PETALING JAYA: Former Malaysian Bar president Manjeet Singh Dhillon has passed away on Monday (Oct 28), aged 82.
Lawyer Datuk Dr Baljit Singh Sidhu said that the veteran lawyer died at his home in Bukit Damansara early today.
"Senior lawyer Manjeet passed away this morning. Sad news,” he said in a WhatsApp message.
Manjeet was involved in numerous notable legal cases including the murder of cosmetics millionaire Datuk Sosilawati Lawiya and her three aides, committed 14 years ago.
Amer Hamzah Arshad, who was a co-counsel in the Sosilawati murder case, told The Star that he was fortunate to have had the opportunity to work closely with Manjeet.
Describing Manjeet as a good friend, a mentor and an outstanding criminal lawyer, Amer said Manjeet would not hesitate to share his wisdom and experience to other legal eagles.
"The first time I heard the name of Manjeet Singh Dhillon was when I was a pupil. That was more than 25 years ago.
"My former pupil-Master would encourage me to see Manjeet in action if I had the opportunity as he was skilled in cross-examination.
"His knowledge of the criminal law was impressive. We would have hours of discussions over legal issues. His concise and sharp cross-examination skill was something that would put fear in the hearts of the witnesses. He was the real epitome of a counsel who acted without fear or favour in the criminal courts.
"He will be missed and his death is a real loss to the legal profession, especially to the criminal bar. On a personal level, I've lost a mentor," Amer said.
Manjeet was also political analyst Abdul Razak Baginda’s counsel in the civil case filed by the family of Altantuya Shaariibuu, the Mongolian model who was murdered in 2006.
Lawyer Sangeet Kaur Deo, who was on Manjeet's opposing end by representing Altantuya's family in the lawsuit, said that Manjeet was a distinguished lawyer renowned for his skillful cross-examination during his career.
"I am saddened to hear of his passing today. His contributions to the legal profession were significant, and his loss is felt by all who had the privilege to know and work with him. May his soul rest in peace," she said when contacted.
Manjeet served as Bar president from 1991 to 1992 and was also a past president of the Royal Lake Club.
