BAC and AIADR Sign Landmark Agreement Offering Mediation Training Course

By Joash Pandita

Meeting the Changing Demands of Legal Professionals

In a move to modernise legal education and create wider opportunities for law students, Brickfields Asia College (BAC) has partnered with the Asian Institute of Alternative Dispute Resolution (AIADR) to introduce a comprehensive Mediation Training Course.

This collaboration represents a major advancement in offering high-quality training in mediation—an increasingly vital skill for both current and future members of the legal profession.

In his keynote, Raja Singham, Managing Director and Chief Future Officer of BAC Education, spoke openly about the lack of progress in legal education, highlighting how little it has changed over the decades. He pointed out that the traditional approach, particularly in mediation studies, has not kept pace with the evolving needs of the industry.

“The study of Law, like the BAR course and exam, has become non-creative and restrictive, limiting entry for individuals from other fields.”

Raja Singham further noted the shortage of specialised lawyers and identified growing areas of demand such as ESG, Mediation, Cybersecurity, and Human Rights Law. He emphasised that BAC is preparing graduates not only for local practice but also for international career opportunities.

The partnership with AIADR will enable students to explore pathways beyond conventional legal roles. Raja also underlined the importance of equipping students with entrepreneurial abilities and embracing AI as a transformative force in law.

“Our graduates are excelling globally, and with this MOU, we hope to give everyone a chance to innovate and excel in various legal fields.”

Expert Views and Insights on ADR

After Raja’s remarks, AIADR President Dato Professor Sundra Rajoo shared his reflections, recalling his own academic journey at BAC, including his studies in Land Law and completion of the Certificate in Legal Practice (CLP). He highlighted the rising importance of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) in today’s legal landscape.

Dato Professor Sundra explained that ADR encompasses both arbitration and mediation, offering alternatives to traditional court proceedings. He also traced the development of arbitration law and emphasised the global movement towards standardised enforcement, citing the New York Convention as a landmark achievement.

“Arbitration is here to stay.”

He highlighted AIADR’s role in filling a critical gap in training and accreditation, especially across Asia and Africa, while also commending the innovative mindset of Malaysians in advancing ADR. Dato Professor Sundra expressed enthusiasm for the partnership with BAC, viewing it as a significant step forward for the legal community.

A Forward-Looking Partnership Driving Innovation

The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between BAC and AIADR reflects a progressive vision for legal education and ADR training. The new Mediation Training Course is designed to produce adaptable legal professionals, equipped to succeed in diverse fields such as privacy law and the application of AI in legal practice.

This initiative demonstrates a commitment to embracing innovation and preparing students for the shifting demands of the legal profession. As the industry undergoes rapid transformation, programmes like this ensure that future lawyers are ready to face challenges and seize opportunities.

With strong leadership and a shared dedication to excellence, BAC and AIADR are set to shape the future of the legal profession in meaningful ways.

The 6-day Mediation Training Course will commence on 23rd August 2024. For further details, you can reach out via email at kalaivani.k@bac.edu.my
or call the ALA Helpline at 03-7947 2249.