Daijiworld Media Network - Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur, Apr 5: In a heartwarming gesture, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim welcomed legendary Indian music composer Isaignani Ilaiyaraaja to Malaysia ahead of his much-awaited concert in Bukit Jalil.

Taking to his official X handle, the Prime Minister expressed his joy over meeting the maestro and shared glimpses of their interaction. “I was greatly delighted to welcome the Indian music legend, Maestro Ilaiyaraaja, to my office today. We discussed the need to further strengthen the diplomatic ties in arts and culture between Malaysia and India,” he said.

The Prime Minister also shared that they spoke about their fond memories of Indian cinema and music, which have long resonated with the Malaysian audience. “I also informed him that Malaysia will continue to appreciate and promote the arts and culture that symbolize the diversity and harmony we have celebrated together all this while,” he added.

Extending his best wishes, Anwar Ibrahim said, “May his concert at the National Hockey Stadium in Bukit Jalil become yet another historic moment in his artistic journey.”

In response, the legendary composer expressed gratitude for the Prime Minister’s warm words. “Thank you for the warm courtesy and gracious greetings, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. Your kind words are deeply appreciated,” Ilaiyaraaja replied.

The concert, scheduled for Saturday, will feature many of Ilaiyaraaja’s timeless film hits. However, it remains unclear if the audience will also be treated to a portion of his acclaimed Western classical symphony, Valiant.

It may be recalled that Ilaiyaraaja recently became the first Indian composer to present a Western classical symphony at the prestigious Eventim Apollo theatre in London. Following the success of Valiant, the maestro had announced plans to take the symphony to 13 countries worldwide.