(1)Literary works: The Copyrignt Act further states that the definition of a literary work includes a computer program or a compilation of computer programs.
(2)Dramatic works.
(3)Artistic works.
(4)Musical works.
The above-mentioned works are generally referred to as authors' works. To be copyrightable, the said authors' works have to be:
(a)Original: Briefly, the requirement of originality is satisfied if a work is a new expression and is not copied. A work is original if there is some degree of intellectual skill, effort and judgment involved and it is not a slavish copy of another work. Originality is not to be construed as requiring novelty of thought.
(b)Reduced to material form: Copyright is seen to protect the form of expression, not the idea or facts behind the expression.
Apart from the above authors' works, the following subject-matter other than works, commonly referred to as entrepreneurial rights, are also recognised and protected:
(1)Sound recordings.
(2)Cinematograph films.
(3)Broadcasts.
(4)Cable programmes.
(5)Published editions of works.
Particular connecting factors must be present in order for the above authors' works or entrepreneurial rights to have copyright protection. Please read through the articles covering Connecting Factors for further information.
This article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter and should NOT be treated as legal advice. Specific legal advice should be sought by you about your particular case and special circumstances.
For further information/enquiries, please contact:
Mr TAN Bok Hoay or Mr Simon SEOW Donaldson & Burkinshaw 24 Raffles Place #15-00 Clifford Centre Singapore 048621 SINGAPORE Tel: (65) 533 9422 Fax: (65) 533 7806
You may also wish to read through related material on Intellectual Property matters in Singapore provided by Donaldson & Burkinshaw. You can view the entire archive via the Internet on Business Monitor Online (http://www.businessmonitor.co.uk), or via your online provider by entering "Donaldson & Burkinshaw" and "Business Monitor" as a free text search.
