chee Kin Managing Director & Head Group Compliance DBS Bank Ltd Ms Wang Yanjun Chief Corporate Officer Sea Ltd YEARBOOK 2024-2025 7 Alumni Highlights & Achievements Our Donors Academic Programmes Professional & Community Engagements Student Highlights & Achievements
OUR PEOPLE FACULTY MEMBERS 53FACULTY MEMBERS Faculty Postgraduate Qualifications - Country of Origin USA EUROPE ASIA-PACIFIC Belgium 2 Netherlands 1 UK 17 2 Spain 1 Germany 2 China 2 Japan 1 Singapore 1 Australia 4 11 ASSISTANT PROFESSORS 1 PRINCIPAL LECTURER 25 PHD/LLD/DPHIL/SJD/ DOCTOR OF LAW (INCLUDING ABD) 29 MASTERS (INCLUDING JD/LLM/BCL) 1 LECTURER 1 EDUCATION 1 VISITING 1 DISTINGUISHED TERM 1 RESEARCH 18 PROFESSORS 23 ASSOCIATE PROFESSORS Highest Academic Qualifications 20 TENURE-TRACK (INCLUDE TENURED) 43 5PRACTICE Switzerland Faculty Academic Tracks Faculty Academic Appointments 8 SHAPING THE FUTURE OF LAW Message From Our Dean Kwa Geok Choo Law Library Our People Our Mission Statement Research
DEANERY LEE Pey Woan Professor of Law Dean Yong Pung How School of Law Edward TI Associate Professor of Law Associate Dean (Undergraduate Curriculum and Teaching) Urban Fellow (Urban Governance) ZHANG Wei Associate Professor of Law Associate Dean (PG Curriculum Teaching and International Relations) CHEN Siyuan Associate Professor of Law Associate Dean (Student and Alumni Affairs) Director Moots Heng WANG Professor of Law Associate Dean (Research & Faculty Matters) Gary CHAN Kok Yew (On Leave) Professor of Law Darius CHAN Associate Professor of Law (Practice) Deputy Director Singapore International Dispute Resolution Academy (SIDRA) CHAN Wing Cheong Professor of Law Co-Director Pro Bono Centre Stephen BULL Associate Professor of Law (Practice) Jason Grant ALLEN Associate Professor of Law Director Centre for Digital Law (CDL) Lee Kong Chian Fellow Nadja ALEXANDER Professor of Law Director Singapore International Dispute Resolution Academy (SIDRA) YEARBOOK 2024-2025 9 Alumni Highlights & Achievements Our Donors Academic Programmes Professional & Community Engagements Student Highlights & Achievements
Henry GAO (On Leave) Professor of Law Lee Kong Chian Fellow Adeline CHONG Swee Ling Associate Professor of Law Associate Dean (Faculty Matters) (with effect from 1 July 2025) Maartje DE VISSER Professor of Law Joint Appointment with College of Integrative Studies Associate Dean (Research) (with effect from 1 July 2025) Lee Kong Chian Fellow Warren B. CHIK Associate Professor of Law Kenny CHNG Associate Professor of Law Director SMU Law Academy Aurelio GURREA MARTINEZ Associate Professor of Law Dirk HARTUNG Assistant Professor of Law (ABD) Pasha L. HSIEH Lee Kong Chian Professor of Law Locknie HSU Professor of Law Pearlie KOH Associate Professor of Law LAU Kwan Ho Assistant Professor of Law (Associate Professor of Law with effect from June 2025) LIM How Khang Assistant Professor of Law and Computer Science (Practice) Director BSc (Computing & Law) Programme OUR PEOPLE FACULTY MEMBERS 10 SHAPING THE FUTURE OF LAW Message From Our Dean Kwa Geok Choo Law Library Our People Our Mission Statement Research
Michelle LIM Associate Professor of Law LIU Kung-Chung Professor of Law Vincent OOI Assistant Professor of Law Lee Kong Chian Fellow LIU Han-Wei Associate Professor of Law Deputy Director Centre for Digital Law (CDL) Lee Kong Chian Fellow LIU Nengye Associate Professor of Law Director Doctor of Law and Commercial Governance (DLCG) Programme Urban Fellow (Urban Governance) Nicholas LIU Assistant Professor of Law David LLEWELYN Professor of Law (Practice) LOO Wee Ling Associate Professor of Law (Education) LOW Kee Yang Associate Professor of Law Mark MCLAUGHLIN Assistant Professor of Law (Research) ONG Ee Ing Principal Lecturer of Law Benjamin Joshua ONG Assistant Professor of Law Director Undergraduate Admissions YEARBOOK 2024-2025 11 Alumni Highlights & Achievements Our Donors Academic Programmes Professional & Community Engagements Student Highlights & Achievements
Dan W. PUCHNIAK Yong Pung How Professor of Law Director Centre for Commercial Law in Asia Andrew PHANG Distinguished Professor of Law Rachel PHANG Assistant Professor of Law Dorcas QUEK-Anderson Associate Professor of Law Nydia REMOLINA LEON Assistant Professor of Law Deputy Director Centre for Commercial Law in Asia (CCLA) (with effect from July 2025) SAW Cheng Lim Associate Professor of Law Stefanie SCHACHERER Assistant Professor of Law Alvin SEE Wei Liang Associate Professor of Law Jerrold SOH Assistant Professor of Law D.S. Lee Foundation Fellow Eugene TAN Kheng Boon Associate Professor of Law OUR PEOPLE FACULTY MEMBERS 12 SHAPING THE FUTURE OF LAW Message From Our Dean Kwa Geok Choo Law Library Our People Our Mission Statement Research
THAM Chee Ho Professor of Law Aaron YOONG Assistant Professor of Law TAN Seow Hon Associate Professor of Law TANG Hang Wu Associate Provost (Research Governance) Lee Kong Chian Professor of Law Deputy Institutional Official for Research Walter WOON Lee Kong Chian Visiting Professor of Law YEO Tiong Min Yong Pung How Chair Professor of Law YIP Man Professor of Law V3 Professor in Family Entrepreneurship Disclaimer – Faculty listed as at Oct 2025. YEARBOOK 2024-2025 13 Alumni Highlights & Achievements Our Donors Academic Programmes Professional & Community Engagements Student Highlights & Achievements
