The Malaysian Bar is cognisant of the rationale and purpose in implementing the movement control order (MCO), and commends the government on taking firm and decisive steps in combating the spread of Covid-19. However, as we draw to the end of the third phase and enter the fourth phase of the MCO, our economy and systems of national commerce are being pushed to the limit. It has been recognised that the unprecedented challenges and economic and financial devastation wrought by Covid-19 will continue to cast a shadow on our nation for the foreseeable future.
As the regulator for the legal profession, the Malaysian Bar wishes to point out that the legal services industry plays an important role within the Malaysian economic and legal ecosystem, supporting sectors that constitute essential services. Law firms are directly involved in facilitating foreign direct investments, domestic trade and banking and commercial matters, all of which contribute to the nation’s GDP. Lawyers and law firms must be recognised as suppliers that enable the delivery of essential services.