Ministry of Tourism is partnering with Musicians Union of Maldives (M.U.M) to produce a theme song for the 50th anniversary for Maldives tourism industry to be marked next year.

M.U.M said this is a "paid opportunity" for artists interested in producing a theme song for the occasion, adding that the tourism ministry will be awarding MVR 50,000 to the chosen artist.

This song is to be used in tourism promotion materials produced throughout the year by the ministry as well as the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC), for both local and international audiences.

While interested parties have been asked to contact the Union, with a portfolio, brief biography of artist/band as well as a brief outline of how you plan to utilize the budget with estimates. Artists are not required to send a demo song, instead M.U.M will be contacting those shortlisted.

As for the eligibility criteria, submission is open for Maldivians who are 18 years of age or older. While the submission can have multiple artists, having multiple languages in the song will be an advantage as it will interest a wide range of listeners. Further, the submission must be "unpublished and unreleased" and the sender must possess all legal rights and permissions to the song.

The Union has also publicized specific details about the requirements for the song including that it be between 2 minutes 30 seconds and five minutes, as well as to have "a clear theme or cohesive idea reflecting Maldives tourism". While singing is mandatory, how much has not been not said.

The Musicians' Union of Maldives was formed last year, with the aim to empower locals who are employed in all aspects of the music industry in the Maldives and represents formally employed and self-employed individuals in the field once they become official members.

It also advocates for the increase in overall employment and income of local musicians, as well as offer advice, support and legal assistance catered to each individual member through their endeavors