How to become a Lawyer in Malaysia?

1.Meet the SPM pre-requisite requirements

SPM requirements: Minimum 5Cs

2. Enroll in a recognised Pre-University/Year 12 equivalent program 

The best options for you to pursue a law degree in Malaysia will be a recognised Foundation, STPM, A-Levels, IB and UEC.

3. Graduate with a law degree from an approved university

Most importantly, in taking a law degree, you need to verify that the law degree course is approved by the Legal Profession Qualifying Board Malaysia, or by the Malaysia Bar. Failure to graduate from an approved program will prohibit you from applying to take the Malaysian Bar examinations.

4. Complete a Certificate in Legal Practice (CLP) or Bar Professional Training Course

(BPTC) CLP is known as the Malaysian bar examination; you are only allowed a maximum of 4 attempts at the CLP. Alternatively, BPTC (or previously known as BVC) is a popular option for most Malaysians due to its excellent reputation and job prospects — it is a vocational training course in Europe that law graduates take to be admitted as barristers in England and Wales that can also be admitted as an advocate and solicitor not only in Malaysia but also any commonwealth countries. Passing either one is mandatory to be called to the Bar. 

Take note:  some universities are exempted from CLP.

5. Undergo Pupillage (known as “Chambering”) 

This is a practical training course that lasts nine months. Graduates who are exempted from the CLP may start their pupillage immediately after their degree. During the training period, you will be required to pass all Malaysian Bar examinations and legal aid programs. Upon completion, graduates will be called to the Bar as a fully-qualified lawyer and are allowed to practice independently.