CEO Insights Magazine

Several remarkable leaders have emerged from the esteemed National University of Singapore (NUS). These leaders, driven by their passion and armed with the knowledge imparted by their alma mater, have etched their names in the records of success across diverse industries. One such exceptional trailblazer is Turangga Harlin, a legal maven and the Managing Partner of Macallo Harlin Mendrofa Advocates. He set foot in the realm of professional excellence as a dispute lawyer in the year 2006. For a decade, he honed his skills while working with renowned firms, including a prestigious member firm of Baker & McKenzie International in Indonesia. Turangga's relentless pursuit of excellence and unwavering dedication propelled him towards an audacious dream—establishing his own firm.

In 2016, armed with a vision to redefine the legal landscape, he fearlessly embarked on a path less traveled. At the age of just 31, he founded Macallo Harlin Advocates. The firm's humble beginnings consisted of merely two dispute partners, no associates, and a lone employee. Little did the world know that this would be the catalyst for an extraordinary transformation. In early 2020, the firm merged with Mendroflaw Advocates to form Macallo Harlin Mendrofa Advocates.

Today, Macallo Harlin Mendrofa Advocates stands tall as a comprehensive legal powerhouse, equipped to handle an array of complex matters. With four accomplished partners, two seasoned counsels, and a team of more than a dozen proficient associates, Macallo Harlin Mendrofa Advocates has seamlessly transitioned from a boutique dispute firm into a dynamic, full-service legal powerhouse. The firm's expertise spans litigation, arbitration, corporate law, and transactional matters, catering to the diverse needs of its esteemed clientele. Here is CEO Insights Asia’s interview with him.

How would you describe your academic experience from the university?

My academic experiences have played a significant role in shaping my professional journey. Particularly, as I have had the opportunity to work with clients from common law jurisdictions, the lessons I learned during my time at the National University of Singapore have proven invaluable in effectively serving these clients.

Highlight some accolades that shows Macallo Harlin Mendrofa Advocates’ position in the legal services industry.

Our presence in the legal landscape has not gone unnoticed, as we have garnered recognition from reputable legal directories and publications. In the prestigious Benchmark Litigation Asia-Pacific 2023, I was acknowledged as a 'Future Star' in commercial and transactions. Additionally, Kenny Macallo, another esteemed member of our team, has been recognized as a 'Litigation Star' in labor and employment. In the Benchmark Litigation Asia-Pacific 2023, we have secured a notable 'Tier 4' ranking for Commercial and Transactions, showcasing our proficiency in this area. Similarly, our firm has achieved a 'Tier 3' ranking for Labor and Employment, further attesting to our expertise in handling such cases.

Furthermore, our outstanding team members have received individual accolades for their exceptional work. Bima Sarumpaet has been recognized as a 'Band 1 (Real Estate)' professional by Chambers Asia Pacific 2023 and has been listed as a leading individual in the 2023, 2022, and 2021 Legal 500 for real estate. Our continuous pursuit of excellence has also been acknowledged by Hukumonline, Asian Legal Business, and the Legal500. These accolades include the firm being named as one of the 'Top 100 Indonesian Law Firms 2022' by Hukumonline and myself was recognized as an 'Indonesia Rising Star' by Asian Legal Business in 2021. Moreover, our talented team members, such as Brian Manuel, have been acknowledged as Next Generation Partners by the Legal500 in 2021.

As the Managing Partner, what factors do you consider when shaping long-term business goals?

When shaping our long-term business goals, our primary focus is on fostering growth in various aspects of our firm. One key factor is the expansion of our partner network by bringing in professionals from diverse practice areas. This strategic approach allows us to offer a wider range of services to our clients, catering to their diverse legal needs. Additionally, we place great emphasis on grooming our junior lawyers, nurturing them to become future leaders of our firm. By investing in their professional development, we ensure a strong and sustainable foundation for our firm's continued success.

"We aspire to become one of the foremost learning organizations, fostering a culture of continuous growth and development within our firm"

Where do you see yourself headed in the upcoming years? What is your future roadmap?

Looking ahead, our vision is to steer our firm towards becoming a fully comprehensive and leading organization in our industry. Together with our partners, associates, and supporting staff members, we are committed to further expanding our capabilities, transforming into a full-service firm capable of meeting our clients' evolving needs. Simultaneously, we aspire to become one of the foremost learning organizations, fostering a culture of continuous growth and development within our firm. Through these collective efforts, we aim to solidify our position as a trusted and reputable institution in the legal services landscape.

What are your anticipations for the future outlook of the market, and what advice would you give to budding leaders in this industry?

To the best of our understanding, the competition in the Legal industry is and will continue to be increasingly Fierce in terms of price because in recent years, clients Have been anxious and concerned about their legal Costs, and even they expect more for less. In this regard, We always believe and will keep ensuring that the value Of our service exceeds the cost charged to our clients, a Matter confirmed by our clients. As to my view on becoming an effective leader, I Believe in the old recipe, such as being humble, building Trust, setting an example, encouraging communication (feedback and reward), and last but not least, keep Learning.