Music is an expression, an identity, and for many creators, a source of livelihood. Yet in today’s digital and open public spaces, music is often played, used, or uploaded without the creator’s permission. That’s why understanding music copyright in public places has become essential not just for creators but also for business owners and content users.
This article explores how to protect your music in public settings, while also explaining how music copyright works in Indonesia from usage in cafés and restaurants to digital platforms like YouTube and TikTok.
What Is Music Copyright in Indonesia?
Under Indonesian law, music copyright is protected by Law No. 28 of 2014 on Copyright. This law defines music and songs as “creations” that automatically receive protection from the moment they are created and expressed in tangible form, whether recorded, written, or published, without requiring formal registration.
In the context of music, this protection covers:
- Lyrics and musical composition
- Arrangements, sound recordings, and musical scores
- Performances or live renditions of the song
This means that once a song is created, the creator automatically holds moral rights (as the author) and economic rights (to earn income from its use).
However, to strengthen your legal standing and simplify proof in case of a dispute, copyright registration is still highly recommended. If you want to ensure the registration process is done properly and in compliance with the law, you can consult Widjojo HKI, a law firm experienced in intellectual property protection in Indonesia.
Music Copyright in Public Spaces: Who Should Pay?
When music is played in public venues such as cafés, restaurants, hotels, malls, or concert events, it qualifies as commercial use. Therefore, any public performance of music must obtain permission from the copyright holder either directly or through a Collective Management Organization (LMK).
For example:
- A café that plays an international playlist to create a cozy ambiance is still required to pay royalties to the LMK.
- A restaurant that features live music must report its setlist so that royalties are distributed to the rightful songwriters.
In essence, music copyright in cafés and restaurants is based on the same legal foundation, protecting the economic rights of music creators.
Why Is Music Licensing Important?
Many business owners assume that playing music in public doesn’t harm anyone. In reality, every time music is used to attract customers or enhance an atmosphere, it constitutes commercial exploitation.
By paying royalties properly, businesses not only avoid legal sanctions but also support and respect the hard work of musicians, songwriters, and producers.
Indonesia now has a National Collective Management Organization (LMKN), which simplifies the process of obtaining licenses and distributing royalties transparently.
If you’re a business owner still unsure about royalty obligations or how to obtain a license, Widjojo HKI can provide legal guidance and ensure your operations remain compliant with current regulations.
How to Protect Your Music as a Creator
For musicians and content creators, here are some essential steps to protect your music copyright both in public spaces and in the digital realm:
- Keep proof of creation
Record the date of creation, original recordings, or digital files as evidence of originality. You can also register your work with the Directorate General of Intellectual Property (DGIP) for added protection. - Join a Collective Management Organization (LMK)
Through an LMK, you can ensure that royalties from your music used in public are distributed fairly and legally. - Use digital metadata
Add a watermark, metadata, or unique tag to your music files so they can be tracked if used without permission. - Understand music licensing on digital platforms
If you upload your music to YouTube, Spotify, or TikTok, make sure you understand each platform’s copyright policy. This helps you monetize your work safely while avoiding potential infringement.
Music Copyright on TikTok and Other Digital Platforms
Social media platforms like TikTok have created new opportunities for musicians to reach wider audiences but they also raise questions about copyright use.
Music copyright on TikTok is regulated through licensing agreements between the platform and rights holders. This means users are free to use music from TikTok’s official sound library, but cannot use songs outside that library without permission.
For creators, it’s important to ensure that the music you upload or use is properly licensed. If you produce your own original songs, take advantage of monetization features so your work earns royalties whenever it’s used by others.
What Happens If Copyright Is Violated?
Music copyright infringement in Indonesia can lead to both administrative and criminal penalties. Under the Copyright Law, using copyrighted works for commercial purposes without permission can result in fines of up to IDR 500 million or imprisonment for up to four years.
Beyond legal risks, copyright infringement harms the creative ecosystem as a whole, discouraging local musicians and diminishing appreciation for original works.
Conclusion
Music is an art form with both moral and economic value. Whether you’re a musician, business owner, or digital creator, understanding music copyright in public spaces is a key step toward building a fair and sustainable creative ecosystem.
By following these guidelines, from registering your work and respecting licenses to consulting with Widjojo HKI, you can enjoy music with peace of mind while contributing to the growth of Indonesia’s creative industry.
