Service Overview
At KC Lim & Partners, we specialize in a wide spectrum of criminal and regulatory legal matters. Our firm is dedicated to protecting the rights of individuals and corporations facing legal challenges across various domains. With offices in Kulai, Johor and Mont Kiara, Kuala Lumpur, we provide accessible legal representation throughout Malaysia.
Our areas of practice include, but are not limited to:
- Anti-Money Laundering (AMLA)
- White and Blue Collar Crimes
- Drug and Firearms Offences
- Human Trafficking and Immigration Cases
- Environmental and Statutory Offences
- Fraud, Corruption, and Securities Market Violations
- Kidnapping, Maritime, and Piracy-related Cases
- Murder, Terrorism, and Preventive Detentions
- Criminal Advisory and Defense Work
- Matters involving POCA, SOSMA, POTA, LLPK, SC, and MACC investigations
With branches in Kulai, Johor and Mont Kiara, Kuala Lumpur, we are strategically positioned to offer responsive and effective legal counsel across the region. Our team is committed to delivering strategic representation, ensuring due process, and safeguarding your legal rights at every stage. Contact us today to discuss your legal needs or learn more about our firm's approach to criminal defense.
Evaluate & Improvement
At KC Lim & Partners, we believe in continuous improvement to ensure the highest standard of legal service. Our commitment goes beyond representation — we assess, refine, and enhance every aspect of our practice to meet the evolving needs of our clients.
Key focus areas include:
- Strategic review and improvement of legal case handling
- Streamlined internal workflows and reporting accuracy
- Secure, role-based management of sensitive client information
- Scalable operations to meet increasing case volume
- Multilingual support to serve clients from diverse backgrounds
We embrace feedback, uphold strict ethical standards, and use insights from every case to strengthen future outcomes.
The Final Result
Every case we handle is guided by our core principles: precision, integrity, and dedication. At KC Lim & Partners, success is measured not just by verdicts, but by the trust and peace of mind we deliver to our clients.
From complex criminal defense to advisory and regulatory compliance, our results speak through:
- Positive case resolutions
- Timely, strategic legal advice
- Transparent communication throughout the process
- A trusted partnership built on results and reputation
We don't just close cases — we build lasting client confidence through consistent excellence. Ready to get started? Contact our team or explore our specific expertise in white collar crimes, anti-corruption matters, and drug-related offenses.
Serious & Violent Crimes
At KC Lim & Partners, we provide strong and strategic legal defense for clients charged with serious and violent criminal offences in Malaysia. These cases often carry severe penalties, including life imprisonment and capital punishment. We handle each case with utmost diligence, confidentiality, and urgency.
We represent clients at all stages — from arrest, remand, bail application, trial, to appeals — ensuring compliance with all rights protected under the Federal Constitution of Malaysia and Criminal Procedure Code.
Murder (Seksyen 302 Kanun Keseksaan)
Legal Reference:
Section 302 of the Penal Code (Kanun Keseksaan)
Offence Overview:
Murder is defined as intentionally causing the death of another person. It is one of the most serious criminal offences under Malaysian law.
Penalties:
- Death penalty (mandatory upon conviction unless otherwise specified by court)
- No bail unless special circumstances
How We Help:
- Representation during remand and bail objections
- Legal defense strategy development
- Trial defense, forensic expert coordination
- Appeals and mitigation during sentencing
Firearms Offences (Akta Senjata Api 1971)
Legal Reference:
Firearms (Increased Penalties) Act 1971
Arms Act 1960
Offence Overview:
Possession, discharge, trafficking, or use of firearms without lawful authority is a serious crime and often results in mandatory capital punishment if committed during robbery or kidnapping.
Penalties:
- Death sentence if firearm is discharged during robbery or kidnapping
- Life imprisonment and caning for possession or trafficking
How We Help:
- Challenging unlawful arrests and search/seizure
- Reviewing ballistics and firearm evidence
- Trial defense and expert witness presentation
- Negotiating alternative charges where appropriate
Kidnapping (Seksyen 363–365 Kanun Keseksaan)
Legal Reference:
Section 363–365 of the Penal Code
Offence Overview:
Kidnapping includes unlawful confinement, abduction for ransom, or taking a person against their will. These offences are often linked to extortion or human trafficking.
