Musicians Union of Maldives celebrates One Year!

In a year that changed all our lives, music remained close to the hearts of many. Through the waves of challenges that came our way, Musicians Union of Maldives took form and on July 20, 2020. A passion-baby of founders Ahmed Shiham, Nishfa Nashid and Mahran Mohamed Majid, and fellow musicians, the association aimed to ease the pathway for musicians and make a positive difference in helping them continue to contribute to the industry.  

Taking snippets from a celebratory blog post by the association on its website, let’s take a look at their significant achievements over this short period of time.  

Official registrations for members began on August 1, 2020. On November 28, the premier Executive Committee was elected in its Annual General Meeting. Since their formation, the ExCo has been hands on in establishing an SOP for the union, and networking with relevant stakeholders as part of finding ways to battle the different issues raised by members.  

In this regard, a priority effort went into validating results of free PCR tests taken remote sampling teams of HEOC on the roadside. This allowed movement of struggling artists to pursue work within and outside Greater Male’ area.  

Another important mission of the union was to bring a justice to local artists and create fair grounds for them to get work in tourist establishments. The #TellMUMAboutIt campaign brought the issue to notice by Maldives Immigration who is response, issued warning regarding the unlawful recruitment of foreign artists. Strict penalties were reminded of should opportunities for local artists not be given. MUM was further accepted in the industry as being selected to be on the ‘Tourism Golden Jubilee Steering Committee’ of Ministry of Tourism, a task force that is delegated to oversee the preparations for Golden Year of Tourism Celebrations in the Maldives in 2022.  

Legal protection for artists was also secured by partnering with Munawwar, Nazahath & Co. Law Firm in May of this year. Furthermore, MUM is a registered and approved Charitable Organization at MIRA, making it eligible for tax deductible donations from potential donors. 

As a union for passionate musicians, MUM is in the process of enhancing its membership by introducing Membership Tiers and Add-ons. Moreover, the ExCo hopes to reach the industry nationwide with the launch of a survey that will recognize different issues which need to be addressed formally for a better future.  

Happy One Year Anniversary to M.U.M from Coral Glass!