In this week’s ALB Insights, we find out why international firms have been hesitant to get Malaysia’s Qualified Foreign Law Firm (QFLF) licence, first introduced two years ago. We also speak to Nishimura & Asahi’s new global development director about the firm's ambitions outside Japan, and we look into the rise of Howse Williams Bowers – Hong Kong’s second-biggest local law firm by lawyer count.

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International firms still lukewarm to Malaysia's QFLF despite ‘smooth’ process

Herbert Smith Freehills recently opened its office in Kuala Lumpur after receiving its Qualified Foreign Law Firm (QFLF) licence from Bar Council of Malaysia, becoming only the second known foreign law firm to do so after Trowers & Hamlins in 2015. Raj Gunashekar talks to both HSF and Trowers about the process and the reluctance of international law firms in taking that option 

Japan’s Nishimura & Asahi: On a journey for global recognition

Nishimura & Asahi is Japan’s largest law firm, operating 14 offices, including 10 abroad. Timothy Jeffares, who joined the firm as global development director last month, tells John Kang about N&A’s international strategy and how it plans to go about it 

HWB: From breakaway fledgling to rising star

Hong Kong-based Howse Williams Bowers has been on a meteoric rise since its founding just five years ago. After building a solid base by hiring nearly 20 partners, the firm is now looking to promote from within, reports John Kang