Singapore Lawyer Charmaine Yap Wins Global IBA Award

Singaporean lawyer Charmaine Yap has been honoured with the International Bar Association’s (IBA) Outstanding Young Lawyer of the Year Award. The recognition was presented to the 32-year-old on October 8, 2026, during the IBA’s annual conference held in Copenhagen, Denmark.

Why this is trending in Singapore

The search interest reflects national pride in Yap's professional achievement on a global stage, particularly her role in drafting local legislation that protects food donors.

What is the IBA award for?

The IBA award recognizes young legal professionals who demonstrate professional excellence and contribute significantly to the legal profession and their wider communities. Yap is the second Singaporean to receive this honour, following lawyer Remy Choo, who won the award in 2016.

What are her key contributions?

Yap’s work as a legislative assistant to former Nee Soon GRC MP Louis Ng was a significant factor in her selection. She played a central role in drafting the Good Samaritan Food Donation Act, which was passed unanimously by Parliament in August 2024. The legislation provides legal protections for food donors, reducing civil and criminal liability under specific safeguards. Beyond her parliamentary work, she has been involved in advocacy efforts for vulnerable groups, including refugees and migrant workers.

What is confirmed and what is not

It is confirmed that Charmaine Yap received the award on October 8, 2026, in Copenhagen. While her work on the Good Samaritan Food Donation Act is well-documented, specific details regarding her future advocacy projects or subsequent legal roles were not available at the time of writing.