National Music Day, commemorated every March 9, serves as a reminder that Indonesia’s music industry is currently navigating rapid technological progress alongside complex structural challenges. The occasion not only celebrates the creative works of Indonesian artists but also provides an opportunity to reassess issues related to copyright, digital royalties, and the emerging threat of artificial intelligence (AI).
A lecturer at the Faculty of Law, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FH UGM), Dr. Laurensia Andrini, highlighted two major challenges currently facing the music industry from a legal perspective. She noted that the collection and distribution of royalties in the music industry still raises questions regarding transparency. Another challenge arises from the development of artificial intelligence (AI), where musicians must now confront or compete with AI-generated works.
“There is also the issue of copyrighted musical works being used as training data for AI without the creator’s permission,” she said on Monday (Mar. 9).
Royalty-related issues in the music industry pose a significant concern for industry players. The unequal revenue-sharing system from digital streaming platforms is often criticized for not fully favoring musicians or songwriters. Laurensia Andrini, fondly known as Ririn, expressed appreciation for the concrete steps taken by the National Collective Management Organization (LMKN). According to her, technological innovation can help address the doubts surrounding royalty distribution for musicians and songwriters.
“Currently, many efforts have been made to bridge the perceived ‘injustice.’ LMKN, for instance, has developed a digital platform for centralized, transparent, and efficient music royalty management. Commercial users can apply for licenses and pay royalties through the platform,” she explained.
Amid the widespread presence of global music streaming platforms, questions about the state’s role in creating a sovereign music ecosystem have become increasingly relevant. Andrini explained that state intervention remains possible, particularly in ensuring transparency in royalty management.
“The government can regulate platforms operating in Indonesia to prioritize transparency in collecting and distributing royalties,” she said.
In addition, Ririn emphasized that regulation in the digital era has certain limitations. Indonesia’s jurisdiction over global platforms is not absolute and must still be guided by general principles of international trade under the World Trade Organization, including non-discrimination, proportionality, and consistency with Indonesia’s national and international commitments.
“This year’s National Music Day serves as a reminder that despite the emergence of new artistic works, there are still issues that must be addressed collectively. This momentum can also serve as encouragement to develop a music ecosystem that is more equitable, independent, and adaptive to technological developments,” she concluded.
Author: Diyana Khairunnisa
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Jasmine Ferdian
Photo: Freepik