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MPO honours legendary artiste with one-night symphonic show
The Malaysian Philharmonic 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 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 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 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 advice,” she told reporters.
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.
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