The future of the legal profession took centre stage at the Commonwealth Legal Education Association (CLEA) Biennial Conference 2026, themed Lawyering 2030, held from the 2nd–3rd April 2026 at Universiti Malaya and the Shangri-La Hotel. Bringing together leading legal minds, academics, and aspiring lawyers from across jurisdictions, the conference offered an inspiring platform to explore how law must evolve in an increasingly technology-driven world.

Representing Brickfields Asia College (BAC), five members of the BAC Law Society participated as delegates, immersing themselves in thought-provoking discussions, high-level plenaries, and meaningful networking opportunities.

Distinguished speakers, including YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar bin Ibrahim (Prime Minister of Malaysia), Tan Sri Datuk Zainun Ali (Pro-Chancellor of Universiti Malaya and Consultant of CLEA), Tan Sri Datuk Nallini Pathmanathan (Patron of CLEA), Mr Raja Singham (Managing Director and Chief Future Officer of BAC Education Group), and Mr Tushar Mehta (Learned Solicitor General of India), joined national leaders, senior judges, and global legal experts in setting a compelling tone for the event.

Their powerful insights explored the evolving landscape of legal education and practice, highlighting both innovation and tradition. Discussions ranged from the integration of artificial intelligence in legal research and decision-making to the enduring importance of critical reasoning, advocacy skills, and professional integrity. Altogether, these sessions inspired and challenged students to reflect deeply on their responsibilities as future lawyers in a rapidly transforming profession.

Beyond the lecture halls, the experience came alive through mooting sessions, where participants witnessed advocacy in action, and through dynamic networking opportunities with legal professionals and fellow students from Malaysia and abroad. These interactions not only broadened perspectives but also fostered connections that may shape future careers.

A highlight for many was the conference’s gala night, an evening that celebrated both intellectual exchange and community spirit. It offered a memorable close to two days of learning, connection, and inspiration.  The impact of the conference on BAC Law Society members was profound. Students returned with a heightened awareness of emerging legal trends, a stronger appreciation for the balance between technology and tradition, and renewed motivation to excel in their legal journeys. The exposure to real-world discourse and professional environments instilled confidence and encouraged adaptability, qualities essential for the lawyers of tomorrow.

Participants reflected on the experience with gratitude and enthusiasm. Many described it as eye-opening, particularly in understanding the depth of preparation and skill required in advocacy, as well as the importance of building professional networks early in their careers. For some, it was their first exposure to an international legal conference—an experience that left a lasting impression and a desire to engage further with the global legal community.

I am truly grateful for the opportunity to attend Lawyering 2030 CLEA as a delegate. It was my first time participating in an event involving legal professionals, and I was genuinely excited to be part of such an experience. I had the chance to network with senior lawyers, exchange valuable advice, and even connect with them for future opportunities. I also got to connect with students from UM and Australia, where we shared insights about our studies and experiences. Additionally, I gained new knowledge about the legal profession and updates on current laws. I was also amazed watching the mooting sessions, seeing how both the judges and students conducted themselves so professionally and confidently. Despite only being able to attend the second day due to limited slots, I still thoroughly enjoyed and appreciated every moment of it. One of my favourite highlights was definitely the gala night!! The food was amazing, and I loved watching the performances, especially Mr Raja Singham singing and dancing. I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to BAC Management for their unwavering support throughout this journey, including sponsoring our registration fees and continuously encouraging us. Their support truly made this experience even more meaningful. Given the opportunity, I would gladly participate again, and I am deeply thankful for this memorable experience.

-Danisha Izzaty Binti Mohd Khairul Anuar, UKT Y2

I am truly grateful for the opportunity to represent BAC at the CLEA Lawyering 2030 event. It was an eye-opening experience that allowed me to gain valuable insight into the perspectives of both lawyers and judges, while also allowing me to observe the mooting competition up close. It was an incredible experience that gave me a deeper understanding and appreciation for the preparation, strategy, and skill involved in advocacy. Beyond the academic experience, the event created meaningful opportunities to connect and network with legal professionals from various firms and fellow law students from UM. The conversations and shared experience made the event even more intellectually stimulating and enjoyable. I would like to express my sincere appreciation to BAC’s management for their continuous support and encouragement. By facilitating our participation and covering the registration fees, they made this invaluable experience possible. Their commitment to nurturing students’ growth and exposure to the legal profession made this journey especially memorable.

-Adeena Natasya, UKT Y2

I’m immensely grateful for the opportunity to represent the BAC Law Society in attending the CLEA Conference. For a first year student like me, it has been an eye-opening experience for me, as I’ve never attended a conference of this scale. I had the chance to network with lawyers, judges and also students from around the world. Thanks to Mr Raja Singham who gave us the chance to attend this conference, I was able to experience a conference full of discussions about our future as lawyers. It meant a lot to me and if I had another chance, I would definitely go for it again. 

-Erica Chu Zi Ying, UKT Y1

BAC Law Society is grateful for the opportunity to be part of such a meaningful conference and look forward to continuing to provide our members with platforms that prepare them for the future of law. We would like to extend our appreciation to Brickfield’s Asia College for this wonderful exposure to meet new people from different backgrounds as well as gaining a fresh perspective overall.  As the legal profession stands on the brink of transformation, experiences like Lawyering 2030 serve as a powerful reminder: the future of law is not just about adapting to change—but about leading it. BAC LAW Society looks forward to more adventures like this to come!

By Jane Dava