We have concert and event organisers to thank for bringing many of our favourite international artists to Malaysia. However, there have been instances where fans expressed dissatisfaction with how certain organisers handled situations, such as crowd control, cancelled performances or delayed refunds.
It’s also understandable that organising a show is never easy, as organisers must go through all the necessary procedures to proceed. Otherwise, they might end up like this particular concert organiser, which, although has held successful shows over the years, is now facing a lawsuit over alleged copyright violations. Here’s the full story:
Yesterday (Tuesday, 21st January), the Music Authors’ Copyright Protection (MACP) shared on their social media pages that they have filed a legal suit against concert organiser Hitman Solutions, claiming copyright infringement for the performance of local and international works at several concerts held in Malaysia.
“MACP is committed to upholding and protecting the rights of our members against any unauthorised use of copyrighted musical works,” the statement reads. According to the post, the copyright infringement claims for the concerts held in Malaysia include:
- Bunkface 15 Years of Korang
- Raisa Live in Malaysia
- Ne-Yo Live in Malaysia (2023)
- Blue Heart & Soul Tour (2023)
- Konsert Jilid Akhir: Ella Putri Kota
In addition to these claims, MACP also alleged that Hitman Solutions did not secure the necessary licences from them to organise several concerts such as Jubin Nautiyal Live in Malaysia, Rizky Febian: Berona Day, Sum 41: Tour of the Setting Sun (The Final Tour), Incubus Live in Malaysia, DOLLA Re:Birth The Experience, Bring Me The Horizon Live Featuring BABYMETAL and many more. “This legal action is crucial in upholding and protecting the rights of MACP’s local and international members against any unauthorised use of their copyrighted musical works,” the company wrote.
The statement also highlighted that organisers of concerts and events such as the PinkFish Countdown Festival are legally required to obtain valid licenses from MACP if they wish to perform or use MACP’s copyrighted musical works at the events. At the time of writing, Hitman Solutions has yet to respond to these allegations.
Netizens reacted to the news, with some wondering how Hitman Solutions managed to organise numerous concerts without obtaining the proper licences and necessary approvals. Local comedian Shamaine Othman explained that there was no reason for any organiser not to follow the correct procedure, as she herself had to go through MACP for her 1-hour special comedy show.
Read the full MACP statement below:
