Malaysia had the privilege of hosting this year’s APAA 63rd Council Meeting in Penang, the Pearl of the Orient. Meetings and events were held primarily at the designated official hotel, Shangri-La’s Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa located by the world famous beach at Tanjung Bungah. The Opening Ceremony was launched in true Malaysian pomp and splendour, with a series of local cultural performances.

A record attendance of more than 1,500 registered participants from Asia as well as other jurisdictions convened there. Henry Goh & Co. was represented by Mr. Ameen Kalani, Director from our Singapore office and Patent Agents from the Malaysian office: Ms. Oon Yen Yen (Business Development Manager), Mr. Alvin Boey and Ms. Ki Wan Sia as well as Mr. Lim Eng Leong, In House Legal Counsel.

The 4-day conference provided the attendees with an opportunity to reconnect with long term associates and establish new contacts from around the globe. From the many exchanges during the conference, it was interesting to note that there is an upward trend of greater IPR protection being sought across the Asian region. This was evident from the increase in number of Western delegates at the recently concluded APAA.

Okinawa, Japan has been chosen to host the APAA 64th Council Meeting and 17th General Assembly. We hope to see all of you there!