Welcome to the year 2025 - It has to be seen as the year of comebacks for the legendary stars of Malaysian music

The Star

17 hours ago

Half the year of 2025 has come and gone. And if there is anything to go by this year, it has to be said that this is the year of a comeback in a big way for many Malaysian legendary artistes, especially those from the 90s.
And following them are also top stars of the new millennium who are also in the mix with a comeback of sorts.
Hand it to the Malaysian Artistes' Association (Karyawan), who started the ball rolling. Their event "Telan Kaset" last September started the ball rolling as "Telan Kaset," was an event featuring popular artists from the 1990s who hadn't been seen in a while. The comeback event included various music genres like rock, ballad, R&B, hip hop, and Malaysian rhythms.
Among those who performed that showcase were Rahmad Mega, Kool, Ady Wow, Aris Ariwatan, Dinamik, Kasawari, Roy, Amir Ukay's, Shidi Data, Isa Gravity, Wann, Febians, Hasnol, Shades, A To Z, Tom, Fuad dan Zamani, all names who were synonymous in the late 80s and 90s.
The singing bug then must have caught the superstars of Malaysian music in the 90s, and many of them are making a super comeback with some major announcements as 2025 moves into its second half. In fact, there were also those oldies but still goldies who have already made a strong statement at the first half of the year.
The Star looks at Malaysia's golden generation who have made and are making a statement this year ...
DATUK M. NASIR
National music maestro, Datuk M.Nasir returns with the "M. N46IR Cipta 3 Concert" with the concept of "I Rock' which will take place on September 27 at Axiata Arena in Bukit Jalil.
This time the concert is even more special when M. Nasir or his real name is Mohamad Nasir Mohamed, 67, will perform his rock songs and own creations that have left an impression on Malaysia with its nostalgia.
In addition, fans are also included in the theme or 'dress code' 'Rock Cara Lu' to further enliven the "M. N46IR Cipta 3 Concert" event.
The event organiser for the mega concert is Icon Entertainment, the same team that brought fans the KRU concert and is also in charge of the 90s all-girls band Elite's concert.
For general tickets, they will go on sale on Friday (July 4) at 11am. Tickets start from as low as RM258 to RM628 via www.ticket2u.com.my/mnasircipta3 or call the hotline [phone] for more information.
KRU
The super Malaysian boy group of the 90s and even in the 2000s. Then they said they were taking a big break and concentrating on their solo and acting careers several years back. Many of their die-hard fans had even given up on seeing them perform together again. But it happened.
A joint venture with top label Sony Music Malaysia for a new album called 'Kaset' and also the hot single 'Voodoo' that comes together with an AI music video to boot.
And to top it all off, four sold-out concerts covering two weeks at the Axiata Arena in Bukit Jalil. Four concerts had about 70,000 people rooting for them for their comeback.
Thus far, it is the successful comeback story of the year.
ANUAR ZAIN / ZIANA ZAIN (call them Empat now)
The duo of Anuar Zain and Ziana Zain have been said to be among the successful of siblings in Malaysia. The brother and sister have had so much success in their solo careers, helped by so many top ballads that many are still listening to their tunes until today.
This time it is a family affair. Legends Ziana and Anuar are teaming up with their niece, award-winning singer Ernie Zakrie, and her husband, Syamel, a well-known singer-composer who was also a member of the Akademi Fantasia 2015 franchise.
They are aptly called Empat. Anuar himself has announced that this combination is going to be the new brand in Malaysia. And much is expected from this super combo.
But first, the Empat concert. The 'Empat Live in KL 2025', which will be held at the Mega Star Arena on Oct 18. It will also mark the first concert collaboration between the four family members, each of whom has made a significant and lasting impact on the Malaysian music industry.
Tickets for the concert are almost sold out too. For further enquiries: https://www.ticket2u.com.my/empatkl
Available Categories: • Diamond – RM888 / • VIP – RM1,088 (Sold Out Categories: Bronze (RM288), Silver (RM388), Gold (RM488), Platinum (RM688), Royal Twin Seat (RM2,088 for 2 tickets).
4U2C
After being absent from the local music scene for a long time, legendary 1990s hip-hop group 4U2C is set to thrill fans at the upcoming event "WE 4U2C Live In Concert", which will take place at Idea Live Arena, Petaling Jaya, on Sept 15.
The group consists of Datuk AC Mizal, Aren, Yanz, Rinz, Lanz, Charlie and Azam. Most of them also have had successful solo efforts, especially AC Mizal, who is also a popular actor, singer, comedian, TV host and even a former radio presenter.
