LETTER | Chambering pupils and salaries

LETTER | There have been much hue and cry about the remuneration paid to chambering pupils. I believe things need to be put in perspective here. 

Chambering is a learning process where the master imparts his experience and knowledge to his or her pupil. 

I highlight the words "learning process" here, therefore it's not an employee and employer relationship where the chambering student is placed in the employment market. 

Remember, you are a pupil in chambers or a pelatih dalam kamar and not an employee. 

For this reason, it's totally unreasonable for chambering pupils to demand salaries and a minimum wage. 

Your master is not obliged to pay you a salary, only an allowance for travelling or for subsistence. 

Instead of demanding a salary and a minimum wage, pupils should be looking for a good master who is willing to impart his knowledge to you about the intricate workings of the legal system. 

Pupils should not be engaged in finding out who is paying higher salaries. 

In my 23 years of practice, I have been approached by many pupils and the first thing they ask me is how much you are paying and they end up with a tongue lashing from me about what the Bar and chambering are all about. 

My advice to pupils is to pursue learning and knowledge during your nine months, impress your master with your dedication to learn and learn the traditions of the Bar as much as you can. 

Money should not be your priority but learning and the pursuit of knowledge should take the centre stage. 

I hope you are guided.

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