2026 I Strategic Policy & Planning Department: Gabriel Keith Lui

My Summer Internship at IPOS

Over the holidays, I had the opportunity to intern with the Intellectual Property Office of Singapore (‘IPOS’) under the Strategic Planning and Policy Department (‘SPPD’). SPPD works closely with stakeholders to chart the strategic direction and build a vibrant IP ecosystem for Singapore.

I enjoyed both the breadth and depth of experiences at IPOS. My research project on Non-Practicing Entities (‘NPEs’) was the core focus throughout the entire duration of my internship, culminating in a department-wide presentation at the end of the internship. Besides the project, I had the chance to sit in stakeholder engagement meetings, department and cluster meetings, and to help organise SPPD’s team bonding activity. These experiences forged in me a better understand of the IP ecosystem in Singapore, the policy aims that the government is pushing towards, along with the needs of the industry. I now understand that IP is not merely of concern to lawyers, but a real practical consideration for policymakers and businesses alike.

One major highlight of my internship was attending and facilitating parts of IP Week, IPOS’s annual flagship convention, along with its host of associated events. Beyond the insightful panels and colloquia, I was involved in staffing and organising the inaugural ASEAN Investors’ Roundtable dinner reception. From selecting the restaurant venue to formulating the seating plan, to authoring the brief for CE, to the opportunity to meet Director General Daren Tang, it was fulfilling to see through an event to fruition.

I was also exposed to the work of the Hearings and Mediation Department (‘HMD’), which facilities the resolution of disputes relating to the registration of IP rights, and deals with all interlocutory matters arising from such disputes. At the ‘Tribunal’ room in IPOS, I sat through a trade mark opposition proceeding adjudicated by Professor David Llewellyn, which allowed me to see how disputes were resolved in the first instance. Another highlight was the opportunity to observe a mediation at Maxwell Chambers, which shed light on the hitherto unknown world of alternative dispute resolution to me.

I am grateful for this internship which has given me an introductory grasp of the IP ecosystem in Singapore. I have come to see the significance of IP beyond the legal rights it confers. A strong IP regime is pivotal in fostering innovation and enhancing the competitiveness of Singapore’s economy.

In closing, I thank all my colleagues at SPPD and HMD, in particular, Wei Hao and Gabriel (Ong), for thoroughly enriching my experience on numerous occasions. Blessed 25^th Anniversary, IPOS!