VISITING PROFESSORSHIPS: HIGHLIGHTS Liz FISHER Professor of Environmental Law, Faculty of Law Corpus Christi College, University of Oxford Lee Kong Chian Visiting Professor, Singapore Management University SMU Yong Pung How School of Law expresses its deep appreciation for the generous gift from the Yong family that has, among other things, enabled the appointment of Yong Pung How Distinguished Visiting Professors. The inaugural Yong Pung How Visiting Professorship Lecture was delivered by Justice Michelle Gordon AC in July 2024. The Lee Kong Chian Visiting Professorship is a prestigious position awarded to a full professor from a reputable institution with an outstanding publication record, established academic leadership and/or strong research grant record. These visits from esteemed scholars help foster links between YPHSL and leading overseas institutions, establish a mentoring relationship between the visiting scholar and early career faculty, and provide the opportunity for research collaborations. The Allen & Gledhill Visiting Professor is a role which aims to bring closer the worlds of academia and practice, with the Visiting Professor engaging in activities which are of interest to practitioners, policy makers and academics. SMU Yong Pung How School of Law is thankful for the generosity of Allen & Gledhill LLP, which enables us to host leading scholars from abroad as the Allen & Gledhill Visiting Professor. 2025 Samuel I. BECHER Professor of Law, Victoria University of Wellington Lee Kong Chian Visiting Professor, Singapore Management University 2024 Justice Michelle GORDON AC Justice of the High Court of Australia Yong Pung How Distinguished Visiting Professor, Singapore Management University Özlem GÜRSES Professor of Commercial Law King’s College London Allen & Gledhill Visiting Professor, Singapore Management University William LUCY Professor, Durham Law School, Durham University Lee Kong Chian Visiting Professor, Singapore Management University 14 SHAPING THE FUTURE OF LAW Message From Our Dean Kwa Geok Choo Law Library Our People Our Mission Statement Research
YEARBOOK 2024-2025 15 Alumni Highlights & Achievements Our Donors Academic Programmes Professional & Community Engagements Student Highlights & Achievements
FEATURE Bidding Farewell to our Long-Serving Faculty – Professor Liu Kung Chung, Professor David Llewelyn & Associate Professor Low Kee Yang What contribution during your time at YPHSL are you most proud of? (Research or otherwise.) Professor Llewelyn Teaching over 1,500 students that the real world is very different to what they read about in law textbooks and that the law cannot be reduced to an algorithm. Professor Low That would be helming the start of the Law School. An exciting and hectic time, with so many matters to attend to, and urgently, like getting approval for our curriculum, speaking to senior partners of law firms, talking to prospective students, faculty recruitment and securing prizes and scholarships, amongst others. Being part of the start-up team of SMU was also a great experience. Could you share one piece of practical advice for current and future YPHSL students? Professor Llewelyn Be curious and think laterally; things are rarely what they seem to be at first sight. Professor Low I tell my students 3 “O” – Organise. Optimise. Oxygenise. • Organise your week, month and term, and be disciplined. • Optimise your time and energy. Study in blocks of 1.5 to 2 hrs. • Oxygenise your body. Take short breaks to recover and refresh. Walk to Fort Canning. Find positive stress release. What’s next for you? Professor Llewelyn I will continue: (a) to practise law in my law firm here in Singapore, along with my three outstanding colleagues (all former students at SMU); (b) writing books; (c) teaching at King’s College London and elsewhere; (d) sitting as an arbitrator in international commercial disputes; (e) sitting as an IP Adjudicator at the IP Office of Singapore; (f) speaking at conferences here and overseas; (g) whatever else I can think of. Professor Low Conduct some law seminars and workshops, based on my recent books. Do some voluntary work, like visiting a children’s home to sing and tell stories to them. Do some travelling. And, maybe, even write 1 or 2 more books. If you could leave one lasting impression or legacy at the university, what would you hope it would be? Professor Llewelyn The importance of an open and enquiring mind. Professor Low I have sought, from a long time ago, to abide by the creed ‘To do right to all, without fear or favour, affection or ill-will.’ In my last class, I usually sing to my students Nature Boy, the last line of which says: ‘The greatest thing you’ll ever learn, is just to love and be loved in return.’ It has been my privilege and pleasure to have been part of this great organisation. Associate Professor Low Kee Yang Associate Professor of Law Professor David Llewelyn Professor of Law (Practice) SMU Yong Pung How School of Law thanks our departing faculty, Professor of Law Liu Kung Chung, Professor of Law (Practice) David Llewelyn, and Associate Professor Low Kee Yang, for their many years of outstanding service to the school and the students, as well as the legal community. We will miss them very much. Professor Liu Kung Chung Professor of Law 16 SHAPING THE FUTURE OF LAW Message From Our Dean Kwa Geok Choo Law Library Our People Our Mission Statement Research
