The free-entry ‘Bicara Santai Siri 1′ programme, loosely translated as a chill, talk session, was organised by NGO, Johor Music Creative, with support from Majlis Bandaraya Johor Bahru (MBJB). The event held on 21 March 2023, saw 80 attendees, mostly musicians, songwriters, singers, and buskers.
Music Authors Copyright Protection (MACP) presented ‘The Rights and Roles of a Musician, Songwriter, and Composer’ as part of the programme. As the Chairman of MACP, Dato’ M. Nasir spent an hour sharing his journey, early involvement, and tips on the importance of protecting rights as the owner of creative work in order to become a successful Music Creative Entrepreneur.
Hairi Mad Shah, Chairman of the Youth, Sports, Entrepreneur Development, Cooperatives, and Human Resources Committee, officiated the event. He proposed that musicians should conduct their creative works as musician entrepreneurs. Apart from MACP, PERKESO Negeri Johor, a government agency, presented the Self Work Scheme (Skim Pekerjaan Sendiri) as suggested by Hairi during the Bicara Santai (Siri 1) programme.
Bicara Santai Siri 1 is a kickstart programme run by Johor Music Creative (JMC) since its inception on 7 October 2022. JMC in its statement said that its goal is to serve as a liaison between creative musicians, the government and the general public.
According to the statement, JMC sees music education equally important for several reasons. More music education and upskilling in creative workshops, forums and clinics could benefit the government, public sector, and people in Johor.
“Not only can music education help individuals develop a range of skills beyond just musical ability, it can enhance cognitive development, memory and concentration, and also improve communication and social skills. These skills are transferable and can be useful in other areas of life and work, making individuals more well-rounded and versatile.”
In summary, investing in music education and upskilling creative workshops, forums, and clinics can have a range of benefits, from improving individual skills and abilities, to enhancing the quality of creative works produced, and boosting the profile and economy of the region. These are amongst the main reasons, JMC was established, to assist the struggles and fights in the industry and hope to make a difference for the industry.
