MACA Strengthens Transparency and Engages Music Users

(Macau, 3 Mar. 2024) – In response to recent public concerns regarding music copyright and karaoke events, the Macao Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers Association (MACA) released a comprehensive statement on March 1, 2024, via its social media platforms, addressing pertinent issues surrounding music copyright management.

The statement highlights that the copyright holders of musical works typically include composers, lyricists, and music publishers, while singers serve as performers of the musical works. Addressing the public's inquiries regarding which works fall under the Association's management, the Association acknowledges the dynamic nature of the music industry, with new composers, lyricists, and musical works emerging daily across different countries and regions. Providing a static list of managed works, updated only to a specific point in time, risks potential misunderstandings. As a result, the Association has furnished relevant links for public inquiry into the musical works under its management, facilitating access and understanding. Additionally, individuals are encouraged to directly engage with MACA as needed.

In response to inquiries regarding royalties’ distribution, MACA employs a visual approach to illustrate its annual allocation of royalties to local and affiliated members worldwide. It meticulously presents records of acknowledgment, royalties distribution notices, and bank transfer details. The Association underscores the rigorous auditing of its financial statements by esteemed accounting firms such as Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Certified Public Accountants LLP or PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP. These statements undergo scrutiny by the International Confederation of Societies of Authors and Composers (CISAC), ensuring compliance and oversight.

MACA further emphasizes its commitment to enhancing music copyright management through a diverse array of initiatives. These include addressing copyright affairs for music users, overseeing international association matters, managing member affairs, conducting copyright promotion campaigns, and offering consultation services. Additionally, MACA hosts various events such as the MACA Song Writers Quest, MACA Pop Music Masterclass and Exhibition, MACA Copyright Knowledge Tour in Macao Schools, MACA Music Scholarship Award Ceremony, MACA Copyright Funfair, MACA Music Festival, MACA Album Volumes 1-9, MACA Open Days, MACA Seminars, and the Greater Bay Area Music Copyright Collective Management Summit Forum. These endeavors propel the development of intellectual property rights and music composition in Macao.

Similar music copyright management efforts are also underway in mainland China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and other regions by associations such as MCSC (Mainland China), CASH (Hong Kong), and MUST (Taiwan), advocating for the rights of music creators. MACA remains attentive to the concerns of music users, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises, regarding potential copyright infringements in public music usage. The Association affirms its commitment to education and outreach rather than punitive measures. MACA invites the public to embrace original Macao music, collectively advancing music copyright development.

In conclusion, MACA extends gratitude to the National Copyright Administration, Macao government departments, and the broader music community for their steadfast support in promoting intellectual property and music copyright development, underscoring its commitment to collaborative progress.

Photo description: The methods of applying for music copyright and the flowchart of copyright royalties distribution.