Reflections from Nasi Lemak Talk on Hong Kong’s Future and Legal Landscape
We are deeply honoured to have the opportunity to hear insights from Cheng Huan S.C., a distinguished senior counsel, at the Nasi Lemak Talk titled Navigating New Realities – Hong Kong’s Future and Legal Landscape on 2 June 2025, organised by the Malaysian Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong. Born in Teluk Intan, Malaysia, approximately 50 miles from Ipoh, he is a founding member of the Malaysian Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong.
Cheng introduced the foundation of Hong Kong’s legal system, referencing the renowned statement by Lord Denning, ‘the common law cannot stand still [but] must be capable of development on a case-by-case basis; to ensure that the principles of the common law are apt to do practical justice in a living society’.
In a robust and engaging discussion with distinguished guests—including Malaysian entrepreneurs Dato Lawrence Liu Meng Fah and Cheah Cheng Hye, former government official Regina Ip, respected politician Priscilla Leung, renowned legal scholars and senior counsels—Cheng Huan S.C. explored the intricate relationship between law, democracy, and governance with reference to the Hong Kong Basic Law. We have gained thought-provoking and meaningful perspectives on the historical context of the drafting of the Hong Kong Basic Law during the return of sovereignty in 1997, the continual support and reassurances from Chinese authorities and the envisioned future trajectory of Hong Kong’s governance and legal development. The exchange of ideas underscored the critical role of Hong Kong’s legal system in ensuring social stability and sustaining a flourishing business environment.
Cheng Huang S.C. also expressed his opinion regarding the roles of both local and foreign judges in Hong Kong. He reaffirmed that Hong Kong maintains a highly sophisticated and internationally respected legal system, which has been instrumental in establishing the city as a leading global hub for arbitration and international mediation. Notably, the 2025 QMUL International Arbitration Survey conducted by Queen Mary University of London’s School of International Arbitration has recognised Hong Kong as the most preferred arbitral seat in the Asia Pacific region and among the top five most preferred seats globally.
We believe Hong Kong’s legal framework continues to serve as a cornerstone for economic growth, allowing the city to capitalise on its distinctive positioning as the strategic super connector between international markets, ASEAN economies, and Mainland China. By leveraging its unique position as the only jurisdiction within Mainland China practising common law, Hong Kong continues to serve as a critical bridge between international legal standards and regional economic interests, reinforcing its role in facilitating cross-border and commercial legal proceedings and arbitration.
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