Analysis of Substantive Similarities and Bad Faith in Polo by Ralph Lauren Brand Disputes in Indonesia

Wayan Surya Subrata; Henny Marlyna

doi:10.59261/jlsp.v4i4.172

Authors

Wayan Surya Subrata Universitas Indonesia
Henny Marlyna Universitas Indonesia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.59261/jlsp.v4i4.172

Keywords:

Trademark Disputes, Registration of Bad Faith, Protection of Well-Known Marks, Substantive Similarity, DJKI Exam

Abstract

Background: This study examines the trademark dispute involving the well-known international brand “Polo by Ralph Lauren” in Indonesia, focusing on the long-standing conflict between Mohindar H.B. and PT. Manggala Putra Perkasa (MPP). This case is important because both domestic parties claim rights to a well-known foreign trademark despite having no affiliation with the rightful owner, Ralph Lauren Corp. (PRL USA Holdings, Inc.).

Objective: This study aims to analyze the legal status of trademark registrations using the name “Polo by Ralph Lauren” in Indonesia, assess the substantive similarities among disputed trademarks, and identify indications of bad-faith registration under Indonesian trademark law.

Methods: This study uses a normative juridical approach by examining three court decisions: No. 84/Pdt.Sus-HKI/Brands/2022, No. 365 K/Pdt.Sus-HKI/2023, and No. 10 PK/Pdt.Sus-HKI/2024. The study also reviews records from the Indonesian Intellectual Property Database (Pangkalan Data Kekayaan Intelektual or PDKI) and the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

Results: The findings show that seven entities registered trademarks containing the name “Polo by Ralph Lauren” in Indonesia, none affiliated with Ralph Lauren Corp. Of the six disputed marks, five exhibited substantial similarities based on visual, phonetic, and conceptual aspects, whereas one mark depicting a standalone horse did not. Both parties demonstrated indications of bad-faith registration under Article 21(3) and Article 21(2)(a).

Conclusion: The study concludes that the Directorate General of Intellectual Property’s (DJKI) substantive examination mechanism remains insufficient to prevent registrations exploiting well-known foreign brands. This deficiency highlights the need for stronger trademark database management and notification protocols.

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