KUALA LUMPUR: Singer Shiha Zikir's mesmerising single, Aewo, has garnered Best of Asia (Asian Pop) award at the recent InterContinental Music Awards (ICMA) 2021 in Los Angeles, USA.
The dance pop track composed by Ezra Kong, which also features rapper Noki from local group K-Clique, was released last August by Todak Music.
ICMA was established in 2011 and recognises musicians and musical artistes from around the world for their hard work and talent.
On its website, it said that this year's submissions were evaluated and chosen by a panel of judges made up of Hollywood music executives and industry professionals with a lot of experience in the international market, who are affiliated with the Grammys, Eurovision, Netflix, Sony and more.
The event was carried out online this time around due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
"I couldn't believe it. I was told that Aewo was nominated about a week ago.
"But only after my management informed me of the win and I had time to calm down did I truly realise that it wasn't a dream.
"This represents a meaningful win that raises my spirits," she said in a recent news report.
The 33-year-old artiste who is also an actress and TV host added that she did not care if there were some who were doubtful of her win in the US.
"Maybe there would be certain people who are sceptical of this award. That is normal. Big or small, it still matters to me.
"The award will definitely be a sweet memory to cherish for a long time," she said.
Featuring dangdut and Middle Eastern elements, Aewo tells the story of a woman who uses black magic to attract the affection of the man she dreams of.
The song's content and its edgy music video which showcases supernatural imagery drew some negative criticism when it was released.
Shiha explained that the song title was a shortened version of the 'ala, 'ae' and 'wo' chants during certain parts of the track which is likened to a fictional version of casting a spell on someone.
But the video has a positive message that clearly warns against practising black magic, as well as other superstitious activities.
It also provides a disclaimer at the end that these accursed practices will eventually only cause everlasting pain to those who indulge in them.