Intellectual property (IP) rights in Malaysia are protected through a comprehensive legal framework administered by the Intellectual Property Corporation of Malaysia (MyIPO). This system covers various forms of IP, including patents, trademarks, industrial designs, copyright, geographical indications, and layout designs for integrated circuits.

Malaysia is a signatory to international treaties like the Berne Convention and the TRIPS Agreement, ensuring its laws align with international standards and provide adequate protection for both local and foreign IP holders.

Types of IP Protection

  • Patents and utility innovations
  • Trademarks
  • Copyright
  • Industrial designs
  • Geographical indications (GIs)
  • Trade secrets and confidential information
  • Layout-designs of integrated circuits
  • Plant varieties (Breeder’s rights)

Use of IPR as an economic asset including financing of PKS based on IPR, IPR marketplace system.

Main IP Legislation

  • Patents : Patents Act 1983 (amended 2006 & 2022)
  • Trademarks : Trademarks Act 2019
  • Industrial Designs: Industrial Designs Act 1996 (amended 2013)
  • Copyright : Copyright Act 1987 (amended 2022)
  • Geographical Indications (GI) : Geographical Indications Act 2022
  • Layout Designs of Integrated Circuits : Layout-Designs of Integrated Circuits Act 2000
  • Trade Secrets : Protected under common law principles of confidentiality (no specific statute)

Main IP Authority

The Intellectual Property Corporation of Malaysia (MyIPO) is the national authority responsible for IP administration, registration, and policy development.

Web: www.myipo.gov.my