Penalties:
- Up to 20 years' imprisonment
- Whipping and/or fine depending on intent and severity
How We Help:
- Representation during police investigation and remand
- Negotiating bail
- Court defense and cross-examination
- Managing evidence chain and alibis
Why KC Lim & Partners?
- 24/7 urgent legal response for arrest cases
- Deep understanding of Malaysian criminal law & trial procedure
- Access to forensic specialists, psychologists, and criminal law experts
- Committed to client confidentiality and fair trial rights
Need immediate legal assistance? Contact us now or learn more about our drug-related defense and financial crime expertise.
Relevant Laws & Acts
- Penal Code (Act 574)
- Criminal Procedure Code (Act 593)
- Federal Constitution of Malaysia (Article 5, 8, 9)
- Firearms Act & Arms Act
Drug & Trafficking Offences
Drug-related offences are among the most commonly prosecuted crimes in Malaysia, and they carry some of the harshest penalties in Southeast Asia, including mandatory death sentences for trafficking. At KC Lim & Partners, we provide proactive and experienced legal representation for individuals accused of drug-related crimes, human trafficking, and cases involving preventive detention.
We assist from the earliest stage — arrest and investigation — up to trial, appeals, and sentencing mitigation, ensuring all rights under Malaysian law are respected.
Drug Offences (Akta Dadah Berbahaya 1952)
Legal Reference:
Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (Act 234)
Offence Overview:
This Act covers offences such as possession, consumption, trafficking, and manufacturing of controlled drugs such as methamphetamine, heroin, cannabis, ecstasy, etc.
Key Sections:
- Section 39B: Drug Trafficking – Mandatory death penalty or life imprisonment (with caning)
- Section 6, 12, 15: Possession, Consumption, Self-Administration
How We Help:
- Challenging the presumption of trafficking (based on drug quantity)
- Reviewing evidence chain and search procedures
- Filing bail applications in non-capital cases
- Providing defense and mitigation at trial and appeal levels
Human Trafficking (ATIPSOM 2007)
Legal Reference:
Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants Act 2007 (Act 670)
Offence Overview:
Human trafficking involves recruiting, transporting, or harboring persons for the purpose of exploitation, including forced labor and sexual exploitation.
Penalties:
- Up to 20 years' imprisonment, fine, and whipping
- Additional penalties for trafficking involving minors or cross-border syndicates
How We Help:
- Protecting clients' rights during arrest and detention
- Investigating the nature of consent and intent
- Trial representation and plea negotiations
- Assistance with bail and immigration-related consequences
Preventive Detentions (POCA, POTA, etc.)
Legal Reference:
Prevention of Crime Act 1959 (POCA)
Prevention of Terrorism Act 2015 (POTA)
Applicable to certain cases without trial
Offence Overview:
In drug and trafficking-related cases, authorities may detain individuals without trial under POCA or POTA, citing risk to national security or public order.
Legal Issues:
- No formal charge or trial required
- Detention period can be extended by Home Minister
- Clients may be held in rehabilitation centers or special detention facilities
How We Help:
- Filing habeas corpus applications
- Reviewing procedural fairness and constitutional violations
- Representing clients in POCA Inquiry Board hearings
- Advising families on rights and detention process
Why KC Lim & Partners?
- Deep knowledge of drug law and ATIPSOM procedures
- Experience in defending capital and non-capital drug cases
- Skilled in overcoming legal presumptions in drug law
- Strategic handling of preventive detention appeals
Relevant Laws & Acts
- Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (Act 234)
- Anti-Trafficking in Persons & Anti-Smuggling of Migrants Act 2007 (Act 670)
- Prevention of Crime Act 1959 (POCA)
- Federal Constitution of Malaysia (Article 5 & 8)
White Collar & Financial Crimes
White collar crimes typically involve non-violent but high-impact financial wrongdoing, such as fraud, insider trading, and corporate misconduct. These cases often require in-depth legal and financial expertise due to their complexity and regulatory overlap. At KC Lim & Partners, we represent clients accused of financial crimes before the Malaysian courts, Securities Commission (SC), and MACC, providing strategic defense and crisis management from investigation to trial.
