Malaysia’s KPDN Unveils Sabah Intellectual Property Development Plan for 2026-2030

The Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN), through the Intellectual Property Corporation of Malaysia (MyIPO), is developing a comprehensive intellectual property protection framework for Sabah under the Sabah Intellectual Property Development Plan 2026-2030. This initiative is part of the Malaysian government’s broader agenda to foster an innovation-driven economy supported by robust intellectual property (IP) mechanisms.

Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali, Minister of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living, emphasized that the plan seeks to strengthen Sabah’s economy through enhanced IP protection, development of IP valuation methods, IP-based financing solutions, and expanding market reach for local products via Sabah’s strategic branding efforts.

A key focus of the plan is to cultivate a more integrated intellectual property ecosystem within Sabah. This includes identifying new Geographical Indications (GIs) for high-value local products such as highland agricultural produce, seaweed, and traditional handicrafts. Armizan highlighted that safeguarding these unique products is essential to converting Sabah’s rich biodiversity, cultural heritage, and indigenous knowledge into tangible economic resources that directly benefit local communities.

As of April 2026, Malaysia has registered 130 Geographical Indications, with 31 originating from Sabah. This significant contribution positions Sabah as a major player in the country’s GI portfolio. Notable Sabah GIs include Sabah Tea, Tenom Coffee, Borneo Virgin Coconut Oil, Sabah Seaweed, Tawau Cocoa, Tambunan Ginger, and Sabah Batik.

In conjunction with the development plan, KPDN organized an Intellectual Property Roadshow program aimed at proactively identifying and empowering local product potential. The roadshow’s inaugural focus was on Sabah Tea in Ranau, one of Sabah’s earliest successful cases of IP utilization through GI recognition.

Minister Armizan noted that intellectual property ownership—encompassing GI protection, trademarks, patents, and copyrights—can significantly enhance the competitiveness of local products in both domestic and international markets.

He further explained that GIs generate multiplier effects for local communities by stimulating tourism and related economic activities such as homestays, restaurants, transportation, and handicrafts in the vicinity of product origin areas.

The Ministry, through MyIPO, intends to continue reinforcing the intellectual property development agenda as a catalyst for grassroots economic growth. This approach aims to elevate the commercial potential of products rooted in Sabah’s heritage and distinctiveness, thereby fostering sustainable development and innovation-driven prosperity in the region.