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Published on April 3, 2008

Representatives from the Composers Association of Thailand gathered at the Commerce Ministry yesterday, asking for help to protect their long-term rights. They said they had been forced to sign unfair contracts with music firms.

They called on the government to help with the drafting of a standard contract between songwriters and copyright owners - mainly music companies - focusing on the period their rights are maintained.

Srisuphang Insai, president of the association, said songwriters were facing unfair practices by music firms as they gained only a small payment per contract, while music companies enjoy unlimited copyright benefits.

"The government should help draft a standard contract and limit the utilisation period of only three years per contract. Songwriters would gain greater benefits from their creativity in the long run," she said.

Recently, the Commerce Ministry set up a committee to revise the country's first ever Copyright Act.

Petchanet Pratruangkrai

The Nation