All office bearers of the Malaysian Bar have been returned unopposed during its 'second' 59th annual general meeting (AGM) held in Kuala Lumpur today.

Observers noted that despite all the build-up towards the fresh AGM - held to replace the one in March which was declared unlawful - the proceedings today was an anti-climax.

The AGM in March was declared null and void by the High Court as it was held without fulfilling the one-fifth quorum set in its constitution. The ruling was upheld by the Court of Appeal on July 15.

Leading up to the AGM today, many quarters were riled up by the office bearers' decision to proceed with the March meeting and did not immediately call for a fresh AGM after the courts decision.

Quorum met

At a press conference after the AGM, Bar council president Yeo Yang Poh (left) said that the exceptional turnout of 3027 members, well above the quorum requirements, during the 'extraordinary' AGM was a sign of unity among Bar members.

"This is certainly a victory for the Bar. Once again, the members have risen to the occasion, proving that we can be united and come together whenever there is a challenge," he said.

He added that while the ballroom in the Legend Hotel could only cater to 2000, the overwhelming turnout resulted in many members having to stand while motions were debated.

Yeo added that the necessary action has been taken to amend the requirements to lower the quorum to 350 before the next AGM, expected to be held in March next year.

Fiery debates

The debates throughout the AGM was a lively affair as members debated motions with great fervour.

However, the way the debates were carried out where not without controversies.

An observer claimed that, "certain individuals in favour of the council's policies were strategically planted around the floor to drown out the dissenting voices,"

One prominent senior lawyer was accused of personal attacks during his arguments, while many arguments dragged on for more than the three minutes allotted for each speaker.

AGM chairperson Khutubul Zaman Bukhari on many occasions came under heavy fire from the floor for failing to maintain control over the proceedings.

Meanwhile, the lawyers voted unanimously against proposals to abolish or amend the no discount rule set by the Bar Council.