KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia's No.1 singer Datuk Seri Siti Nurhaliza has described her recent recognition as Biduanita Negara (National Songstress) as not only a testament to her career in the arts but a tribute to all who tirelessly champion the nation's culture and music.
Upon receiving the award, Siti, whose full name is Siti Nurhaliza Tarudin, 45, expressed deep gratitude and acknowledged the heavy responsibility that comes with the honour.
She affirmed her dedication to the craft she has loved and served for nearly three decades.
"With full conviction and humility, I want to express my boundless gratitude for being awarded Biduanita Negara at the 2024 National Art Awards.
"My thanks go to the government, especially the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, and the Ministry of Communications for this recognition," she said in a statement yesterday.
"This award is not just a mark of my career accomplishments. It's a symbol of appreciation for all those who persistently strive to enrich our country's cultural and musical heritage.
"This honor is also a personal commitment to uphold the beauty of art and culture, especially music, and to see it continue to grow and inspire across generations."
Siti also credited her talent and accomplishments to God's blessings, noting how her music has positively impacted lives and bridged divides across faiths, languages, races, and borders.
"I am eternally grateful to God for this gift of talent, allowing me to bring positive values, inspiration, and influence."
Known for songs like Aku Bidadari Syurgamu, Siti pledged to continue her hard work while upholding the positive values that have been her hallmark.
"I vow to intensify my efforts to nurture and preserve cultural arts, ensuring they are cherished and respected.
"This heritage must be protected for generations to come," she added.
Reflecting on this recognition, Siti recalled the words of her late father, Tarudin Ismail, who often likened her personality to the jasmine flower, a motif in her father's favorite song, Bunga Melur.
"In this most meaningful moment, memories of my late father returned to me. He used to compare me to the simple and captivating jasmine flower in his beloved song lyrics: 'Like a village girl with a flower, simple... Though it is dry and does not shine, its fragrance captivates the soul,'" Siti reminisced.
The multiple award-winning artiste also expressed her appreciation to all those who have supported her journey, hoping that this award will inspire her to continue producing high-quality work and elevate Malaysian music on the global stage.
"I always remind myself that every success is a blessing from God, made possible by the prayers and support of so many people.
"My deepest gratitude goes to my husband, children, mother, the memory of my late father, my family, management, and dedicated team," she said.
"I am equally thankful to the recording companies, producers, composers, lyricists, and all who have contributed to my albums over the years.
"A heartfelt thank you also to my media friends and loyal fans who have been my pillars of strength. This recognition is as much yours as it is mine."
The Biduanita Negara Award was presented to Siti during the 2024 National Art Award (ASN 2024), an event organised by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture.
During the ceremony yesterday, Siti also launched a new song, Sejarah, marking another milestone in her illustrious career.