Indonesia recognizes journalistic works for copyright and royalties

At the ASEAN Forum on the Protection of Journalistic Works in the Digital Era in Bali, Indonesian Minister of Law Supratman Andi Agtas affirmed that journalistic works are recognized under the copyright regime. This recognition establishes their economic value and potential for royalties, though specific distribution mechanisms and the potential establishment of a Collective Management Organization (CMO) are still being determined through upcoming implementing regulations.

Supratman emphasized the need for regional cooperation within ASEAN to ensure transparency and fair remuneration, noting that digital technology allows journalistic content to cross borders instantly. He stressed that technological advancement must not diminish the value or protection of human-created work.

Komaruddin Hidayat, Chairman of the Press Council, highlighted the economic imbalance in the digital ecosystem. He noted that while digital platforms gain significant revenue from user attention and advertising through content distribution, journalists and media organizations often receive disproportionately small compensation. He argued that addressing this disparity is both an economic and ethical necessity to ensure the sustainability of journalism as a pillar of democracy.