The 21st General Assembly and 77th-78th Council Meetings of the Asian Patent Attorneys Association (APAA) in Kuala Lumpur this November brought together intellectual property professionals from across Asia and beyond. Held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, the conference offered an invaluable platform for knowledge exchange and professional networking.

The programme addressed critical issues in intellectual property law across diverse Asian jurisdictions through engaging workshops, roundtables, and academic sessions. Attendees gained insights into regulatory updates and procedural innovations, with sessions on expediting examination processes proving particularly enlightening. These discussions highlighted the need for agility and expertise in our rapidly evolving field.

Reconnecting with current associates was especially rewarding. Continuing conversations that began years ago, we shared updates on our practices and discussed how the intellectual property landscape has evolved across different jurisdictions. These relationships, cultivated through years of APAA participation, have proven invaluable both professionally and personally. The warmth among long-standing members makes these gatherings feel like reunions among old friends.

Equally enriching was forging new connections with practitioners from regions we had not previously engaged with extensively. These fresh relationships opened doors to potential collaborations and provided insights into best practices adaptable to our own work. The conference’s networking events created natural opportunities for meaningful conversations beyond formal sessions, allowing relationships to develop organically.

Malaysian hospitality was outstanding. The organising committee ensured smooth operations throughout, the venue was excellent, and cultural activities showcased Malaysia’s rich heritage. The atmosphere was one of collaboration and shared purpose.

APAA remains vital for intellectual property professionals in Asia because it combines substantive legal content with practical insights and genuine relationship-building. We are already anticipating the next conference in Hong Kong in 2026, where we hope to strengthen existing relationships, meet new colleagues, and contribute to the ongoing development of intellectual property practice throughout our region. The future of intellectual property protection in Asia is bright, and events like APAA ensure we are well-equipped to meet its challenges together.