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My Story: Justice in the Wilderness
As the first private practitioner in some 70 years to be appointed Attorney General of Malaysia, Tommy Thomas describes his experience in the highest legal office in the land in this highly personal book.
The former AG discusses key decisions he made, including the prosecution of former Prime Minister Najib Razak, Jho Low, Arul Kanda and Goldman Sachs for their roles in the 1MDB scandal.
His book is the first insider’s account by a senior Pakatan Harapan government official on the achievements, disappointments and failures of the first non-Barisan administration in the 60-year history of independent Malaysia. His authentic voice is captured in this candid memoir and is recommended reading for anyone interested in Malaysian politics and the law.
The former AG discusses key decisions he made, including the prosecution of former Prime Minister Najib Razak, Jho Low, Arul Kanda and Goldman Sachs for their roles in the 1MDB scandal.
His book is the first insider’s account by a senior Pakatan Harapan government official on the achievements, disappointments and failures of the first non-Barisan administration in the 60-year history of independent Malaysia. His authentic voice is captured in this candid memoir and is recommended reading for anyone interested in Malaysian politics and the law.
531 pages, Paperback
Published January 1, 2021
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
October 23, 2022
A poorly written book filled with lies and half-truths written by the second-worst Attorney General of Malaysia.
March 7, 2021
I will first review this book as a literary item: the author did set out in the prologue that he will write matter-of-factly. It is a 'dry' read. The editing could have been better - with many typos and inconsistencies which could have been corrected prior to the third reprint (which was the copy I had).
As a Malaysian and immersed in observing politics in my professional life - nothing said in the book surprised me. Personally however, as someone who had hope for that idyllic utopia of Malaysia that is inclusive, progressive and just - reading not only about the events that transpired the week of 23 February 2020, but of the 1MDB and many other corruption scandals, the 'ideal' romanticised by our peaceful independence and Tunku's hopes for the nation as Prime Minister which has been slowly but surely eroded over the years, and the failures of Pakatan Harapan's short stint - hurts immensely.
I was left angry, disappointed, frustrated, and exasperated. The wilderness is currently burning , seemingly with no recourse. But as a rakyat whose power is in that one vote, we can only go on. We (that is to say, I) deserve the government we elect, and the fallacy of democracy is we only have collective power - that too, only when and if we realise it.
As a Malaysian and immersed in observing politics in my professional life - nothing said in the book surprised me. Personally however, as someone who had hope for that idyllic utopia of Malaysia that is inclusive, progressive and just - reading not only about the events that transpired the week of 23 February 2020, but of the 1MDB and many other corruption scandals, the 'ideal' romanticised by our peaceful independence and Tunku's hopes for the nation as Prime Minister which has been slowly but surely eroded over the years, and the failures of Pakatan Harapan's short stint - hurts immensely.
I was left angry, disappointed, frustrated, and exasperated. The wilderness is currently burning , seemingly with no recourse. But as a rakyat whose power is in that one vote, we can only go on. We (that is to say, I) deserve the government we elect, and the fallacy of democracy is we only have collective power - that too, only when and if we realise it.
February 27, 2022
At first I wasn’t really interested in reading the book, I knew close to nothing about Tommy Thomas prior to his resignation after the fall of PH. But of course, he shared stories about his time as the AG, during which many of the scandals including the ever-infamous 1MDB that put us on the global map of shame. And so I was ready with my popcorn, looking forward to read more on the juicy bits only privy to the AG during the beginning of what was perhaps the most controversial trial in Malaysia.
This book read like a memoir/autobiography so it could feel a bit dry and unexciting. It began with Tommy’s background, complete with his family’s history before his father moved to Malaya. To me, the earlier parts were pretty dull but they did help shape the profile of the man, and made me understand his character better. Thankfully, the story picked up after he began his career as a lawyer and a member of the Malaysian Bar.
I think Tommy Thomas is a man of integrity, and I’m glad that we had him on Malaysia’s side. From what I can see, he made his judgments based on evidence presented to him and advised on what he thought was best for Malaysia. Not that this was news, but reading in greater detail about the trials he described, I’m appalled by what some people are capable of, blinded by their greed and power, at the expense of the rakyat. And these are the people we put in power – or rather they put themselves in power, using connection and influence at their whims and fancies.
