When starting a business, your brand identity is one of your most valuable assets. Whether it’s your company name, logo, slogan, or product design, protecting it legally should be a top priority. In Malaysia, trademark protection ensures that no one else can use your brand name or misrepresent your business.

If you’re looking to start a business in Malaysia for foreigners, registering your trademark is an essential step to avoid legal disputes and establish a strong market presence. In this guide, we’ll cover:

✅ Why trademark protection in Malaysia is important
✅ Steps to register a trademark
✅ How trademark registration helps with Malaysia corporate compliance

MyIPO logo with 5 paper planes

Why Trademark Protection in Malaysia is Important

1. Prevents Brand Theft & Imitation

Without a registered trademark, anyone can copy your brand name or logo and claim it as their own. Competitors can take advantage of your reputation, leading to customer confusion and loss of trust. A registered trademark gives you exclusive rights to your brand in Malaysia.

2. Builds Customer Trust & Brand Recognition

Consumers associate brands with quality, trust, and reliability. A registered trademark ensures that your brand is legally protected, making it easier to build a strong reputation in the market.

3. Legal Protection & Exclusive Rights

Once your trademark is registered, you have legal rights to take action against anyone infringing on your brand. This includes sending cease-and-desist notices and filing lawsuits if necessary.

4. Increases Business Value

A registered trademark is an intellectual property (IP) asset that can increase your business’s overall value. It makes your business more attractive to investors, partners, and potential buyers.

5. Ensures Malaysia Corporate Compliance

For companies operating in Malaysia, trademark registration helps with corporate compliance by ensuring that the brand and its identity are properly protected under local intellectual property laws.

Can foreigners register a trademark in Malaysia? 
Yes! Foreign business owners can register a trademark in Malaysia. However, it’s advisable to hire a local agent or legal firm for smoother processing.

Intellectual Property Corporation of Malaysia – MyIPO

Steps to Register a Trademark in Malaysia

If you’re planning an overseas business setup in Malaysia, follow these steps to secure your trademark:

 

Step 1: Conduct a Trademark Search

Before registering, check if your brand name or logo is already taken. You can do this through:

💡 Pro Tip: A unique and distinctive trademark is more likely to be approved. Avoid generic names or symbols.

Step 2: Prepare Your Application

You’ll need to provide:
✔ Trademark details (name, logo, slogan, product packaging, etc.)
✔ Description of goods/services under the trademark
✔ Business owner details (for individuals or company registration info)

Step 3: Submit Application to MyIPO

You can file your application:
🖥 Online via MyIPO’s website
📄 Physically at MyIPO offices

Step 4: Application Review & Examination
  • MyIPO will review your trademark to ensure it complies with regulations.
  • If there are no objections, it proceeds to publication.

💡 Note: This process can take 12-18 months.

Step 5: Trademark Publication & Opposition Period
  • If there are no conflicts with existing trademarks, your application will be published in the Government Gazette.
  • A 2-month period is given for objections.
Step 6: Trademark Registration & Certification
  • If no objections are raised, you’ll receive official trademark registration.
  • Your trademark is valid for 10 years and can be renewed indefinitely.

🎉 Congratulations! You now have full legal rights over your brand in Malaysia!

 

TM and R

What Happens If Someone Infringes on Your Trademark?

If someone copies your brand name, logo, or slogan, you can:
✔ Send a legal warning (cease-and-desist letter)
✔ File a lawsuit for trademark infringement
✔ Claim financial damages

Having a registered trademark makes legal action much easier and protects your brand from unauthorized use.

Final Thoughts: Secure Your Brand in Malaysia Today!

If you’re looking to start a business in Malaysia for foreigners, securing trademark protection in Malaysia is just as important as company registration. A trademark:

✅ Protects your brand identity
✅ Gives you exclusive legal rights
✅ Helps maintain Malaysia corporate compliance
✅ Increases business value and credibility

Don’t wait until someone else registers your brand name—start your trademark application today!