Borneo centre for arbitration and mediation launches new rules

KOTA KINABALU: The Borneo International Centre for Arbitration and Mediation (Bicam) has launched its arbitration and mediation rules, commencing full operations.

Bicam chairman Tan Sri David Wong Dak Wah said with the launching of these rules on Oct 12, they can expect to usher in a new era of excellence in alternative dispute resolution (ADR) for the Borneo region, Malaysia and the world.

Among others, Bicam’s commitment to innovation is reflected in its adoption of a fully virtual filing system, aligning with global trends in technology and making the arbitration and mediation processes more accessible and efficient, he said.

“This digital approach allows parties involved in disputes to submit their documents and evidence online, streamlining the entire ADR process more efficiently and conveniently,” he said.

With the integration of this technology, Bicam not only demonstrates its dedication to providing modern solutions but also making it a leading choice for alternative dispute resolution everywhere, said Wong.

He said Bicam, launched in July this year, aims to provide a conducive environment for efficient and cost-effective resolution of commercial disputes.

“With the guidance and inspiration of visionary leaders, Bicam aims to emulate the success stories of globally renowned institutions like the Singapore International Arbitration Centre (SIAC) and the Hong Kong International Arbitration Centre (HKIAC),” he said.

Wong said Bicam’s strategic position in Sabah is not limited to dispute resolution; it is poised to stimulate growth across various sectors, including tourism, hospitality, and food and beverage industries.

The ambitious goal is to make Sabah a thriving services hub for ADR, generating employment opportunities and driving economic progress in the region, he said.

He is happy to note that the Sabah government has pledged its commitment to the success of Bicam by incorporating Bicam’s model clause into contracts involving ministries, departments, and government-linked companies (GLCs).

Wong said this move underlines the importance of ADR in regional development and ensures a solid foundation for BICAM’s operations.

The involvement of local and international arbitrators and mediators will contribute to building a diverse and skilled panel of experts, enhancing the credibility and effectiveness of the centre as well, he said.

He said Bicam aims to establish reciprocal relationships with other ADR centres worldwide, including the Badan Arbitrase Nasional Indonesia (Bani), SIAC, HKIAC, and AIAC.

Such collaborations will create opportunities for shared expertise and foster cooperative efforts that benefit all stakeholders involved, Wong said.

“Not only that, central to Bicam’s mission is the development of human capital within the region, aligning with the Sabah Maju Jaya Development Plan (SMJ),” he said.

“The centre will nurture competitive, skilled, and high-quality professionals in ADR through training, education, and professional development programmes, further establishing Sabah as a premier destination for legal services in the region,” he said.