FEATURE Our Administrative Staff – Siow Junhao and Pixie Seet You’ve been with us at SMU Yong Pung How School of Law for some time now - could you take us through your journey and the roles you’ve undertaken thus far? Junhao I started out handling external relations (internships, student exchanges, community service, anything to do with stakeholders outside of YPHSL), then moved on as programme manager of the LLM programme while covering the professional development programme (SMULA) for a while when a colleague left, to Centre Manager for CAIDG (now-CDL) just before COVID struck, and now focusing on strategic development and plans for YPHSL. Pixie JD & LLM programme pioneer administrator, JD妈妈, exam co-ordinator and now LLB agony aunt. In your current appointment, how would you describe your role at YPHSL/SMU, and what aspects of your work might students and faculty not be aware of? Junhao That I actually do research work as well, though I’ve not progressed to the point of actually writing research papers. My research interest is in responsible AI in the military domain, looking into how the military use of AI and autonomous weapon systems should be regulated, and the legal aspects of certain emerging technologies, e.g. drone strikes. Pixie I spend a lot more time being a troubleshooter and the unofficial agony aunt to students than people think. What’s one initiative or change that you’ve helped implement, or perhaps a certain aspect of your job that you’re particularly proud and/or fond of? Junhao My fondest memories were during my time as the LLM programme manager, the strong bonds that were forged between our students, their instructors, and their programme administrator. I remember during one of my trips to Manila to promote the programme, our Thai alum was flying in on the day of the roadshow on holiday to meet her Filipino batch mate. They came straight from the airport to the roadshow site to help out at my booth instead of going off to enjoy their holiday. It was heartening to see our alumni so ready to contribute back to the school. Pixie I highlighted the Training Employment Pass issue for graduating law international students when their training contracts were extended [from 6 months] to 1 year, so that there could be an inter-agency discussion between the Ministry of Law & the Ministry of Manpower to resolve it. I also created the simplified pictorial exam guide for faculty on grade submissions, I-grade, etc that is still being used to this day. What advice would you give to incoming students to help them make the most of their university experience? Junhao To chase your dream but keep an open mind. I remember this student who was very determined to become a JLC that he rejected everything else that he thought would distract him from his goal. Whilst it is good to have a goal in mind and chase it, but also be open to other opportunities that might end up bringing you unexpected benefits. Pixie It’s not the end of the world if you get a B- or C. Developing emotional resilience and overcoming setbacks will stand you in greater stead in the working world than an A grade. Outside of work, what hobby, interest, or passion helps you recharge, and how did you discover it? Junhao Water sports – swimming, kayaking. I’m a water sign so somehow I have a stronger affinity to water than land (I hate running). Pixie Travelling, playing with my 2 cats, gym and shopping! Siow Junhao Assistant Director, Strategic Development & Plans Pixie Seet JD & LLM programme pioneer administrator YEARBOOK 2024-2025 17 Alumni Highlights & Achievements Our Donors Academic Programmes Professional & Community Engagements Student Highlights & Achievements
RESEARCH SMU Yong Pung How School of Law is shaping the future of law with innovative, award-winning thought leadership. 18 SHAPING THE FUTURE OF LAW Message From Our Dean Kwa Geok Choo Law Library Our People Our Mission Statement Research
YEARBOOK 2024-2025 19 Alumni Highlights & Achievements Our Donors Academic Programmes Professional & Community Engagements Student Highlights & Achievements
Professor Wang Heng Professor of Law, Associate Dean (Research & Faculty Matters) MESSAGE FROM ASSOCIATE DEAN (RESEARCH & FACULTY MATTERS) Faculty achievements in 2024-2025 demonstrate our exceptional research excellence, with publications at leading journals and prestigious publishers. Faculty members and researchers have secured major research grants and made significant contributions across multiple legal disciplines. We have also earned distinguished recognition on the global stage, including becoming the president of a major international academic society with global membership, receiving prestigious awards, and serving on editorial boards of premier journals. Our research demonstrates remarkable practical relevance and real-world impact, with scholars receiving the Singapore Academy of Law Merit Award for advancing legal development, serving as Independent Counsel in significant judicial proceedings, being appointed to represent Singapore in key intergovernmental and international organizations, and having our research cited by intergovernmental and international organizations. These achievements highlight the practical application and policy relevance of our scholarly work. Our research centres have organized influential conferences and symposiums on cutting-edge developments in critical areas. SMU Yong Pung How School of Law has also welcomed esteemed experts under our visitor programs, fostering international collaboration and knowledge exchange. These achievements collectively position us as a leading institution that bridges academic excellence with practical application, advancing both theoretical knowledge and innovative solutions that address contemporary challenges in law and related fields. We have also earned distinguished recognition on the global stage, including becoming the president of a major international academic society with global membership, receiving prestigious awards, and serving on editorial boards of premier journals. ” “ 20 SHAPING THE FUTURE OF LAW Message From Our Dean Kwa Geok Choo Law Library Our People Our Mission Statement Research
