Monash University to host 2026 Asian Corporate Law Forum in Malaysia
Established in 2023, the annual ACLF conference brings together 11 of Asia’s leading law departments, renowned for their expertise in corporate law and governance in Asia. The ACLF was established with the aim of being the preeminent organisation in the world for scholarship on corporate law and governance in Asia, and has fast gained a reputation as a centre of excellence in this area.
The annual conference, between 13-15 April, provides a curated environment where groundbreaking scholarship on Asian corporate law and governance develops. Past conferences have addressed issues such as Asian perspectives on climate change in corporate governance, and how corporate governance in Asia addresses the interests of a variety of different stakeholders. This year’s conference will explore matters that are of particular relevance to Malaysia and the broader region, including how businesses are creating innovative solutions to global challenges such as poverty and inequality, among other societal issues.
Each paper selected for presentation receives detailed feedback from established experts in a collegial setting designed to enhance scholarly impact.
There are six renowned Monash University academics who are involved in this year’s conference as either main organisers, speakers, chairs or commentators, including; Professor Michelle Welsh and Associate Professor Vivien Chen, Monash Business School, Professor Jennifer Hill, Associate Professor Steve Kourabas, and Dr Tamara Wilkinson, Monash University Faculty of Law and Dr Chithra Latha School of Business, Monash University Malaysia.
L-R: (Top) Professor Michelle Welsh and Associate Professor Vivien Chen, Monash Business School, Professor Jennifer Hill, (Below) Associate Professor Steve Kourabas, and Dr Tamara Wilkinson, Monash University Faculty of Law and Dr Chithra Latha School of Business, Monash University Malaysia.
Associate Professor Vivien Chen, Co-Director of the Asian Corporate Law Forum, from the Monash Business School said, “The ACLF exemplifies the value of collaboration among leading Asian corporate law scholars from 10 countries who are engaged in cutting-edge research. There’s unity in diversity while working together for collective benefit in a broader global context.”
Professor Jennifer Hill, Director of the Centre for Commercial Law and Regulatory Studies (CLARS) at Monash University and the inaugural Bob Baxt AO Professor of Corporate and Commercial Law within the Faculty of Law said Asia has become an economic powerhouse in recent years.
“Twenty-five years ago, it was assumed that corporate governance initiatives would come from the West, particularly the United States, but that is no longer true. ACLF is a unique network/organisation, whose research members seek to address some of today’s major social problems, including climate change. Monash University is honoured to be a Founding Member of ACLF and to be hosting this year’s conference at Monash University’s Malaysia campus,” Professor Hill said.
Professor Hill also noted that CLARS now has a hub in Kuala Lumpur, at the invitation of the Malaysian government.
Associate Professor Steve Kourabas, Deputy Director of the Centre for Commercial Law and Regulatory Studies at the Faculty of Law, and a member of the ACLF Board representing Monash, added: “This year’s conference provides an opportunity for Monash to highlight its unique position within the region. Collaboration between the Business and Law faculties in Australia together with the Business School at our Malaysia campus in a forum comprising leading law schools in the region builds on efforts to establish Monash as an important University in the Indo-Pacific. Our involvement in the ACLF contributes to our embeddedness in the region, helping to foster important connections in corporate law and beyond.”
Public Event: Beyond the Bottom Line: Business as a Force for Good
How are businesses creating solutions to global challenges? Join us as we explore innovative approaches to poverty, inequality, and other societal issues.
- Datin Wira Goh Suet Lan will share insights on transformative collaborations that empower women and families at the margins.
- Mr Philip Koh will draw from his extensive experience in legal practice and industry.
- A multi-country panel will offer fresh regional perspectives on corporate law and social impact.
When: Monday 13 April 2026
Time: 2pm - 4pm
Campus: Monash University Malaysia
Speakers
Datin Wira Goh Suet Lan (Suets), President, Women of Will Malaysia (WOW)
Suets founded WOW, a non-governmental organisation dedicated to empowering women living in poverty, and transforming communities, across both rural and urban Malaysia. A passionate advocate for women’s empowerment, Suets has devoted more than 30 years to volunteering in Malaysia, Canada, South Africa, and Nepal. Under her leadership, WOW has enabled women to build self-sustaining businesses, achieve financial independence, and access vital economic opportunities. With a firm belief in grassroots-driven change, Suets has spearheaded the development of community leaders and community-based enterprises. Through her vision and dedication, Suets continues to inspire change, striving to uplift underserved women and create stronger, more sustainable communities across Malaysia.
Philip Koh, Senior Partner, Mah-Kamariyah and Adjunct Professor, School of Business, Monash Malaysia University
Mr Koh’s illustrious career spans academia, private practice, public listed corporations and regulatory reform. He is an Advocate and Solicitor at the High Court of Malaya. He has a Bachelor of Laws (Hons) from Universiti Malaya, a Masters of Laws from Kings College University of London and a Masters of Arts (Theology) from the Australian Catholic University.