With a nostalgic "Bringin' Back Da 90's Flava" theme, the concert will feature timeless hits such as "Fiona, Kami Rappers and I Miss U", along with a surprise treat of three brand-new songs comprising one ballad and two upbeat tracks for fans who have long awaited the group's return.
AC Mizal said the idea for the concert came from his wife Datin Emylia Rosnaida, after seeing the success of the recent KRU concert, followed by an official offer by Juss Event Sdn Bhd.
Tickets went on sale on June 30 via Ticket Empire and Fantopia, with prices ranging from RM155 to RM555.
ELITE
The Malaysian all-girl group Elite, our very own Spice Girls, who ruled the roost in the South-East Asia region in the 90s, are all back to entertain their fans.
The group, consisting of Linda Rafar, Sasha Saidin, Watie Sadali, Abby Abadi and Azza, will present the "ELITE LIVE 25 - 'Tamparan'" to fans at the Plenary Hall in Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre on Sept 20.
Organised by Icon Entertainment, the show will take place at the Plenary Hall, Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC).
Formed in 1995, Elite was the first act signed under KRU Records. They won rave reviews with their albums including "Catwalk, Tamparan, Idola, Selamat Tinggal Teman, G.I.G. and Merbahaya", had many followers here and including fans in Singapore, Brunei and Indonesia.
Tickets for ELITE LIVE '25: GIG (RM1088 - with Meet & Greet and refreshment), MANISNYA SENYUMANMU (RM588), CATWALK (RM268), TAMPARAN WANITA (RM268). Tickets can be purchased from 2pm on Thursday (June 26) at www.ticket2u.com.my/elite
NORYN AZIZ
Another 90s star, Noryn Aziz, is also in the fray again. Malaysia's very own R&B-Jazz songstress promised to captivate audiences with an intimate musical performance that will light up the DBKL Auditorium stage come Sept 19.
The singer and her troupe have aptly named the one-night concert as 'This is Noryn Aziz', in what is the first time a Malaysian singer is presenting a one-night R&B-jazzy special show.
Noryn promises to bring together the richness of jazz, soul and R&B, with a Malaysian soul from well-known classics to fresh compositions.
For the record, Norazmahwati Abdul Aziz or better known as Noryn Aziz, is a Malaysian female jazz singer who became popular through the song "Cerita Cinta" and has been in the limelight since the early 90s. Tickets for the event are available at tickethotline
SPIDER
In the 80s, Malaysian music fans were big followers of the 'Rock Kapak' genre, and groups like Search, Wings, Lefthanded, Rusty Blade, May, Ekamatra, Iklim and Ariwatan were ruling the roost. Then came the 90s, and the rock-ska group Spider was leading the show.
In 1996, pop-rock band Spider burst into the local scene with their first-ever album 'Ngam Ho'. Originating from Johor, the quartet impressed local rock fans with their brilliant single 'Phobia' and the album self titled 'Ngam Ho' songs.
And then came the super-brilliant album 'Aladdin' with the main single also named 'Aladdin' winning many fans, and that was followed up with the unforgettable album 'NazraKu,' and not forgetting songs like "Tapi Bagaimana".
Spider carved its name into the local music scene in the late 90s and early 2000s with a distinctive sound that mixes fusion rock and traditional Malay musical elements.
After going into a hiatus, Spider then came out with a new single, "Keluar Sarang", last year, and it was a big hit with fans. Then, recently, they rocked the house at the "Jiwa Kacau 2025" concert on June 28.
And now they will go unplugged at their own concert at the Mega Star Arena KL on Oct 25, and the group aims to reconnect with long-time listeners and introduce their legacy to the new generation.
Tickets for the show are priced at RM198 (ALADDIN; FREE SEATING), RM238 (CINTA DEWA DEWI; NUMBERED SEAT), RM298 (KASIH LATIFAH; NUMBERED SEATING) RM388 (RELAKU PUJUK; NUMBERED SEATING).
SALAMIAH HASSAN and DAUGHTER ATTILA
Salamiah Hassan is a singer who needs no introduction in Malaysian music. She is indeed a Legend and her Hari Raya tunes are heard until today. She was famous not only in the 90s but also in the 70s and 80s. Her daughter Attila, is also an accomplished singer and is well known in the Malaysian jazz arena.
On a night promised to be filled with magic and cherished memories, the renowned mother-daughter duo have promised fans an unforgettable night of retro music and enchanting songs, in a special performance titled 'Konsert Gelombang Bahagiaku', organised by Mujik Wand Production, the event and production outfit led by Salamiah's son Raja Ahmad Shah Raja Haron.
