by HARIZAH KAMEL / pic by TMR FILE

A WELL-KNOWN company that sells devices and hardware in Shah Alam, Selangor, has become the first company to be prosecuted for promoting hardware and software that allows for shortcuts on technological protection measures against copyright broadcast works.

The Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry (KPDNHEP) enforcement director Azman Adam said the company’s director pleaded guilty to the charge before Sessions Court Judge Rofiah Ahmad on Feb 8.

The court has set March 1 for sentencing. The case was prosecuted by the KPDNHEP’s deputy public prosecutor Tan Chiew King.

“Based on the charge, the company, at 4.55pm on Sept 2 last year, was on its way to sell an Android Box brand ‘Long TV’ in Shah Alam that contained copyright broadcasts.

“The company, located in I-City, Persiaran Multimedia, Seksyen 7, has violated Section 41(1) (ha) of the Copyrights Act 1987 for selling any technology or device to bypass any effective technological measures stated under subsection 36A(3) of the same Act,” he said in a recent statement.

If convicted, the company can be fined not less than RM4,000 and not more than RM40,000 for each design in respect of the offence that has been committed or imprisoned for a term not exceeding 10 years or both.

KPDNHEP will take stern action against suppliers and sellers who misuse devices and software to illegally intercept and access content protected by their copyright work owners.

“The public is reminded not be fooled by the sale of Android Box TV devices that contain applications or are included with pirated content streaming service packages.

“Users are advised to channel information to the ministry by reporting any piracy activities through the hotline 1-800-886-800 or 03-8882 6088 at the Enforcement Command Centre or WhatsApp at 019-279 4317,” added Azman.

Reports can also be made at http://e-aduan.kpdnhep.gov.my or in-person to any nearby KPDNHEP offices.