RESEARCH OVERVIEW 123 PUBLICATIONS 7 CORE RESEARCH AREAS 3 RESEARCH CENTRES PUBLICATIONS FROM JAN 2024 TO JUN 2025 2024 2025 Total Books and Edited Collections 9 1 10 Journal Articles and Notes 55 21 73 Book Chapters 20 20 40 OUR KEY FOCUS AREAS Transnational Commercial Law Dispute Resolution Law and Sustainability Law and Technology CORE RESEARCH AREAS Corporate & Financial Law Law and Sustainability Private Law • Banking, Finance and the Law • Cross-border Insolvency • Securities Regulation • Transnational Corporate Governance • Environmental Law • ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) • Property Law & Urban Planning • Rights of Nature • Sustainable Development Law • Law of Equity & Trusts • Theory & Practice in Contract Law • Tort Law • Unjust Enrichment & Restitution • Wealth Management & Philanthropy Dispute Resolution Public Interest Law • Alternative Dispute Resolution • Arbitration • Civil & Criminal Procedure • International Commercial Courts • Law of Evidence • Private International Law • Theory & Practice on Rules of Court • Theories of Adjudication • Animal Law • Applied Legal Theory • Comparative Constitutional & Administrative Law • Constitutional & Administrative Law Theory • Constitutional Institutions • Criminal Law & Justice • Family Law & Justice • Methods of Constitutional Interpretation • The Nature of Legal Obligation and Rules International Economic Law Technology & Innovation • ASEAN Economic Law • East Asian Trade Law • International Economic Law • Law & Economics • Transborder Trade & Investment Law • Computational Law • Data Protection & Privacy Law • Empirical & Statistical Methods in Legal Research • Empirical Studies on Legal Education • Intellectual Property Law in Asia & beyond • Law of Technology • Taxation in the Digital Economy YEARBOOK 2024-2025 21 Alumni Highlights & Achievements Our Donors Academic Programmes Professional & Community Engagements Student Highlights & Achievements
Merger of Centre for Computational Law and Centre for AI & Data Governance In 2024, the Centre for AI & Data Governance (CAIDG) (established in 2018) and the Centre for Computational Law (CCLAW) (established in 2020) were merged to form the new Centre for Digital Law (CDL). CDL represents a new chapter in SMU Yong Pung How School of Law’s commitment to shaping the legal and technological landscape, reinforcing SMU’s leadership in driving innovation and societal progress. CDL is helmed by Associate Professor Jason Grant Allen as its Director, and Associate Professor Liu Han-Wei as its Deputy Director, with its research broadly structured under three Clusters: Digital Economy, Digital Society, Digital Government. Overarching these Clusters will be the ‘Computational Law & LegalTech Lab’ (CL3) which will focus on the technical aspects of ‘Digital Law’. The Lab will house work that is characterised by a digital humanities focus as well as work that involves the creation of digital tools and solutions. Supporting the Clusters are a number of horizontal themes that shape the kind of work that will be carried out within the Clusters and include: Critical Technology, Digital Sovereignty and Geoeconomics; Demographic Change and Climate Transition; and Ubiquitous AI and Emerging Technology. This structure will enable CDL to navigate a fast-moving space shaped by unpredictable technological, economic, and political changes. Centre for Digital Law (CDL) SMU Yong Pung How School of Law’s Centre for AI and Data Governance and the Australian National University (ANU) College of Law jointly organised the ANU-SMU Global Digital Economy Forum 2024, held from 26-27 November in SMU. This strategic partnership between ANU and SMU brought together leading academics, industry experts, policymakers, and international organisation representatives to address pressing legal and regulatory challenges in the global digital economy. The Forum underscored the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in navigating the evolving digital landscape and advancing common research priorities. RESEARCH CENTRES Singapore Management University (SMU) and the Future of Privacy Forum (FPF) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to strengthen collaboration in data governance, privacy, and emerging technology regulation across the Asia-Pacific region. FPF has established a global presence across the US, Europe, Africa, the Asia-Pacific, India, Israel, and Latin America, monitoring policy developments and providing stakeholders with key insights. Through this MOU, SMU and FPF will collaborate on a variety of initiatives, including joint events, research publications, and advisory participation, while also expanding stakeholder networks across academia, industry, and government. 22 SHAPING THE FUTURE OF LAW Message From Our Dean Kwa Geok Choo Law Library Our People Our Mission Statement Research
Discovery Research Fund The SMU Centre for Digital Law (CDL) has launched the Discovery Research Fund, a new initiative designed to support exploratory, curiosity-driven research on digital futures. Aimed particularly at emerging areas and early-career scholars, the Fund offers flexible support for bold, early-stage projects that may not yet align with traditional grant requirements but carry strong potential to influence the future of digital law and policy. The Fund enables a wide range of activities—from hosting visiting scholars and supporting SMU PhD and postdoctoral research, to fostering regional collaboration, promoting public engagement, and advancing open-access publication. Its first contribution, made by GovInsider in support of CDL Director Associate Professor Jason Grant Allen’s participation in their conference, will fund research by CDL Research Affiliate Nicholas Seet on smart city infrastructure governance. This interdisciplinary project exemplifies the Fund’s mission to support impactful, forward-looking scholarship. In addition to the Discovery Fund, CDL is preparing for the launch of an Industry Alliance (IA) as a more permanent forum for engaging with responsible, like-minded Industry partners and facilitating conversations at the intersection of research, practice, and policy. We have secured a number of key donors and will be making an announcement soon to officially inaugurate the IA, which will support activities such as an annual flagship conference and regular closed-door firesides with IA members and civil society and government observers. To express interest in becoming a Founder Member or to request further information in advance of the official launch, please reach out to us directly. 