Communications and digital minister Fahmi Fadzil said the matter was brought up when the Cabinet met this afternoon, acknowledging that the issue over music royalties has affected many musicians, especially the heirs of  Ramlee.

“I will meet domestic trade and cost of living minister Salahuddin Ayub next week to discuss the matter and establish a committee to look into the payment of royalties and how to develop the music industry,” Fahmi told a press conference here.

It was previously reported that Sazali Ramlee,  Ramlee’s son, had appealed to the government to extend the royalty payment period for his father’s works.

He said the royalties were his only source of income as he was unable to work due to infirmity.

The royalty payment period ends on May 29, which will be the 50th anniversary of the death of the singer, composer, actor and film director.

Under the Copyright Act 1987, his heirs are entitled to royalties from the use of his music for five decades.

On another matter, Fahmi said his ministry will also look into its digital content grant, which the Auditor-General’s 2021 Report said saw RM4 million in wastage.

“I have met the National Film Development Corporation’s (Finas) CEO and management to determine what needs to be done regarding this. We’ve determined that the Finas Act 1981 needs to be amended.”

He said there were loopholes and challenges within the Act that needs to be addressed, adding that Finas has provided a draft amendment.

“The ministry is looking into it, but it hasn’t been discussed in the Cabinet yet.”

Fahmi also said the Cabinet had agreed for the government to hold a unity week celebration in Sarawak from May 20, with further details to be announced by national unity minister Aaron Ago Dagang soon.