In Indonesia, the issue of music royalties has become increasingly visible as more cases come before the courts. One of the most striking examples was when singer Agnez Mo was fined by the Central Jakarta Commercial Court for performing the song Bilang Saja without permission during several concerts in 2023. The court ordered her to pay one and a half billion rupiah, a decision that surprised many in the entertainment and business world. The case highlighted that even high profile artists can face serious consequences if music is performed without a proper license.
The case raised a bigger question for businesses and event organizers. Who is ultimately responsible for licensing obligations when music is performed or broadcast to the public? Some argued that artists should not be held accountable since they often assume the event promoter has secured all necessary permissions. Others insisted that performers also carry responsibility because they are the ones presenting the music on stage. This debate revealed how uncertainty around music royalties can create legal risks for both individuals and organizations.
The risks go beyond fines. Legal disputes can harm reputation and lead to distrust from both customers and partners. In several instances, businesses and venues have chosen to avoid using music altogether in order to escape potential penalties. This approach, however, reduces the atmosphere and appeal of their establishments. Music is an important element in creating ambience, whether in a café, restaurant, or shopping environment, and losing that advantage can affect customer satisfaction and loyalty.
The controversy has also sparked wider discussions in Indonesia’s music community. Prominent musicians have sought judicial review of the Copyright Law, arguing that responsibilities should be clarified and that collective licensing should be more effective. Without clear rules, both artists and businesses remain vulnerable. For now, event organizers and business owners must take a proactive role by securing proper licenses through the recognized collective management organizations.
Ignoring these obligations may seem harmless at first, but the consequences can be severe. Financial penalties, legal disputes, reputational harm, and the loss of customer experience are all hidden risks that businesses cannot afford to overlook. By taking music royalties seriously and ensuring compliance, businesses not only protect themselves but also contribute to a healthier creative industry where artists are fairly compensated for their work.
Source: CNN Indonesia. (2023, September 26). Agnez Mo kalah gugatan hak cipta lagu Bilang Saja dan harus bayar Rp1,5 miliar. | Tempo. (2023, November 15). Musisi gugat Undang Undang Hak Cipta ke Mahkamah Konstitusi.