Mr Muhammad Valantino

A Modern Litigator Rooted in Tradition

Mr Muhammad Valantino graduated with a Bachelor of Laws (Honours) from the University of Malaya in 2015 and was called to the Malaysian Bar the following year. His academic background from the country's oldest law faculty gave him a solid grounding in constitutional law and public law principles, areas that continue to feature prominently in his practice today. Since joining Messrs S.K. Song, he has established himself as a capable advocate with a particular interest in constitutional challenges, defamation claims, and corporate disputes.

Constitutional & Administrative Law

Muhammad's exposure to constitutional law began at the University of Malaya, where the subject is taught with a rigour that reflects Malaysia's complex legal framework. He brings that depth of understanding to his work at the firm, where he advises on judicial review applications against public authorities and government decisions. Whether it is a challenge to a decision by a local council, a licensing authority, or an administrative body, Muhammad is well-versed in the procedural and substantive requirements of Order 53 of the Rules of Court 2012. He keeps current with developments in public law, including decisions of the Federal Court on the scope of judicial review and the doctrine of legitimate expectation.

Defamation

Defamation law in Malaysia sits at the intersection of the common law tradition and the Defamation Act 1952. Muhammad acts for both plaintiffs and defendants in defamation suits, a practice area that has grown busier with the proliferation of social media and online platforms. He understands that reputation is invaluable, and he moves quickly to obtain interim injunctions where necessary to restrain further publication of defamatory material. On the defence side, he advises on the full range of defences available, including justification, fair comment, and qualified privilege. He has also assisted clients in negotiating published apologies and retractions as an alternative to protracted litigation.

Corporate & Commercial Disputes

Muhammad also handles corporate and commercial disputes, working alongside the firm's more senior practitioners on complex matters. He has been involved in cases concerning shareholders' rights, breach of directors' duties, and disputes arising from joint venture agreements. His analytical skills, sharpened during his time at law school and through his pupillage, allow him to dissect voluminous documentary evidence and identify the issues that will sway a judge. He prepares his cases methodically, and he is not afraid to challenge conventional wisdom when the facts support a different approach.

Despite being among the younger members of the team, Muhammad carries himself with a maturity that belies his years of practice. He is fluent in Bahasa Malaysia and English, which is an asset when dealing with court proceedings and clients from diverse backgrounds. His energy and willingness to take on difficult cases have made him a valuable addition to Messrs S.K. Song, and the firm's senior partners see in him the potential for a long and distinguished career at the Bar.