Meet Our Talent
Dika Kasih
Biotechnology Specialist
How was Japan in reality to what you had imagined before you arrived?
I imagined Japan to be very technologically advanced, and in many ways it is, with the Shinkansen, life-like robots, biomedical devices etc., but there are some quirks here and there, for example I was surprised to see that many people still use flip phones, and most public restrooms still have squat toilets.
How would you describe co-workers?
Very intelligent, hard-working, and willing to help. My teammates are all friendly and supportive. I have learnt so much from my co-workers, they give great advice and share their experiences with me, not only with regards to work but also general life and living in Japan.
What is the best thing about being a part of a global team?
OMIYAGE! (just kidding). There is an abundance of knowledge and experience to be shared from each person. Every conversation you have with someone, you will likely learn something new.
What were the initial difficulties of adjusting to life in Osaka?
Definitely the language barrier. It can get frustrating being in an environment where you cannot effectively communicate with people. Luckily, most of my experiences with people in Japan have been very pleasant as people are generally willing to accommodate to my lack of language skills by trying to communicate through the Google Translate app.
When I am not at work, I am
exploring places in and around Osaka or going on day trips to nearby cities. Most recently, I went to see a beautiful suspension bridge in Hoshida Park.
Do you feel like you're having an impact directly on the clients that you work for?
Definitely. The clients may not be familiar with the local patent law and practice, so by providing my advice to them, I can help place their invention in a better position for allowance. It is greatly satisfying and rewarding when the clients thank me for my analysis and approve my proposed strategy, and even more satisfying when the case has been allowed.
What is the most important thing that working at the Firm has taught you about yourself?
The most important thing I have learnt from working at SY is that I know what I know. In other words, I have learnt how important self-confidence is, and having that self-confidence can help me overcome any challenge.
What have been your three fondest leisure experiences in Japan?
1. traveling to Tokyo, Wakayama, Kyoto, Nara, Kobe.
2. Disneyland!
3. hanabi (fireworks) parties
What are the challenging or difficult aspects of your work?
We handle cases for a vast range of technologies, some of which are not necessarily part of my field of study. This then requires me to review large amounts of information to not only familiarize myself with the technology but also to provide the best strategy. It can get a bit overwhelming at times when there are several of these types of cases to handle in a short period of time, but strangely enough, this is also my favorite part of the job because I get to learn about so many interesting and up-and-coming technologies.
I am looking forward to experience
sumo wrestling (maybe not experience..., but to watch in the stadium), climb Mount Fuji and watch the 2020 Olympics live.
What advice would you give a potential new colleague?
Keep an open mind and be ready to learn.
What's been your proudest professional moment since working here?
I have been handling a particularly difficult case whereby the Examiner had maintained the same reason for rejection for a very long time. I studied this case very meticulously and worked very hard, collaborating with the foreign associate, and we have finally overcome that particular rejection. Although the case has not yet been allowed, I am really proud that I was able to make a positive contribution to finally get this case closer to obtaining a patent grant.