Construction disputes need counsel who reads the programme, not just the pleadings.

We advise on the main standard forms used on Malaysian projects — PAM 2018 (with and without quantities), PWD 203A and 203N, FIDIC Red and Yellow Books, and bespoke main contracts and sub-contracts. We also advise on consultancy appointments, novation agreements, bonds, and bank guarantees that sit alongside the main contract.

Under CIPAA 2012, the adjudicator has 45 working days from delivery of the adjudication response to deliver a decision, extendable to 60 working days by consent. In practice, from service of the payment claim to a final decision is typically three to five months, depending on the complexity of the matter and whether extensions are agreed. We share an internal schedule with all clients at the outset so the timetable is clear.

Yes. CIPAA applies to construction contracts generally, including sub-contracts between main contractors and sub-contractors, so long as the construction contract is in writing and relates to construction work carried out in Malaysia. Sub-contractors are among the most frequent users of adjudication under the Act for exactly this reason.

The most useful materials are the signed contract, the project programme (baseline and any revisions), site progress records or daily diaries, correspondence on extension of time, variation orders, and any payment certificates. Even partial records are workable — a first discussion is about understanding what is available, not presenting a complete bundle. We can advise on what additional records to preserve or compile from that point.

Adjudication under CIPAA is a statutory, temporary binding process designed for speed — particularly for payment disputes. The decision is enforceable but can be revised in a subsequent arbitration or court proceeding. Arbitration is a final and binding process with fuller procedural rights, better suited to large or complex claims including delay, global claims, or defect matters where a complete record needs to be examined. We can advise on which route is appropriate for your matter at an early stage.

For CIPAA adjudication, we offer a matter fee covering the full proceeding from instructions to decision, with a clear scope set at the outset. For arbitration and court proceedings, fees are staged — a merits review and preliminary stage, followed by interlocutory work, hearing preparation, and hearing itself. Each stage is invoiced separately so costs are visible at each decision point. A detailed fee proposal is provided before any engagement begins.