On a night promised to be filled with magic and cherished memories, renowned singer Atilia and her mother have promised fans an unforgettable night of retro music and enchanting songs, in a special performance titled 'Konsert Gelombang Bahagiaku', organised by Mujik Wand Production, the event and production outfit led by Salamiah's son, Raja Ahmad Shah Raja Haron.
On top of that, fans can also get set for a wonderful rendition of the duo's new single 'Age is Just a Number'.
And according to Atilia, she said that the new single, which will feature both Bahasa Malaysia and English in the lyrics, is also the first single that will feature the daughter-mother combo.
Tickets for 'Konsert Gelombang Bahagiaku' went on sale on Tuesday (May 13, 2025) at 10am. At press time, sales are brisk, and fans are advised to book the tickets as early as possible. Ticket categories for the concert are at: (Platinum – RM350; Gold – RM250; Silver – RM150).
HAZAMA
Acclaimed singer Hazama returns with a deeply emotive new single, 'Aku Bukan Narsisis', composed and produced by renowned music maestro Farouk Roman, with lyrics co-written by Hazama and Zel Hadauan.
While he is not exactly a 90s star, he has been in the music scene for two decades now, and the new singles have pushed him to the main limelight again, and he is enjoying a big comeback after being quiet over the last few years. 'Aku Bukan Narsisis' is produced by Sony Music Malaysia, and it is making big waves with music fans now.
MISHA OMAR
Some say her voice is just divine, and she has always been in the limelight since the new millennium. After a break, renowned songstress and local legend Misha Omar returns to the spotlight with "Break", a stirring and emotional new single that marks her first-ever collaboration with Indonesian music legend Melly Goeslaw.
At 43, and with over two decades of musical excellence under her belt, the three-time Anugerah Juara Lagu Best Vocalist breathes life into "Break", a beautifully crafted composition by Melly Goeslaw, with musical arrangement by celebrated producer Tohpati.
"Break" also adds another meaningful entry to her rich catalogue, following last year's single "Masihkan Ada Rasa Itu". Yet beyond personal milestones, Misha sees this project as a celebration of the musical richness of the Nusantara region.
"Break" is available for streaming and download from Friday, June 20) on all major platforms including Apple Music, Spotify, and YouTube Music. It has an aptly named teaser for the new song -- Don't take a break— tune in to "Break"
On top of that, there are big rumours in the local music scene that the multi-talented singer is also gearing up for a mega concert together with her close musical friends later in the year. Keep a close watch for the announcement.
EXISTS and SLAM
These two groups, Exists and Slam, were also frontrunners in the musical scene for the last three decades.
In celebration of their journey and enduring brotherhood, Exists is gearing up for a joint concert with fellow legendary band Slam later this year – 'Konsert Slam X Exists Our Journey' in Kuala Lumpur, and 'Konsert Exists X Slam Live In Singapore'.
Both concerts will be a monumental collaboration, bringing together generations of fans and two giants of Malaysian rock on one stage. The preparation is in the final stages and the venue and ticket prices will be released soon.
Legendary rock band Exists also returns with a soul-stirring remake of one of their most emotionally charged songs, 'Alasanmu.' Then there is also their own showcase in Petaling Jaya soon.
Furthermore, "EXISTS PREMIUM LIVE @ PJ", which is scheduled to take place at JioSpace, Petaling Jaya, Selangor, on Oct 4, will provide a premium experience for the fans, a promise which has been taken by the band and organisers.
Expect a super show from the Exists boys among the very best of groups in the country. Tickets for the show are priced at: Premium (RM588), VIP (RM488) and Diamond (RM368). Tickets can be purchased via www.jioJx.asia or hotline [phone].
STACY ANAM
Another Malaysian ace singer who has made a super comeback this year. Stacy Anam is and will always be Sabah's very own dancing super dancing queen and rock star.
Ever since Sabah diva Stacy made her Malaysian music entry in 2008, the dancing queen of local music has never failed to win the hearts of her music lovers in the country. For several years, she has been busy with several other projects but the petite songstress came back strong with her new single 'Menyala'.
A rocking song that shook the local scene has been making waves and and for her superb efforts to bring glory to her state Sabah, the Penampang-born lass was recently awarded the 'Anugerah Darjah Kinabalu' for her brilliant achievements in the local music scene.
She further made more inroads for herself two weeks ago. Two weekends ago marked a historic moment for Sabah's beloved singer, as thousands of fans filled the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) to witness her first-ever mega solo concert in her hometown — 'Aku Stacy (Menggegar Kota U)'.
