06/05/2026

LYFE WEDNESDAY | MAY 6, 2026 25 Sharifah Aini tribute concert to celebrate singer’s legacy

T HE Orchestra (MPO) is set to honour one of Malaysia’s most beloved musical legends with A Tribute to Sharifah Aini on June 6. Widely celebrated as Biduanita Negara , Sharifah remains one of the most influential figures in Malaysia’s entertainment history. Renowned for her extraordinary vocal ability, emotional depth and commanding stage presence, she built a career that spanned more than three decades before her passing in 2014. Often regarded as Malaysia’s own musical institution, Sharifah’s legacy continues to shape the local music landscape. Dubbed Emi’s golden child, the late songstress was among the nation’s best-selling recording artistes, earning multiple Gold and Platinum recognitions throughout her career. With around 700 recorded songs and more than 100 albums to her name – including compilations, soundtracks, collaborations, traditional records and English-language releases – her catalogue reflects remarkable versatility and enduring cultural impact. Preserving Sharifah’s spirit The tribute concert will be helmed by music director and conductor Ahmad Muriz Che Rose, who sees the production as a celebration and preservation of Sharifah’s artistic Ű BY SHIVANI SUPRAMANI Malaysian Philharmonic

o MPO honours legendary artiste with one-night symphonic show

spirit. In a recent press conference, he shared that the repertoire has been carefully curated to showcase the full breadth of her artistry, from pop ballads and traditional melodies to film classics and English-language songs. “It would not be an exaggeration to describe Sharifah as a prodigy in the music world. From the time she started her career as a singer, she made a powerful impact on the industry, captivating all who heard her voice and leaving an enduring legacy that is difficult to rival. “Over more than three decades, she recorded around 700 songs, cementing her position as one of the most influential figures in the history of local music and we believe that now is the time to elevate her masterpieces to a higher level, in line

The concert will unite (from left) Shiha, Khadijah, Muriz, Salamiah and Asmidar on stage this June 6.

strength,” she said. At the same time, Maryam shared a deeply personal moment – her mother embraced Islam around November last year after witnessing the positive changes in her daughter. According to her, she never forced or directly persuaded her mother, but instead demonstrated through her lifestyle and the happiness she experienced after embracing Islam. “I simply showed how my life changed, how I became calmer and more grateful. From there, my mother began learning on her own, slowly, until she eventually decided to embrace Islam,” she said. Even more touching, Maryam noted the most significant change in her mother has been emotional, becoming more positive and appreciative of life’s small moments. “In the past, my mother was quite negative and even experienced depression. But now, I see her as calmer, more grateful… she can find joy even in the smallest things,” she added. – Bernama with the greatness of the legacy she left behind,” he said. Muriz also expressed hopes that the concert will bridge generations, ensuring Sharifah’s timeless music continues to resonate with younger audiences. “We also of course hope that this reaches the youngsters and we can keep her music alive amongst the younger listeners,” he said. Cross-generational musical tribute The concert will unite legendary performers Datuk Khadijah Ibrahim and Salamiah Hassan with contemporary artistes Asmidar Ahmad and Shiha Zikir in a powerful

advice,” she told reporters.

cross-generational showcase. Khadijah, who shared a close bond with the late Sharifah, described joining the tribute as deeply personal. “When the offer came to perform in this concert, I accepted without hesitation. It was something that we’ve been planning for a while before the late Sharifah passed,” she said, recalling an unrealised dream of performing together. Shiha, who affectionately regarded Sharifah as her mentor and “Umi”, said the opportunity carries profound emotional meaning. “Whatever I am today, a part of it comes from Umi’s guidance and

Reimagining timeless classics Audiences can expect an expansive musical journey through Sharifah’s treasured discography, featuring classics such as Hapuslah Airmatamu , Kudaku Lari , Seri Dewi Malam , Mawar Putih Untuk Mama and Bunga Tanjung , alongside specially curated medleys spanning her iconic repertoire. The one-night-only performance will take place at 8pm at Dewan Filharmonik Petronas, located within the iconic Twin Towers. Ticket prices range from RM249 to RM499.

Muriz (centre) sees the production as a celebration and preservation of Sharifah’s artistic spirit. – PICS FROM MPO

Maryam Duriankimchi releases Hidayah despite language challenges

DESPITE having lived in Malaysia for more than six years, South Korean social media influencer Maryam Duriankimchi admitted that mastering the Malay language remains a challenge. However, that limitation has not held her back. Maryam, whose real name is Maryam You Narae, 34, has proven her determination by releasing her debut single titled Hidayah , launched at the end of March. The song was composed by Zuhaidi Aziz, who is also a member of the nasyid group Saujana. She said completing the song was far from easy, taking about six months to ensure that every word was pronounced accurately without any noticeable accent. The mother of two, Rina and Rian, shared that she did not mind the lengthy process, as the song holds deep personal meaning for her as a convert to Islam and reflects her spiritual journey. “Although it was difficult, I never once thought of giving up. I kept

practising over and over again at home, even Rina memorised the song. Alhamdulillah , I finally managed to pronounce everything correctly without sounding awkward. “Usually, I use Malay in my daily conversations. From there, I improve my pronunciation and learn new words. I just keep practising, that’s my only way,” she said when met after Bernama Radio’s Show Buzz programme. Beyond the technical challenges, Maryam explained Hidayah carries a deeper meaning, as she hopes its message will provide emotional strength to listeners, especially those facing life’s pressures. “I decided to sing this song because the lyrics truly reflect who I am. As a convert, of course I have received guidance ( hidayah ). But guidance is not just when we convert, we need it throughout our lives. “In our hearts, when we feel distant from Allah, we need guidance. When we face difficulties, we also need guidance. So for me, this song is not just for myself, but for everyone seeking

Maryam is a local artiste from South Korea who recently released her debut single in the Malay language. – PICS FROM INSTAGRAM @MARYAM YUNRRR