Hall of Fame — Ms Uteh Arianna Binti Abdul Jalil
With a heart attuned to the beauty of nature – Uteh Arianna finds fulfilment in every rustling leaf and joy beneath the sun. Her unwavering passion for preserving the natural world is a testament to her self-driven spirit and embodiment of purpose.
Raised in the small, quiet town of Kulim, Kedah, she embodies the town’s calm simplicity — her reserved and introspective nature reflecting the peaceful surroundings she grew up in. Being a naturally quiet and introverted person, in unfamiliar settings, she finds it challenging to make new friends. Yet, when she does form a connection, it becomes a deep and lasting bond, one that she cherishes and holds in great gratitude.
Beneath her serene exterior lies a soul that flourishes in nature – whether hiking or snorkelling, in those precious moments she feels a deep connection to the world around her. It’s here, amidst the trees, the mountains and the waters, that she finds joy.
Uteh, immersed in her favourite activity – snorkelling
Raised in a family that placed great importance on the pursuit of knowledge, her love for reading was cultivated by her parents’ encouragement. What started as a requirement set by her parents became an activity she genuinely came to enjoy over time. By her secondary school years, her dedication had earned her multiple Nadi Ilmu Amalan Membaca (NILAM) awards, recognising her commitment to literary engagement.
She had always believed this, until her foundation years at Universiti Teknologi Mara, Dengkil. It was then that the thought of constantly reading, not for pleasure but as a means to study, became a burden. The demand to tie her favourite pastime to academic pressure stripped away much of the joy she once found in books. The struggle with academic pressure made her question her path, but the idea of studying law still lingered in her mind.
Her desire to study law was sparked early on, influenced by her parents, both of whom had legal careers. From a very young age, they subtly instilled the idea of pursuing law in her. However, growing up, pursuing law wasn’t always her first choice.
After SPM, she had her sights set on a future in marine biology, eager to explore the wonders of the ocean. However, the tides shifted when she received her second choice through the UPU system — University of Malaya (‘UM’) Law. What began as an unexpected turn soon became a journey filled with challenges and growth she had never anticipated.
Was there a significant moment or experience in your life that ignited your interest in pursuing law?
A pivotal moment that solidified Uteh’s decision to pursue law came when she encountered the stories of inspiring figures like Mr Amer Hamzah, a partner at AmerBon, Advocates and Ms Ros Mawar, Deputy Public Prosecutor at the Securities Commission Malaysia. Captivated by their achievements and journeys, she found herself aspiring to be like them. Their paths ignited a vision within her, sparking a desire to carve out her legacy in the legal world.
Her passion for advocacy wasn’t limited to the law — it also grew from her deep love for the environment, a connection she had felt since she was a child. She often looked back on the moments that sparked this passion, when nature seemed to call out to her, inspiring her to be its voice.
Growing up between the serene landscapes of Kedah and Ipoh, she was surrounded by breathtaking scenery that felt like something out of a painting. The unspoiled beauty of these areas, where nature still reigned supreme and development had barely made its mark, left a lasting impression on her. It was here that she knew, deep down, that she had to protect the environment. The peace she felt amidst the natural wonders made it clear — this beauty was worth safeguarding.
A moment that truly inculcated her decision to advocate for the environment came during her debate participation in Baling, Kedah. Surrounded by limestone hills and the calm serenity of nature, she felt a profound sense of connection. In that moment, everything clicked — this was what she wanted to protect, not just for herself but for future generations. The beauty around her wasn’t just scenery; it was a vision of the future she wanted to preserve.
What inspired you to remain committed to Ecolawgy UM for three consecutive years?
Initially driven by her passion for the environment, what truly inspired her to remain committed to Ecolawgy UM over the years was the active involvement of the club’s senior members. Among them was Mr Quek Yew Aun, a Master of Laws (LL.M) student at UM Law, whose unwavering dedication to guide undergraduate members and supporting them through their academic journey was truly inspiring, igniting within her a newfound drive for research and advocacy.