As much as I think this should be read by every discerning Malaysian, the book could benefit by some better editing – typos were aplenty and some sequences did not make sense. Some of the more obscure cases/jargons weren’t explained at their introductions but much later, which made reading harder than it should be.
Also, prior to reading, I advise you to ensure that you’re in a cool and clear headspace because you’d be incensed by what’s revealed here: the rampant corruption, flagrant showcase of racism and misplaced superiority by some entitled folks, power play by the ‘elite’ and basically everything ugly in a society. You’ve been warned.
As with everything else in life, (this isn’t fiction after all) things take time, especially legal proceedings, so many of the cases discussed in the book are still ongoing. Part of me wished that this was written at a later time when every case had been closed but alas, justice needs time to prevail too, especially when there are people who’d do anything in their power to obstruct it, when their interests are on the line.
This book read like a memoir/autobiography so it could feel a bit dry and unexciting. It began with Tommy’s background, complete with his family’s history before his father moved to Malaya. To me, the earlier parts were pretty dull but they did help shape the profile of the man, and made me understand his character better. Thankfully, the story picked up after he began his career as a lawyer and a member of the Malaysian Bar.
I think Tommy Thomas is a man of integrity, and I’m glad that we had him on Malaysia’s side. From what I can see, he made his judgments based on evidence presented to him and advised on what he thought was best for Malaysia. Not that this was news, but reading in greater detail about the trials he described, I’m appalled by what some people are capable of, blinded by their greed and power, at the expense of the rakyat. And these are the people we put in power – or rather they put themselves in power, using connection and influence at their whims and fancies.
As much as I think this should be read by every discerning Malaysian, the book could benefit by some better editing – typos were aplenty and some sequences did not make sense. Some of the more obscure cases/jargons weren’t explained at their introductions but much later, which made reading harder than it should be.
Also, prior to reading, I advise you to ensure that you’re in a cool and clear headspace because you’d be incensed by what’s revealed here: the rampant corruption, flagrant showcase of racism and misplaced superiority by some entitled folks, power play by the ‘elite’ and basically everything ugly in a society. You’ve been warned.
As with everything else in life, (this isn’t fiction after all) things take time, especially legal proceedings, so many of the cases discussed in the book are still ongoing. Part of me wished that this was written at a later time when every case had been closed but alas, justice needs time to prevail too, especially when there are people who’d do anything in their power to obstruct it, when their interests are on the line.
February 28, 2021
Many would impatiently jump to Thomas chapters on his tenure as AG. But, take your time, resist the temptation to skip and go slow. Much had been said about his AG chapters, my review is on the other chapters of his book.
The early part of the book is fascinating. He devoted the first few chapters on his family background, upbringing and childhood. I'm amazed at how crazily qualified his mom was. Thomas no doubt was brought up by an intelligent independent career driven woman. It is interesting to note that later on in his career life, he was instrumental in advising the Prime Minister to advise the King on the appointment of the first female Chief Justice of Malaysia, the highest post in the nation judiciary. Thomas also has mutual respect for women and he had chosen an astounding female partner to form his highly specialised boutique litigation firm. Clearly not the type that intimidated by female intellect.
He narrated his personal life long historical events in Malaysia and globally. Of course, from his perspective and his lense, this is after all his memoir. Revisiting those chapters of history from different angle is refreshing. This is the man who experienced Merdeka in his childhood, May 13 in his teen, the labour government under Harold Wilson when he read law in the UK, the judiciary crisis and the rise of Mahathirism when he was a young lawyer, 1998 Reformasi, the fall of BN government in 2018, and the fall of PH government some 22 months later. He is a self professed avid fan of history, and self proclaimed social scientist; thus when he was appointed AG it was as if God gave him the chance to play a pivotal role in the nation history making itself.
Thomas story reopens discussion on topics that have long been buried and suppressed. Of racial discrimination. Of affirmative action that went wrong, hijacked by the elite few who profited from, manipulated and perpetuated ethnic sentiments to their own benefit and profit. The elite few who masquerading themselves as religion and ethnic heroes, and in the name of development, had privatised profits and nationalised debts. The corruption and mediocrity that plagued our nation institutions. And many others. Open, honest, and constructive discussions are desperately needed on these issues.
