What is your academic and professional background?
I hold a Degree in Law (LL.B) (Hons) and a Master of Criminal Justice (MCJ) from the University of Malaya, Malaysia. I currently serve as a Deputy Registrar at the Chief Registrar’s Office, Federal Court of Malaysia.
Over 15 years in public service, I have served as a Magistrate and Senior Assistant Registrar. My work now focuses on supporting judicial processes, policy development, and regulatory reform. I am also involved in initiatives to enhance access to justice, including projects on mobile courts for children.
Why did you choose to participate in the AI, Legal Tech and Operations summer program?
I chose this program after receiving a scholarship from Yayasan Khazanah and full support from my office, as it aligns perfectly with my goal of exploring the intersection between law and technology beyond Malaysia’s framework.
As someone working within the justice system, I see great potential for AI and legal tech to improve access to justice, efficiency, and transparency. Bucerius provides a world-class platform to learn from global experts and exchange ideas with peers worldwide.
How did the Berlin Study Trip contribute to the learning experience in the program?
The Berlin Study Trip added real-world context to what we learned in class. Visiting tech startups, innovation hubs, and law firms gave me insight into how legal tech is practically implemented in Europe. It helped bridge the gap between theory and practice and showed how innovation can be scaled across different legal systems.
You participated in the first summer program hackathon this year. Can you tell us about the experience?
The hackathon was one of the most unique features of the program—something I had never experienced before. It pushed my team to collaborate under time pressure, think creatively, and apply the tools we had learned. Our project focused on streamlining compliance for SMEs in the construction industry. It was fast-paced, fun, and deeply enriching.
How was studying in such a diverse group beneficial to the learning experience?
Studying alongside participants from different legal traditions and cultures was eye-opening. As this was my first time in Europe, exchanging perspectives on how jurisdictions address similar legal and technological challenges broadened my understanding of global systems and encouraged me to think beyond a single national framework.
What new knowledge are you going to put into practice?
I plan to apply knowledge on document automation, legal operations, and AI ethics to ongoing modernization initiatives in the Malaysian judiciary. The insights I gained about integrating technology into legal workflows will support our push for digital transformation, especially in regulatory compliance and public legal services.
What is the most interesting thing you learned academically and personally during the summer program?
Academically, learning about the lifecycle of legal tech implementation—from idea to execution—was incredibly useful. Personally, I discovered the value of collaboration in cross-disciplinary teams. The friendships and networks we built through LinkedIn and WhatsApp were just as meaningful as the academic content.
Who would you recommend the program to?
I would recommend this program to law students, early-career professionals, and anyone interested in transforming the legal field through technology. It is especially valuable for those in private practice, law firms, or startups seeking to future-proof their careers.
How did Hamburg compare to your home town in Malaysia? Is there anything that you found particularly interesting?
Hamburg is beautifully organized, with excellent public transport and a calm urban atmosphere. As I live in Putrajaya, Malaysia’s federal administrative capital, which also has a lake, Hamburg felt serene, efficient, and familiar. I especially enjoyed the blend of historic architecture with modern innovation.
Is there anything else you would like to share with future international students at Bucerius?
Come with an open mind and embrace everything the program and the city have to offer. I truly enjoyed every moment of my three weeks there. Bucerius creates a unique environment that combines academic rigor with real-world innovation while fostering meaningful global friendships.
Zuhair, thank you for the interview.
