DO YOU REALISE YOUR INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS??

WHAT IS INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY

The term “Intellectual property” is commonly referred to items of creative effort or commercial reputation and goodwill. What are these items of creative effort or commercial reputation and goodwill? International recognition is given to patents, trademarks, copyright, industrial designs and confidential information as Intellectual Property. It stands to be property which rightfully belongs to the creator or proprietor. As such it is important that this “intangible property” be dealt with the same importance if not more as other tangible property like land.

The position in Malaysia today is clear. Industrialists , traders , merchants of Malaysian origin are unaware of their rights in respect of their intellectual property. With the country gearing towards industrialisation with Wawasan 2020 in mind, we are still unable to appreciate the commercial value or goodwill which is attached to the businesses. In line with the former Prime Minister Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohammad’s vision of furthering Malaysia’s establishment on the International scenario with the creation of the Multimedia Super Corridor which may create possibilities and opportunities which are unimaginable by ordinary means, it is thus imperative that Malaysians of all walks understand, appreciate and above all protect their intellectual property.

A brief summary on the different forms of Intellectual property which exist is given below to enable one‘s understanding of the rights attached to the relevant properties. In order to facilitate the various queries which are usually raised, the information is given on a question and answer basis.