THE Intellectual Property Corporation of Malaysia (MyIPO) has introduced its MyIPO NEXTGEN transformation agenda, a five-year strategic plan aimed at repositioning intellectual property (IP) as a core driver of Malaysia’s economic development, as the country marks the National Intellectual Property Day 2026 celebrations.
The annual World Intellectual Property Day, observed on 26 April each year, is intended to raise public awareness on the importance of intellectual property protection in driving innovation and creativity.
In conjunction with this, MyIPO is organising the National Intellectual Property Day 2026 (HHIN2026) from 28 to 30 April, featuring a range of programmes and awareness initiatives to strengthen public understanding of IP.
This year’s theme, “IP & Sports: From Idea to Podium”, highlights the growing link between intellectual property and the sports industry, underscoring how modern sport is driven not only by athletic performance but also by an ecosystem of innovation supported by IP rights.
MyIPO noted that for the period 2024 to 2025, Malaysia recorded 15,350 patent applications and 115,852 trademark applications.
Of these, 118 patent applications were related to sports, while 1,812 trademark applications were associated with sports-related products and services, with 28.5 per cent originating from domestic applicants.
At the National Intellectual Property Awards 2026 (AHIN2026), 10 categories of awards were presented, recognising excellence across multiple areas of IP development and commercialisation.
The main categories included Outstanding IP Organisation for best IP management, Innovative Hero for patents, InoReka for industrial design, Brand Champion for trademarks, Creative Pulse for copyright, and Little Gem for school students.
Three special categories were also introduced, recognising IP empowerment among ministries, departments and government agencies, commercial achievement, and the best IP agent.
This year also saw the introduction of the MADANI Inspiration Award, which recognises athletes, teams and sports organisations that have successfully leveraged intellectual property in sports development.
Looking ahead, Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali said: “Through MyIPO, the MyIPO NEXTGEN transformation framework is advancing based on a strategic plan spanning 2025 to 2030.
“The plan focuses on transitioning intellectual property from a legal protection tool into a strategic national asset that drives economic growth.”
He added, the transformation is built on three core pillars: modernisation of IP legislation, digitalisation of services, and the commercialisation of intellectual property.
“It forms a key component in supporting the objectives of the 13th Malaysia Plan, which places innovation and IP commercialisation as new engines of national economic growth.”
According to the agency, the initiative is expected to strengthen local technological sovereignty while ensuring intellectual property contributes meaningfully to Malaysia’s Gross Domestic Product, in line with the broader goals of the MADANI economic framework for a more inclusive and competitive economy.
To support this ecosystem, MyIPO is also focusing on strengthening the IP commercialisation environment, including the development of certified IP valuers, expanding IP-based financing advocacy for micro, small and medium enterprises, and enhancing the IP Academy to offer internationally benchmarked courses in IP management and commercialisation. - April 30, 2026
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