CEO Insights Magazine

The legal field has long been associated with championing political and human rights causes, but it also plays a crucial role in driving economic growth and prosperity. The realms of law and economics are interconnected and mutually supportive, with each influencing and relying on the other for harmonious societal development. Through advocacy efforts, individuals can shed light on their viewpoints to a broader audience and serve as agents of transformative progress. Yudistra Darma Dorai, an Advocate & Solicitor at Raj, Ong &Yudistra Advocates & Solicitors, stands as an unrivalled preference in the world of legal practitioners, acknowledged for unparalleled excellence and expertise. Renowned for their commitment to serving society through their legal expertise, they are making significant positive impacts on the community. During our interview, Yudistra Darma Dorai shares insights into his work.

Share with us your journey of embarking on a legal career and the driving force behind your unwavering determination.

I co-founded Raj, Ong &Yudistra, a law firm based in Kuala Lumpur in 2011. Prior to entering the legal profession, I embarked on a period of exploration - travelling extensively and working in various odd jobs across 3 continents.

Describe Raj, Ong &Yudistra Advocates & Solicitors and the positive outcomes achieved through their services.

We are a mid-sized firm comprising of 10 lawyers and a dedicated support team. Our focus lies primarily in litigation, with one corporate advisory unit. While we may not be the largest firm in Malaysia, we have earned a respectable reputation (or, so I would like to think). Notably, we represent some prominent clients. We act for a former Prime Minister. We act in what is probably the biggest succession dispute in Malaysia currently. We have made laws in some landmark cases. We adopt a practical and result-oriented approach. We try to resolve matters outside of court whenever possible, and if litigation becomes necessary, then our battle-hardened selves come into play. We also try to be bold, and sometimes experimental in our approach to litigation. We try to push the boundaries to get the results.

How would you define your leadership style and what principles have contributed to your success thus far?

Grow your team. I try to empower my colleagues to surpass my own abilities and excel. I love it when my juniors teach me something! And, this happens quite a lot. I’m also proud of how my juniors have not just grown with our firm; but how some have gone on to set up their own firms. Seeing this is one of the lesser-known joys of running a law firm. We still work with all our alumni who have set up on their own.

How do you stay updated with industry trends and steer your organization towards its objectives?

We made significant investments in advanced (and expensive!) IT systems specifically designed for legal support. I recognize the significance of personal growth beyond legal expertise. I try to expand my knowledge and understanding. Attending various courses and seminars, particularly those focused on dynamic areas like the evolving regulations of the Kuala Lumpur Stock Exchange, enables me to adapt and stay informed in this ever-evolving landscape. It is important to learn about the industries you serve.

What were the primary obstacles you faced when initially establishing yourself as a successful leader in the legal field, and how did you overcome them?

In Malaysia, where advertising for lawyers is prohibited, it became important for us to distinguish ourselves through good work and going above and beyond for our clients. We try to provide not only effective representation in court but also comprehensive advice to prevent future issues. It was difficult at the beginning to create a presence in the industry in comparison to other older firms.

What are your aspirations and plans for the upcoming years? What direction do you envision yourself moving towards in the future?

In the coming years, I want to focus more on company disputes. Further, I would like to invest significant effort and resources into growing and honing my team, equipping them with the expertise to handle complex and challenging legal issues that arise within the realm of company law. To achieve this, I plan to develop a roadmap that includes targeted training programs, workshops, and knowledge-sharing sessions within the team. By fostering a learning environment and providing continuous professional development opportunities, I aim to nurture the skills and capabilities of my team members, enabling them to become leading experts in the field of company law disputes. Furthermore, I intend to foster strategic collaborations and partnerships with industry professionals, legal experts, and organizations specializing in company law. By leveraging these networks, I can stay abreast of the latest developments and best practices in the field, ensuring that my team remains at the forefront of industry trends and regulatory changes.

Yudistra Darma Dorai, Advocate & Solicitor, Raj, Ong & Yudistra Advocates & Solicitors

Yudistra Darma Dorai appears to have a narrow focus on the legal profession and courtroom proceedings. Having a wealth of expertise and a deep understanding of the legal industry, Yudistra Darma has acquired significant experience by representing notable individuals during his career trajectory.