Universal Music pays RM367,000 in royalties to Sudirman’s family

Universal Music Malaysia said the royalty payment reflects both its responsibility to Sudirman’s family and its appreciation of his contribution to Malaysian music. (Facebook pic)

PETALING JAYA: Universal Music Malaysia has handed over RM367,305.19 in royalties to the family of the late Sudirman Arshad as part of ongoing efforts to preserve and promote the beloved entertainer’s legacy.

The royalties were received by Sudirman’s nephew, Razman Azrai Zainuddin, better known as Atai, on behalf of the family during a ceremony held in Kuala Lumpur yesterday, Kosmo reported.

Universal Music Malaysia managing director Kim Lim said the payment reflected not only the company’s responsibility to Sudirman’s heirs, but also its appreciation of the singer’s contribution to the country’s music industry.

“Sudirman was an icon who helped shape Malaysia’s music landscape and left behind a cultural treasure of immense value,” she said.

“As the holder of his music catalogue, it is our responsibility to ensure royalty payments continue to be channelled to his family while preserving and reintroducing his music to new generations.”

Lim said the process took some time to complete, involving audits and discussions with the family. “It took almost two years to manage and verify all the royalty statements,” she said.

She added that while Universal Music owns the copyright to Sudirman’s songs, other recordings – including competition footage and live broadcast performances – remain under the ownership of different entities.

To ensure the singer’s music remains accessible to future audiences, Universal Music also plans to digitise and expand the availability of Sudirman’s catalogue on streaming platforms.

The initiative will include audio restoration work, reissues of iconic recordings, and licensing opportunities aimed at introducing his music to younger listeners.

“We want Sudirman’s songs to continue being heard, appreciated and remain relevant across generations,” Lim said. “His legacy belongs not only to the music industry, but is also part of the nation’s cultural heritage.”

She said the company intends to make more of Sudirman’s works available on platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music and YouTube as part of the catalogue’s digital expansion.

The royalty handover also highlighted ongoing efforts by Universal Music and EMI Music Malaysia to ensure Sudirman’s music remains accessible and relevant in the years ahead.