The Musicians' Union of Maldives has hit back at the Maldives Association of Tourism Industry's (MATI) proposal to facilitate visas for foreign musicians and performers over the purported lack of local artists.
A paper submitted by MATI yesterday stated that enough Maldivian artists are not available to serve the growing number of tourist establishments. In a post on X responding to the proposals in the paper, the Musicians' Union said claims about the lack of Maldivian artists should stop.
"While we're open to welcoming foreign entertainers, it's crucial to dispel the myth that our local talent is lacking. Our homegrown musicians and performers are abundant, ready, and waiting for opportunities," the union wrote on X.
The union called on MATI to publish findings if it has conducted research on local artists. Such claims must be based on research, the association said.
Yumna Maumoon, the minister who oversaw matters related to artists during the previous government, also expressed concern over the proposal. The Maldives has many talented musicians and performers, Yumna said in a post on X.
"Maldivian resorts and guesthouses should prioritize Maldivian musicians and artists. Maldivian artists could only go forward if resorts and guesthouses provide opportunities," Yumna wrote.
A large number of Maldivians perform at resorts and guesthouses. The preference for foreigners over Maldivians to play music at resorts has been a longstanding concern.
