BUNGA BLOSSOMS IN MALAYSIA
Indonesian singer-actress hopes to pursue her craft in Malaysia more in the near future. BIBI NURSHUHADA RAMLI has the details
AS the wife of Malaysian actor Ashraf Sinclair, Indonesian Bunga Citra Lestari has always considered Malaysia her home. Having wished to have a presence in the Malaysian entertainment scene, 2018 may just be the year for her to do so.
Bunga, or BCL, as she is more popularly known, will perform in a joint concert with Malaysian crooner Anuar Zain and Indonesian soloist Yuka Kharisma on April 28.
“Over the years, I’ve come here to promote my Indonesian projects. But this marks the first time I’m promoting my performance in Malaysia.
“This is just the beginning. I hope to become more active here musically,” she said at a press conference at the Traders Hotel Kuala Lumpur recently.
In 2016, the 34-year-old was invited as a member of the jury on Maharaja Lawak Mega, for which she had to travel between Jakarta and Kuala Lumpur for three months.
“Malaysia has become a second home for me, so it was actually fun to ‘come home’. I know more about Malaysia now and I’d love to be part of it more.”
Bunga said the reason she held back previously was because of her lack of confidence, which she overcame only last year after holding her debut concert in the republic.
“Last year was spent working on boosting my career in Indonesia, and it encouraged me to do the same in Malaysia this year.”
She dreams of holding a solo concert in Malaysia but it will need more time and preparation.
“I’m a judge for Indonesian Idol, but whenever an opportunity comes, I like to remain longer in Malaysia.
“And, who knows, I might work with a Malaysian artiste some day.”
When asked if she planned to work with her new singer sisterin-law Yunalis Zara’ai, she said: “Just wait for it. I want it to be a surprise.”
Yuna married Ashraf’s younger brother, director Adam Yousof Sinclair.
On her concert, Bunga said she had gotten tips from Indonesian singers who have held concerts in Malaysia.
“Afgan holds a concert here every year, and I heard he has another one planned for this year too! Give me a chance!” she joked.
“They’re all my good friends, and I’m proud and thankful that Malaysian fans welcome and accept music by Indonesian artistes.”
Bunga Citra Lestari, Anuar Zain & Yuka Kharisma Live In Concert will be held at the Plenary Hall, Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre.
Tickets are priced from RM188 to RM2,199 and available for purchase via www.tickethotline.com.my. Visit www.yuka.com.my for more details.