Top actress Diana Danielle and Francis Roman turn cross-cultural curiosity into Malaysia’s relatable Hari Raya song


It’s a question many Malaysians recognise — often asked by non-Muslims who are curious about how Hari Raya is celebrated, or casually thrown into conversations between colleagues and friends.

Instead of turning that question into a long explanation, Diana Danielle and Francis Roman turn it into a song.

Their latest collaborative single, “Raya Macam Mana?”, is a cross-cultural Raya song that blends modern sounds with familiar festive warmth, reflecting how Malaysians experience Raya today — naturally, casually, and together.

Unlike traditional Raya songs that rely heavily on nostalgia, 'Raya Macam Mana?' takes a more conversational approach. The song unfolds through dialogue rather than narration: curiosity meets reassurance, questions turn into laughter, and slowly, without forcing a message, the joy of celebrating together comes through.

Musically, the song carries a modern melody while staying grounded in the recognisable Raya vibe. Contemporary elements such as rap verses are woven seamlessly into the track, giving it a fresh energy without straying too far from the festive spirit audiences are familiar with.

One of the song’s standout features is how language is used naturally as part of the storytelling. Chinese lyrics are woven into the song and performed by Diana Danielle, while Francis Roman delivers rap verses in colloquial Malay, using expressions that feel distinctly local and instantly recognisable to Malaysians. This back-and-forth reflects the way Malaysians speak in real life — switching languages comfortably, without overthinking it.

Lyrically, the song carries a simple yet meaningful message: Raya doesn’t have to be complicated. While we deeply respect the customs and cultural traditions of Hari Raya, the celebration itself can remain warm, welcoming, and easy for everyone to be part of. Through humour and relatable exchanges, the song gently introduces non-Malays to 'Raya Macam Mana?'— how we dress up, visit friends, share meals, and celebrate together — showing that joining in the festive spirit can be simple, joyful, and stress-free.

The official music video builds on this idea by following a group of colleagues learning how to Raya from their Malay friends. Along the way, familiar festive scenes unfold — from getting stuck in traffic to sitting around the table enjoying Nasi Impit, Rendang, and even classic Malaysian snacks like Snek Ku!, foods that have been part of local celebrations for decades.

Rather than presenting Raya as a grand statement, Raya Macam Mana? focuses on lived moments — shared meals, casual conversations, friendly teasing — the kind of experiences that define Malaysian celebrations across cultures.

The single had been released on February 7, ahead of the Ramadan period, allowing audiences to connect with the song early as the festive season approaches.

In a landscape filled with formulaic festive releases, 'Raya Macam Mana?' stands out not by trying harder, but by feeling truer — a modern Raya song that reflects how Malaysians genuinely live, speak, and celebrate.

As a multiracial and multicultural nation, Malaysia’s strength lies in its harmony. 

This song captures that spirit — different backgrounds, languages, and traditions coming together in one shared celebration. It presents to the world a beautiful truth about Malaysia: despite our diversity, we are one big family, united by respect, warmth, and togetherness.

MV Youtube Link = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TOt0h9twR54

 

 

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