THE government Malaysia is intensifying efforts to transform locally produced goods into internationally competitive intellectual property assets through a new nationwide initiative led by the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry (KPDN).
The programme, known as the Intellectual Property Roadshow (Jelajah Harta Intelek), is being implemented through the Intellectual Property Corporation of Malaysia (MyIPO) as part of a broader strategy to identify, protect and commercialise local products with strong geographical, cultural and economic value.
Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali said the initiative represents a more strategic approach towards empowering Malaysian products through intellectual property instruments such as geographical indication (GI) protection, trademarks, patents and copyright registration.
Authorities believe stronger intellectual property ownership can significantly enhance the competitiveness of local products in both domestic and international markets while creating sustainable economic opportunities for communities.
The latest edition of the programme focused on Sabah Tea, one of Sabah’s best-known agricultural brands, produced by Desa Tea Sdn Bhd in Ranau.
The tea plantation, which began operations in 1973, spans approximately 6,200 acres and is surrounded by tropical rainforest estimated to be more than 130 million years old. Tea production at the estate started in 1978.
Officials highlighted that Sabah Tea has evolved beyond tea production into a broader business ecosystem encompassing hospitality, experiential tourism and downstream products that leverage the brand’s geographical identity and heritage.
Sabah Tea is also among the earliest success stories in Sabah to obtain Geographical Indication protection, which safeguards products closely associated with a specific place of origin and unique local characteristics.
The ministry described GI protection as one of the most strategic intellectual property tools for building identity-driven economies and positioning local goods as premium, high-value products.
Beyond direct commercial benefits, GI recognition is also seen as generating multiplier economic effects for surrounding communities through tourism, homestays, restaurants, transportation services and handicraft industries linked to production areas.
As of April 2026, Malaysia had recorded 130 registered GI products, with Sabah contributing 31 registrations, making the state one of the country’s leading contributors to the national GI portfolio.
Among Sabah’s recognised GI products are Sabah Tea, Tenom Coffee, Borneo Virgin Coconut Oil, Sabah Seaweed, Tawau Cocoa, Tambunan Ginger and Batik Sabah.
In line with Sabah’s growing intellectual property potential, the ministry and MyIPO are now developing a more comprehensive protection framework under the Sabah Intellectual Property Development Plan 2026-2030.
The plan is expected to strengthen innovation-based economic growth through expanded IP protection, intellectual property valuation systems, IP-based financing mechanisms and strategic branding initiatives for Sabah-origin products.
Authorities said the blueprint will also focus on identifying new high-value GI products, including highland agricultural produce, seaweed-based products and traditional handicrafts developed by local communities.
The ministry said the initiative is intended to ensure Sabah’s biodiversity, cultural heritage and indigenous knowledge can be translated into long-term economic opportunities that directly benefit local communities and entrepreneurs.
“KPDN through MyIPO will continue strengthening the intellectual property development agenda as one of the key catalysts for grassroots economic growth, particularly in elevating the potential of local products rooted in identity, heritage and local uniqueness,” the statement said.
The ministry added that through a more structured and strategic approach, intellectual property could become a major economic asset capable of generating sustainable value for businesses, communities and the wider Malaysian economy. - May 24, 2026