The early part of the book is fascinating. He devoted the first few chapters on his family background, upbringing and childhood. I'm amazed at how crazily qualified his mom was. Thomas no doubt was brought up by an intelligent independent career driven woman. It is interesting to note that later on in his career life, he was instrumental in advising the Prime Minister to advise the King on the appointment of the first female Chief Justice of Malaysia, the highest post in the nation judiciary. Thomas also has mutual respect for women and he had chosen an astounding female partner to form his highly specialised boutique litigation firm. Clearly not the type that intimidated by female intellect.
He narrated his personal life long historical events in Malaysia and globally. Of course, from his perspective and his lense, this is after all his memoir. Revisiting those chapters of history from different angle is refreshing. This is the man who experienced Merdeka in his childhood, May 13 in his teen, the labour government under Harold Wilson when he read law in the UK, the judiciary crisis and the rise of Mahathirism when he was a young lawyer, 1998 Reformasi, the fall of BN government in 2018, and the fall of PH government some 22 months later. He is a self professed avid fan of history, and self proclaimed social scientist; thus when he was appointed AG it was as if God gave him the chance to play a pivotal role in the nation history making itself.
Thomas story reopens discussion on topics that have long been buried and suppressed. Of racial discrimination. Of affirmative action that went wrong, hijacked by the elite few who profited from, manipulated and perpetuated ethnic sentiments to their own benefit and profit. The elite few who masquerading themselves as religion and ethnic heroes, and in the name of development, had privatised profits and nationalised debts. The corruption and mediocrity that plagued our nation institutions. And many others. Open, honest, and constructive discussions are desperately needed on these issues.
February 18, 2021
A compelling read. Thomas writes with passion and has strong opinions, leading to vocal reactions by many, for and against what he says. But that is secondary to the insights this book conveys, and it is the author's prerogative to tell his story as he sees it.
One area of concern remains unresolved after finishing the book. Several of the revelations seem to arise from circumstances that seem confidential, either from a legal, lawyer-client standpoint or from the context of the events and surely relevant releases would have been obtained or the requisite justifications reasoned, to reveal them. However, this point doesn't seem to be addressed in the book.
One area of concern remains unresolved after finishing the book. Several of the revelations seem to arise from circumstances that seem confidential, either from a legal, lawyer-client standpoint or from the context of the events and surely relevant releases would have been obtained or the requisite justifications reasoned, to reveal them. However, this point doesn't seem to be addressed in the book.
March 12, 2021
In his book, Tommy Thomas describe Chin Peng as a freedom fighter. I couldn't agree of his views on Chin Peng. But I can accept his explanation on Chin Peng have a right to return to his hometown of Perak as stipulated in Hat Yai Agreement.
For main cases of Adib and LTTE, I can comprehend and accepting his judgement based on the evidence and the rule of law he need to follow.
For main cases of Adib and LTTE, I can comprehend and accepting his judgement based on the evidence and the rule of law he need to follow.
July 5, 2021
Although the writing is a bit dry and very straightforward (unsure if this is intentional to suit the Malaysian readers), I quite enjoy Tommy's sharing of his time in the AGC office and his view of Malaysian politics. Also, not sure if this is just me or because I was really looking forward to reading his AG's experience (which did not start until page 200+), the writing seems to get better starting from there.
Despite some controversial chapters, I find his views to be rather refreshing and it should set as a reminder for us (especially Malaysian) that everyone has different opinions and we should learn to agree to disagree.
Despite some controversial chapters, I find his views to be rather refreshing and it should set as a reminder for us (especially Malaysian) that everyone has different opinions and we should learn to agree to disagree.
March 24, 2021
He is a man of law, not a man of literature. So the writings in some parts may seemed awkward and unorganised.
July 25, 2025
A vivid, unadulterated insight into Malaysian politics that occasionally makes the reader think "what a genuinely hardworking dude".
September 29, 2024
I think every Malaysian should read this book
February 11, 2021
Despite all the opprobrium, this was a fascinating read. Thomas recounts his experience growing up in Malaysia as a legal practitioner. He does not shy from what are clearly his personal opinions- most evident in his view of 13 May 1969 and casual derision of conservatism. His perspective is very much that of a liberal Indian-Malaysian urbanite, but that doesn’t distract from the book’s merits.
Thomas’ impressions of figures of national import, including Tun Dr. Mahathir, Tun Salleh Abbas, Justice Abdoolcader, as well as a myriad of judges, lawyers, and politicians are of historical interest.
