PRACTICUM II E LOGBOOK

Welcome to my practicum journal, a dedicated platform where I document and reflect on the experiences I gained during my placement in the Legal and Secretarial Department at Bank Muamalat. This journal serves as both a formal record and a personal reflection of my journey, capturing the day-to-day tasks, observations, and challenges I encountered throughout the practicum period. It extends beyond simply listing responsibilities, as it also highlights the lessons learned, the skills I developed, and the insights that have shaped my professional growth.

During my practicum, I was given the opportunity to observe and participate in various aspects of the department’s work, including legal documentation, corporate governance matters, and compliance processes. These experiences allowed me to witness how theoretical knowledge is applied within a professional environment, while also deepening my understanding of the structured operations within the banking industry. At the same time, I learned the importance of precision, accountability, and professionalism — qualities that are fundamental in both legal and corporate practice.

This website was created as a reflective space to complement my practicum report, offering a more detailed and continuous narrative of my journey. Through daily entries, I aim to trace my progress, identify areas for improvement, and appreciate the value of experiential learning. Ultimately, this journal reflects my growth not only as a student, but also as an aspiring professional who is preparing to transition into the working world. It is a personal record of the knowledge, discipline, and confidence that I have gained, and a reminder of the meaningful experiences that have shaped my practicum journey.

On the first day of my internship, I was introduced to all the officers in the department, with whom I will be working and learning throughout the internship. I was then assigned to review the intern guidelines to gain a clear understanding of my job scope and the areas I will be exposed to during my placement. Additionally, I was briefed on the overall structure of the 8-week internship and tasked with researching the topic of garnishee, which I am expected to present within the first week.

On the second day, I focused primarily on understanding the procedural aspects of garnishee proceedings. I was tasked with collecting relevant documents from the appointed legal firm and promptly scanning and forwarding them to the Branch Operations Department for verification of the customer's status.

On the following day, I was given a more detailed explanation of the garnishee process and was assigned to draft a garnishee letter to be sent to the legal firm, informing them of the Judgment Debtor’s status. I was also introduced to matters related to panelship and ad hoc appointments, which are among the key disputes addressed within the Legal Department.

On Thursday, I was asked to present my findings on garnishee matters and was further briefed on its concept, nature, and relevance within the context of an Islamic bank. The discussion helped solidify my understanding, as the hands-on procedural tasks I had completed in the previous days allowed me to grasp the subject more effectively.

I ended my first week by continuing to focus on garnishee matters and assisting with ad hoc-related tasks. I was guided on how to verify documentation and respond appropriately when requirements are incomplete. Additionally, I was introduced to ongoing matters between the Legal Department and the Credit Department, which provided further insight into interdepartmental coordination. I also had the opportunity to meet new officers with whom I will be working closely throughout my internship.

I commenced my second week with an introduction and onboarding session conducted by the Human Resources Department. The session provided a briefing on the attendance system, medical benefits, and the rules and regulations of working at Bank Muamalat. Throughout the day, I continued to manage ad hoc tasks and garnishee matters, while also assisting the department officers. As I became more familiar with the work processes, I was able to adapt to a faster work pace and contribute more efficiently to the team.

On the following day, I was briefed on the filing room and introduced to the filing system in greater detail. I learned the step-by-step process, which begins with searching for documents through the online database, identifying their location, and then retrieving the corresponding physical files from the filing room. I was also given the responsibility of filing recent court orders, where I ensured they were properly categorized and organized within the department’s filing system. 

The next day, I continued handling garnishee matters while beginning to focus more on the Service Level Agreement (SLA). I gained a clearer understanding of how the SLA functions as a monitoring system for officers to track all incoming emails and enquiries, ensuring that each matter is addressed promptly and efficiently. This process not only helps maintain accountability but also provides an organized way to manage workloads and monitor deadlines. I also took on the task of notifying officers of any pending emails that required same-day responses, which allowed me to actively contribute to the department’s efficiency. 

On Thursday, I had the opportunity to contact one of the branches regarding a garnishee case, which helped enhance my communication skills, particularly in a professional setting. I was also tasked with updating the panel list, a document that must be regularly maintained to ensure its accuracy.

On the last day of the week, I focused on completing the tasks assigned, which included updating the panel list, drafting letters for garnishee cases, and monitoring emails to notify officers of any pending responses. I also managed to complete and properly file court order cases, which included matters related to garnishee, liquidation, and injunction.

