Malaysia’s beloved influencer trio, 3P, is back at it again—this time bringing the festive spirit of Hari Raya with their latest song! Following the massive success of their Chinese New Year hit 南北大道 (North-South Highway), they’ve now released a Malay version of the tune, featuring new lyrics to celebrate Aidilfitri. While many Malaysians are loving the fresh take, the song has also sparked debate online, with some netizens criticizing it for being a mere rehash of their previous hit.
Netizens Divided Over 3P’s Musical Approach
As soon as 3P’s Raya song was released, Facebook was flooded with reactions. While many fans praised the group for bridging cultures through music, others accused them of lacking creativity. The main complaint? The melody remains unchanged from 南北大道—only the lyrics are different. Some netizens pointed out that 3P’s Raya song felt repetitive, with one comment stating, “换汤不换药，没有新鲜感” (same formula, no freshness). This sentiment was shared under a Facebook post discussing the song [Source].
Music as a Unifying Force
Looking beyond the critique, 3P’s efforts highlight an important aspect of Malaysian culture—unity. In a country known for its diverse ethnic backgrounds, it’s rare to see social media influencers taking the initiative to celebrate different festivals. The trio’s decision to adapt their Chinese New Year song into a Raya version is a testament to their desire to reach a wider audience and bring people together through music.
It’s not just about making a festive hit; it’s about breaking cultural boundaries and fostering inclusivity. By presenting a Raya song as Chinese influencers, 3P is sending a message that celebrations in Malaysia are not exclusive to one race or religion. This is particularly significant in a time when unity and cultural appreciation are more important than ever.
Music has always played a role in uniting Malaysians—be it through national anthems, patriotic songs, or festive tunes that transcend cultural barriers. Many would remember classic festive ads featuring diverse cast members coming together to celebrate, and 3P’s song follows that same spirit of inclusivity.
A Step Towards a More Inclusive Entertainment Scene?
While some may argue that originality is lacking, others appreciate 3P’s efforts to embrace Malaysia’s multicultural spirit. It’s not often that Chinese influencers take the initiative to create Raya songs, and their willingness to do so should not be overlooked. Much like how sports unite Malaysians, music has the power to do the same. In that sense, 3P’s approach—whether viewed as innovative or repetitive—is undeniably impactful.
Personally, I find 3P’s effort incredibly touching. Malaysia should be united like this—through music, culture, and shared celebrations. It’s a refreshing reminder of how we can come together beyond the divisions created by politics. 3P, well done! Your song truly moved me, and I appreciate the message it carries.
At the end of the day, the debate over originality versus familiarity is secondary to the fact that their song is achieving its purpose: getting Malaysians talking, sharing, and celebrating together. Whether it becomes a Raya staple or just a temporary trend remains to be seen, but one thing’s for sure—3P has once again made a mark on the local entertainment scene.
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