18/03/2026

LYFE WEDNESDAY | MAR 18, 2026

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Classic Raya songs still win hearts EVERY year when Hari Raya Aidilfitri approaches, Malaysia’s music industry is enlivened by the release of numerous new Raya songs that add colour and cheer to the celebrations. However, despite the emergence of many upbeat and catchy tunes on social media platforms, concerns have been raised among music enthusiasts about the quality of modern Raya songs, which are often perceived as hastily produced and lacking emotional depth. Assoc Prof Dr Muhammad Fazli Taib Saearani, dean of the Faculty of Music and Performing Arts at Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris, said a good Raya song should not only be pleasant to listen to but also convey messages of joy, forgiveness and togetherness. “Although the musical arrangements of classic Raya songs are relatively simple, that very simplicity allows deeper emotions to resonate with listeners,” he told Bernama. Fazli said the use of musical styles closely linked to Malay musical identity and traditional pop has helped older songs remain close to the hearts of the public, evoking nostalgia and a longing for the festive Aidilfitri atmosphere. “One example is Suasana Hari Raya performed by Anuar Zain and Ellina. The melody is simple but emotionally powerful. The lively musical arrangement successfully captures the festive joy of celebrating Aidilfitri with family, which is why the song is often played during the festive season,” he said. Echoing this view, lyricist Dr Mohd Azam Sulong, also known as Dr Azam Dungun, said the secret behind Raya songs that become enduring classics lies in the strength of their melodies and memorable hooks that stay with listeners. He said the musical arrangement should support the melody and lyrics, striking a balance between traditional and modern elements so that the emotional message can be conveyed clearly. “With this approach, Raya songs do not merely follow current trends but are able to build a deep emotional connection and remain relevant across generations,”said Azam, who has written lyrics for songs such as Nian Di Hati and Seloka Budi , sung by Datuk Seri Siti Nurhaliza. Meanwhile, singer and composer Hafiz Hamidun, 42, said today’s generation tends to prefer music that is quick and immediately appealing to the ear, in line with their preference for concise and straightforward lyrics. “Producing new Raya songs today is quite challenging due to factors such as algorithms and retention, and most songs tend to revolve around fast and relaxed rhythms. This has resulted in fewer songs with different themes being introduced,” said the Zikir Dikir singer.

Francis (fifth from left) and Diana (sixth from left) deliver a festive single that feels energetic, modern and relatable.

Modern twist on nostalgic tunes

combines modern rap rhythms with subtle Mandarin-inspired elements, creating a cross-cultural sound that mirrors the diversity of Malaysia’s music scene. This blending of styles gives the song a distinctive flavour while maintaining the cheerful and celebratory tone that defines Raya music. Over the years, Diana has demonstrated an interest in experimenting with different artistic projects, and Raya Macam Mana? highlights her willingness to embrace new musical directions. Diana described the collaboration as something very meaningful to her, especially as she incorporated Mandarin lyrics as a reflection of her learning journey and as a way to represent Malaysia’s cultural diversity. “This kind of approach indirectly highlights the spirit of unity, as Malaysians celebrate and appreciate each other’s cultures,” she said. Francis, on the other hand, brings his signature rap delivery and rhythmic energy to the track, adding a contemporary edge that elevates the song’s upbeat arrangement. Together, the two artistes deliver a festive single that feels energetic, modern and relatable. Their chemistry throughout the track allows the song to balance humour with catchy melodies, creating a listening experience that feels light-hearted and memorable. The collaboration also highlights how artistes from different musical backgrounds can come together to create something that resonates with a wide audience.

memories of home and family, the song injects humour and youthful energy into the festive genre. The result is a track that feels contemporary and vibrant, appealing to listeners who enjoy festive music that reflects the realities and rhythms of modern Malaysian life. At its core, Raya Macam Mana? captures the lively chaos and excitement that often accompany preparations for Hari Raya. In the days leading up to the celebration, households across the country are often busy with last-minute tasks, from preparing traditional dishes and cleaning the house to planning travel arrangements for the balik kampung journey. The song draws inspiration from these familiar moments, presenting them through witty lyrics and energetic rap segments that highlight the anticipation and occasional stress of festive preparations. Through this back-and-forth structure, the song creates a dynamic storytelling style that keeps the track engaging while allowing both performers to showcase their distinctive musical personalities. Another element that sets the song apart is its fusion of musical influences. The track

A CTRESS Diana Danielle and rapper Francis Roman collaborated in the lively single Raya Macam Mana? that is an evolution of Raya songs with its contemporary influence and modern storytelling. Festive songs have long played an important role in the celebration of Hari Raya Aidilfitri, providing a soundtrack to family gatherings, balik kampung journeys and joyful reunions that mark the end of Ramadan. The track offers a refreshing take on festive music by blending rap elements with playful lyrical storytelling and subtle Mandarin-inspired musical touches. Rather than following the familiar formula of sentimental Raya ballads that reflect on o Diana Danielle, Francis Roman shake up genre with humour, youthful energy Ű BY ASHIQIN AHMAD

Magic of 1970s festive tracks hard to rival, says DJ Dave AS new Hari Raya Aidilfitri songs begin filling radio airwaves and digital platforms, Datuk DJ Dave believes the “magic” of Raya songs from the 1970s remains unmatched to this day. when met at a breaking-of-fast event and the presentation of Aidilfitri contributions to veteran artistes, organised by Yayasan Kebajikan Artis Tanahair (YKAT) recently.

DJ Dave is best known for the evergreen hit Menjelang Hari Raya . – BERNAMAPIC

DJ Dave – whose real name is Irwan Shah Abdullah – said the 1970s era was a revolutionary period for music, influenced by rock and roll rhythms before shifting to disco towards the end of the decade and into the early 1980s. Recalling Menjelang Hari Raya , DJ Dave said the song, recorded in 1977, began gaining widespread popularity a year later and has continued to be played every time Aidilfitri approaches. “The song started gaining traction in 1978. It was very exciting when three radio stations played it, and even today, nearly 50 years later, you can still hear the song,” he said. Touching on the welfare of artistes – he said YKAT remains committed to assisting veteran performers who are ill or facing financial hardship through various fundraising initiatives carried

The 78-year-old veteran singer, who is best known for the evergreen hit Menjelang Hari Raya , said that while many younger music composers are producing quality works, the melodies and spirit of songs from earlier decades possess a unique charm that continues to resonate with listeners. “I think many of today’s Raya songs are good. There are plenty of talented new composers, but I don’t know why the magic is not quite the same as before. Last year, I released a song called Meriah Syawal , but it did not take off as expected. “I’m not sure what ingredient is missing, whether it is the melody or the lyrics. Even though radio stations play many new Raya songs, listeners still enjoy hearing the old ones. Why? I believe there is something special about music from the 1970s,” he said

aged 60 and above received Aidilfitri assistance of RM1,000 each. Among the recipients were singers Sohaimi Mior Hassan and Fairuz Husin, as well as actors Zaidi Omar and Farid Amirul Hisham Wu Abdullah. – Bernama

hospital treatment – so we help as much as we can. Sometimes, if a one time contribution is not enough, we provide assistance two or three times,” he said. At the event, 17 veteran artistes

out in recent years. He said the foundation is providing a monthly pension of RM500 to eight veteran artistes. “There are indeed artistes who are struggling. Some are ill and require