Taking on the role of Vice Director during the 2022/2023 tenure and stepping up as the Director for the 2023/2024 tenure came with its share of challenges. Balancing between her leadership position and academics was no easy task, each day requires meticulous planning to keep up with everything. She focused on what needed to be done right away, prioritising the deadlines that came first. Although her studies and club work often overlapped, leaving little separation between the two but with determination and flexibility, she made it through, turning each challenge into a chance to grow.
Uteh, during her tenure as the director of Ecolawgy UM 2023/2024
During her tenure as the Director, one of her proudest accomplishments was organising the International Environmental Moot Competition (IEMC) in collaboration with the UM Moot Club. She felt a deep sense of satisfaction as she watched the members not only engage themselves in the logistics of organising a moot but also seize the opportunity to reconnect with alumni, strengthening the enduring bonds the club had built over time. For instance, former director Ms Abby Si, Mr Nevyn Vinosh and Mr Quek — key figures in the UM Law community who have contributed their expertise in drafting the moot problem for the competition.
As three years passed and her role evolved, she recognised the need for her to step back and allow others to take the helm of leadership — believing it is essential for new voices to shape the club's future and bring fresh creativity and vision to its mission.
Besides her involvement in an internal organisation, Uteh also volunteered with Jane Goodall’s Roots & Shoots Malaysia Award (‘RASMA’), immersing herself in the heart of environmental advocacy. Through her volunteering experience, she has had the opportunity to work with three different organisations: Sea Turtle Research Unit (‘SEATRU’), Penang Cat Beach Sanctuary and MareCet, a marine mammal conservation group. This experience played a significant role in boosting her self-confidence. Interacting with people from diverse walks of life, she not only discovered new perspectives in life but also a deeper sense of purpose. What struck her most were the unsung heroes of these movements — the individuals who work tirelessly behind the scenes. She developed a deep appreciation for the fishermen and boat skippers who often unnoticed, are the frontline stewards of the environment.
Uteh, volunteering with MareCet, off the coast of Perak
Her contribution to environmental advocacy does not end there, as she dives into a new challenge by undergoing an internship at Justice For Wildlife Malaysia.
Could you share what is the benefit that you have received from your internship at Justice For Wildlife Malaysia (‘JWM’)?
Since JWM operates on a grant-based structure, Uteh’s daily routine varies, but August 2024 stood out as an especially demanding period. Fresh from her law firm internship, she dove straight into preparing for the Pahang Enactment Workshop, where she coordinated with stakeholders like Jabatan Perlindungan Hidupan Liar dan Taman Negara (‘PERHILITAN’), Polis Diraja Malaysia (‘PDRM’) and enforcement officers from Pahang State Park. Her tasks include crafting a detailed case brief for the participants, researching the background of Pahang’s enforcement officers and designing workshop slides. These interactions have not only enriched her understanding of the field but also allowed her to build meaningful connections, reinforcing her dedication to a lifelong commitment to environmental advocacy.
For Uteh, her experiences at the law firm and JWM were worlds apart. The work at the law firm, particularly in corporate and mergers and acquisitions, offered a sense of stability — while the files changed, the nature of the documents remained the same, creating a predictable flow. She found herself getting comfortable with the routine, knowing what to expect. In contrast, JWM presented a completely different dynamic, as the arrival of new grants dictated the rhythm of her works and each project brought something entirely new and unpredictable. While this was exhilarating, it also brought a sense of uncertainty — both thrilling and daunting, keeping her on her toes as new challenges unfolded unexpectedly.
Can you share a moment when you faced significant challenges or setbacks?
Uteh faced her first big challenge during her six-week mandatory internship in her third year. While there was so much to learn in the mergers and acquisition field, the short timeframe and the field’s highly demanding and specialised nature meant she had to rely on her own initiative. It wasn’t easy, but she credits her progress to a supportive mentor who guided her with valuable advice and encouragement throughout the journey.
