Victory Secures Rights to Iconic Brand Amid Ongoing Rivalry
Trademark Dispute Resolved in Ng Family’s Favour
The daughters of Ng Ba Eng, founder of the renowned Eng’s wanton mee, have won a legal battle to secure trademarks for their family’s brand. The Intellectual Property Office of Singapore (IPOS) ruled on Jun. 27 in favour of Ng Mui Hoong and Ng Mei Ling, granting them trademark rights for the Chinese characters “榮高,” the name “Eng’s,” and a logo combining these elements.
Opposition from Rival Business
The legal challenge was initiated by Pauline New Ling Ling in 2019. New, wife of Jason Sim—former business partner of Ng Ba Eng’s son, Desmond Ng—argued that the trademarks would confuse the public and alleged bad faith in their application.
However, IPOS adjudicator Andy Leck dismissed these claims, stating that goodwill attached to the original Eng’s brand could not exist after the cessation of “Eng’s Noodle House Pte. Ltd.” in February 2018. Instead, Leck noted that the trademarks were strongly associated with the Ng family, who had used them for decades.
Legacy and Intentions Vindicated
Leck further ruled that the Ng sisters’ intent to preserve their family legacy was genuine, rejecting allegations of bad faith. He stated that the sisters’ belief in their right to register the trademarks was reasonable and did not require them to investigate other parties’ claims beforehand.
Rival Operations Continue
New and her business partners currently operate under “Eng’s Wantan Noodle Pte. Ltd.” and manage several outlets, including those branded as “ENG’s Heritage.” Despite this, the ruling affirms that public perception links the trademarks more closely with the Ng family’s business, “Eng’s Char Siew Wantan Mee Pte. Ltd.,” where Desmond Ng is now employed.
Next Steps in the Dispute
In a statement, the Ng family expressed their commitment to defending their legacy. They plan to pursue infringement claims against New and her business partners for unauthorised use of the Eng’s name.
This ruling marks a significant milestone in the protracted legal and familial drama surrounding the iconic wanton noodle brand, with further developments anticipated as the Ng family seeks to protect its heritage.