The book however started off far better than it ended. It could have used more editing. The public and the book would probably have been better served if it were published later on in his life.
Thomas’ impressions of figures of national import, including Tun Dr. Mahathir, Tun Salleh Abbas, Justice Abdoolcader, as well as a myriad of judges, lawyers, and politicians are of historical interest.
The book however started off far better than it ended. It could have used more editing. The public and the book would probably have been better served if it were published later on in his life.
March 18, 2021
As mild as it could get, it gives the readers a gainful insight as to how the PH government collapsed and whom to hold account to. Although many may have picked up this book because of one’s interest in the 1MDB trial or TT’s tenure as the AG, for me, it’s TT’s life as a private practitioner that grasped my attention the most.
On a side note, I reckon this book to be, if not mandatory then essential reading for every law student or person who intends to practice the law in Malaysia.
On a side note, I reckon this book to be, if not mandatory then essential reading for every law student or person who intends to practice the law in Malaysia.
June 22, 2023
An incredibly articulate, detailed, and easy-to-read depiction of several key parts of Malaysian history, but particularly focused around the two years of PH government. The loss of a star basically follows the change in pace, where the story is fairly chronological with his life (legal and personal) up to the appointment as AG, which was very enthralling. Afterwards it switches to overviews of all the cases and reforms he looked to push as AG, in extensive detail. I thought this section could have been better organised, in terms of pacing. Also, some cases could have used less detail, as the layman is not as versed with legal intricacies that are sometimes discussed, but may not be necessary to gaining a good understanding of the situation.
Regardless, this is a very intriguing account of a major piece of modern Malaysian history, by a man who appears of good morals and standing, and who is unafraid to speak his mind, as is done throughout the book. Highly recommended
Regardless, this is a very intriguing account of a major piece of modern Malaysian history, by a man who appears of good morals and standing, and who is unafraid to speak his mind, as is done throughout the book. Highly recommended
May 14, 2021
TOMMY THOMAS - MY STORY : JUSTICE IN THE WILDERNESS 9/10
Book 8 of 2021.
Over 500 pages in length with a dry start, Tommy Thomas' book was no-holds-barred read, clocking over 100 police reports against it as he told it a candidly as possible, courting a possible ban by the Home Ministry.
It was invigorating to witness an Attorney General who is prepared to elucidate his reasons in the making of key decisions. An irresistible read, from the context of transparency and accountability.
While I am unable to corroborate his experience, the systemic racism, repressive and oppressive laws have been obvious and have played a role in my life. This country I call home, feels more like a rented house, no sense of belonging and longing, where racism is law.
A country that does not advocate meritocracy, and sadly, the majority have been hoodwinked at the mercy of a few greedy politicians who have all lined up their pockets without any justice being meted out. Would a person like Kamala Harris thrive in Malaysia?
The racist essence in our society simply refuses to perish as long as there are politicians who play the race game since there are no repercussions.
There are other intriguing facts disclosed in his book, unlikely disappoint a Malaysian reader with an open mind.
I highly recommend this for anyone who has any modicum of interest in Malaysian politics and the law.
Mr Thomas said in his memoir: "Everything I did was painted in racial tones and hues. The brainwashing achieved its objectives. Objectively speaking, attacks on non-Malay holders of two offices (himself and Mr Lim) in a government otherwise dominated by Malays just did not make any sense. It was neither rational nor logical."
This book has impinged some raw nerves, with its stupefying divulgement within the corridors of power.
Book 8 of 2021.
Over 500 pages in length with a dry start, Tommy Thomas' book was no-holds-barred read, clocking over 100 police reports against it as he told it a candidly as possible, courting a possible ban by the Home Ministry.
It was invigorating to witness an Attorney General who is prepared to elucidate his reasons in the making of key decisions. An irresistible read, from the context of transparency and accountability.
While I am unable to corroborate his experience, the systemic racism, repressive and oppressive laws have been obvious and have played a role in my life. This country I call home, feels more like a rented house, no sense of belonging and longing, where racism is law.
A country that does not advocate meritocracy, and sadly, the majority have been hoodwinked at the mercy of a few greedy politicians who have all lined up their pockets without any justice being meted out. Would a person like Kamala Harris thrive in Malaysia?
The racist essence in our society simply refuses to perish as long as there are politicians who play the race game since there are no repercussions.