I started my third week by familiarizing myself with the wide range of work handled by the Legal Department, particularly by reviewing the Service Level Agreement (SLA) and the various emails directed to the department. I observed that any posting or information issued by other departments must first be reviewed and approved by the Legal, Shariah, and Compliance Departments, collectively known as the Vetting Committee. This process highlighted the critical role of ensuring that all communications and materials are legally sound, Shariah-compliant, and aligned with regulatory requirements.

The next day, I was introduced to one of the products offered by the bank, namely Istisna’, and I was given an explanation of how it operates. Istisna’ can be understood as a property financing facility provided by the bank to customers, where the bank assumes the role of the contractor under the contract. I was also introduced to the various types of agreements that fall under Istisna’, which include the Facility Agreement, Asset Sales Agreement, Asset Purchase Agreement, as well as the Supervision of Construction Agreement. This exposure gave me a clearer understanding of how Islamic banking products are structured and the importance of proper documentation in ensuring Shariah compliance and legal enforceability.

The following day, I was given a detailed explanation about Judgment in Default after the department received an email concerning what was initially thought to be a garnishee matter but was instead related to a default judgment. I was explained that a Judgment in Default may arise in two situations: (i) if the defendant fails to enter an appearance within the stipulated time, or (ii) if the defendant enters an appearance but fails to file a defence. In such circumstances, upon proof that the summons was properly served, the court may grant judgment in default in favour of the claimant.

On Thursday, I had the opportunity to learn about security documents relating to financing facilities and assisted an officer with the checklist for the e-NCLD (Notice of Completion of Legal Documentation) before it was sent to the Credit Administration Department for further processing. I was also able to review several documents, including the General Facility Agreement, which gave me practical exposure to the types of documentation involved in financing transactions. In addition, I was briefed on the policy documents issued by Bank Negara Malaysia, which serve as crucial guidelines that financial institutions must comply with to ensure proper governance and regulatory adherence.

I ended my week by being assigned a task involving a mortgage file aging report, where I was required to check for pending executions as well as pending documents by comparing and cross-checking data from July and August. Through this task, I gained new exposure to the preparation and review of aging reports within the Legal Department, which helped me understand how monitoring outstanding matters is essential in ensuring timely completion of legal processes and maintaining proper record management.

In my fourth week, a new intern joined the Legal Department alongside me. While continuing with my usual tasks, I had the opportunity to explain the department’s job scope, the concept of garnishee, and certain legal terms, as the new intern did not have a law background. This experience not only allowed me to share knowledge but also helped me reinforce my own understanding by applying the principles and terms I had learned in college as well as throughout my internship.

The next day, I had the opportunity to consult my supervisor regarding the article topic for my internship assessment. Initially, I intended to focus only on garnishee matters, but my supervisor advised me to broaden the scope to cover court orders in general. This guidance was valuable, as it not only allowed me to approach the topic from a wider perspective but also ensured that my assessment would be more comprehensive and meaningful. By exploring different types of court orders beyond garnishee, I can reflects deeper research, stronger analysis, and a better understanding of the legal processes I have been exposed to during my internship.

The next day, I was given the task of contacting law firms to inquire about the status of garnishee cases that the department had previously attended. This was important, as the updates were needed to inform the respective branches so they could reflect the customer’s status in their accounts. Through this task, I had the opportunity to further develop my communication skills, particularly in addressing matters that required clear responses and follow-ups from external parties.

On Thursday, I was given a detailed explanation about an Unless Order in relation to a case the department was handling. I learned that an Unless Order is a conditional court order which requires a party to comply with specific directions within a set period, and if they fail to do so, the stated consequences, such as striking out pleadings or entering judgment, take effect automatically. This helped me understand how the court enforces compliance with procedural rules and ensures that cases progress efficiently. It also added to my knowledge of different types of court orders, which will be useful for my internship assessment.

I ended my week by joining the Merdeka celebration with the whole office, which was a meaningful experience of unity and togetherness. On the same day, I also had the opportunity to attend a Cybersecurity Forum that focused on managing risks in responsible AI, as well as the balance of accountability to be upheld by financial institutions, particularly Islamic financial institutions. From the forum, I gained valuable insights on how different countries, such as the United States and the United Kingdom, manage scams and cybersecurity threats, which broadened my understanding of global practices in financial security.

