Minister clarifies Sukma XXI logo and mascot usage rights

KUCHING: The media are exempted from seeking permission for using the Sukan Malaysia (Sukma) XXI Sarawak 2024 logo and mascot, says Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.

The Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts clarified that the media does not need to seek permission, as the recent issue primarily concerns merchandise.

“The exemption for media outlets aims to facilitate broad coverage and promotion of the event without unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles.

“I believe for the media, you are already registered. We would love the media to expose Sukma,” he said after attending the Borneo Sonic Music Festival press conference on Wednesday (July 31).

He acknowledged that media coverage inherently promotes the event, making additional permissions redundant for registered media outlets.

Meanwhile, he emphasised that the organisers hold exclusive rights over these elements for major events, including Sukma, SEA Games, and the Olympics.

“It cannot be printed or used without permission, the names of Sukma, including its logo and mascot, are all registered under copyright.”

“This strict enforcement aims to prevent unauthorised use and commercialisation of the event’s intellectual property,” he added.

He stressed the importance of seeking permission from the organisers before creating any merchandise that features the Sukma logo or mascot.

“Our hope is that those outside do not plagiarise or create their own merchandise and profit from it, while the organisers are not overly stringent, they require proper authorisation to ensure fair use,” he added.

Earlier, Sarawak Multimedia Authority (SMA) general manager  Datuk Anderson Tiong Ing Heng also issued a statement permitting media agencies to use the Sukma XXI logo and mascot without submitting an official request.

This permission is strictly for reporting and news coverage purposes and does not extend to commercial use on merchandise.