“The rates are affordable because they’re calculated annually. There are set rates -- if I’m not mistaken, it’s based on seating capacity and other factors. It’s based on international standards,” he said at the Presidential Palace complex in Jakarta on Wednesday, ahead of a Plenary Cabinet Meeting.
He emphasized the importance of building collective awareness about respecting the copyrights of music creators, while ensuring that regulations do not burden business operators.
“I think what matters most is how the rules are implemented, including how the rates are set. The rates should be affordable, but at the same time, creators deserve recognition,” he said.
To address the issue, the Ministry of Culture plans to hold a meeting soon with the Ministry of Law and Human Rights, the National Collective Management Organization (LMKN), collective management organizations (LMKs), musicians, and business owners.
Related news: LMKN inks MoU related to music royalty with associations
Zon said that the goal is to find a joint solution that protects creators’ rights without limiting public access to their music or hindering the creative economy.
“I think the controversy surrounding this issue has raised public awareness. Some cafe owners simply didn’t know -- many are unaware that royalties are involved when playing music,” he pointed out.
Several cafe and restaurant owners opted to stop playing music after the Ministry of Law and Human Rights reminded them of their obligation to pay royalties to songwriters and copyright holders.
The obligation applies even if businesses have subscribed to streaming services such as Spotify, YouTube Premium, or similar platforms.
Royalty payment requirements are regulated by Law No. 28 of 2014 on Copyright and further reinforced by Government Regulation No. 56 of 2021.
The payments are collected through the National Collective Management Organization (LMKN), which manages and distributes royalties to music creators and rights holders.
However, the rule has sparked concerns among cafe and restaurant owners since music often plays a key role in creating an inviting atmosphere for visitors.
Related news: Minister vows to resolve music royalty concerns
Translator: Primayanti
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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