In Maxx Engineering v PQ Builders Pte Ltd [2023] SGHC 71, the General Division of the High Court of Singapore (“High Court”) dealt with the issue of whether a party can be compelled, through the remedy of specific performance, to refer a dispute to mediation in accordance with their contractual obligations.
Mr Yeong Zee Kin appointed as new SAL Chief Executive. Mr Yeong is an internationally recognised expert in AI ethics and data privacy issues. Through his work with the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA), he has helped position Singapore as a thought leader in Responsible AI by developing forward-thinking governance to support industry adoption of AI. He has also developed PDPC’s global reputation as a thought leader in data-driven technology policies and as an engaged regulator that supports innovation. His experience as a Technology, Media and Telecommunications lawyer spans both the private and public sectors. He has spoken and published in areas relating to technology regulation, data protection, electronic discovery and evidence, and intellectual property, as well as legal issues relating to Blockchain and AI deployment.
He commenced his career as a Deputy Public Prosecutor and State Counsel with the Attorney-General’s Chambers and was formerly a partner in Rajah & Tann LLP’s iTec (intellectual property, technology, entertainment, and communications) practice group. Prior to taking up his current appointment at IMDA, he was Senior State Counsel and Director of Technology Law in the Civil Division of AGC and was also legal advisor to the Smart Nation Programme Office and the Cyber Security Agency. Before that, he was Senior Assistant Registrar and CIO of the Supreme Court, during which time he worked tirelessly to keep Singapore at the forefront of court technology.
Mr Yeong is not unfamiliar with SAL. Between 2003 and 2005, he was seconded from AGC to SAL where he headed the LawNet Secretariat and managed the research portal’s operations. He was appointed to the SAL Senate in 2017 and has served on various SAL committees, including the TechLaw.Fest Steering Committee, the LawNet Management Committee and the IT Security Steering Committee. Mr Yeong was awarded The Public Service Medal (COVID-19) in 2022 and The Public Service Medal in 2017 in recognition of his contributions to SAL. SMC welcomes back Mr Yeong to the SAL family!
The opening address of the Legal Year 2023, delivered by Chief Justice Sundaresh Menon.
Mr Edwin Tong SC addressed the issues and share his perspectives on the past, present and future of mediation for Singapore. He shared on Singapore’s role in growing mediation locally and globally, reviewed Singapore’s present achievements in the international dispute resolution space, and provided suggestions on how the government, bench, bar, businesses and academia can work together to harness the benefits of the Convention and mediation.
“On tiptoes through the minefield: cultural dimensions of mediation”, presented by Ms Joanna Kalowsi at the seventh Singapore Mediation Lecture.
“Embracing a Mediation Culture: How Your Company Benefits”, delivered by Dr iur Hans Peter Frick, former Chief Legal Officer of Nestlé SA.
“The Mediation Imperative: Why Successful Companies Cannot Afford to Ignore Mediation”, delivered by Mr Brad A Berenson, on behalf of Mr Brackett B Denniston III, General Electric Company.
The Rt Hon the Lord Woolf, former Chief Justice of England and Wales, explains the benefits of using mediation.