2025 Yong Pung How Fellowship (CDL) Awardee Assistant Professor Nydia Remolina, then-head of Industry Relations at the CDL, was awarded the inaugural 2025 Yong Pung How Fellowship (CDL). The fellowship supports initiatives aimed at catalysing external funding for public sector and industry-related research projects. Her project, Embedded Finance and the Rise of Super Apps in Asia: Legal Challenges and Regulatory Gaps, examines the regulatory implications of rapidly evolving digital finance ecosystems. The research is expected to generate valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders navigating this complex and fast-changing space. Conversation with EU Commissioner Michael McGrath (Mar 2025) In collaboration with the European Union Delegation to Singapore, CDL hosted Empowering Businesses and Consumers in the Digital Age, featuring EU Commissioner Michael McGrath as Guest of Honour. Commissioner McGrath, who oversees Democracy, Justice, the Rule of Law, and Consumer Protection, delivered a keynote address highlighting strategies to support businesses and consumers in a rapidly evolving digital environment. The event opened with remarks by Professor Pasha L. Hsieh, Jean Monnet Chair in EU-ASEAN Law and Relations. Associate Professor Jason Grant Allen, Director of the SMU Centre for Digital Law, moderated a conversation with Commissioner McGrath, followed by an engaging Q&A session with attendees. The discussion provided valuable insights into the EU and Singapore’s shared goals of fostering a fair, innovative, and trustworthy digital ecosystem. YEARBOOK 2024-2025 23 Alumni Highlights & Achievements Our Donors Academic Programmes Professional & Community Engagements Student Highlights & Achievements
RESEARCH CENTRES Centre for Commercial Law in Asia (CCLA) Inaugural Asian Corporate Law Forum: “A New Era for Corporate Law in Asia” CCLA hosted the Inaugural Asian Corporate Law Forum (ACLF) at SMU, the premier platform for corporate law and governance scholarship in Asia. Established in 2023 by ten leading law schools, the ACLF is advancing the development of corporate law in the region through rigorous academic exchange. The inaugural forum featured thirteen papers and over fifty participants from across Asia, with the academic output published as a special issue of the Chinese Journal of Comparative Law (Oxford University Press). Launch of the Chicago-SMU-Cambridge Global Initiative Together with the University of Chicago’s Center on Law and Finance and the University of Cambridge’s Centre for Corporate and Commercial Law, CCLA’s Singapore Global Restructuring Initiative (SGRI) has launched the Chicago-SMU-Cambridge Global Initiative on Corporate Restructuring and Insolvency with the purpose of facilitating academic and policy discussions that can lead to the improvement of insolvency systems around the world. Yong Pung How Fellowship (Research Centres) The Yong Pung How Fellowship (Research Centres) was established in late 2024 through a generous gift from the family of the late Mr Yong Pung How. We are delighted that five fellowships were awarded through CCLA: Associate Professor Aurelio Gurrea-Martínez (Enhancing the International Competitiveness of Singapore’s Capital Markets); Associate Professor Dorcas Quek Anderson, Associate Professor Chen Siyuan, & Assistant Professor Aaron Yoong (The Expanded Scope of Dispute Resolution in Civil Justice); Associate Professor Edward Ti (Food Sustainability and Land Use in Singapore); Professor Henry Gao (Rethinking Free Trade: (When) Can Trade Wars Be Good?); and Associate Professor Nengye Liu (Asian Cities and the International Legal Order). These projects are expected to contribute significantly to research and innovation in law, dispute resolution, trade, sustainability, and finance. 2025 Yong Pung How Fellows (Centre for Commercial Law in Asia) Launch of the Singapore Sustainable Futures Initiative The Singapore Sustainable Futures Initiative was launched in 2025 with the goal to drive transformative change through futures-focused interdisciplinary legal research that offers cutting edge solutions to sustainability challenges. It is led by Director Associate Professor Nengye Liu, who is joined by Associate Professor Michelle Lim as the Head of Research Agenda and Assistant Professor Stefanie Schacherer as the Head of Societal Impact. 24 SHAPING THE FUTURE OF LAW Message From Our Dean Kwa Geok Choo Law Library Our People Our Mission Statement Research
