Singapore Update: Extension of Time For Notice of Opposition

The Intellectual Property Office of Singapore (“IPOS”) has seen various different circumstances arising from the grey areas of the Trademarks Rules since the relevant amendments were made eleven years ago. One of the main problems arising in this regard relates to the issue of consent to late requests for Extensions of Time during Opposition proceedings. […]
Singapore Update: The Subway Way

Long gone are the days where the word “Subway” only brought to mind visions of underground trains. Nowadays, more often than not, our thoughts are filled with tantalising images of fresh, tasty and succulent sandwiches, and… clothing? Well, Intellectual Property Office of Singapore (IPOS) surely thinks so! In this case, the proprietor of Prosperous Enterprise […]
No Other “Regis” But “St.Regis” Allowed for Hotels in Singapore

In this rather interesting opposition proceeding, the Applicant, Staywell Hospitality Group Pty Ltd had applied to protect the trademark “Park Regis” in Classes 35 and 43, claiming, amongst others, business management, business administration, hotel services, hospitality services and etc. The Applicant, who originated from Australia, is the owner of a chain of 3- or 4-star […]
[Malaysia SME] Addressing Trademark Issues
Singapore Patent Update: MARTEK Turns The Tables on Cargill

Our readers may remember an article from last August’s KASS IP Exposé where Singapore Patent No. SG 49307 entitled “Microbial Oil Mixtures and Use Thereof” owned by Martek Biosciences Corporation was revoked by the Registrar of the Intellectual Property Office of Singapore (IPOS). Martek had since filed an appeal at the Singapore High Court against […]
[Press Release] INTA Roundtable on Malaysia’s Entry Into The Madrid Protocol

INTA Roundtable on Malaysia’s Entry Into The Madrid Protocol Kuala Lumpur: Home-grown boutique intellectual property firm KASS International led an International Trademark Association (INTA) Roundtable Discussion today on Malaysia’s future accession to the Madrid Protocol.
Singapore Update: Patent For Taxi Display Unit Revoked

If you have been to Singapore, you would have noticed that many taxis there are equipped with a rooftop display unit consisting of multi-coloured LED lights that indicate the hiring status of the taxis. It may come as a surprise to you to find out that this same display unit was the subject of a […]
[ITMA Review] 5-Star EHS denied due to its lack of distinctiveness
How Close is J.Estina to Festina?

Many a time clients have enquired whether a trademark search is necessary before they apply for a trademark registration. And many a time we have responded with a “Yes, it is highly advisable as it will ascertain whether the application will be a smooth and successful process or whether there will be a rocky road […]
“5-Star EHS” Fails to be Registered in Singapore

A trademark applicant in Singapore sought to register the mark “5-STAR EHS” under Classes 42 and 45 but was turned down by the IP Office of Singapore (IPOS) on grounds that the mark lacked distinctiveness and was rather descriptive of the applicant’s services, in a decision dated 4 October 2010. The applicant was in the […]