Ahmad Merican, a 100-Year-Old Patriot Who Gave Malaysia Joy and Warmth

Salute to Friends

At 100 years old, Ahmad Merican has become a legend in Malaysia’s cultural and historical narrative. The national creative treasure has dedicated his life to the betterment of his country through his work in broadcasting and music. His centennial will be celebrated on January 18 with a family gathering, inviting his friends and acquaintances who had contributed to his success.

According to his daughter Yasmin, his father has insisted that the story is not just about his own achievements, but about the collective efforts of others who shared in his vision and passion. The celebration will highlight the contributions of music maestros like Alfonso Soliano, Jimmy Boyle, Dol Ramli, and others.

Love of Country

Ahmad Merican’s love for his country is evident in his work, from his early days in Radio Malaya to his later years as a pioneer in television. As a composer and songwriter, he created iconic melodies that evoke national pride and sentiment. His compositions, such as “Tanah Pusaka,” have become woven into the fabric of Malaysia’s identity, bringing joy and warmth to generations of Malaysians.

Creating Malaysia’s Soundtrack

In 1956, Ahmad Merican was entrusted by Bapa Malaysia Tunku Abdul Rahman to unearth talented local composers and songwriters. Together with his small technical crew, he traversed the peninsula in a Radio Malaya van, listening to tunes and building a pool of homegrown talents. From this journey emerged classics like “Malaya Tanah Airku,” “Kemegahan Negaraku,” “Tanah Melayu Permai,” and “Tanah, Bangsa Dan Daulat.”

The Majestic “Tanah Pusaka”

Ahmad’s nationalistic tune “Tanah Pusaka” has become synonymous with Malaysia’s identity. The song, about shared heritage and responsibility, continues to evoke strong emotions during national events. The song was recorded internationally by Indonesian-born Dutch singer, Sandra Reemer in 1962, later by Indonesian superstar Bing Slamet, the Ger van Leeuwen Orchestra of The Netherlands, and has had numerous renditions by various local artistes.

Charming the US

In 1958, Tunku dispatched Ahmad to the United States for six months to grasp developments in international music and broadcast sectors. During this time, Ahmad introduced Malayan music to Berklee School of Music in Boston, and later hosted and narrated the first global broadcast of traditional Malayan music on the program, Music USA.

A True National Treasure

The centenarian’s birthday is not just a celebration of a life well-lived but a life dedicated to the service of the nation. As we begin 2025, let us draw inspiration from his example and continue to build on the foundations he has laid, striving for a Malaysia that is more inclusive, vibrant, and united.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How did Ahmad Merican’s contributions to music shape Malaysia’s identity?
A: His compositions and songs, such as “Tanah Pusaka,” became iconic representations of Malaysian culture, evoking national pride and sentiment.

Q: What was the significance of his work in television?
A: As a pioneer in television, Ahmad Merican championed the development of local talent and technical people, laying the groundwork for Malaysia’s vibrant music scene.

Q: Who were some of the notable artists he collaborated with?
A: He collaborated with music maestros like Alfonso Soliano, Jimmy Boyle, Dol Ramli, and others who contributed to the nation’s cultural tapestry.

Q: How does his legacy impact the country?
A: Ahmad Merican’s legacy inspires a sense of unity and patriotism among Malaysians, and his compositions continue to be an integral part of the nation’s cultural identity.