The Musicians’ Union of Maldives, or The MU, has opened for membership registrations, on Saturday.

Having received Certification of Registration from the Youth Ministry on July 23 after officially being approved on July 20, the Union became a recognized local NGO and is currently preparing to launch itswebsitethrough which interested individuals may register as well as nominate their names for the union’s Executive Committee.

This is being done after the Union finalized its governing regulations, which have been approved by relevant authorities.

The MU founders Ahmed Shiham, Nishfa Nashid and Mahran Majid collaboratively with a team of musicians, began working to establish the Union throughout the lockdown period triggered by the ongoing global Covid-19 pandemic.

Having penned a draft document, the team then held discussions regarding concerns and issues within the country’s music industry, during a virtual meeting with local musicians currently active as well as those active in the past, alongside officials from the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Community Empowerment.

Expressing keenness to welcome all potential members who wish to join them on this “exciting new journey”, the MU expressed gratitude and appreciation for the support received from musicians, officials from the Youth Ministry and the National Center for the Arts to establish the Union.

The Union was established 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.

Further, the MU aims to advocate 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