04/06/2025

LYFE WEDNESDAY | JUNE 4, 2025

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Aina Abdul on recording Asean summit theme song Aina says music is capable of transcending cultural and linguistic boundaries. – PIC FROM INSTAGRAM @AINAAHMAD

Local rock legends return to stage Barbarik has deep roots in the Malaysian rock scene. – PICS FROM BERNAMA

SINGER Aina Abdul described the opportunity to record the Asean Summit 2025 theme song titled Our Land, Our Home , which centred on the theme of unity, as a profound and meaningful milestone in her artistic journey. According to Aina, whose full name is Nurul Aina Abdul Ghani, the experience of working with veteran composer Datuk Mokhzani Ismail and lyricist Rafiza Rahman added tremendous value to her growth as a singer. “I only lent my voice, but I feel truly honoured to perform this powerful song. It is in English and there were challenges in pronunciation and the detailed musical notation,” she said. The song was recorded at the RTM studio under the guidance of a vocal director and the lyricist herself. The 31-year-old artiste admitted that the technical approach required a high level of discipline, especially in adhering strictly to the notation. “I usually sing according to how I feel but this time, I had to follow the notation note by note. It was challenging, but it taught me to be more meticulous and to respect the composer’s work,” she said.

Aina said the process of interpreting and delivering the song gave her a deeper appreciation for the theme of Asean unity. The Puas Sudah singer said through the storytelling-style lyrics, she came to understand the noble values and unique cultural identities of Asean member states. “This song opened my eyes to the beauty and richness of cultures beyond Malaysia. It reminded me that music has the power to unite us, regardless of borders,” she said. Aina, who won the Best Performance award at the 39th Anugerah Juara Lagu , said the experience of recording the song shifted her perspective on the role of music in conveying powerful messages and fostering unity. She described music as a universal medium capable of transcending cultural and linguistic boundaries, making it an effective tool for regional solidarity. “We should not underestimate the power of music to bring people together. This song proves music can cross borders and deliver a powerful message, not just to Malaysians but to listeners across Asean,” she added. – Bernama

A LTHOUGH three years have passed since its formation, Barbarik, founded by Malaysian rock legends JoBranko and Muss, continues to carve its own path beyond the shadows of the duo’s former bands. With deep roots in the Malaysian rock scene – JoBranko as a former Wings guitarist and Muss who rose to fame as the lead singer of May before joining Wings – Barbarik is now more committed than ever to define its own identity. That mission takes centre stage at their upcoming concert on June 28. Taking place at ZEPP Kuala Lumpur, Barbarik guitarist, composer and producer JoBranko said the concert will deliver a fresh experience, marking a milestone moment as the band showcases tracks from its debut album Peluru Cokelat . “At the concert, we will perform several new tracks from Peluru Cokelat , which was released last October, as well as songs from the time Muss and I were in Wings,” he said o Barbarik to perform tracks from latest album in Kuala Lumpur

The band will stage a one-night-only performance this month.

offering audiences a renewed listening experience. Joined by Rozaimi (bass) and Ainol (drums), Barbarik will seek to energise the crowd in the two-hour concert, organised by Karri Talk Production in collaboration with Pentas Barbarik Sdn Bhd, with nearly 20 songs including Nasib Baik , Peluru Cokelat , Sakit Bantal Empuk and Ranggi Metropolis . In a special segment, fans will be taken on a musical journey through the 1980s and 1990s with timeless rock hits featuring guest legendary Malaysian guitarists rarely seen on the same stage – Shah Slam, Ujang Tukimon and Muzza. Promising an unforgettable experience, JoBranko said the concert will be a one-night-only event, with no second show planned – unlike many major acts. “I understand some artistes have multi-night concerts, but they are big names. If we were to do that, it would have been planned from the start. This time, we are keeping it to one night. We also have to consider the stamina of our band members. “Maybe the younger two can handle more, but Muss and I – we are older now. Still, we will give our best that night,” he said, adding that the concert not only reconnects with fans but also introduces Barbarik’s sound to a new generation. Tickets start at RM150. – Bernama

during a recent press conference. “We will also perform songs created with our previous band (Wings). In fact, we can perform anyone’s songs, especially those I composed – so, it is not a problem,” he added. The title track Peluru Cokelat , composed by JoBranko with lyrics penned by Nasir Jani, sets the tone for the entire album. Mastering was handled by Don Bartley at Benchmark Mastering in Brisbane, Australia. JoBranko, whose real name is Abdul Zamin Abdul Kadir, said classic hits and past compositions will be reimagined with a fresher sound,

Ejen Ali film earns RM21.9 million MORE than 200,000 moviegoers packed cinemas on the first day of the school holidays last Thursday, pushing the box office collection for the local animated film Ejen Ali The Movie 2 (EATM2) to RM21.9 million after just eight days of screening.

Produced by Wau Animation in collaboration with Primeworks Studios (PWS) and Komet Productions, the animated feature was well-received by audiences nationwide, drawing a total of 1.4 million viewers. PWS, in a statement, said based on cinema observations and pre-sale data, EATM2 is expected to remain the top family choice throughout the school holidays. “Packed with thrilling action, meaningful messages, and a heartwarming tale of friendship and sacrifice, this film is far more than just entertainment. “It is the perfect pick for parents seeking quality time with their children through fun, value-packed content,” the statement read. The cinema atmosphere was

EATM2 continues to be a resounding success at the box office. – PICS FROM BERNAMA lively with fans of all ages, especially families, booking tickets early and participating in various side activities such as colouring sessions, meet-and-greet with the Ejen Ali mascot and purchasing limited-edition merchandise. EATM2 follows Ali’s journey after he is selected as a pioneer for a high-risk mission under Satria, an elite programme that utilises high-tech suits powered by artificial intelligence. – Bernama

Barbarik is more committed than ever to define its own identity.