<![CDATA[Ancient manuscripts constitute valuable cultural heritage that preserves historical, scientific, religious, and cultural knowledge; however, their fragile physical condition necessitates digitalization as a preservation and dissemination strategy. This study aims to examine the legal position of digitized ancient manuscripts and analyze the protection of copyright and related rights under Indonesian law. The research employs normative juridical methods using statutory and conceptual approaches. Legal materials consist of primary, secondary, and tertiary sources, analyzed through qualitative juridical interpretation and legal construction. The findings indicate that most ancient manuscripts have entered the public domain because their copyright protection period has expired. Nevertheless, manuscripts classified as Traditional Cultural Expressions remain subject to state and communal protection. Digitalization therefore does not automatically create new copyright over mere reproductions, while moral rights, attribution, cultural integrity, and communal interests must remain protected. The study concludes that copyright protection for digitized ancient manuscripts requires a balance between preservation, legal protection, commercialization, and public access. Clear licensing policies, open-access mechanisms, and recognition of communal cultural rights are necessary to ensure sustainable preservation and lawful utilization.]]>
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