We assist individuals, corporate executives, and companies through internal investigations, regulatory audits, enforcement actions, and criminal prosecutions.
White Collar Crimes (Criminal Breach of Trust, Embezzlement, Forgery)
Legal Reference:
Penal Code (Sections 405–409, 463–477A)
Offence Overview:
White collar crimes include financial dishonesty such as criminal breach of trust (CBT), embezzlement, forgery, and cheating — often committed by employees, company officers, or public servants.
Penalties:
- Imprisonment of up to 20 years, fine, and/or whipping, depending on the section and amount involved
How We Help:
- Responding to company or authority investigations
- Strategic defense during MACC or police questioning
- Preparing documentation for rebutting accusations
- Trial defense and mitigation at sentencing
Fraud (Penipuan / Seksyen 420 Kanun Keseksaan)
Legal Reference:
Section 415–420 of the Penal Code
Offence Overview:
Fraud refers to cheating or dishonestly inducing delivery of property, documents, or funds. Section 420 is commonly used in criminal fraud prosecutions in Malaysia.
Penalties:
- Up to 10 years' imprisonment, caning, and fine
Examples:
- Investment scams
- Business or loan fraud
- Online and cyber fraud cases
How We Help:
- Early-stage advisory during fraud complaints or police reports
- Disputing intent and proving lack of dishonest intention
- Reviewing money trails, contracts, and communications
- Representation in both criminal and civil suits (if dual proceedings)
Securities & Money Market Offences (Insider Trading, Market Manipulation)
Legal Reference:
Capital Markets and Services Act 2007 (CMSA)
Enforced by the Securities Commission Malaysia (SC)
Offence Overview:
Includes insider trading, unauthorised fund management, market manipulation, or failure to comply with disclosure requirements in public-listed companies.
Penalties:
- Hefty fines (RM1 million or more)
- Imprisonment up to 10 years
- Disqualification from directorship or market roles
How We Help:
- Advising directors and companies under SC investigation
- Legal opinion and defense in show cause or enforcement actions
- Negotiation with SC for settlement or warning
- Representation in High Court or criminal sessions for prosecution
Why KC Lim & Partners?
- Skilled in financial forensics and corporate law
- Experience handling MACC, SC, and police white collar investigations
- Strategic advice for high-risk individuals like CEOs, accountants, lawyers
- Discreet, professional, and results-focused defense
Facing white collar allegations? Get immediate legal consultation. We also handle related corruption cases and regulatory compliance matters. Learn more about our firm's experience in complex financial cases.
Relevant Laws & Acts
- Penal Code (Sections 405–420, 463–477A)
- Capital Markets and Services Act 2007 (Act 671)
- Securities Commission Malaysia Regulations
- Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission Act 2009 (where overlap exists)
Anti-Corruption & Governance
Malaysia has strict anti-corruption and financial governance laws enforced by agencies like the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) and the Securities Commission (SC). Allegations involving bribery, abuse of power, or regulatory misconduct can lead to serious criminal penalties, disqualification from public office, or reputational damage.
At KC Lim & Partners, we provide discreet and strategic legal services for clients facing corruption-related investigations, corporate misconduct charges, and regulatory enforcement proceedings.
Corruption & Bribery (MACC Act 2009)
Legal Reference:
Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission Act 2009 (Act 694)
Offence Overview:
Covers all forms of bribery, gratification, abuse of power, and misuse of public or corporate office. Offences may arise in both public and private sectors, including government procurement, licensing, or corporate decisions.
Penalties:
- Up to 20 years' imprisonment
- Fine not less than 5x the amount of gratification or RM10,000 (whichever higher)
How We Help:
- Advising during MACC investigations or interrogation
- Representation during remand, search/seizure, and statement-taking
- Defense against abuse of power and bribery charges
- Handling parallel disciplinary and civil proceedings (if any)
MACC Investigations & Enforcement
Agency:
Suruhanjaya Pencegahan Rasuah Malaysia (SPRM / MACC)
Scope of Power:
MACC has broad powers to investigate without warrant, freeze bank accounts, and detain suspects for questioning. They also issue public name-and-shame lists and pursue high-profile prosecutions.
