KUALA LUMPUR: The Recording Industry Association of Malaysia (RIM) has stepped forward to clear the air over royalty collections, transparency, and the future of the local music trade, following concerns raised by the Malaysian Artistes Association (Karyawan).
In an official statement, RIM stressed that several key points needed immediate setting straight—particularly regarding how royalties are collected and distributed, the exact role of collective management organisations (CMOs), industry laws, and long-term plans for music growth.
RIM Chairman Rosmin Hashim acknowledged complaints from several Karyawan members who feel they have not benefitted financially from digital streaming and CMOs, even as overall industry revenues rise.
However, he pointed out that royalty payouts depend on a variety of practical factors.
These include the specific rights given to CMOs, individual record contracts, actual music plays, official CMO distribution rules, and whether copyright owners have properly registered with the relevant bodies in the first place.
"Creators of works and recordings that command higher streams and broader consumer usage will naturally receive a larger share compared to those whose works are streamed or used less frequently by music licensees," Rosmin said in the statement.
"Therefore, lower earnings for a handful of creators do not negate the fact that Malaysian music creators are overall earning higher royalties today than ever before from digital platforms and CMOs."
Responding to concerns from both veteran and active performers about late or confusing royalty payments, Rosmin urged Karyawan to name the specific entities involved—whether record labels, music publishers, or CMOs.
"Sweeping statements about delayed, vague, or unaccounted royalty payments, along with claims of inadequate collection and calculation data, only serve to spread the inaccurate perception that the entire music industry suffers from an accountability problem," he warned.
"Such impressions can have a damaging effect on decision-makers and policy. Concerns over royalty payments to specific artists must be investigated based on facts and circumstances, rather than cited as evidence that the entire royalty collection and distribution system lacks transparency."
Addressing transparency, RIM confirmed that clear, fully audited reports are regularly sent to CMO members whenever distributions take place.
Rosmin advised Karyawan members to speak directly with official CMO representatives to check their statements or resolve any queries.
To help ensure every artist gets what they are owed, RIM called on Karyawan to share its full membership list. This would help CMOs track down unregistered performers and work together to help artistes better understand their rights.
When it comes to supporting local talent, Rosmin agreed that Malaysian music deserves far more airplay across radio, television, digital channels, and public venues.
He added that RIM's proposal for a new Malaysian Music Export Fund aims to help local artistes join international showcases, launch overseas promotions, run digital marketing campaigns, and collaborate globally—helping local talent break into fresh markets abroad while continuing to grow at home.
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