In the legal realm, it is often tempting to see higher income or personal profits as the vindication of one’s successful career. However, only a very few professionals have shattered this widespread belief by transcending beyond the bottom line to reshape their community, cities, and even their government with their solution-oriented and client-centric approach. One such illustrious luminary is Ahmad Edham, one of the Founding Partners of Zulpadli & Edham, a notable law firm in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
His transformative impact is best exemplified in the case of the renewal and redevelopment of the damaged and obsolete 4-story flat PKNS at Kampung Kerinchi, Kuala Lumpur. When the government at the time refused to acquire the whole master title without the unanimous consent of all the proprietors involved, Ahmad Edham propelled it to reconsider its decision by efficiently arguing about the ineffectiveness of the policies, the subsequent danger to the residents, and how the public interest outweighs the individual rights.
However, Ahmad Edham is no stranger to such successes. Backed by 28 years of extensive experience in commercial and corporate advisory, he has always efficiently handled global-scaled cases in Kuala Lumpur that were dubbed unfeasible by others. His impactful role as a lead solicitor and advocate in various landmark cases, including the first urban-redevelopment project in Kampung Kerinchi with a GDV of RM2.4 billion, Felda Global Ventures Holdings' (FGV) takeover of Felda Holding Berhad (FHB), and representing a prominent calcium silicate brick producer in Southeast Asia against the government, stand as a testament to his unswerving commitment to excellence.
Currently, Ahmad Edham is advising several new renewal and redevelopment projects of the same scale, among others, Redevelopment of Kampung Sungai Baru Kuala Lumpur with a GDV of RM7 billion, Redevelopment of Flat Taman Rajawali, Cheras with a GDV of RM300 million and Redevelopment of Flat Taman Segar, Cheras with a GDV of RM600 million.
The Root cause
Driven by his genuine passion for the legal domain, which stemmed from his formative years, Ahmad Edham graduated in laws from the Islamic International University of Malaysia and started his career as an advocate and solicitor. “Over the past 28 years, I've sharpened my skills in contract drafting, negotiation, and regulatory compliance, allowing me to navigate complex legal landscapes with confidence and precision. Each challenge presented an opportunity for learning, enabling me to evolve into a more adept legal advisor", emphasizes Ahmad Edham.
To Ahmad Edham, no two cases or clients are the same. But what sets him apart is his ability to listen keenly, understand, and respond to each of their needs, which equips him to strategize and customize his guidance or solutions. He also works closely with the clients and practices open communication, making them aware of the significant developments in the case through regular updates. In addition to transparency and prompt service, he also makes sure that he is accessible to address any concerns throughout the process. He conducts weekly meetings and discussions with every department in his office to facilitate timely yet quality solutions.
What sets Ahmad apart is his ability to listen keenly, understand, & respond to each of his client's needs, which equips him to strategize & customize his guidance or solutions
According to Ahmad Edham, success is contingent on all the hands that make the light work. Instead of rigidity, he leads by example and is actively involved in his team’s day-to-day operations, be it discussing legal issues or recognizing the efforts and concerns of learned partners, lawyers, and legal secretaries in the office. He has created a healthy work environment where all ideas and opinions are acknowledged and valued equally. He also encourages younger employees to contribute to the firm’s growth through their unique solutions to legal issues.
Ahmad Edham’s legal contribution also encompasses his remarkable advisory work with the MYAQSA Foundation, a non-governmental organization, which has empowered the fraternity to reap international recognition for promoting the protection and realization of human rights and fundamental freedoms, particularly towards Palestinian territories. With his guidance, the MYAQSA Foundation successfully compiled and filed a comprehensive dossier of evidence and significant information and was also invited as the amicus curiae at the International Criminal Court (ICC) concerning the war crimes committed against the Palestinians in Gaza, West Bank and East of Jerusalem.
Moving Forward
With such accomplishments in his repository, Ahmad Edham has grown to be one of the most formidable names in Malaysia, distinguished by his broader dedication to its advancement, and seeks to continue elevating the legal landscape. With his focus on global-level urban renewal and redevelopment projects, he wants to be a part of solicitors’ and drafting committees that uphold the government’s endeavor to draft the urban redevelopment act for employing optimal mechanisms to redevelop Malaysian cities and towns. “I recognize that the path to success in the legal profession is not without its challenges. But, with dedication, determination, passion, proactivity, and adaptability as the guiding principles, I am confident in my ability to remain at the forefront of legal excellence and continue making a positive impact in the field of corporate law", concludes Ahmad Edham.
.jpg "Technology in Cancer Care: A story of evolving paradigms")
.jpg "Bringing Shop Floor to Manufacturer's palm: Smart Factory Solutions for tomorrow")