Legal Risk:
- Investigations are high-pressure and can impact reputations even before formal charge
- Statements taken under Section 30 can be admissible in court
- Whistleblower and witness protection laws may apply
How We Help:
- Immediate representation during MACC arrest or raids
- Advising on cooperation, silence rights, and bail procedures
- Reviewing search warrants and digital evidence legality
- Crisis communication and risk containment for corporates
Securities Commission (SC) Regulatory Enforcement
Legal Reference:
Capital Markets and Services Act 2007 (CMSA)
SC Focus Areas:
- Insider trading
- Market manipulation
- False disclosure
- Breach of listing requirements
Penalties:
- Fines up to millions of Ringgit
- Up to 10 years' imprisonment
- Civil penalties and market bans
How We Help:
- Defense in SC enforcement actions
- Guidance during show cause notices and settlement discussions
- Trial preparation for SC criminal prosecutions
- Assistance with director disqualification defense
Why KC Lim & Partners?
- Trusted in handling high-stakes regulatory and anti-corruption cases
- Confidential, responsive, and discrete advisory for executives
- Solid track record with MACC and SC-related defense
- Skilled at cross-agency matters involving both criminal and regulatory overlap
Relevant Laws & Acts
- MACC Act 2009 (Act 694)
- Penal Code Sections 161–165 (Bribery)
- Capital Markets and Services Act 2007 (CMSA)
- Whistleblower Protection Act 2010
- Federal Constitution – Article 8 (equality before the law)
AML & Regulatory Offences
In Malaysia, financial crime enforcement is growing increasingly strict, especially with regard to money laundering, non-compliance with statutory obligations, and failure to meet industry-specific legal standards. Individuals and companies involved in complex transactions can be subject to AMLA investigations, asset seizures, and prosecution.
At KC Lim & Partners, we provide expert legal assistance for clients accused of or investigated for money laundering and regulatory breaches under various Malaysian statutes. Our services cover compliance advisory, investigation defense, and litigation strategy.
Anti-Money Laundering (AMLA 2001)
Legal Reference:
Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001 (AMLA / Act 613)
Offence Overview:
Money laundering involves the processing or concealment of funds derived from criminal activity, including drug trafficking, corruption, and fraud. Under AMLA, even negligent handling of suspicious funds can lead to charges.
Penalties:
- Up to 15 years' imprisonment
- Fines up to RM5 million or 5x the value of the illegal proceeds
- Freezing or forfeiture of bank accounts and assets
How We Help:
- Defense against Section 4(1) AMLA charges
- Advising clients on compliance obligations and suspicious transaction reports (STR)
- Challenging asset seizure and forfeiture applications
- Corporate risk mitigation and documentation audit
AMLA Investigations & Compliance Risks
Scope of Investigation:
- Bank accounts, property transfers, and business operations may be scrutinized
- Individuals can be investigated without being charged
- STR (Suspicious Transaction Report) may trigger criminal probe
Targeted Clients:
- High-net-worth individuals, company directors, lawyers, agents, and consultants
- SMEs and large businesses dealing with cross-border or cash-heavy transactions
How We Help:
- Legal representation during Bank Negara Malaysia or police AMLA investigations
- Advice on data disclosure, right to remain silent, and due process
- Handling civil forfeiture under AMLA Section 56–61
- Liaising with authorities on behalf of clients to resolve allegations early
Statutory Offences (General Regulatory Breaches)
Legal Reference:
Varies by sector — examples include:
Companies Act 2016
Income Tax Act 1967
Customs Act 1967
EPF Act, Employment Act, OSHA, etc.
Offence Overview:
Statutory offences include failure to submit returns, non-compliance with licensing, reporting errors, or breach of directors' duties. These may lead to fines, compound penalties, or prosecution.
How We Help:
- Defend clients during regulatory audits and enforcement actions
- Appeal against compound or administrative penalties
- Coordinate with external accountants, auditors, and regulatory officers
- Representation in Sessions Court or Industrial Court if prosecuted
Why KC Lim & Partners?