There are other intriguing facts disclosed in his book, unlikely disappoint a Malaysian reader with an open mind.
I highly recommend this for anyone who has any modicum of interest in Malaysian politics and the law.
Mr Thomas said in his memoir: "Everything I did was painted in racial tones and hues. The brainwashing achieved its objectives. Objectively speaking, attacks on non-Malay holders of two offices (himself and Mr Lim) in a government otherwise dominated by Malays just did not make any sense. It was neither rational nor logical."
This book has impinged some raw nerves, with its stupefying divulgement within the corridors of power.
March 6, 2021
I just finished reading this book today. Reading the entire book makes me feel as if having this dialogue with Tommy Thomas. In the first half of the book, we're given a ticket to know his personal life, the struggles he went through in his legal career and how he became the first Attorney General appointed from the Bar. The latter half of the book put me on a roller coaster ride where I felt all sorts of emotions when reading the ups and downs met by Tommy Thomas when he was in office as the Attorney General: the prosecution of 1MDB case, the Attorney General's Chambers, politics revolved around his resignation and etc. The book is filled with more history than any of us Malaysians read in our history textbooks from our secondary school day. Definitely a recommended read!
October 2, 2023
In the 3 years since this firestarter of a book was written and published, Tommy Thomas has received hundreds of police reports against him, a Special Task Force initiated by former PM Ismail Sabri to investigate its contents, and at present, a Royal Commission of Inquiry initiated by the DPM Zahid Hamidi.
That above is telling about the controversy surrounding this one of a kind memoir - primarily on Tommy's 20 months tenure as the first non Malay Attorney General of Malaysia during the short lived Pakatan Harapan government.
In it he reveals, the extent of the flaws and vulnerabilities of the judicial system (and why so many of us have so little faith in it to prosecute those in power) and the rampant corruption, kleptocracy and politicking under past administrations.
He also throws around prominent names with wanton abandon, both praising and criticizing their actions through his own lens and encounters. This I found he usually did rather matter-of-factly even with his detractors which despite the lack of malice, could often still be damning due to all the partisanship happening at the high echelons.
Against a backdrop of history and law terms, he explains the reasons for many of the decisions he made on many high profile cases, which he must have felt compelled to address given the sheer amount of criticism leveled against him during his tenure. And towards the end he dives into his personal views on the failings of the PH coalition that led to its premature demise. I for one will always remember my own shock and disappointment when it happened.
Despite the sometimes meandering and often dry tone of writing, I was still captivated by the rare insider look into the mechanisms of government as well as a heavy sense of loss on the many progressive ideals and reforms that PH and Tommy was championing that had to fall by the wayside due to politics.
This is a book for posterity, a slice of history anchored during a both dark and yet hopeful time for Malaysia.
That above is telling about the controversy surrounding this one of a kind memoir - primarily on Tommy's 20 months tenure as the first non Malay Attorney General of Malaysia during the short lived Pakatan Harapan government.
In it he reveals, the extent of the flaws and vulnerabilities of the judicial system (and why so many of us have so little faith in it to prosecute those in power) and the rampant corruption, kleptocracy and politicking under past administrations.
He also throws around prominent names with wanton abandon, both praising and criticizing their actions through his own lens and encounters. This I found he usually did rather matter-of-factly even with his detractors which despite the lack of malice, could often still be damning due to all the partisanship happening at the high echelons.
Against a backdrop of history and law terms, he explains the reasons for many of the decisions he made on many high profile cases, which he must have felt compelled to address given the sheer amount of criticism leveled against him during his tenure. And towards the end he dives into his personal views on the failings of the PH coalition that led to its premature demise. I for one will always remember my own shock and disappointment when it happened.
Despite the sometimes meandering and often dry tone of writing, I was still captivated by the rare insider look into the mechanisms of government as well as a heavy sense of loss on the many progressive ideals and reforms that PH and Tommy was championing that had to fall by the wayside due to politics.
This is a book for posterity, a slice of history anchored during a both dark and yet hopeful time for Malaysia.
