Royalty payout by year-end

Artistes to receive payment no later than December

KUALA LUMPUR: The distribution of royalty payments to singers and musicians who have been affected following the dissolution of Music Rights Malaysia (MRM) Bhd on July 10 will be done no later than this December.

The decision was reached by the Malaysian Department of Insolvency ( MDI), Recording Performers Malaysia Bhd (RPM) and the Performers Rights and Interest Society of Malaysia Bhd’s (PRISM) performers verification and claims committee after a meeting on Oct 5.

The Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry (KPDNHEP) and the Communications and Multimedia Ministry (KKMM) said in a statement that both ministries were concerned with the issue, and hoped the royalty distribution process could be resolved soon.

“Both ministries are committed to developing the creative industry and giving priority to ease business operations and will work together to address this issue based on existing laws,” the statement said.

It added that PRISM members were advised to provide support and cooperate with MDI, as the trustee, to verify those eligible to receive royalty arrears.

According to the statement, artistes could also refer to the Copyright Tribunal under the Intellectual Property Corporation of Malaysia over any dispute.

The Copyright Tribunal may determine issues raised by relevant parties including complaints by the creator of the work, the operator, individuals or organisations, appeals by licensed bodies, as well as applications from any individual.

The tribunal can be contacted via email at copyrightribunal@myipo.gov.my, phone at 03-2299 8921/032299 8411 (Secretary, Copyright Tribunal) or via the website www. myi po. gov. my/ en/ copyrighttribunal/ — Bernama