Another challenge she encountered during her involvement with JWM at the Pahang Enactment Workshop was meeting with key stakeholders to review Enakmen 25 of the Pahang State Enactment to determine vital amendments required to further refine the effectiveness of its enforcement. A key takeaway she got from this experience was understanding how animal conservation enforcement was implemented in these agencies, as well as the various mandates assigned to each to prevent overlapping jurisdiction. She wanted to note everything she gets from their conversations as even the briefest conversations could reveal valuable insights, turning each interaction into a learning opportunity.
Uteh, in a session with PERHILITAN’s prosecuting officer, Tuan Khairul Mubin during her time with Justice for Wildlife Malaysia
To gain these experiences, Uteh had to venture out of her comfort zone and dive into new and unfamiliar environments. While initially intimidating, she soon realised that courage, humbleness and willingness to seek guidance from senior colleagues were the keys to her growth. A moment that she could recall is during her internship at Zul Rafique & Partners, when she was tasked with assisting an associate in due diligence at a company secretary firm — the associate spent the whole day guiding her on the subject matter and considering it was the bulk of her work at the firm, was a really invaluable assistance for her.
Uteh’s journey in environmental conservation has opened her eyes to the evolving landscape of efforts in Malaysia — efforts she finds both inspiring and in need of greater support. Through her experiences, she has come to realise how many conservation initiatives, despite their importance, remain hidden from public view such as the ongoing research on dolphins and whales in Langkawi and along the east coast, critical work that deserves more recognition and engagement. To Uteh, these underappreciated endeavours represent the heart of conservation: quiet, persistent, and vital, much like the environment itself.
Her experiences with JWM and her involvement in the Pahang Enactment Workshop brought the issue of conservation to the forefront. While the conservation enforcement officers were dedicated to their work, their understanding of the laws surrounding conservation was limited. She observed that many conservation organisations lack legal departments, which are essential for drafting and advocating for stronger environmental legislation — this is why she has chosen to focus on promoting these unconventional ways to those in the legal professions.
For Uteh, the path of environmental advocacy is not always the obvious choice for people. The lack of awareness surrounding this career path often makes it hard to grasp its true significance. Unless one is actively engaged in the community, it can be difficult to fully appreciate the urgency and the interconnectedness between law practitioners and environmental advocates. Uteh believes that bridging this gap is crucial, as environmental issues transcend the boundaries of any single field. She feels that initiatives taken by Ecolawgy UM have been instrumental in raising awareness through organising talks and seminars, but she also knows there’s still much work to be done.
Uteh, collaborating with the dedicated officers of Pahang State Park
Were you able to discover your strengths or areas of passion during your internship at Zul Rafique & Partners?
Alongside her environmental advocacy efforts, Uteh has also gained valuable experience at a law firm in the Corporate and Mergers & Acquisitions department, further enriching her professional journey.
In the course of her internship journey, Uteh discovered an unexpected enjoyment in mergers and acquisitions, despite her initial reluctance toward desk jobs. The consistent nature of the work, combined with the fascinating cases that arose, fueled her love for research — particularly on topics like Bursa Malaysia and the latest developments in the field. For her, the practical side of Company Law turned out to be far more complex and nuanced than what she learned in her third year of studies.
“Learning is a continuous process that gives you confidence over time. ”
Initially, Uteh felt a wave of self-doubt, worrying she might not meet the firm’s high standards. But over time, she learned that everyone starts somewhere. Whether you are an intern, pupil, associate or partner, growth is a shared experience, and no one becomes an expert overnight. By taking small, consistent steps in educating herself, familiarising herself with her team’s responsibilities and embracing the challenges of the role, she gradually found her footing.
Uteh’s advice to anyone starting an internship at a law firm is to remain open to feedback and take the time to thoroughly understand the tasks you are assigned. Besides that, she also emphasises the importance of building connections with those around you. During her time in Zul Rafique, she appreciated the strong sense of community among pupils and interns, which fostered a supportive environment where people were willing to help each other.