March 25, 2025
i think it is a blessing in disguise that i finished reading this book in 2025, some 5-7 years after the events that had transpired in the memoir because as memory would have it, i had read the last few chapters in a state of surprise at the ludicrousness of what happened to the Malaysian political scene circa 2020-2021 despite having followed the development of news closely at that period of time. i think my brain had just subconsciously repressed the events of 2020, and we hadn't even delved into the juicy parts of 2021-2022 yet.
reading this in 2025, a year after having left practice, also makes me a little (only a little!) nostalgic for the Malaysian legal practice. however at times, some paragraphs read like legal written submissions which i recognise may not be very layman-friendly.
anyway, at the outset, i admit my biased lens throughout the reading of this book, having chambered at TT for the entirety of 2020, and admired the clean and efficient manner in which he writes simple and clear prose. it makes for easy reading, and is also effective for dramatic effect at times. the interchangeable usage of the active and passive voice makes for a refreshing read too.
the bias stems from being familiar with the working culture of the firm and the personnel who have worked with TT for many, many years, resulting in my own strong belief that there is nothing TT values more than the truth. i therefore unequivocally believe his narrative of events that had occurred up until the momentous collapse of the PH government in 2020.
i also find it particularly impressive that this whole book was (as far as i was aware) dictated - i personally am unable to write anything of structure without seeing the words written down visually before me.
reading this in 2025, a year after having left practice, also makes me a little (only a little!) nostalgic for the Malaysian legal practice. however at times, some paragraphs read like legal written submissions which i recognise may not be very layman-friendly.
anyway, at the outset, i admit my biased lens throughout the reading of this book, having chambered at TT for the entirety of 2020, and admired the clean and efficient manner in which he writes simple and clear prose. it makes for easy reading, and is also effective for dramatic effect at times. the interchangeable usage of the active and passive voice makes for a refreshing read too.
the bias stems from being familiar with the working culture of the firm and the personnel who have worked with TT for many, many years, resulting in my own strong belief that there is nothing TT values more than the truth. i therefore unequivocally believe his narrative of events that had occurred up until the momentous collapse of the PH government in 2020.
i also find it particularly impressive that this whole book was (as far as i was aware) dictated - i personally am unable to write anything of structure without seeing the words written down visually before me.
August 7, 2021
Fascinating especially for an ex Malaysian litigation lawyer who also got her law degree from a UK university. The first half of the book about his family, early education and practice was very interesting (some dry parts when he talks about some of the landmark cases he handled in early practice - dry even for me who had quoted those cases in submissions before, without realizing he was the lawyer involved) but the second half which is mainly about his experience as AG for around 2 years was even more interesting as it gave insight (no doubt from his point of view) into the political shenanigans behind the scene and the many high profile cases during his tenure.
This is a long book and apart from some boring bits in the first half, I found it gripping reading.
Definitely needs to be proof read/edited again as I found quite a few errors while reading which should annoy every right thinking lawyer!
This is a long book and apart from some boring bits in the first half, I found it gripping reading.
Definitely needs to be proof read/edited again as I found quite a few errors while reading which should annoy every right thinking lawyer!
March 16, 2021
Given that the happenings from a year ago was still so raw, I had been apprehensive about getting my hand on this. What good will all the revelations in the book do to a country that is still reeling from COVID and Feb 2020. I couldn't have been more mistaken. This book is a marvelous journey into his life and reading through all the key events through his lens has been illuminating. Whilst not mincing his words, the former AG also had many good words for the people whom he had worked with, but these were of course never highlighted in the aftermath of the book launch. Alas, the biggest disappointments from the book stem from all the missed opportunities of the what-could-have-beens for our country.
December 14, 2024
Tommy Thomas bore witness and was directly involved in most of the major events that occured in Malaysia in the past 40 years, so it was an overall informing read. A fun drinking game would be taking a shot everytime you read the word "world-class".
The first part of the books follows a linear narrative and had the requisites of a good memoir (good writing and storytelling). I particularly enjoyed the chapter on the judicial crisis.
Thereafter, it felt like each chapter was disjointed and could have been released as separate articles. The writing in the second half was also very choppy and descriptive. As a memoir, its a 3.5 at best but as a piece of descriptive (and at times, personal) history, I would give ot a 4.
The first part of the books follows a linear narrative and had the requisites of a good memoir (good writing and storytelling). I particularly enjoyed the chapter on the judicial crisis.
Thereafter, it felt like each chapter was disjointed and could have been released as separate articles. The writing in the second half was also very choppy and descriptive. As a memoir, its a 3.5 at best but as a piece of descriptive (and at times, personal) history, I would give ot a 4.
