KUALA LUMPUR – Enforcement officers from the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry (KPDN) – Penang Northeast Branch have raided a karaoke outlet at Gurney Paragon Mall for allegedly playing copyrighted music without a valid licence.
The raid was carried out following a complaint by Music Authors’ Copyright Protection (MACP) Berhad, which said it took action after “extensive intelligence gathering”.
“Despite several reminders and warnings, the establishment continued to perform music administered by MACP without obtaining a proper licence. This constitutes a clear violation of the Copyright Act 1987,” the organisation said in a statement to Scoop today.
Authorities confiscated 13 items of equipment, including televisions, speakers, microphones and amplifiers, estimated to be worth RM18,000.
“Any public performance of copyrighted music without MACP’s authorisation is an offence under the Copyright Act. Those found guilty face fines, imprisonment or both,” the statement added.
MACP urged all businesses playing or performing copyrighted material to regularise their operations immediately.
“We remain committed to protecting the livelihoods of songwriters and upholding copyright laws. This enforcement operation should serve as a reminder that ignoring copyright obligations carries serious consequences,” the organisation said.
A similar operation took place in September 2024, when enforcement officers from KPDN’s Penang Division raided two entertainment premises on Jalan Sri Bahari and Jalan Kek Chuan over suspected copyright infringements.
During that raid, karaoke systems containing unauthorised music software involving 14 songs were seized, along with speakers, microphones, televisions and a touchscreen karaoke unit.
The items were confiscated under Section 41(1) of the Copyright Act 1987, after multiple warnings were allegedly ignored. – July 18, 2025