Datuk DJ Dave still knows how to make an entrance at 78.
Sporting a cowboy hat, tasselled suede vest and boots, the legendary crooner kicked off his birthday at the Kiara Equestrian and Country Resort in Kuala Lumpur with warmth and merriment.
But for the young guests from five welfare homes, the man in the hat was a bit of a mystery.
While many of the children from homes like Trinity Shelter Children’s Home and Rumah Kasih Harmoni Paya Jaras had never actually heard DJ Dave sing, the rave reviews from their house mothers – who grew up swooning to his hits – had expectations soaring.
“I want to see how good he really is,” said 17-year-old Madeline Madhuri, an aspiring singer from one of the homes.
Ever the sporting grandfather of four, Dave didn’t just listen; he invited Madeline to perform an impromptu a capella set, snapping his fingers and tapping his foot along to her melody.
Born on Valentine’s Day, DJ Dave (real name Irwan Shah Abdullah) has spent the last 55 years sharing his birthday with children and those with special needs.
This year was no different, as he celebrated with the special guests alongside wife Mahshid Golabatoonchi and three generations of his family.
“True happiness does not come from what we possess, but from what we are willing to share,” DJ Dave told the crowd.
“I feel very small today, but incredibly grateful.”
True to his interactive style, he turned the event on Feb 14 into a jam session, pulling children onto the stage to join him for classics like Joget Orang Berbudi and Chalte Chalte.
From his 1977 classic Menjelang Hari Raya to his 2024 hit Meriah Syawal, DJ Dave proved his voice remains as timeless as ever.
Guests included Pusat Kebajikan Anak-Anak Istimewa Selangor (Orkids), Rumah Amal Cheshire Selangor and Ozanam Children’s Shelter.
Highlights of the celebration included a RM1,000 donation to each of the five participating homes, and specially arranged horse rides for the children who went on a ride around the resort.
Before the cake was cut, DJ Dave had one final message for the children: “Never feel you are less than anyone else.
“With love and support, you can be great in your own unique way.”