I was assigned to assist on multiple garnishee matters as many court orders were received on the same day, which also happened to be payday. This led to a higher volume of transactions that needed to be carefully checked and recorded to ensure each order was properly complied with. I also updated the respective branches on the status of the accounts so they could reflect the deductions accurately. Through this task, I gained awareness of how timing, such as payday, can impact the number of garnishee orders received and the workload involved. It also highlighted the importance of accuracy and efficiency in handling bulk legal processes to avoid errors that could affect both the bank and its customers.

I was tasked with pitching ideas for the Merdeka decoration competition at the office. To prepare, I reflected on suitable themes and elements that would best represent the spirit of independence while still fitting into the office environment. This process allowed me to think creatively and strategically, balancing patriotic values with aesthetic presentation. It was also a good opportunity to practice presenting ideas clearly and confidently to colleagues.

The following day, I presented my decoration plan to the team and discussed possible amendments based on their feedback. I contributed additional ideas to enhance the overall design, ensuring it was both creative and practical. Once the concept was finalized, I helped purchase the required items for the decorations. Through this task, I not only developed my creativity but also strengthened teamwork, communication, and planning skills, while contributing to a positive and festive atmosphere in the office.

The next day, although I was occupied with preparations for the Merdeka competition, I also managed to rearrange the agreements to make them easier to access. Balancing both tasks gave me the chance to contribute to the festive office activity while still keeping up with my legal responsibilities. Through this, I learned the importance of time management and maintaining efficiency, as keeping documents well-organized is crucial for smooth legal processes and quick reference by the officers.

I ended my week by having the chance to hold a discussion with the Customer Service Department, as we would be collaborating on the Merdeka decoration project. During the discussion, we exchanged ideas, coordinated our roles, and aligned the tasks to ensure the preparation would run smoothly. It was a refreshing experience to work with colleagues outside of the Legal Department, as it allowed me to build rapport, strengthen teamwork, and experience cross-departmental collaboration. This opportunity also gave me insight into how cooperation between different departments contributes to creating a more positive and united workplace environment.

PUBLIC HOLIDAY (NATIONAL DAY)

I started my sixth week by guiding the new intern in greater detail on several important aspects of the department’s work. I explained the SLA system and how it functions in tracking emails and inquiries, as well as the process of safekeeping documents and ensuring proper record management. In addition, I also shared insights on several issues that might arise in garnishee cases, allowing her to gain a clearer picture of how such matters are handled. This teaching experience not only helped the new intern but also reinforced my own understanding of the processes.

The following day, we came across a garnishee case involving a customer whose matter we had attended to just a few months earlier. At first, it seemed similar to the previous case, but after reviewing the details, we discovered that it was actually a new garnishee order, although it came from the same law firm. To ensure proper handling, we verified the order, updated the relevant records, and informed the branch of the new development so they could update the customer’s account status accordingly. This experience highlighted how repeat garnishee cases can occur for the same customer and emphasized the importance of reviewing each order thoroughly to avoid confusion and ensure compliance with court directions.

On Thursday, we continued with the Merdeka decoration preparations and purchased additional items that were still lacking to ensure the design could be completed as planned. While helping with the preparations, I also managed to keep up with my legal tasks, including assisting with routine matters in the department. Balancing both responsibilities allowed me to contribute to the festive project while still staying on track with my internship duties. This experience taught me the importance of multitasking and adaptability, as I had to manage creative work alongside legal tasks while ensuring both were completed efficiently and on time.

PUBLIC HOLIDAY (MAULIDUR RASUL)

I started my week by being assigned the task of updating the solicitor panel list. This required me to review and update important details such as addresses, phone numbers, email contacts, and other relevant information to ensure the records were accurate and up to date. I cross-checked the information with existing documents and references to avoid discrepancies, as accurate records are essential for smooth coordination with external solicitors. Through this task, I gained a deeper appreciation for the importance of proper record management and how small details, like contact information, can significantly affect the efficiency of communication and workflow in the legal department.

The next day, I was given insight into a matter involving an order issued by the Syariah Court pertaining to land cases. However, since land matters fall under the jurisdiction of the National Land Code, such an order would still require an endorsement from the High Court before it can be enforced. This explanation helped me understand the division of jurisdiction between the Syariah Court and the Civil Court, as well as the importance of proper legal procedures to ensure the validity of court orders. It was a valuable learning experience that deepened my knowledge of how different areas of law interact within the Malaysian legal system.

