Hari Raya is the season of balik kampung, kuih raya, and – of course – music that sets the festive mood. While classics like “Suasana Hari Raya” and “Dendang Perantau” will always have a place in our hearts, Malaysia’s indie scene has produced some Hari Raya gems that deserve just as much love.
Whether you’re looking for something playful, nostalgic, or reflective, these songs bring a fresh twist to the celebration.
Aizat Amdan – “Raya Janji Happy” ft. Asmidar
A refreshing take on the festive season. This track blends the warmth of Raya with a laid-back, dreamy keroncong vibe, delivering a soothing, almost nostalgic feeling. The lyrics beautifully capture the essence of love and togetherness, with a line like “Kau bunga yang aku sayang, yang kurindu”, making it a perfect companion for a reflective Raya.
The song isn’t about overwhelming energy; instead, it wraps you in a comforting embrace. Whether you’re driving back to your hometown or enjoying the serenity of your home, this track effortlessly sets the mood, reminding you that even if you’re alone, the joy of Raya can still be felt deeply.
The Venopian Solitude – “Lumrah Raya”
If you’re in the mood for something quirky and humorous, “Lumrah Raya” is a must-listen. The song offers a satirical take on the Raya season, poking fun at the distractions that sometimes take us away from the spiritual side of Ramadan. The playful contrast between fasting and indulgence – like binge-watching TV shows and eating murtabak raja – adds a touch of lighthearted humor.
Yet, beneath the cheeky critique, it doesn’t forget the deeper meaning of Raya. The song ends with a call for forgiveness and reconciliation with “ampun maaf dipinta,” making it a witty and heartwarming tune that will keep you smiling throughout the festive season.
Hacktick! – “(tA0n NiE aQ) XnK BlIk RAyE”
Hacktick!’s “(tA0n NiE aQ) XnK BlIk RAyE” (Tahun Ini Aku Taknak Balik Raya) is the anthem for anyone feeling disconnected from the usual Raya hustle. With its title styled like early Millennial texting slang, the song is full of sarcastic humour and playful defiance. It tackles the awkwardness of family gatherings, dodging nosy relatives, and the materialistic side of Raya celebrations.
But beyond the humour lies a moment of emotional reflection. As the song progresses, it reminds us that, despite everything, the time spent with family is irreplaceable. “Buat kerana cinta” resonates deeply as the character returns home for Raya, making this track a perfect mix of wit and heart.
Iqbal M. – “Kita Mesti Jumpa”
With a nostalgic yet upbeat sound, “Kita Mesti Jumpa” by Iqbal M. takes you on a journey through the bittersweet emotions of Raya. The track, which originated from an Instagram Live session, reminisces about the joy of past Raya celebrations while acknowledging that life often gets in the way.
The lyrics “Ingat tak lagi Raya yang dulu kita bergembira?” bring a sense of longing, but the song also carries a hopeful message: reconnecting with loved ones is what truly matters. With its mellow yet uplifting vibe, this song is a beautiful reminder to make time for family, no matter how busy life may get.
Megat Fazly & Teman Lelaki – “Raya Penuh Hikmah”
As we grow older, the way we experience Raya changes, and “Raya Penuh Hikmah” by Megat Fazly & Teman Lelaki captures this bittersweet shift perfectly. With lyrics like “Ku merindukan raya yang lama, penuh perasaan nostalgia”, the song beautifully blends the joy of Raya with a sense of reflection on how things have changed over the years.
With a folk-inspired sound, “Raya Penuh Hikmah” adds a deeper layer to the festive season, encouraging listeners to embrace the quieter, more meaningful moments of Raya. It’s a gentle celebration of both the past and present, making it a perfect tune for anyone seeking a more reflective celebration.
