The Ministry of Domestic Trade, Cooperatives and Consumerism is reviewing all intellectual property (IP)-related acts, including the Copyright Act 1987.

This is to ensure Malaysia's IP regime is up to date and the review is being undertaken through the Intellectual Property Corporation of Malaysia (MyIPO).

Its Deputy Minister Tan Lian Hoe, in commenting on the amendment to the Copyright Act, said the ministry was also addressing various issues related to it.

She explained, the amendment is in support of the nation's innovation agenda, including the development of the creative industry.

It also includes balancing the rights of authors, performers and public policy, the powers of the copyright tribunal, internet and technological development related issues and wide ranging exceptions as well as limitations for private and educational purposes.

"In amending the Act, the views of legal experts, academic scholars, the copyright industry and other stakeholders, are being given a listening ear," she said.

She also disclosed, an amendment to the Copyright Act 1987 is expected to be tabled at the next cabinet meeting, in March.

Tan had earlier opened a follow-up of the Advanced Course on Copyright and Related Rights in Kuala Lumpur.

"The creative industry, facilitated by the copyright regime, is a powerful engine for economic growth in Malaysia.

"So, there is a need to have an act that in line with the changes in the global IP landscape," she added.

MyIPO director general Kamel Mohamad said the creative industry in the country is still robust, despite the currenct economic uncertainties, based on the keen interest shown by local firms in registering their IPs.

"We can see an increasing awareness. More firms, especially the small and medium enterprises, have realised the economic potential of their IPs," he highlighted.

Kamel said in 2009, the MyIPO had received more than 8,000 trade mark applications, an increase of two per cent compared to the previous year.

Meanwhile for patents, about 1,234 applications were received last year, compared to 864 in 2008.

- Bernama