The following day, we shifted our focus towards completing the Merdeka decorations as the deadline for submitting the video was approaching at the end of the week. Everyone worked together to finalize the setup, making adjustments where necessary and ensuring that every detail matched the concept we had planned earlier. The process required not only creativity but also teamwork, coordination, and time management, as we needed to balance this preparation alongside our regular legal responsibilities. On my part, I still assisted with routine legal matters in between the preparation, which gave me the chance to practice managing multiple tasks within limited time. This experience was valuable as it taught me the importance of project management and adaptability, especially when working under deadlines. At the same time, it strengthened cross-departmental teamwork, showing how collective effort and effective communication can lead to successful outcomes both in creative projects and legal work.

On the next day, we had the opportunity to shoot the Merdeka decoration video while wearing traditional clothes. The atmosphere was lively and festive, as everyone came together to celebrate in a spirit of unity. Through this activity, I could see how BMMB celebrates Merdeka not only as a national event but also as a way to strengthen the bond among staff and promote togetherness in the workplace. Wearing traditional attire while showcasing the decorations highlighted the cultural diversity within the office, reflecting the values of harmony and inclusiveness. For me, it was a refreshing balance to my usual legal responsibilities and a meaningful experience that allowed me to connect with colleagues in a different way while embracing the true spirit of Merdeka.

On Friday, I had the chance to spend more time guiding the new intern on panel and solicitor matters. I explained the tasks I had been handling, including how the panel system works, and highlighted the differences between an ad hoc application and a panel appointment. I shared that an ad hoc application refers to appointing a solicitor for a specific case or matter only, while a panel appointment means the solicitor is officially listed under the bank’s panel and may handle multiple matters for the institution on an ongoing basis. By sharing these insights, I was able to give the new intern a clearer picture of how solicitors are engaged in practice. This session not only allowed me to pass on practical knowledge but also reinforced my own understanding of the procedures. It was a meaningful opportunity to strengthen my communication skills and gain confidence in explaining legal concepts.

PUBLIC HOLIDAY (HARI MALAYSIA)

PUBLIC HOLIDAY (HARI MALAYSIA)

I started my last week of my internship by guiding and teaching a new intern who had just joined the Legal Department. I shared detailed insights on the department’s workflow, including how to manage the SLA system, safekeeping of documents, and handling garnishee matters. I also explained solicitor panel procedures, highlighting the differences between ad hoc applications and panel appointments. This experience allowed me to reinforce my own understanding of these processes while mentoring someone new, improving my communication, leadership, and teaching skills in a professional setting.

The next day, I focused on completing the arrangement of agreements in the filing room. This task involved organizing documents systematically, ensuring that each agreement was filed correctly and could be easily accessed when needed. While performing this task, I practiced attention to detail to avoid misfiling important documents and managed my time effectively to complete the work efficiently. This experience reinforced the importance of maintaining an orderly filing system in the Legal Department, which is essential for smooth workflow and quick reference during legal processes.

On the last day of my internship, I focused on completing all documentation to be submitted to the HR department, ensuring everything was accurate and properly organized. It was also a memorable day as I was treated to a farewell meal and surprised by every officer with thoughtful presents. This gesture made me feel appreciated and highlighted the supportive and friendly environment within the department. Reflecting on my entire internship, I realized how much I had grown professionally and personally—from developing legal knowledge, understanding department workflows, and enhancing communication and teamwork skills, to learning time management and organization. The farewell and the recognition from the officers left me with a strong sense of accomplishment and gratitude, making the conclusion of my internship both meaningful and unforgettable.

Throughout my internship in the Legal Department at Bank Muamalat, I gained comprehensive insights into the practical workings of an in-house legal team within an Islamic financial institution. I handled garnishee matters, court orders, and solicitor panels, which strengthened my understanding of legal procedures, attention to detail, and record management. Mentoring new interns and collaborating with colleagues on projects such as the Merdeka decorations allowed me to develop leadership, teamwork, and cross-departmental communication skills. Balancing creative projects with legal responsibilities also improved my time management, adaptability, and ability to prioritize tasks effectively. Overall, this internship provided a well-rounded experience that enhanced both my professional knowledge and soft skills, leaving me with meaningful memories and valuable lessons to carry forward into my future career.