Recording artists are claiming that they have not received millions of ringgit in royalties from certain Malaysian companies for the past two decades. These claims were made by the Malaysian Artistes Association (Karyawan) in early October.
Following this issue, the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has allegedly raided four companies on Wednesday (25th November) to carry out further investigations into the case.
According to The Star, a source revealed that the four offices raided by the MACC include Public Performance Malaysia Sdn Bhd (PPM), Recording Performers Malaysia Berhad (RPM), Music Authors Copyright Protection Berhad (MACP) and the Performers’ Rights and Interest Society of Malaysia Berhad (PRISM).
“Several related documents have been taken by the MACC for further study and research. Certain individuals will also be called up to facilitate with the investigations,” stated the source.
MACC deputy chief commissioner, Datuk Seri Ahmad Khusairi Yahaya, confirmed that the authorities are indeed investigating the case. The investigation is reported to be categorised as a false claims issue under Section 18 of the MACC Act 2009. However, the deputy chief commissioner asserted that it was too early for him to comment on the matter.
“To be fair, all quarters involved should refrain from sensationalising this issue and give ample time for the MACC to investigate this matter in a transparent and professional manner,” stated Yahaya.
According to FMT, PPM had refuted these claims of malpractice by stating that it does not have the authority to distribute royalties to performers. Thus, all royalties collected by PPM are said to be given to a licensing agent who remits the performer’s licensing bodies for distribution.
PPM is reported to have lodged a police report against Karyawan for alleged defamation, and also submitted complaints to MACC and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC).
