REGISTERING KOPI GUNUNG KAWI AS A GEOGRAPHICAL INDICATION: URGENCY OF COLLECTIVE LEGAL PROTECTION FOR FARMERS IN SUMBERDEM VILLAGE, MALANG REGENCY

Abstract

The protection of geographical names as product identities serves as a legal instrument to safeguard the reputation, characteristics, and economic value of a product influenced by geographical factors. Although Gunung Kawi Coffee from Sumberdem Village, Malang Regency, has a history, reputation, and characteristics recognized by the public, it has not yet received protection through Geographical Indication (GI) registration. This study aims to analyze the legal framework governing geographical names as product identities, the legal status of the farming community prior to GI registration, as well as the urgency, readiness, and obstacles to the GI registration of Gunung Kawi Coffee. This study is an empirical legal research employing a statutory approach, a conceptual approach, and a sociological approach. Data were collected through interviews, documentary analysis, and literature review, and were subsequently analyzed using the Miles and Huberman interactive model, which includes data condensation, data presentation, and the drawing of conclusions and verification. The results of the study indicate that legal regulations regarding Geographical Indications are in place, but their implementation has not been optimal because the applicant’s institutional framework, a requirements manual, and a monitoring system have not yet been established. Prior to registration, the farming community held only a factual interest in the product’s reputation without exclusive rights to the geographical name. Gunung Kawi Coffee has met most of the substantive requirements for a Geographical Indication but still faces obstacles in institutional, administrative, financial, and coordination aspects. Therefore, the registration of Geographical Indications is important as a form of collective legal protection for farmers.