Federal, state authorities partner to strengthen IP protection among entrepreneurs
04 May 2026
The Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) has entered into a strategic partnership with the Sabah Ministry of Industrial Development, Entrepreneurship and Transport (Mindet) to strengthen intellectual property protection among entrepreneurs and communities in Sabah.
KPDN minister Armizan Mohd Ali said the collaboration presents a significant opportunity to enhance IP awareness and development, particularly among local entrepreneurs and creators in the state.
“This engagement allows KPDN and Mindet to align on several strategic initiatives, especially in strengthening intellectual property protection, which is becoming increasingly critical in today’s economy,” he said.
He added that there remains considerable potential for joint programmes, including closer collaboration with the Intellectual Property Corporation of Malaysia (MyIPO) to expand IP-related initiatives in Sabah.
Armizan made the remarks following a courtesy visit from Mindet minister and Sabah deputy chief minister III Ewon Benedick on Friday.
He said the partnership will focus on training programmes, capacity building and engagement sessions involving civil servants and key stakeholders in Sabah. The goal is to ensure that more entrepreneurs understand the importance of IP registration in safeguarding innovation, creativity, and the competitiveness of local products.
He also commended Mindet’s role in supporting the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) 2.0 agenda, particularly in advancing industrial and entrepreneurship development.
“Mindet’s commitment to strengthening intellectual property development can further contribute to Sabah’s economic growth while fostering a more sustainable entrepreneurial ecosystem,” he said.
Armizan further expressed hope that traditional Sabah batik motifs will be further promoted, noting their strong potential as both cultural heritage and a high-value creative economy product.
Meanwhile, Ewon said the collaboration will begin with Mindet officers and agency representatives attending specialized training at the IP Academy, followed by awareness programmes for entrepreneurs on IP protection.
He said these training sessions are essential to deepen understanding of MyIPO’s role and to equip officers with the knowledge needed to guide entrepreneurs effectively in IP registration and protection.
“Mindet will also explore the establishment of a dedicated intellectual property unit to ensure more structured and effective implementation of these initiatives,” he said.
Ewon stressed that all entrepreneurial product development in Sabah – including in industry, innovation, food and beverage and social enterprise sectors – should integrate intellectual property registration as a form of added value.
He added that sustained training and exposure for both officers and entrepreneurs are necessary, supported by strong multi-stakeholder cooperation.
He also acknowledged MyIPO’s support in advancing the initiative, noting that Sabah recorded 3,941 intellectual property applications from 2021 to March 2026, with 3,349 registrations as of December 2025.
Earlier, Ewon visited MyIPO and held discussions with its director general, Yusniza Syarmila Yusuff, on the implementation of specialized training programmes for Mindet officers and agencies.
- Excel V. Dyquiangco