Assistant Professor Mark McLaughlin at Evolution Event. Singapore International Dispute Resolution Academy (SIDRA) Singapore Convention Week 2024 SIDRA actively participated in the Singapore Convention on Mediation Week 2024, hosting a series of key events that showcased its thought leadership in dispute resolution. These included: The Breakfast Launch of the SIDRA International Dispute Resolution Survey: 2024 Final Report SIDRA launched the 2024 Final Report of its flagship International Dispute Resolution Survey. The event gathered leaders from government, academia, and practice to discuss key trends in international arbitration, mediation, and litigation. The Report offers empirical insights into user experiences and preferences in cross-border dispute resolution, reinforcing SIDRA’s role as a global thought leader in empirical research and policy dialogue. Mr Murali Pillai, Minister of State, delivered the keynote message. Evolution and Revolution: Recent Developments in Public International Law and Investor-State Dispute Settlement This panel brought together experts to discuss emerging developments in ISDS, including sanctioned assets, proarbitration policies, and the setting aside of costs orders in investment arbitration. The discussion also explored the growing relevance of investor-state mediation and investment ombudsmen in shaping a more collaborative and efficient dispute resolution landscape. Leaders in dispute resolution gathered for the breakfast launch of the SIDRA International Dispute Resolution Survey: 2024 Final Report during Singapore Convention Week 2024. Third Party Funding in International Commercial Arbitration and Investment Arbitration Professor Can Eken delivered a thought-provoking seminar on the rise of third-party funding (TPF) in international commercial and investment arbitration, highlighting its growing impact and the procedural and ethical challenges it presents. Drawing from his PhD research and book, he shared empirical insights from interviews with nearly thirty industry professionals, revealing how funders are addressing key issues. He also introduced guidelines aimed at mitigating these concerns, offering valuable recommendations for legal policy and future arbitration practices. From left to right: Professor Nadja Alexander, Ms Charlene Chang (Deputy Secretary (Development), Ministry of Law), Professor Heng Wang, Mr Murali Pillai, Professor Pey Woan, and Associate Professor Darius Chan. YEARBOOK 2024-2025 25 Alumni Highlights & Achievements Our Donors Academic Programmes Professional & Community Engagements Student Highlights & Achievements
SIGNIFICANT FACULTY ACHIEVEMENTS Darius CHAN Associate Professor of Law (Practice) Deputy Director, SIDRA Locknie HSU Professor of Law Kenny CHNG Associate Professor of Law awarded the Senior Hulme Scholarship by Brasenose College, University of Oxford Henry GAO Professor of Law Aurelio GURREA-MARTINEZ Associate Professor of Law Ranked a Litigation Star by Benchmark Litigation (2024), and as a Band 1 Leading Junior by Legal 500 Asia Pacific in its 2025 edition. Leading Juniors are those with significant experience of key cases, strong market recognition from both peers and clients, and are seen as future candidates as King’s Counsel. Elected President of the Society of International Economic Law (SIEL) at their annual general meeting (2024). The SIEL, which was created to build a community of economic law academics and academically-minded practitioners and officials around the world, seeks to foster the development of local international economic law expertise and organizations where needed, to facilitate collaboration and networking in international economic law, and to encourage research, practice, service and teaching in the field of international economic law. Professor Hsu’s appointment marks the first time that a member from Asia has been elected as the SIEL President. Conferred the Singapore Academy of Law Merit Award, in recognition of her significant contributions in promoting and advancing the objectives of the Singapore Academy of Law and to the development of Singapore law. This prestigious scholarship recognises exceptional academic performance among Brasenose DPhil students. Elected to the Board of Editors of the American Journal of International Law, the world’s longest-standing and most prestigious journal in the field of international law. Professor Gao is the sole representative from Singapore and one of the few board members based outside the United States. Named “Cross-Border Insolvency Academic of the Year” (2024) by Global Restructuring Review in recognition of his pioneering and impactful research on comparative and international insolvency law. LEE Pey Woan Professor and Dean of Yong Pung How School of Law David LLEWELYN Professor of Law (Practice) Invited by the Singapore Court of Appeal to act as Independent Counsel (formerly ‘amicus curiae’) in the case of Fonterra Brands (Singapore) Pte Ltd v Consorzio del Formaggio Parmigiano Reggiano [2024] SGCA 53. Professor Llewelyn gave his views on various provisions in the Geographical Indications Act 2014 pertaining to burden of proof and translations. 26 SHAPING THE FUTURE OF LAW Message From Our Dean Kwa Geok Choo Law Library Our People Our Mission Statement Research
Stefanie SCHACHERER Assistant Professor of Law Awarded the Outstanding Reviewer Award, Journal of World Trade and Investment (Brill). This award honours individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication and expertise in the peer-review process, contributing to the journal’s commitment to high-quality, double-blind peerreviewed scholarship in the field of international trade and investment law. Awarded the Public Administration Medal (Bronze) by the Prime Minister’s Office on National Day 2024 for his contributions to educational administration. Eugene TAN Kheng Boon Associate Professor of Law Appointed as Singapore’s Representative to the ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights (AICHR) (2025-27). The AICHR was inaugurated in 2009 as ASEAN’s overarching institution responsible for the promotion and protection of human rights in ASEAN. Associate Professor Tan brings with him strong expertise in ASEAN’s legal framework, as well as an extensive background in human rights advocacy and constitutional law. Alvin SEE Wei Liang Associate Professor of Law TANG Hang Wu Associate Provost (Research Governance) Lee Kong Chian Professor of Law Deputy Institutional Official for Research Conferred the Singapore Law Merit award by