When Malaysians hum the classics of Alleycats, belt out Ramli Sarip’s rock ballads, or smile at the familiar voice of DJ Dave, it is easy to forget the weight of years that carried these songs into our lives.
Behind every timeless melody are artistes who once stood in the bright lights, but today face quieter battles: illness, financial hardship, and the loneliness of being forgotten.
It is this reality that Yayasan Kebajikan Artis Tanahair Malaysia (YKAT) seeks to confront with its upcoming Konsert Budi Kasih Malaysia.
More than a showcase of musical legends, it is a call to Malaysians to remember the debt owed to those who gave us art.
‘Budi and Kasih’
The title of the concert carries the message. “Budi” symbolises the sacrifices of artistes: hours of practice, years of discipline, and resilience through hardship.
Their craft was never just work but service to the nation’s soul.
“Kasih” reflects the response Malaysians can give back: appreciation shown not only through applause but also through generosity and care.
As DJ Dave, YKAT chairman, said: “This concert is not just entertainment, but for us to express our appreciation to the long-serving artistes.”
For every name still remembered, many more fade into obscurity.
Singers who once filled stadiums now wrestle with hospital bills. Actors who made households laugh face lonely twilight years. Musicians who gave rhythm to our celebrations struggle in silence.
Dave said: “YKAT exists to extend a lifeline when applause has faded. Since its founding 13 years ago, the foundation has helped more than 2,000 artistes, regardless of race or religion, with medical and financial support.”
A night of giving back
The concert, on Oct 3 at Sime Darby Convention Centre, is more than glitz. It is a family reunion.
Dave will stand alongside giants like M Nasir, Nash, David Arumugam & Alleycats, Khatijah Ibrahim and Ramli Sarip, as well as newer voices such as Suki Low and Bella Astillah.
Together, they will blend traditional and modern performances, reminding audiences of where Malaysian music has been, and where it is going.
Three icons – actor, singer and musician – will also be honoured, a gesture that says, your work mattered, and still matters.
Table prices range from RM5,000 to RM50,000, and individual seats from RM500 upwards. But in truth, Malaysians are not paying for a dinner or a show.
They are giving back, with love, to those who once lifted us with joy, beauty and inspiration.
Deputy prime minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi will be the guest of honour, signalling recognition at the highest level. But the true power lies in the community’s response, whether corporates, government bodies or ordinary Malaysians choose to extend their “kasih”.
Dave said: *“Art does not exist without artistes. And artistes cannot survive without society’s compassion.
“This concert is a reminder that while art entertains, it is also sacrifice, and while applause fades, love can endure.
“This is a chance to prove we do not forget those who gave us songs to celebrate with, voices to cry with, and stories that shaped who we are.
“It is not just about buying a ticket, it is about honouring a lifetime of ‘budi’ with an act of ‘kasih’.”
Tables are priced from RM5,000 to RM50,000 while individual tickets are from RM500. For purchases, contact YKAT manager Salmiyah at 019 988 3172.
