Ari Bias Hopes His Case Becomes A Lesson To Make Songwriters More Appreciated

JAKARTA - Ari Bias' struggle to gain economic rights to his songs has resulted in positive results. Despite causing controversy, his lawsuit against Agnez Mo at the Central Jakarta Commercial Court was granted by the panel of judges.

Ari Bias hopes that the decision that grants his lawsuit, although it is not yet legally binding, can be a momentum so that songwriters in Indonesia are more valued.

"If I think this matter is just taking lessons, this momentum is so that people can open their eyes, that the songwriter should be respected," said Ari Bias in Tendean, South Jakarta, Wednesday, February 5.

"I mean don't be underestimated, because they have exclusive rights as songwriters, and it's protected by the Copyright Law. Songs are also works of art that must be protected," he continued.

With more respected songwriters, Ari Bias feels that Indonesia's better music ecosystem can be built together.

"Let's build a new ecosystem that is better than yesterday, which can be conveyed, new, better economic rights," he said.

Regarding the court's decision to grant his lawsuit, Ari hopes Agnez Mo will pay a loss fine.

"I hope Agnez Mo will carry out this decision, because this is a request from the court, not from me," said Ari Bias during a press conference in Fatmawati, South Jakarta, Monday, February 3.

"The 1.5 billion is expected to be paid soon," added Ari.

Meanwhile, a loss fine of Rp. 1.5 billion was obtained from Agnez Mo's appearance in three different cities, with each appearance subject to a fine of Rp. 500 million.

"The concert on May 25, 2023 at HW Superclubs Surabaya is Rp. 500 million, concerts on May 26, 2023 at D-Club Jakarta are Rp. 500 million, concerts on May 27, 2023 at HW Superclub Bandung are Rp. 500 million. Jafi totals Rp. 1.5 billion," said Minola Sebayang, Ari Bias' attorney.

The author of the song Bilang Saja is open if Agnez Mo wants to take further legal action against the decision, but he ensures that he has many ways to fight for what he feels is his right, namely royalties for his songs.

"Or if you want to extend it, go ahead. That's his right. And I also have a lot of ways to fight for this right again. So, I will not stop until I get my rights," concluded Ari Bias.