A hot topic that has been featuring in the media (see here and here) these last few days is that of a television appearance by Indonesian Military Chief General Moeldoko on Channel News Asia. It was noted that during his appearance, the General was wearing a luxury watch (a Richard Mille RM 011 Felipe Massa Flyback Chronograph ‘Black Kite’, worth around USD100,000). Following the interview, questions followed about how a military officer could afford such an expensive item. And in response the General issued a statement saying that the watch was a fake!
(General Moeldoko wearing his famous fake watch)
Although it appears that the General will successfully dodge allegations of corruption, his actions represent another step back in the context of socialisation of intellectual property in Indonesia. With leaders showing such a blatant lack of respect for intellectual property rights, it is no wonder a significant section of the community has a similar attitude.
Buying counterfeit products is not currently a criminal offence in Indonesia, although a draft Copyright Law threatens to change this (see our post here).