The appointment gives Bangladesh representation in a regional organisation that brings together music creators from across the Asia-Pacific region. It also opens opportunities for Bangladeshi songwriters, composers and performers to participate in international discussions on creative rights, intellectual property protection and professional cooperation.
Ahmed described the achievement as a proud moment for the country’s music community, emphasising that the recognition extended beyond his personal career.
“This achievement is undoubtedly a source of great joy for Bangladesh’s music industry. The recognition I have received through this election is also a first for Bangladesh,” he said.
“Bangladeshi music creators will now be able to participate in various activities across the Asia-Pacific region. The exchange of information and international cooperation will certainly have a positive impact on our music industry.”
The newly elected APMA executive committee consists of 11 members, representing Bangladesh, Australia, China, Thailand, South Korea, Japan and India.
The alliance provides a regional platform for music creators to strengthen professional relationships, exchange knowledge and address issues affecting their creative work.
APMA maintains direct links with the International Council of Music Creators (CIAM) and the International Confederation of Societies of Authors and Composers (CISAC), organisations associated with the protection of creators’ rights and the management of intellectual property.
The alliance was formally established in November 2016 during the World Creators Forum in Beijing, China. Its creation provided an opportunity for music professionals across the region to develop closer connections and collaborate on matters concerning their interests.
The importance of such cooperation has grown as the global music industry continues to adapt to technological developments and changing patterns of music consumption.
Digital distribution has made it easier for artists and composers to reach audiences beyond national borders. At the same time, questions surrounding copyright protection, royalty collection and fair compensation remain central concerns for music creators.
For Bangladesh, participation in an international alliance could offer opportunities to exchange experiences with countries that have established systems for managing music rights and distributing royalties.
Ahmed’s appointment may also strengthen communication between Bangladeshi music professionals and international organisations involved in protecting creative ownership.
Alongside his musical career, Ahmed has remained involved in initiatives concerning the rights and professional interests of composers, lyricists and performers.
He currently serves as the chief executive officer of the Bangladesh Lyricists, Composers and Performers Society (BLCPS).
His involvement in the organisation reflects a professional commitment that extends beyond recording and performing music.
Ahmed is widely recognised for his longstanding association with Miles, one of Bangladesh’s most influential bands.
The group was established in 1979 by Hamin Ahmed and Shafin Ahmed, with Farid Rashid playing an important role in its formation.
Miles initially focused on English-language music, releasing two English albums before turning towards Bengali recordings.
The band’s first Bengali album, Protishruti, was released in 1991, marking an important stage in its musical development.
The release helped Miles connect with a wider Bengali-speaking audience, and the band’s popularity grew substantially during the 1990s.
Over the years, Miles became known for its distinctive musical arrangements, memorable melodies and songs that resonated with listeners across different generations.
Among its best-known recordings are Chand Tara Surjo, Prothom Premer Moto, Gunjon Shuni, Firiye Dao, Dhiki Dhiki, Pahari Meye, Neela and Piyasi Mon.
These songs contributed to the band’s enduring popularity and helped establish its place in the history of modern Bangladeshi music.
Miles released its most recent album, Protichhobi, in 2015.
Through decades of musical activity, the band has played a notable role in shaping Bangladesh’s contemporary band music scene, while Ahmed has remained one of its most recognisable figures.
His election to APMA’s executive committee now adds an international dimension to a career closely associated with Bangladesh’s musical development.
The new responsibility could provide a valuable platform for highlighting the concerns of Bangladeshi music creators, particularly those involving intellectual property, professional recognition and access to regional networks.
It also presents an opportunity for Bangladesh to strengthen its engagement with organisations working to protect the interests of songwriters, composers and performers.
For Ahmed, the appointment represents another milestone in a career spanning several decades. For the country’s music industry, it offers the prospect of closer international collaboration and greater participation in discussions shaping the future of music creators across the Asia-Pacific region.