the Singapore Academy of Law. This award is presented to individuals who have made significant contributions in promoting and advancing the development of Singapore law. THAM Chee Ho Professor of Law Invited by the Singapore Court of Appeal to act as Independent Counsel (formerly ‘amicus curiae’) in the case of DGJ v Ocean Tankers Pte Ltd (in liquidation) [2024] SGCA 57. Professor Tham gave his views on the interpretative principles governing, and other aspects of, non-assignment clauses. YEO Tiong Min Senior Counsel (Honoris Causa) and Yong Pung How Chair Professor of Law Invited by the Singapore Court of Appeal to act as Independent Counsel (formerly ‘amicus curiae’) in the case of Li Jialin v Wingcrown Investment Pte Ltd [2024] SGCA 48. Professor Yeo gave his views on the interaction between the law of deposits and law of penalties. Heng WANG Professor of Law Invited to author a new blog series, “Central Bank Digital Currencies for Financial Inclusion,” for the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) (https://www.undp.org/ policy-centre/singapore/blog/achieving-financial-inclusionthrough-digital-currencies). This series aims to enhance the global knowledge and expertise of UNDP staff on Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs). Additionally, Professor Wang’s research has been cited in documents of the Hague Conference on Private International Law (HCCH), an intergovernmental organization, in 2024. To date, four recent HCCH documents have cited his work. YEARBOOK 2024-2025 27 Alumni Highlights & Achievements Our Donors Academic Programmes Professional & Community Engagements Student Highlights & Achievements
KWA GEOK CHOO LAW LIBRARY Our world-class library empowers both faculty and students to produce exceptional legal research and scholarship. 28 SHAPING THE FUTURE OF LAW Message From Our Dean Kwa Geok Choo Law Library Our People Our Mission Statement Research
YEARBOOK 2024-2025 29 Alumni Highlights & Achievements Our Donors Academic Programmes Professional & Community Engagements Student Highlights & Achievements
Panel Discussion: Taming information overload for literature review The College of Graduate Research Studies (CGRS), in partnership with SMU Libraries and the SMU Researcher Club, hosted a panel discussion titled “Taming Information Overload for Literature Review: Strategies, Practices, and AI’s Growing Influence” at the Li Ka Shing Library. The event brought together researchers and experts from diverse disciplines to share effective approaches for managing and synthesizing information during the literature review process in this age of information overload. Panelists, consisting of Assistant Professor Lau Kwan Ho (SMU Yong Pung How School of Law), Ashok Kasthuri (PhD Student, Computer Science, SMU School of Computing and Information Services), Nadyanna Binte Mohamed Majeed (PhD Student, Psychology, NUS), and Aaron Tay (Head of Data Services, SMU Libraries) discussed a range of strategies and tools, from traditional methods to the latest AI-driven solutions. Attendees also mingled with SMU librarians over lunch to understand how the SMU Libraries provides support services for research, and network with peers and faculty. KWA GEOK CHOO LAW LIBRARY Legal Internship Workshop The SMU Librarians conducted the Legal Internship Workshop in March 2025 at the KGC Law Library Learning Labs, to equip students with practical strategies for navigating legal research and internships generally. Topics covered included researching various practice areas, undertaking foreign and comparative legal research, and making use of legal forms and precedents. The workshop also covered tips to help students make the most of their internship experiences and prepare for their internship before rounding off with a hearty question and answer session. Law Library Peer Assistants As part of SMU Libraries’ commitment to encouraging peer learning and developing our students’ legal research services, we provide a Research Consultation Service for Year 1 LLB and JD students at the Kwa Geok Choo Law Library which is available throughout the academic year. First-year students can book 30-minute sessions with law library peer assistants for guidance on legal research skills and using library resources. 30 SHAPING THE FUTURE OF LAW Message From Our Dean Kwa Geok Choo Law Library Our People Our Mission Statement Research
FEATURE Our Law Librarians Samantha Lim & Bryan Leow How has the law library evolved since you first joined SMU/YPHSL? Samantha Since I joined in 2017, SMU Libraries has evolved from focusing on more traditional resources like journals, books, and databases. While these core resources remain vital, the library is also adapting to new research patterns by integrating and educating users about generative AI tools, ensuring students are equipped to use them effectively. Bryan The job is all about ensuring that the SMU Libraries continue to provide value-added services. So that “evolution” comes across in various ways, like developing the internship preparatory workshops for students or more in-depth research support to faculty. What’s one legal resource you believe every law student should know about but many overlook? Samantha Surprisingly, Westlaw is often overlooked because many students prefer Lexis, but it’s packed with valuable resources like journals, commentaries, and great research tools! Getting comfortable with Westlaw can really broaden your research and give you an edge. Bryan Definitely legal encyclopaedias. There is an (understandably) irresistible pull to jump right into the case law, but an overview of the applicable legal principles can lend some clarity to the mind. What’s the most unusual legal research question you’ve helped a student solve