More than 200 artists and music practitioners are expected to attend a Musicians' Convention on June 21 at Restoran Saloma on Jalan Ampang, Kuala Lumpur, organised by Karyawan.
More than 200 artists and music practitioners are expected to attend a Musicians' Convention on June 21 at Restoran Saloma on Jalan Ampang, Kuala Lumpur, organised by the Malaysian Artists' Association (Persatuan Karyawan Malaysia).
The convention aims to give music practitioners a platform to voice their views and seek clarification on various issues that remain unclear and confusing within the industry.
"Copyright and royalties will certainly be among the main topics discussed. The royalty issue has long plagued artists, to the point that many have given up and no longer want to think about it."
"We will be exposing the actions of certain parties who have been instrumental in denying artistes their rightful dues. Although equal distribution was promised in 2001, our review shows a vast difference in collections between recording companies and artists where out of nearly RM700 million collected by recording companies over 15 years from 2002 to 2017, only RM20 million was paid to artistes' bodies," said Datuk Freddie Fernandez, President of the Malaysian Artists' Association.
"Other topics expected to be hotly debated include artificial intelligence (AI) and its impact on the music industry, grants and concert organization, the latest developments in music education, and the role of social media in marketing digital music today."
"We have identified experts in their respective fields to be appointed as panelists, to educate participants and answer their questions — particularly those from the younger generation who have not had the opportunity to get clarity on matters related to a career as an artist, musician, or composer," said Freddie.
"Our hope is to produce several resolutions on the steps that need to be taken by the government, which we will submit in the form of a memorandum to the Honourable Prime Minister after this convention. We are aware that the Prime Minister cares deeply about the fate of local artistes and musicians, and with his support, we hope many of the issues could be resolved, thus securing a brighter future for all music practitioners."
Freddie also expressed appreciation to the management of Restoran Saloma Kuala Lumpur for helping sponsor the venue and food for attendees.
"Saloma KL has indeed helped many less fortunate artists every year, and has been our loyal partner in looking after artists' welfare. Now they are lending their support to make this important convention, which will help secure a more stable future for music practitioners. Thank you, Saloma KL," said Freddie.
"The music industry is no longer what it used to be in the old days, when there were many opportunities for musicians and artistes to build a career in the field. Now job opportunities are increasingly scarce, and many are forced to become street performers just to make a living. As such, this convention is timely and will hopefully lead to better things to come for the industry," he said.
To confirm attendance, send a WhatsApp message to 0340317666 or scan the QR code available at www.karyawan.my.
