Siti Nurhaliza: I cannot put myself first, will continue competing at AIM to honour people behind the music

KUCHING, Sept 27 — Despite being the National Songstress, Datuk Seri Siti Nurhaliza Tarudin has pledged to continue competing in the Anugerah Industri Muzik (AIM) to pay tribute to those behind the scenes. She believes the platform is ideal for recognising the contributions of songwriters, lyricists, music arrangers, and producers.

Siti, who clinched the Best Song trophy at the 25th AIM, emphasised that she does not intend to withdraw from other popular awards such as Anugerah Juara Lagu or Anugerah Bintang Popular Berita Harian. The singer appreciated the blend of traditional elements in her song Pesanan Buat Diri, which won the Best Song award. The song's lyricist, Datuk Habsah Hassan, revealed that the inspiration came from listening to the melody repeatedly.

Habsah's message in the lyrics encourages everyone to face life's trials without excessive mourning. Aisha Retno, who won the Best Album award for her album Rehab, expressed her gratitude and surprise at the recognition, describing the victory as a personal revival and therapy after eight years in the music industry. She attributed the album's uniqueness to its diverse genres, a result of her musical experimentation.

The win also serves as an encouragement for young music creators and a tribute to her production team.