Recording industry group defends royalty payment guidelines challenge

The Recording Industry Association of Malaysia (RIM) has defended its challenge against the Malaysian Intellectual Property Corporation (MyIPO)’s copyright guidelines, which were contested by Public Performance Malaysia (PPM) and collective management organisations (CMO). RIM stated that while they support transparency and good governance, certain provisions in the guidelines necessitated a judicial review.

The association also clarified that PPM is a separate entity from RIM, with its own board and members. Karyawan, a Malaysian artists' association, criticized RIM's call for government funds to promote Malaysian music internationally, arguing that the request contradicts their legal challenge. RIM's chairman, Rosmin Hashim, had previously urged the government to establish a dedicated fund under the 2027 budget to boost local music internationally.

However, Karyawan emphasized that the issue lies with accountability, as artistes continue to face challenges with delayed royalty payments and lack of transparency in collection distribution. RIM maintains that concerns over individual artiste royalties should be addressed separately and not used as evidence of an opaque system.

The industry body's push for a dedicated music fund aims to support international showcases, overseas promotion, digital marketing, and collaborations to help Malaysian artists and companies access new markets. RIM emphasized that this proposal complements, rather than competes with, domestic market development efforts, as both are essential for the long-term growth of the music industry.