What is the Nice Classification?
The Nice Classification groups goods and services into internationally recognised classes. MyIPO uses this classification framework for Malaysian trademark applications.
Goods & Services · Malaysia Trademark Guidance
Trademark Classes Malaysia
Trademark classes organise the goods and services covered by an application. Choosing a class is not merely an administrative checkbox—the specification determines the commercial scope of the application.
Quick Answer
What you should know
Section 19 of the Trademarks Act 2019 requires goods and services to be classified according to the prescribed classification system. The MyIPO Guidelines direct applicants to indicate the latest Nice Classification applicable to the goods or services.
Can one application cover several classes?
Yes. Section 18 permits a single application to list goods or services belonging to several classes, resulting in one registration.
Why wording matters
The class number alone does not explain everything you want to protect. The goods or services description should reflect the business activity and intended protection accurately.
Avoid over- or under-filing
An SME should consider what it actually sells or provides, what it expects to expand into, and whether the specification is commercially appropriate. Filing too narrowly or too broadly can both create problems.
OCTIP Explains
Choose classes from the business outward: start with what you actually sell or provide, then build the specification carefully.
Key references: sections 18–19, Trademarks Act 2019; MyIPO Guidelines requiring use of the latest Nice Classification.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions
Is a trademark class the same as a business industry?
Not exactly. Classification is based on specified goods and services, so one business may need more than one class.
Can I file several classes in one application?
Yes. Section 18 allows a multi-class application.
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Have a trademark question?
Every trademark matter depends on the mark, goods or services, ownership and surrounding facts. Speak to OCTIP for a practical assessment of your situation.
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