KP Sharma
The Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) will adopt Singaporean law as its primary legal framework to build a strong foundation for governing various sectors in the Special Administrative Region (SAR) envisioned by His Majesty the King.
The managing director of legal affairs of GMC, Ben Gaw, said that while the core legal structure will draw from Singaporean law, the GMC will also integrate international best practices to create a comprehensive system.
As a new city, the GMC aims to foster business growth while ensuring solid legal processes.
Ben Gaw said that creating entirely new laws could lead to public confusion, and since Singaporean law is globally recognised framework, it is a more accessible choice for residents and businesses.
“Many countries have adopted these laws, which will make GMC a secure place for businesses,” he said, highlighting the importance of a strong legal foundation.
In Phase 1, the focus will be on business regulations and legal processes to ensure safe and compliant operations. Civil and criminal laws will also be established to promote law-abiding behaviour among residents and businesses.
As GMC expands, Phase 2 will introduce a tailored legal code, including arbitration and specialised areas, developed in consultation with the business community.
He added that the legal framework must align with societal aspirations, ensuring that laws meet the needs of the populace while promoting economic growth.
As a business hub, GMC will also prioritise eco-friendly regulations, including tax, customs, and duties, to create a sustainable environment for businesses and residents.
Former Prime Minister Dasho Dr Lotay Tshering, a core member of the GMC project, pointed out that while Gelephu has the authority to create its own regulations, leveraging proven frameworks from other nations will save time and simplify the process.
“We don’t need to waste time explaining the rules since they are already in practice elsewhere,” he explained.
However, he acknowledged that the legal framework will evolve to meet the city’s changing needs over time.
GMC aims to create a modern, flexible legal system that fosters innovation and growth, ensuring that the city thrives as a business and innovation hub.