- Experienced in white-collar and financial regulatory defence
- Familiar with Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM), IRB, SC, and Customs enforcement
- Skilled in cross-border financial tracing and documentation reviews
- Dedicated to protecting clients from unlawful seizure and overreach
Relevant Laws & Acts
- AMLA 2001 (Act 613)
- Companies Act 2016
- Income Tax Act 1967
- Customs Act 1967
- Federal Constitution – Article 13 (Right to Property)
Organized Crime & Detention Laws
Malaysia enforces a number of preventive detention laws to combat organized crime, gang-related activities, and terrorism. These laws—POCA, SOSMA, and POTA—allow authorities to detain individuals without formal charge or trial, often raising concerns about rights, due process, and fairness.
At KC Lim & Partners, we defend individuals affected by these special laws by filing judicial review, habeas corpus applications, and advocating for proper legal process during inquiry proceedings.
POCA – Prevention of Crime Act 1959
Legal Reference:
Prevention of Crime Act 1959 (Act 297)
Offence Overview:
Originally enacted to deal with organized crime and gang violence, POCA now covers suspected individuals involved in triads, human trafficking, drug syndicates, and other serious crimes. Detention can be administrative, without trial, for up to 2 years, renewable.
Key Issues:
- No criminal charge is required
- Individuals may be placed under restricted residence or electronic monitoring
How We Help:
- Legal representation during POCA Inquiry Board hearings
- Filing habeas corpus in High Court
- Reviewing constitutional violations (Article 5: Liberty of Person)
- Advising families and filing urgent court applications
SOSMA – Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012
Legal Reference:
SOSMA 2012 (Act 747)
Offence Overview:
Applies to national security offences under the Penal Code, including terrorism, sabotage, espionage, and threats against public order. Allows extended detention for up to 28 days without judicial oversight and limits bail rights.
Key Concerns:
- Evidence admissibility rules are relaxed
- Bail is not allowed unless for non-SOSMA offences
- Legal representation can be delayed under emergency situations
How We Help:
- Legal defense against SOSMA-linked terrorism charges
- Filing constitutional challenges and public interest reviews
- Advocating for fair trial rights, legal access, and medical needs
- Coordination with family and civil rights NGOs when needed
Criminal Advisory Work
Scope:
This involves proactive legal support for companies, directors, and individuals to ensure compliance and manage legal risk before or during investigations.
Common Scenarios:
- Receiving a police or MACC summons
- Internal fraud discovery
- Preparing for regulatory audits or questioning
- Legal consultation prior to filing police reports
How We Help:
- Legal opinion on criminal exposure and liabilities
- Strategic planning for risk management and damage control
- Drafting police or MACC response letters
- On-site advisory for corporate legal departments
Why KC Lim & Partners?
- Experience in industrial and manufacturing-related legal cases
- Skilled in advising LLPs and SMEs on criminal and compliance risk
- Practical, business-aware approach to legal problem-solving
- Confidential and professional counsel for employers and employees
Relevant Laws & Acts
- Penal Code (Sections 403–409, 420)
- Limited Liability Partnerships Act 2012 (Act 743)
- Employment Act 1955
- Factories and Machinery Act 1967
- Federal Constitution – Article 8 (Equality)
Immigration & Border Offences
Malaysia's border and environmental laws are strictly enforced, particularly for foreign workers, employers, shipping agents, and port-based operations. Immigration, maritime crime, and environmental offences can result in heavy penalties, including imprisonment, deportation, fines, or corporate sanctions.
At KC Lim & Partners, we provide experienced legal services to individuals and companies involved in immigration breaches, cross-border crime, and environmental regulatory violations.
Immigration Offences
Legal Reference:
Immigration Act 1959/63 (Act 155)
Passport Act 1966
Offence Overview:
Includes overstaying, illegal entry, hiring undocumented workers, falsified travel documents, or non-compliance with visa terms. Common among foreign workers and employers in manufacturing, construction, and plantation sectors.
Penalties:
- Fines, imprisonment, or caning (e.g. Section 6, Section 15, Section 55A–D)
- Deportation or blacklisting by Immigration Department of Malaysia
How We Help:
- Legal defense during immigration raids or detention
- Appeal against deportation or blacklisting
- Advising employers on legal foreign worker recruitment
- Representing clients at immigration courts and enforcement divisions
Maritime & Piracy Offences
Legal Reference:
Penal Code (Section 390–395)
Merchant Shipping Ordinance 1952
International Maritime Conventions (adopted locally)
Offence Overview:
Includes armed robbery at sea, illegal vessel entry, human smuggling by sea, and offences involving ships violating international maritime zones.