January 11, 2024
The Good: Densely packed with information, this book covers many grounds in the author's life. An insight into legal practice at a time when there was less competition, few practising lawyers and a free hand in conducting litigation formed a solid backbone to the content by providing a rich and colourful experience in the commercial bar. The brief but eventful experience as the nation's Attorney General was an enlightening read.
The Bad: May appear disagreeable and pompous. To think that all things British is superior in this day and age is pathetic. Many events were still pending at the time of writing. Each chapter has a different content and all chapters were lumped together disrupting the content flow from start to finish.
The Bad: May appear disagreeable and pompous. To think that all things British is superior in this day and age is pathetic. Many events were still pending at the time of writing. Each chapter has a different content and all chapters were lumped together disrupting the content flow from start to finish.
April 19, 2021
Nothing more lamentable in post-independence history of Malaysia than the fall of PH. Tommy’s vivid description on chain of events that led to that fateful event gave us a general idea not to trust a 90 years old tyrant. Although the dictator had shed his baby soft skin, the vengeful smear on his wrinkled epidermis could not be scrubbed off. His political vandetta had put this country into the deepest hell. Already beleaguered with Najib’s plundering scandal, Malaysia has to see an opportunity to save itself wasted away. Quite a disappointment.
May 3, 2021
While Mr Thomas does make certain juicy revelations of Pakatan Harapan's short tenure in government, his failure to back his more controversial claims with evidence and blatant historical inaccuracies, unfortunately, diminishes the credibility of this otherwise worthy addition to Malaysia's judicial history. As someone who wasn't particularly interested in the technical aspects of the various cases that Thomas handled, this book overall ended up as a bore. It is, however, a worthwhile read to those seeking to better understand the intricacies of Malaysia's judiciary and legal history.
August 10, 2021
Overall I like most of the content but not all of it. And the reason I bought the book is to learn more about the inside news of the PH Gorvenemt.
And yes, Mr Thomas does enclose many informative contents from his perspective as the AG and many other kinds of stuff that are not relevant to that. But again, this is the book of Tommy Thomas, and he can write anything he wants.
A lengthy book, but you would enjoy it if you're keen to learn more about the justice world of Malaysia, the life of a lawyer, 1MBD, and the falling of PH Govn.
And yes, Mr Thomas does enclose many informative contents from his perspective as the AG and many other kinds of stuff that are not relevant to that. But again, this is the book of Tommy Thomas, and he can write anything he wants.
A lengthy book, but you would enjoy it if you're keen to learn more about the justice world of Malaysia, the life of a lawyer, 1MBD, and the falling of PH Govn.
May 28, 2023
The title of the book is appropriate and reflects the life story that is eloquently narrated in the book. Enjoyed the book as the author gracefully and assertively shared accounts of his encounters with public figures of both in the legal and political field succinctly. Chapters on sharing of his legal case execution might be too heavy for a person who is not from legal background. Overall, it was an enjoyable and mildly opinionated read for a Malaysian
December 28, 2021
Written too dispassionately for my liking. So much interesting information but conveyed in such a bland and unfeeling manner. I suppose he was trying to be as neutral as possible to avoid any potential lawsuits after but that just makes for a boring read. He should have been a bit bolder. I’m sure there was a good story in there waiting to come out. Pity it didn’t in the end
September 25, 2021
Interesting read, not a political enthusiast nor a law savvy person myself thus some of the terms can be somewhat hard to understand, but still an interesting story, history and dramatic event written truthfully and straightforward manner. Sadly the truth can be hurtful but it is what it is.
November 28, 2021
Un-answer question pertaining to the laws of justice. Snippet here and there in some chapters.
Definition of Bossku:
Inckek Bohong - Falsehood
Inckek Churi - Thief
Inckek Pembunoh - Murderer aka The Killer
Definition of Bossku:
Inckek Bohong - Falsehood
Inckek Churi - Thief
Inckek Pembunoh - Murderer aka The Killer
September 8, 2022
A good account and understanding of the recent political happenings in malaysia. The author writes it as is and you will feel injustice by some of the people in power or slighted if you are not of the right color or race .
April 13, 2023
An important piece of work documenting Thomas's remarkable involvement in the Malaysian legal industry, and of his time as Attorney General. His account is honest, detailed, and exposes light on what the average Malaysian may not see.
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