FOR nearly three decades, Datuk Seri Siti Nurhaliza Tarudin has dazzled audiences with her voice, poise, and humility.
"For me, recognition will come after you've put in all the hard work and given your best," Siti says, just weeks after receiving the prestigious title of Biduanita Negara (National Songstress).
This exclusive honour, presented at the National Arts Awards 2024, makes Siti only the third female singer to hold the title, following Puan Sri Saloma and Datuk Sharifah Aini.
Unfazed by her new salutation, she says: "I'm fine if people still just call me Siti.
"I'm still the same person — a mother who cooks for her children, cares for her family, and sells products during live TikTok sessions.
"With or without recognition, I've always strived to give my best."
Speaking after the launch of her latest single, 'Sejarah', in Kuala Lumpur recently, she says: "Awards are a beautiful form of appreciation, and I'm grateful for them. But my ultimate joy comes from creating music that resonates with my fans."
A LEGACY OF HARD WORK
Siti believes success is built on dedication and constant self-improvement.
Sharing her advice for aspiring artistes, she emphasises the importance of resilience.
"Never settle or become overconfident.
"There's no harm in learning from younger or more talented artistes. Collaboration can lead to amazing growth."
She recalls performing at the Royal Albert Hall in London before she turned 20.
"Imagine dreaming of such a concert as a young girl and then making it a reality. That's the power of perseverance and belief in your aspirations."
A SONG OF HER JOURNEY
Siti's latest single, 'Sejarah', holds deep personal meaning.
Composed by Indonesian maestro Erwin Gutawa with lyrics by his daughter Gita Gutawa, the song features music by the Czech Symphony Orchestra.
"This song reflects my journey as an artiste, from the beginning until now. Each lyric feels like a memory unfolding.
"I'm incredibly thankful to Erwin for creating a piece that evokes such profound emotions. And I must thank Aubrey Suwito, who assisted with the vocal recording process here in Kuala Lumpur."
The track is not just a song; it's a celebration of her nearly 30-year-long career.
It's also a hint of what's to come as Siti gears up for a milestone year ahead.
ANOTHER CONCERT
Siti revealed her desire to stage a large-scale traditional music concert next year, marking a decade since her acclaimed Konsert Lentera Timur at Istana Budaya in 2013.
For now, though, all eyes are on her upcoming Journey of Sound concert, happening tonight (Dec 14) at the historic Stadium Merdeka in Kuala Lumpur.
The event will see Siti sharing the stage with Indonesian pop powerhouse Judika in what promises to be a monumental collaboration.
Organised by Universe Gateway, the concert aims to strengthen cultural ties between Malaysia and Indonesia while celebrating the remarkable journeys of both artistes.
Judika, whose real name is Judika Nalon Abadi Sihotang, is excited about performing with Siti.
"It's an honour to share the stage with someone I've admired for so long. I'm confident Journey of Sound will be an extraordinary experience," he says.
"The entire production team is preparing something spectacular for the audience."
STAYING GROUNDED AMID STARDOM
Despite the accolades and grand concerts, Siti's humility shines through.
She's quick to remind everyone that awards are a byproduct of passion and hard work, not the ultimate goal.
"Everyone has dreams and aspirations," she says.
"What matters most is the effort we put into achieving them and the joy we bring to others along the way."
As Siti prepares to close another chapter in her illustrious career and open a new one, fans can rest assured that the essence of who she is — a humble, hardworking, and inspiring artiste — will remain unchanged.
Whether she's receiving accolades or simply being "Siti," the queen of Malaysian pop continues to embody grace and excellence.