KUALA LUMPUR: Veteran lawyer Chew Swee Yoke, who was instrumental in advancing legal aid in Malaysia and represented Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in proceedings stemming from his infamous black-eye incident, has passed away at 81.
Chew died on Aug 20, her daughter, celebrity chef and Bistro à Table owner Isadora Chai, announced in an Instagram post on Saturday (Aug 22).
Her five-decade legal career saw her take on several high-profile and sensitive cases, earning her a reputation as a respected advocate.
Among them was the legal proceedings arising from the black-eye incident involving Anwar while he was in custody, in which Chew was part of his legal team.
She also represented villagers from Kampung Bumi Hijau in their efforts to obtain a settlement over their land.
Born on Jan 26, 1945, Chew attended Victoria Institution before qualifying through Lincoln's Inn. She was admitted to the Malaysian Bar in 1970.
She started her legal career in the 1970s under the mentorship of renowned lawyer and statesman David Marshall.
The experience helped shape Chew into an independent and tenacious advocate.
Her contribution to legal aid was particularly significant. In 1982, she set up Kuala Lumpur's first Legal Aid Centre and was appointed the inaugural chairman of the Bar Council Legal Aid Committee.
Chew was known for her thorough preparation, commanding courtroom presence and dedication to her clients.
Outside legal practice, she was described as stoic and had a deep admiration for Marcus Aurelius' Meditations, particularly its emphasis on discipline, resilience and self-control.
Isadora described Chew as a "trailblazing lawyer" and Marshall's protege, while also remembering her as a respected mentor and employer.
She invited family and friends to attend Chew's funeral service at 9.30am on Monday (Aug 24) at the Petaling Jaya City Council.
Chew leaves behind her daughters Lesley Chan, Isadora Chai and Lydia Chai, as well as sons-in-law Iskandar Razak and Tahi Moore.
Her contribution to Malaysia's legal landscape extended beyond the high-profile cases she handled, with her pioneering work in legal aid leaving a lasting impact on the profession and generations of lawyers.