With thunderous cheers, dazzling stage lights, and world-class showmanship, the nearly three-hour-long concert showcased Stacy at her absolute best - as a high-energy performer, a woman deeply rooted in culture, and a pop star whose shine remains strong after 17 years in the entertainment industry.
And ever the eager-beaver, as usual, the energetic Stacy has now promised to go even a step further next year. So in short, watch out for this space.
NUR FAZURA
Nur Fazura Sharifuddin, known professionally as Fazura, is a prominent Malaysian actress, singer, television host, and former VJ. She gained recognition for her roles in various films and television series, including "Manisnya Cinta Di Cappadocia", for which she won Best Actress at the Malaysia Film Festival. Besides acting, she has also hosted popular shows like "Anak-Anak Angkasawan".
Despite several setbacks in her personal life and business, she has also proven herself as an excellent singer.
She notched up a big step in her career two weeks back after launching the music video of her latest single 'Luar Biasa' which is composed by ace Indonesian producer Ade Govinda. And she has promised to continue striking the right chord in her entertainment career.
KHADIJAH IBRAHIM (Business)
The great Datuk Khadijah Ibrahim has always been a very own pop princess and queen, all in one. In reality, not many can even compare to her. To this day, she has always at her best and since the 70s, she has been entertaining Malaysians at the very highest level.
Special mention is that she is not making a comeback this year. Instead, she is breaking into a new foray. She is a master chef now.
"Sos Cili Ibu", a culinary creation based on the original recipe of Malaysia's legendary songstress, Khadijah, was officially launched on June 17 in an exclusive media event held here in Bukit Gasing.
More than just an ordinary chilli sauce, "Sos Cili Ibu" is a premium product that combines spicy, sweet, and tangy notes in perfect harmony.
It's ideal as a dipping sauce for snacks like crackers, fritters, burgers, pizzas, or as a flavour enhancer in dishes such as the local dish ayam masak merah, fried noodles, sweet and sour dishes, and many more.
Khadijah also shared: "This recipe is a heartfelt gift to all my fans who have supported my journey in the arts for the past 48 years. I'm proud to share this heritage taste with fellow Malaysians."
And all Malaysians will certainly wish the very best for the legendary singer, all the success in her business venture.
SHEILA on 7/ HUJAN / MAHER ZAIN
Legendary groups of Indonesia, Sheila on 7 and Hujan, together with international star Maher Zain are also back in Malaysia after a long absence.
Together with Spider, Hujan was the headliner for the "Jiwa Kacau 2025" concert on June 28. The concert was a mega success and it was a full house at the rock event held at the National Hockey Stadium in Bukit Jalil.
And Hujan, they are still among the best with a brilliant performance at the event, and they concluded at the concert that they aim to come back for more with Malaysian fans very shortly.
The legendary band Sheila on 7 has been around for almost three decades, and they are considered the very best of Indonesia and are a big favourite with the Malaysian fans.
They will be here on July 26 for the Nusantara famous event Latihan Pestapora Malaysia to be held at the Stadium Nasional Bukit Jalil.
Latihan Pestapora Malaysia 2025 also features a powerful Phase 1 lineup that includes fan-favourites from both Indonesia and Malaysia, such as. Feast, Hindia, Pamungkas, Feel Koplo, Bittersweet, Bunkface, DOLLA, and more—setting the stage for a truly cross-cultural musical experience.
Following the explosive response to the initial lineup announcement in May, the festival is turning up the volume for its debut edition with the reveal of its Phase 2 lineup, featuring beloved acts Sheila On 7, Nadin Amizah, and ALVN.
Tickets are selling fast. Phase 2 tickets went on sale starting 9 June 2025 at www.latihanpestaporamalaysia.com. This follows the successful closure of Phase 1 sales, which saw thousands of fans locking in their spots even before the full lineup was revealed.
NEW PHASE 2 TICKET CATEGORIES: Rockzone (Free Standing) – RM299; GA (Free Standing) – RM249; CAT 1 (Numbered Seat) – RM399 New Category and CAT 2 (Numbered Seat) – RM189 New Category.
Six years after his last sold-out tour in Malaysia, internationally acclaimed Swedish-Lebanese artist Maher Zain is set to make his long-awaited return to South-East Asia with a full concert tour.
The multi-platinum recording artist and humanitarian will perform in Kuala Lumpur on August 16, Singapore on August 21, and Kota Kinabalu on August 23 as part of his highly anticipated South-East Asia Tour 2025, organised by Yayasan Tengku Abdullah (YTA). The official promoters are the well-known Malaysian event company Hitman Solutions and Happymoon, in association with Awakening Music.
Ticket sales started on June 13, and for more details, email [e-mail] or visit www.maherzainseatour.com