A night of Russian magic: Cultural concert in KL brings nations together through music

Sinar Daily

19-06-2025

It felt like stepping into another world. For one night, the rhythms, colours, and soul of Russia filled the halls of Sunway University, turning an ordinary evening into something magical.
This event, titled The Russian Cultural Ensemble Concert was a cultural feast blending music, dance, and art into a vibrant celebration that brought strangers together, all moving to the same beat.
The concert featured nine exceptional performers flown in directly from Russia, treating the audience to 16 stunning performances. From traditional folk songs to violin solos that tugged at heartstrings, every act was a celebration of Russian artistry.
The concert featured nine exceptional performers flown in directly from Russia, treating the audience to 16 stunning performances.
And then came the moment that melted every Malaysian heart in the room, a surprise performance of the beloved 'Rasa Sayang'. The crowd cheered as the Russian performers flawlessly sang the familiar tune, turning the event into a celebration of unity through music.
Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry (MOTAC) Undersecretary Christina Yeo lauded the event urging more programmes like this should be done frequently.
"Programmes like this should be done more by private sector together collaborating with the government," she said to Sinar Daily.
Yeo highlighted how initiatives like these foster people-to-people connections and cultural diplomacy.
'This cultural performance introduced by the Russian Embassy is a beautiful example of sharing talent and culture with Malaysians.
Surprise performance of the beloved 'Rasa Sayang' by Russian performance.
"It's an opportunity for us to learn and appreciate each other's heritage. Perhaps next year, Malaysia could reciprocate by sending our own musicians and artists to perform in Russia," she added.
Yeo also stressed the role of music and arts in uniting people of diverse backgrounds, especially students.
'I was told that some of the volunteers for this event weren't from music or arts disciplines, they were from other fields. It shows that music is universal and can unite everyone, regardless of their background or nationality," she said.
Meanwhile, Andrey Potemkin, Director of the Russian Centre for Science and Culture at the Russian Embassy stressed the importance of showcasing Russian culture to Malaysians, given the geographical distance and lack of direct flights between the two nations.
'Russia and Malaysia are far apart geographically, but through events like this we can bring our cultures closer. We have many famous composers and performers and it would be a great opportunity for Malaysians to know about Russian music, literature and language," he said.
Potemkin also highlighted past collaborations, such as the Islamic Film Festival organised in Shah Alam and Johor, where Russian cinema producers shared stories of love, family and societal issues common to both cultures.
From traditional folk songs to violin solos that tugged at heartstrings, every act was a celebration of Russian artistry.
'Russia is home to 20 million Muslims and our Islamic culture has much in common with Malaysia's. It's a connection we want to continue exploring," he said.
Looking ahead to Visit Malaysia Year 2026, Potemkin expressed high hopes for deeper cultural relationship between Russia and Malaysia
'Malaysia is becoming very popular among Russians. I hope more Russian groups, artists and performers will visit not just Kuala Lumpur but other cities as well.
"Malaysians have shown a genuine appreciation for Russian culture and we aim to keep this connection alive through music, cinema and other art forms," he said.