Singing their love for Malaysia
Bunkface and three celebrities share their love for the country and their hopes for the future. writes
IT has been more than three months since a new administration took over the Malaysian government but it feels as though the euphoria over the change is still pretty much felt. With the previous ruling coalition being in power for more than six decades, many Malaysians likened the change to a rebirth of their beloved nation.
The spirit of patriotism is different this time round. Many are looking forward to celebrate this “dawn of new era” while paying respect to our forefathers who have sacrificed so much for the country.
But nothing gets the spirit going without catchy National Day theme songs.
Besides the usual songs like Jalur Gemilang, Keranamu Malaysia and the late Sudirman’s Tanggal 31, we sing our hearts out to Sehati Sejiwa by Alif Satar and Gemersik Chorus in recent years.
In the spirit of a new era, there is a new theme song titled Kita Punya Malaysia by popular rock band Bunkface.
Granted, this is the first time a rock band has been given the pleasure of performing the National Day theme song.
The trio behind Bunkface — formed by Shamsul “Sam” Anuar (frontman), bassist Farouk Jaafar (Youk) and lead guitarist Ahmad Farhan (Paan)— are honoured to have landed this opportunity.
OUR SONG
“This marks a huge and sweet milestone for us as a rock band. Who would have thought that the government would entrust us with this huge task. It’s really amazing how it all fell together,” said Sam.
Having their song selected as the official theme song for National Day is one thing but to find out that Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad had handpicked the song himself is an honour for the trio.
“I am out of words to describe how I feel. It’s a huge achievement for us, and to have Tun Dr Mahathir selecting our song is awesome!” said Paan with a smile.
The boys actually had the song ready with different lyrics even before the Kita Punya campaign, but after their work was selected by the government, they made changes to suit the National Day theme.
“It took us about a month to finish the song. It wasn’t the most difficult song to write as the lyrics are quite simple. It is nice to produce something new and fresh for the celebrations,” said Youk.
“Our songs have always had an anthem spirit so Kita Punya Malaysia turned out really well,” he added.
“We’re so excited to be a part of the campaign. Here’s hoping future generations will be singing our song every National Day!” said Sam.
FOND MEMORIES
The trio never missed the opportunity to celebrate the historical day when growing up.
“When I was still in school, I loved going to KLCC to witness the lively celebrations. Malaysians unite over many things like food, but to see everyone feeling patriotic was the icing on the cake,” said Paan.
“As a child, I remember having to sing songs like Jalur Gemilang and Keranamu Malaysia during the school assembly. I remember the lyrics until now so I’m glad the school instilled into us the patriotic spirit from young,” said Sam.
PROUD MALAYSIANS
So what are the boys most proud of about Malaysia?
“I am so in love with all of our islands, they’re so beautiful and that’s something we should be proud of! We’re blessed with so many beautiful attractions in our country,” said Youk.
“I’m proud that we can all live in harmony despite the different races. We may have our differences, but we know that at the end of the day the love for our country triumphs.
“It’s the best thing ever to say that you live in a mixed-race country,” he said.
TRAITS
We all have our quirks that make us truly Malaysians. It could be our love for public holidays, hanging out at the mamak for long hours or telling people we’re “on the way” when we’re actually at home.
For Youk, one Malaysian trait he’s guilty of is slowing down in traffic to see an accident on the road.
“I’m just curious!” said Youk.
Sam said his love for food and the effort to find Malaysian food when he’s abroad is what makes him a true Malaysian.
“You can’t go wrong with our food, it’s the best!” he said.
Paan agreed with this, adding that Malaysian fare tops other cuisines anytime, anywhere.
Wemayhaveour differences, but we know that at the end of the day the love for our country triumphs. Youk
HOPE FOR THE FUTURE
As musicians, the trio hope that the government will highlight on the importance of music education from a young age.
“If you look at countries abroad, they make music classes really fun. They encourage the students to explore their musical talents and not just focus on textyoung books,” said Sam.
“What we instill into the ones will have an effect later in life. Music is so much more than just sounds. It’s time we realise that people can achieve a lot through music as well,” said Paan.
CELEBRITIES
Dr Soo Wincci, Rubini Sambanthan and Lisa Surihani also shared what makes them proud to be Malaysians.
Soo Wincci, who is a singer and actress, concurred with Youk’s view, saying she is proud to live in a multi-racial country.
Soo added that she is most proud of the warmth of Malaysian people. “When you come to Malaysia, you immediately feel welcomed by all.
“This is the thing that I miss most when I’m away,” said Soo who is in Spain to complete a music producing course with Berklee.
“When I’m away, I miss the food! Nothing beats Malaysian food. My favourite is pan mee. It is the first thing I look for to satisfy my cravings when I’m back home,” she said.
As for actress Lisa, she said: “One of the things that I am proud of is how we as a society are quick to be helpful in times of crises.
“It surpasses race, culture and religion.” Model Rubini, on the other hand, said she’s proud of the country’s infrastructure.
QUIRKS
Lisa’s love for food is what truly makes her a Malaysian. “We take for granted the variety of food here. We have all kinds of cuisine, it is almost impossible to get bored of food in Malaysia,” she said.
As for Soo Wincci, she said: “I love yum cha, haha! The second thing that makes me a Malaysian is that I love to use the word ‘lah’. I love this because only Malaysians use it, if you hear the world ‘lah’, you know the speaker is from your country too!”
Rubini can’t live without nasi lemak. “A true Malaysian will be on my side!”
“Also, I love the fact that we have a lot of public holidays. It just shows how different we are from the rest of the world as we have so many festivities to celebrate. It’s a great thing for Malaysians,” she said.
CHANGES IN FUTURE
Lisa wants free and improved education for all in the future. She also wants Malaysia to be a welfare-driven country, and to see more parent- and baby-friendly and senior citizen facilities across the country.
Rubini said: “It’s a new government and we expect a lot of developments but as Malaysians we should start by changing ourselves too.
“Queue up properly. Make way for the elderly and pregnant women on public transport. Drive in a proper manner.
“These minor changes will make a big impact to our country. As for the government, I hope they take minor issues seriously, such as addressing the issues of stray dogs and cats.
“I believe that with all of these changes, Malaysia can achieve First World country status. That will be a great Malaysia,” she said.