Uteh with Zul Rafique & Partners pupils in chambers and interns
As an introvert, Uteh understands that stepping out of one’s comfort zone can feel daunting. However, she believes that pushing yourself, even just a little at a time, is key to personal growth. It’s not about trying to befriend everyone, but rather finding the people who resonate with you and share your values. No matter where you are, she believes there’s always someone with whom you can form a meaningful connection. That connection, no matter how small, can have a profound impact on your journey, opening doors to new opportunities and enriching experiences that foster both personal and professional growth.
An important aspect that she picked up from her internship at Zul Rafique was the firm’s commitment to fostering a culture of continuous learning. In particular, Mr Chin Lit Fwu, her team leader and partner at the firm, whose guidance and mentorship greatly influenced her experience. His impromptu lectures in the office weren’t just an opportunity to gain deeper insight into the cases they were handling — they were moments that made Uteh feel supported and understood. Through his guidance, Uteh developed a greater appreciation for the mergers and acquisitions department and learned that the competitive, "every man for himself" nature often associated with law firms didn’t have to define her experience.
When she is not buried in legal research and assignments, Uteh enjoys unwinding at her favourite cosy and quiet cafe. It's the perfect place to escape to, especially after a long day — offering a peaceful environment surrounded by plants and cats. It's here that she tries to reconnect with her long-lost hobby of reading, finding solace in the pages of a good book.
Aside from that, Uteh has always had a love for hiking, and finds satisfaction in discovering new paths and scenery. Although she had familiar trails in her hometown, moving to Kuala Lumpur opened up a whole new world of exploration. The unpredictability of each hike keeps her excited and motivated, providing a refreshing break from the demands of daily life.
Now that you are in your final year of law school, what are your hopes and plans for the near future?
As Uteh enters her final year of law school, she has a few clear goals on her mind. Beyond her academic commitments, she is eager to immerse herself more in outdoor adventures, with getting her diving certificate at the top of her list. She is also looking forward to graduating and stepping into her career at a law firm where she can build her confidence and hone her skills as a practitioner. Though litigation is still uncharted territory for her, the inspiring work of renowned litigators like Mr Amer Hamzah and Mr Fahri Azzat has sparked a keen interest in this area.
Looking ahead, Uteh’s long-term vision extends beyond the courtroom and corporate walls. From the start of her advocacy journey, she has understood the complexity of environmental advocacy. She knows she can’t address every issue at once, but with a clear purpose, she plans to focus on one area at a time, mastering it before moving on to the next challenge.
To any students who may look up to her, Uteh offers this advice:
Who have been the key figures in your journey and in what ways have their support and influence contributed to your personal and professional growth?
Uteh expressed deep gratitude to her family, especially her mother, who has been a constant source of inspiration throughout her life. Her mother’s unwavering dedication to her career, coupled with her relentless work ethics, has shaped Uteh into who she is today. It is also this powerful example of resilience that fuels Uteh’s desire to not only achieve her own goals in life but also to one day provide for and support her mother, as she has always done for her.
Uteh and her mother, Mrs Azian Saaiya — her constant source of inspiration and motivation
A special shoutout goes to her dear friend, Mr Pavvenraaj, who has been there for her through both the highs and the lows. His steadfast support and genuine friendship have been her anchor and words will never be enough to express just how deeply grateful she is for his enduring loyalty and kindness.
Last but not least, she is profoundly grateful to her senior, Ms Nisa Qistina, who has been both a guiding mentor and a pillar of unwavering support throughout her law school journey, especially during her mooting experience.
In every ripple of the ocean and every whisper of the wind, Uteh Arianna finds inspiration to continue her fight for the environment, knowing that every small action matters — her story is a testament to determination, growth and her continuous commitment to both her legal and environmental passions. Her journey, driven by curiosity and resilience, is far from over — it's only the beginning.
Written by Aireen Aqila.
Reviewed by Wong Xin Lin and Yap Ern See.