The Meaning of Symbols ® and ™ on a Logo
Many people out there wondering about the use of the TM and R marks on the logos of every product or service. The TM and ® symbols are usually placed at the edge of the logo and are small in size. Both are included under the trademark category. The symbol actually has its own meaning and reason and is not just mere decoration.
Symbols ™
The ™ symbol is an abbreviation of the word “Trade Mark”, and this symbol is used as a trademark for a product or service. This symbol means that the company’s brand is only registered with MyIPO (Malaysia Intellectual Property) but does not yet have full rights to the registered brand name.
Symbol ®
The ® symbol is an abbreviation of the word “Registered Mark,” which indicates that a company’s brand has received registration approval from the trademark registrar’s office after the owner registers the registration certificate. Owners who have been officially registered have full rights over the registered brand.
How to Register
The registration of these two symbols is very important for a company so that their brand is protected and has exclusive ownership forever. It can also differentiate our brand from other parties as well as guarantee quality, style, and reputation in growing the business to a higher level.
1. The applicant files the documents
The trademark registration process begins with the filing of an application by the Interlek Property Corporation (MyIPO). Applicants need to fill in the prescribed form and pay the filing fee. A statutory declaration will be made where the applicant must take an oath in Infront of the Persuruhjaya Sumpah.
2. Formality Check
Each applicant is advised to check the formalities of the trademark to be used before the application is made to avoid objections that could affect the registration process. This formality check can also be done online where the applicant can browse the MyIPO website in the trademark section. Applicants are also encouraged to appoint a registered agent or attorney to assist in managing trademark law and correspondence matters.
3. Search and Inspection
After undergoing the format review process, in the event of an objection or objection, the applicant must submit evidence with evidence within two months from the date of receipt of the letter of objection. An application is considered dropped if no response or amendment is received within that period.
In addition, if the application is received without any problems, it will be advertised or gazetted, and subsequently, a stamp certificate will be issued. The validity period of the certificate is 10 years and needs to be renewed.
4. Gazettement and advertising
Once the notice of acceptance has been issued by MyIPO, it will be advertised in the Malaysian Government Gazette. A trademark certificate will be issued if there is no objection as the applicant’s trademark has been registered and has successfully become the exclusive property of the applicant.
