SGM Justice Group 20th Anniversary Seminar – Upholding the Mentor-Disciple Spirit, Strengthening Mission

The SGM Justice Group held a two-day nationwide seminar on 1 and 2 November 2025 at the SGM Melaka Culture Centre to commemorate its 20th anniversary. Themed “Youth! Uphold the Mentor’s Spirit, Soar Toward Justice,” the event gathered 30 lawyers, chambering pupils, law students and people working in legal-related fields nationwide to explore the synergy between faith and legal practice. 

In his address, SGM president Johnny Ng highlighted that Nichiren Daishonin’s writings – filled with hope, courage and a vow – serve as a compass helping legal practitioners to remain upright and exercise sound judgment amid complex realities. He stressed that Buddhist practice awakens the life force to “turn the impossible into possible,” especially when confronting pressure caused by caseload, ethical dilemmas or career decisions, and urged participants to root their work in faith, the dignity of life and principles of justice.

Demonstrating the True Power of Faith on the Frontlines of the Law

Three speakers active in different legal fields then conducted a forum. 

Former criminal investigation and prosecution officer Fung Lee Fook shared that litigation demands strict adherence to professional objectivity free from personal emotion, to ensure that all cases are handled on grounds of truth and fairness.

Insurance and corporate loss-adjuster Eddie Lim Chee Keong noted that upholding “faith equals daily life” guides him to remain committed to fairness and the rule of law in a pressure cooker business environment steeped in conflicting interests. 

Corporate and property law practitioner Lee Theng Yeng emphasised that lawyers do not just solve disputes; they also have a responsibility to protect vulnerable people and promote transparency. 

In encouraging the participants, General Director Koh Sia Feai stressed that the core of the Justice Group lies in understanding and embodying the mentor-disciple spirit. In reminding them that “kosen-rufu is the highest form of justice,” he also urged them to deepen their study and The New Human Revolution and President Ikeda’s other writings, and practise the mentor-disciple spirit in their work, homes and communities. 

Embodying the Mentor’s Spirit, Practising Buddhism in Legal Work

On the second day, participants revisited the four guidelines that President Ikeda bestowed upon the Justice Group over the years – Be exemplary people, uphold justice and human rights, accumulate treasures of the heart, and protect our members. These principles have formed the group’s spiritual foundation over the past two decades and continue to guide its future direction.

During the experience-sharing session, three members illustrated how faith has empowered their professional journeys:

Henry Tan Shiua Hee recounted clearing a decade of backlogged files within a year during a rural posting, crediting faith for the strength to fulfil his mission.

Hua Sia Yen spoke about overcoming bereavement, health challenges and career crossroads, and realising that changing our life state through Buddhist practice will transform our environment. 

While pregnant with twins, Lee Theng Ying overcame arduous challenges based on her Buddhist faith and affirmed her resolve to contribute to society with both law and compassion.

In the closing discussion, participants explored applying President Ikeda’s guidance in their daily legal work, the possibilities of supporting the legal needs of fellow members, and the broader mission and social value of legal services. They affirmed the determination to uphold the mentor-disciple spirit, safeguard the rights and dignity of people on the legal frontline, and build a stronger foundation as the Justice Group advances towards its next 20 years.

(Reported by Sandra Quek Li Ling)