Kuala Lumpur: Copyright users and art activists in the creative industry, particularly within the music sector, are welcoming the introduction of the Copyright (Collective Management Organisation) Guidelines 2025 announced by the Intellectual Property Corporation of Malaysia (MyIPO). These guidelines, set to take effect on January 16, 2026, aim to enhance copyright protection while ensuring that collective management organisations (CMOs) function with greater transparency, efficiency, and fairness.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, MyIPO stated that the new guidelines signify a progressive step for the Malaysian copyright industry, demonstrating the government’s commitment to bolstering the copyright ecosystem and providing clearer oversight of CMOs. The structured approach is anticipated to benefit not only copyright users and art activists but also CMOs, enabling them to fulfill their roles more effectively.

The guidelines were developed with comprehensive input from stakeholders, including CMOs, copyright users, art activists, and ministries, to ensure fairness and impartiality while meeting the industry’s long-term needs. The introduction of these guidelines follows amendments to the Copyright Act 1987, effective March 18, 2022, which authorized the Copyright Controller to establish and enforce guidelines for more structured and effective CMO governance.

As part of the effort to ensure adherence, MyIPO plans to conduct advocacy programs throughout the year to enhance understanding and awareness of these guidelines among CMOs, users of copyrighted materials, and art activists. These initiatives aim to align with the principles of transparency, accountability, and good governance, contributing to a more sustainable and balanced copyright ecosystem in Malaysia.