Firdaus

Muhammad Firdaus Shaik Alauddin is a Senior Associate in the Dispute Resolution and Financial Crimes & Asset Recovery Practice Group of Messrs Zharif Nizamuddin, specialising in civil ligation, white-collar crimes and financial crimes investigations. 

Firdaus began his legal career in 2018 as a pupil in chambers at Messrs. Haniff Khatri, where he trained directly under Haniff Khatri himself. His pupillage was rigorous, involving political research and high-profile legal matters, including cases concerning Malaysia’s former Prime Ministers, Dato’ Sri Najib Tun Razak and Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad. This early exposure to politically significant litigation and complex legal proceedings provided him with a unique perspective and the ability to navigate high-stakes cases with precision.

In 2020, Firdaus joined Messrs. Zharif Nizamuddin as a Legal Executive, where he has since expanded his expertise in white-collar crimes and financial crimes investigations. His portfolio includes national interest cases, notably his involvement in Malaysia’s 1MDB debt recovery efforts. Firdaus played a key role in drafting the Government’s bid for an interim prohibitory order restraining PetroSaudi International Ltd (PSI) from utilising more than USD 340 million in 1MDB-linked funds in an account in the United Kingdom. His contributions to this case underscore his ability to handle complex financial disputes and high-value asset recovery matters.

Firdaus’ practice extends beyond litigation, as he actively engages in legal reforms and advocacy. He serves as a legal bureau member for Pertubuhan Usahawan Aspirasi SeMalaysia (PUAS) and is an active participant in Lawyers #4DrugPolicyReform, reflecting his dedication to progressive legal policies and social justice. 

Beyond his legal practice, Firdaus is also passionate about football and was the goalkeeper for the Negeri Sembilan Bar football team in 2019. He also enjoys boxing and spending time with his cat during his free time.  

Firdaus was admitted as an Advocate & Solicitor in the High Court of Malaya in 2022. He holds a Bachelor of Laws (Hons) from Universiti Teknologi MARA.