Uncovering the origins of the Hari Raya songbook


A poster spread from 'Majallah Filem' (magazine) in February 1965, featuring the Shaw Brother's film stars of the day. In the 1960s, some Hari Raya songs were popularised through Malay movies. Photo: Penang House of Music

Nearly a century after one of the earliest known "lagu Raya" recordings, Malaysians have enjoyed a joyful multitude of Hari Raya songs, in all kinds of music genres. How and when did this festive song tradition take root? And who tops the charts?

It’s become a conditioned reflex – radio and TV stations and shopping malls playing the songs of the season.

Save 30% OFF The Star Digital Access

Monthly Plan

RM 13.90/month

RM 9.73/month

Billed as RM 9.73 for the 1st month, RM 13.90 thereafter.

Best Value

Annual Plan

RM 12.33/month

RM 8.63/month

Billed as RM 103.60 for the 1st year, RM 148 thereafter.

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!

Next In Culture

Anwar’s new book reflects on prison life, philosophy and political reform
Scott Adams, US creator of 'Dilbert' cartoon, dies at 68
KL theatre performance interrogates the effectiveness of the death penalty
P. Ramlee cracks the jokes, MPO strikes the notes - 'Madu Tiga' like you’ve never heard
David Bowie's childhood home in London is set to open to the public next year
Erich von Daniken, Swiss writer who spawned alien archaeology, dies at 90
Tokyo boosts its support for accessibility to arts for people with disabilities
Arts festival faces exodus after dropping Palestinian-Australian author
In China, immersive bookshops take readers - and their selfies - on literary adventures
Edith Renfrow Smith, who witnessed a century of Black American history, dies at 111

Others Also Read