Music is a highly valuable form of art, both emotionally and commercially. For Indonesian musicians, song copyright serves as the main shield against piracy and misuse of their works. In the digital era where distribution is easier than ever, it’s crucial for songwriters and music industry players to understand and properly implement copyright protection.
Read Also: What Is Copyright – A Complete Guide to Protecting Your Work
The Importance of Copyright for Indonesian Musicians
Copyright provides legal protection for musicians over their creations. Without it, musical works can be easily used without permission, resold, or even claimed by others.
Why copyright is important for musicians:
- Protects the moral and economic rights of songwriters
- Ensures musicians receive royalties from the use of their works
- Prevents piracy and unauthorized use of songs
- Serves as an asset that can be inherited or licensed
Types of Music Copyright
Copyright in music is divided into two main types:
1. Moral Rights
Rights that are personally attached to the songwriter and cannot be transferred. Examples include:
- The right to be recognized as the creator
- The right to prohibit modification of the song without permission
2. Economic Rights
Rights to obtain economic benefits from the use of the song. Examples include:
- The right to produce and sell the song
- The right to license it to third parties
- The right to royalties from media broadcasts, concerts, or streaming
Read Also: 7 Purposes of Copyright: Full Protection & Benefits
Copyright Infringement in Music
Common forms of music copyright infringement in Indonesia include:
- Uploading songs to digital platforms without the creator’s or rights holder’s permission
- Covering songs for commercial purposes without a license
- Selling pirated CDs or distributing illegal MP3 files
- Using songs in ads, films, or YouTube content without paying royalties
These violations can result in up to 10 years of imprisonment and fines of up to IDR 4 billion, in accordance with Law No. 28 of 2014 on Copyright.
Music Copyright Protection in Indonesia
Songs or musical works are legally protected once they are expressed in tangible form (recordings, notation, or written form), even if they are not registered. However, to strengthen your legal position and facilitate proof in case of disputes, it is highly recommended to register your copyright officially.
Copyright protection lasts for:
- The creator’s lifetime + 70 years after the creator’s death (for both moral and economic rights)
Also read: Copyright Infringement: Legal Basis and Maximum Penalties
How to Register Music Copyright in Indonesia
Here are the simple steps to officially register a song’s copyright in Indonesia:
1. Prepare the Documents
- Songwriter’s data (ID card, Tax ID if available)
- Song/audio file or music notation
- Statement of originality
2. Register Online
Visit the Directorate General of Intellectual Property (DGIP) website: 🔗 https://dgip.go.id
3. Fill Out the Form and Upload Documents
Complete the application form and upload all documents digitally through the e-Copyright system.
4. Pay the Registration Fee
Registration fees range from IDR 200,000 – IDR 600,000, depending on the type of applicant (individual or business entity).
5. Wait for the Verification Process
Once verified, you will receive a legally valid digital copyright certificate.
If you need assistance with copyright registration, feel free to contact vOffice’s Copyright, Trademark & IP Registration Services.
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FAQ: Song Copyright
Is my song protected even if it’s not registered?
Yes, as long as the work has been expressed in a tangible form. However, registration provides stronger legal protection.
What’s the difference between royalty and copyright?
Copyright is the legal ownership of the work, while royalty is the financial compensation from its use.
Can I pass on the copyright of my song?
Yes. The economic rights of a song can be inherited by the creator’s heirs after their death.
