Warner Music Malaysia Sdn Bhd v. Metro Music Sdn Bhd (2005)

Case Study: Warner Music Malaysia vs. Metro Music Sdn Bhd (2005)

Date: 8th March 2005

Type: Copyright Infringement – Illegal Distribution of Music

Background

Warner Music Malaysia filed a case against Metro Music Sdn Bhd, a retail and wholesale business, for distributing pirated VCDs and audio CDs of copyrighted songs owned by Warner Music and its affiliated labels.

What Happened?

Metro Music was caught selling and wholesaling large quantities of unlicensed music recordings in local markets and through unofficial channels. The recordings were traced back to Warner's catalog, including international and domestic artists.

Legal Action & Outcome

Warner Music brought the action under the Copyright Act 1987, claiming substantial commercial loss and damage to reputation. The High Court found Metro Music guilty of infringement of copyright and ordered the company to pay statutory damages and legal costs. An injunction was also issued to prevent all other infringing activities.

Why This Case Matters

Like the Sony case, this case focused on the commercial loss of pirated content and maintained that even local distribution channels can have profound legal implications. It reinforced the enforcement capability of Malaysian copyright law and pushed industry players to formalize music licensing.

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