Discussion “A Quiet Damage: Uncovering the Ins and Outs of Royalties to Avoid Constant Loss.” Photo: Koalisi Seni/Amalia Ikhlasanti
Jakarta – Koalisi Seni recently held a series of discussions titled “A Quiet Damage: Uncovering the Ins and Outs of Royalties to Avoid Constant Loss” at Earhouse on November 20, 2023, Kios Ojo Keos on November 23, 2023, and Gudskul on December 18, 2023.
This discussion stemmed from Koalisi Seni’s research, which highlights how existing policies in Indonesia still fail to protect musicians in the digital music industry. It aimed to share practical information on copyright management.
Koalisi Seni researcher Ratri Ninditya emphasized that the Copyright Law grants significant privileges to intermediaries, while recognition and protection for performers and songwriters remain inadequate. Many provisions in the law use the phrase “unless otherwise agreed upon,” meaning that without careful attention when making agreements with industry players—such as record labels or music publishers—artists could easily lose the rights they are entitled to.
According to Endah Widiastuti (musician, songwriter, and owner of Earhouse), “We should be able to treat our music as an asset because we never know how valuable it might become over time, whether economically or otherwise.”
Meanwhile, Koalisi Seni’s Advocacy Manager Hafez Gumay shared that one of the challenges in conducting this research was the scattered nature of information on music copyright. “Not all sources were willing to be open. Our goal is to ensure that everyone is informed. Is our music ecosystem truly benefiting musicians, or are only a select few taking advantage of this confusing situation?”
Cholil Mahmud (musician, songwriter, and owner of Kios Ojo Keos) agreed, adding, “Journalists also seem to face the same difficulty, which is why media coverage on copyright issues has been rare. Only recently, after some high-profile cases, has the media started paying more attention.”
Rahyan Noor, a musician and member of Lomba Sihir, admitted that due to limited information and knowledge, he only began learning about music copyright when the Music Bill was gaining attention. “I only realized later that there are rights we can claim for our work beyond just performing live,” he said.
Natasha Udu, also a member of Lomba Sihir and a representative of record label and talent management Sun Eater, added that the easiest step musicians can take before working with a label is to understand their role—are they a songwriter, performer, or producer? “From there, we can determine which revenue streams we can claim royalties from.”
Koalisi Seni’s research findings and a practical guide for musicians can be downloaded here.
