Singapore High Court Dismisses Another Set Aside Application

In DHZ v DHI [2024] SGHC 236 DHZ sought to set aside an arbitral award on several grounds, including alleged procedural irregularities and claims of a breach of natural justice during the arbitration process. The key issues revolved around whether the arbitral tribunal had exceeded its jurisdiction and whether the award was contrary to public policy.

The Singapore High Court ultimately rejected the application to set aside the arbitral award, with the following major points:

· Lack of Procedural Irregularities: The court found that there were no significant procedural irregularities that would warrant overturning the arbitral award. The arbitration process adhered to the agreed procedural rules.
· Natural Justice: The court determined that natural justice was upheld during the arbitration proceedings. DHZ was provided ample opportunity to present its case, and there were no instances of unfair treatment.
· Scope of Review: The court reiterated the limited grounds on which an arbitral award can be set aside under the Singapore Arbitration Act, emphasizing the deference afforded to arbitral tribunals regarding their findings of fact and law.
· Public Policy: The court ruled that the award did not contravene public policy. The considerations involved did not reach a level that would justify interference by the courts.

Overall, the decision reinforced the principles of respecting the finality of arbitral awards and the importance of a fair but limited judicial review of arbitration outcomes in Singapore.