Penalties:
- Imprisonment up to 20 years, caning, or life sentence (for armed maritime crimes)
- Confiscation of vessels, fines, and criminal liability for shipowners or agents
How We Help:
- Representation of accused crew, syndicate suspects, or vessel owners
- Negotiation with Marine Police, Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA)
- Trial defense and evidentiary review (radar, communication logs, crew statements)
Environmental Offences
Legal Reference:
Environmental Quality Act 1974 (Act 127)
Enforced by Department of Environment (DOE)
Offence Overview:
Covers illegal waste dumping, air or water pollution, discharge without license, or failing to comply with Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) conditions.
Penalties:
- Fines up to RM500,000 or more
- Imprisonment up to 5 years
- Business license suspension for repeated violations
How We Help:
- Defense against DOE prosecution
- Negotiation of compound or administrative resolution
- Environmental compliance audits and advisory
- Representation in civil suits or enforcement proceedings
Why KC Lim & Partners?
- Familiar with immigration courts and enforcement practices
- Experience with maritime criminal defense and port regulations
- Corporate legal support for environmental compliance and risk audits
- Fast legal response for raids, detentions, or inspections
Relevant Laws & Acts
- Immigration Act 1959/63 (Act 155)
- Merchant Shipping Ordinance 1952
- Environmental Quality Act 1974 (Act 127)
- Federal Constitution – Article 9 (Freedom of Movement)
- Malaysia Maritime Enforcement Agency Act 2004 (Act 633)
Corporate & Labour Offences
Malaysia's corporate and labor laws are designed to protect the rights of both employers and employees. However, violations can lead to serious criminal penalties, including imprisonment, fines, or corporate sanctions.
At KC Lim & Partners, we provide experienced legal services to help companies navigate these legal challenges, ensuring compliance and minimizing risks.
Blue Collar Crimes
Legal Reference:
Penal Code (Sections 403–409, 420)
Factories and Machinery Act 1967
Employment Act 1955
Offence Overview:
Includes offenses such as theft, fraud, assault, and drug-related crimes. These are typically committed by blue-collar workers in manufacturing, construction, and plantation sectors.
Penalties:
- Imprisonment up to 20 years, caning, or fines
- Deportation or blacklisting by Immigration Department of Malaysia
How We Help:
- Legal defense during raids or investigations
- Appeal against deportation or blacklisting
- Advising companies on legal foreign worker recruitment
- Representation in criminal or civil proceedings
LLPK – Limited Liability Partnerships
Legal Reference:
Limited Liability Partnerships Act 2012 (Act 743)
Companies Act 2016
Offence Overview:
Includes breach of directors' duties, fraudulent transactions, and non-compliance with legal requirements. These can lead to criminal penalties, civil litigation, or regulatory sanctions.
Penalties:
- Imprisonment up to 10 years, fines, or caning
- Deportation or blacklisting by Immigration Department of Malaysia
How We Help:
- Legal defense during investigations or enforcement actions
- Appeal against deportation or blacklisting
- Advising LLPs on legal compliance and risk management
- Representation in civil litigation or regulatory proceedings
Criminal Advisory Work
Scope:
This involves proactive legal support for companies, directors, and individuals to ensure compliance and manage legal risk before or during investigations.
Common Scenarios:
- Receiving a police or MACC summons
- Internal fraud discovery
- Preparing for regulatory audits or questioning
- Legal consultation prior to filing police reports
How We Help:
- Legal opinion on criminal exposure and liabilities
- Strategic planning for risk management and damage control
- Drafting police or MACC response letters
- On-site advisory for corporate legal departments
Why KC Lim & Partners?
- Experience in industrial and manufacturing-related legal cases
- Skilled in advising LLPs and SMEs on criminal and compliance risk
- Practical, business-aware approach to legal problem-solving
- Confidential and professional counsel for employers and employees
Relevant Laws & Acts
- Penal Code (Sections 403–409, 420)
- Limited Liability Partnerships Act 2012 (Act 743)
- Employment Act 1955
- Factories and Machinery Act 1967
- Federal Constitution – Article 8 (Equality)
