Accra:The Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living is prepared to explore further amendments to the Copyright Act 1987 to enhance regulatory powers over collective management organisations (CMOs), focusing on the collection and distribution of royalties.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali noted that the ministry would assess whether the existing provisions require strengthening to ensure greater transparency in CMO governance and protect the interests of copyright holders and users. Previous amendments had already expanded the Controller of Copyright's powers, particularly through guidelines under Section 27M. However, these guidelines, set to be fully effective by January 2026, have faced delays due to objections and a pending judicial review by three CMOs, with a hearing scheduled for November 24.

During a session in the Dewan Rakyat, Minister Armizan responded to a query from Cha Kee Chin (PH-Rasah) regarding the government's commitment to further amending laws to bolster the Intellectual Property Corporation of Malaysia's jurisdiction. He highlighted that the guidelines require any changes to royalty tariff rates to be notified and approved by the Controller.

In addition, the ministry is engaging with stakeholders to address challenges in copyright protection brought about by the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI). This involves reviewing the legal framework to ensure it adequately protects copyright holders and users amid new AI-related challenges.