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BANDUNG Mayor, Muhammad Farhan has issued a statement regarding the obligation of restaurants, cafes, and hotels to pay royalties to the National Collective Management Institute (LMKN).
This issue has emerged amid growing protests from businesses in Bandung, which have contributed to the Regional Original Income (PAD).
According to Farhan, the city government is still reviewing legal action before making an official decision. This step is crucial to ensure that the policy is fair to businesses and respects the rights of songwriters.
Farhan emphasized that his office has not yet decided whether to support, reject, or seek a compromise regarding the policy. He revealed that a number of businesses have received billing letters, some have received warnings, some have paid, while others have managed to avoid the obligation.
“The legal standing has not yet been determined. Once it’s clear, we will determine a joint stance with the City of Bandung,” Farhan stated on Jalan Sumatera, Bandung, Thursday (August 14, 2025).
Although he has not yet made a decision, Farhan emphasized the importance of respecting applicable laws. He believes that royalty payments are a form of appreciation for songwriters and composers, many of whom are from Bandung.
“In fact, royalty payments provide songwriters with greater appreciation. Many songwriters hail from Bandung,” he explained.
One of the strategies currently under consideration is the initiation of negotiations with the Music and Music Association (LMKN). Farhan is exploring the possibility of allowing songs by Bandung-based musicians to be played for free in hotels, cafes, and restaurants in the city.
“I am unable to comment at this time as I am not versed in the LMKN calculation system. We’ll review it at a later time,” he stated.
Farhan also mentioned that several national singers have allowed their songs to be played royalty-free. However, he emphasized that in practice, playlists at businesses generally contain songs from a variety of artists.
“For example, Ari Lasso or Tompi have stated that their songs could be used without payment, but the playlist contains works by other artists as well,” he concluded.
The Bandung City Government plans to initiate discussions with businesses and the LMKN after the legal review is complete. The objective is to identify a solution that safeguards copyright while not imposing undue burdens on businesses in the culinary and hospitality sectors. [sources/photo special]
