Kuala lumpur: The patriotic song 'Saya Anak Malaysia' remains evergreen across generations, as Malaysians of all races continue to embrace it as a symbol of love and pride in being citizens of the nation. Its singer, Salim Ibrahim, 72, better known as Dr Sam, said he was touched to see Malaysians of various backgrounds singing the song with passion whenever it was played.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr Sam expressed his gratitude to Allah and shared his emotional response to witnessing Malays, Chinese, and Indians united in song. He recalled a memorable occasion when his housing area resonated with 'Saya Anak Malaysia' during a parade by the Chinese community on August 31.

Earlier, Dr Sam was a guest performer at the Launch of the National Month and Fly the Jalur Gemilang 2025 for the Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya, officiated by Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil at Institut Pendidikan Guru (IPG) Kampus Bahasa Melayu.

Dr Sam mentioned feeling emotional whenever he heard schoolchildren, youth, and university students sing the song, often without knowing him personally. Despite being composed in 1986 by Datuk M. Nasir with lyrics by S. Amin Shahab, the song remains a patriotic identity for Malaysians.

He fondly remembered its first performance at the Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM) Auditorium, where the entire hall joined in enthusiastic singing on the eve of National Day. Dr Sam believes the song's strength lies in its simple melody and easy-to-remember lyrics that resonate across different ages and races.

Dr Sam hopes the song will continue to inspire love for the homeland and serve as a bridge of unity among Malaysians. Now focusing on religious studies and missionary work, he remains proud of how the song makes everyone feel like part of one big family called Malaysia.