A movement celebrating the joy of song emerges in Kuala Lumpur

'The arts scene can be quite closed and cliquey. I want to break those barriers and make everyone feel welcome,' says Sarah (left), about the Turn Up & Sing series. Photo: Sarah Imran

On a recent Saturday afternoon, in the middle of the usual cacophony of urban life, strains of an old melody echoed from Rumah Tangsi through the streets of Kuala Lumpur – P. Ramlee’s classic Tunggu Sekejap was brought to life by a motley group of about 100 people dressed in batik, kebaya and baju Melayu.

It was, indeed, heartwarming to see the multiracial mix of young and old who had turned up – parents and their adult children, siblings, cousins, partners and friends.