this academic year? Samantha I didn’t get any especially unusual questions this year, but a past standout was a request to track down a North Korean law - written in Korean - which was definitely a research challenge. Bryan Not quite as exciting as Samantha’s, but if we are talking about students, the most unusual question I received was to explore human rights to water and trying to find water maps to a particular area. In your opinion, what are the biggest challenges that faculty and students are or will be facing in the near future (including AI) and how does this impact your work? On the flip side, what innovations do you think faculty/students can look forward to for the library? Samantha Many students are used to intuitive search tools, but most legal research databases aren’t as userfriendly yet, so strong digital literacy skills are still essential. This shift means I’ll need to keep developing my own digital skills and learn to use generative AI tools effectively. On the positive side, SMU Libraries is exploring new AI-powered tools that will make research easier and more efficient for everyone. Bryan Integrating AI into our lives seems foremost on everyone’s minds. I would suggest that as we navigate that (and where we recommend AI research tools that are fit for purpose), we also consider how we can ensure that we do not delegate too much of our cognitive functions to AI. We need to hone that curiosity to understanding how things work. What’s your favorite corner or section of the library, and why? Samantha The lounging chairs on the third floor of the law library - the law library is so quiet and also has such a nice view of Fort Canning park! Bryan There is a stretch of seats on level 4 with a great view of Fort Canning Park. Best seats in the house according to students (and even foreign dignitaries). If you could add one innovative feature or service to our law library, what would it be? Samantha I’d love to see more student stress relief initiatives, like therapy animal visits and a game collection, to make the library not just a place for study, but also a welcoming space to relax and recharge. Bryan We are all about user-centred design, so please tell us what features and services you want provided by the Libraries! Samantha Lim Bryan Leow YEARBOOK 2024-2025 31 Alumni Highlights & Achievements Our Donors Academic Programmes Professional & Community Engagements Student Highlights & Achievements
PROFESSIONAL & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENTS Our outreach efforts promote social responsibility and help strengthen the legal community. 32 SHAPING THE FUTURE OF LAW Message From Our Dean Kwa Geok Choo Law Library Our People Our Mission Statement Research
YEARBOOK 2024-2025 33 Alumni Highlights & Achievements Our Donors Academic Programmes Professional & Community Engagements Student Highlights & Achievements
Pro Bono Centre The SMU Pro Bono Centre aims to develop diverse pro bono programmes for Law students to give back to the community, enhance critical legal skills, and develop a strong sense of social responsibility. The 2024 graduating cohort completed a total of 8,259 pro bono hours, an increase of 21 percent from the year before. Highlights of our pro bono projects include: - LPA certifications: Students explain the application process and assist volunteer lawyers to certify a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) for seniors and those who have difficulty accessing legal services. A total of 145 LPAs were completed in 2024. The beneficiaries came from various organisations such as CareElderly@Golden Ginger, SG Assist, TRANS Family Services, SADeaf, Stroke Support Station (S3), and Cornerstone Community Services. - Project Will Writing: Students assist caregivers of persons with special needs to make a will to empower an executor to sell the caregivers’ HDB flat and place the sales proceeds in a trust at the Special Needs Trust Company (SNTC). Students interview the caregivers to take their instructions and thereafter draft the wills which are reviewed by volunteer lawyers before execution. A total of 24 families were assisted with their wills in 2024. - Project Lighthouse: Students assist volunteer lawyers with their pro bono criminal and family cases, learning key skills such as client interview, drafting of documents, legal research and court craft. In 2024, the students handled 27 cases. The PBC Legal Clinic also continues its work. Since 2024, applicants have the option to have legal consultations with the volunteer lawyer via Zoom. In 2024, the clinic served 106 applicants. PROFESSIONAL & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENTS The Amellia Moo Spirit of Pro Bono Hero Award The Amellia Moo Spirit of Pro Bono Hero Award was created through the generous gift of Mr and Mrs Moo Chern Hwa, in loving memory of their beloved daughter, the late Amellia Moo (LLB’23). The award will be presented to our law students who make significant contributions in our pro bono work. We express our heartfelt appreciation to Mr and Mrs Moo for their contribution to the SMU Pro Bono Centre. In so doing, we also celebrate Amellia’s life and memory. She was known not only for her brilliance and dedication to her studies, but for her passion for learning, and deep compassion towards others. She believed that the law should be used to serve the community, and to bring fairness, kindness, and hope. By supporting aspiring law students in their dedicated pro bono efforts, her family hopes that Amellia’s empathy and generosity will continue to touch other lives. 34 SHAPING THE FUTURE OF LAW Message From Our Dean Kwa Geok Choo Law Library Our People Our Mission Statement Research
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