The investigation comes after the Malaysian Artistes’ Association (Karyawan) alleged that several companies, authorised to distribute the payments, had misused the collection of royalties for their own gain.
A source told FMT that operations were carried out yesterday at the offices of Public Performance Malaysia Sdn Bhd (PPM), Recording Performers Malaysia Bhd, Music Authors’ Copyright Protection Bhd (MACP) and Performers’ Rights and Interest Society of Malaysia Bhd.
The source said MACC seized documents, and several individuals will be called in to assist in the investigation.
MACC deputy commissioner (operations) Ahmad Khusairi Yahaya confirmed the investigation under Section 18 of the 2009 MACC Act.
However, he said it was still too early to provide details.
“To be fair to all the parties involved, we ask everyone not to sensationalise this issue and to give sufficient time for MACC to conduct a transparent, fair and professional investigation,” he said.
MACP previously denied its involvement in undistributed royalties, citing claims of corruption as “factually and grossly inaccurate”.
It was reported that PPM had also refuted claims of wrongdoing, saying it had no authority under the Malaysian Intellectual Property Corporation to distribute royalties to performers.
According to PPM, all royalties collected during the time were forwarded to a licensing agent and had been remitted to performer licensing bodies to distribute to their members.
The company lodged a police report against Karyawan for alleged defamation, along with complaints to MACC and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission.
Stay current - Follow FMT on WhatsApp, Google news and Telegram