KUCHING (Oct 16): For devoted fans of Hafiz Suip who had followed him since his remarkable journey on Akademi Fantasia (AF), attending his first concert in Sarawak felt like a long-awaited dream come true. This sentiment was echoed by the 2,500 fans attending the two-hour concert, which was held at the Hikmah Exchange Event Centre on Oct 13. The concert, titled ‘Perjalanku’, was organised by MCF Event in collaboration with MyCreative Ventures Group under the Communications Ministry along with Sarawak’s Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Ministry (MTCP). Hosted by Chopie Cakap, the show featured an all-Sarawakian ensemble led by renowned music director Dato Acis, captivating fans from start to finish. Hafiz’s voice, which has only grown more powerful and emotionally resonant since winning AF Season 7 15 years ago, took fans on a nostalgic journey through the highlights of his career.

The concert opened with ‘Awan Nano’, the song that marked his breakthrough when he won Anugerah Juara Lagu (AJL) 26. This was followed by his debut single ‘Masih Jelas’, his all-time favourite ‘I Believe I Can Fly’, and ‘Matahari’ for which the music video was filmed in Sarawak. He also performed ‘Noktah Cinta’, the song that earned him his first Best Vocal title at AJL 25, a title he successfully defended for the next two consecutive years. The second set featured Hafiz sharing the stage with Sarawakian talent Fiona for ‘Ombak Rindu’ and Malaysian vocal powerhouse Ernie Zakri for ‘Berakhirlah Pencarianku’, which was the first time Hafiz and Ernie performed the song live together. Ernie also delivered a solo set, performing her hits ‘Masing Masing’ and ‘Gelita’, while Hafiz changed into new outfits designed by Hatta Dolmat. Back on stage, Hafiz performed a medley of classics, including ‘Mengapa Perpisahan Yang Kau Pinta’, ‘Kenangan Lalu’, and ‘Rindu Bayangan’, further showcasing his vocal prowess. A poignant moment came when he performed ‘Kisah Cinta Kita’ in tribute to a young fan who had passed away, moving the audience to tears. Another highlight was the live violin accompaniment by Khalid during ‘Ku Akui’, during which Hafiz reflected on life and the importance of maintaining faith in the face of challenges. Another exciting moment for fans was the announcement of the winner of the Awan Nano Challenge conducted via TikTok, where the lucky winner, Izwan Dahlan, had the opportunity to perform the song alongside Hafiz.

The night continued with ‘Bahagiamu Deritaku’, Hafiz’s winning song from AJL28, before it was closed with his latest single ‘Terus Bersinar’, accompanied by a captivating sape performance by Federick, bringing the evening to a joyful close. In between performances, Hafiz shared personal stories about his journey on AF, his musical inspirations, and the challenges he faced throughout his career, offering insights into his growth both as an artist and individual. Several artists from Sara Entertainment also performed interludes, adding variety to the night’s entertainment.

For fans, this concert was an emotional culmination of years of anticipation, filled with songs that have defined their connection to Hafiz’s music. The concert proved that Hafiz remains a beloved and relevant figure in the music industry, having garnered numerous accolades such as holding the record for the most wins in the Best Vocal category at AJL. Hafiz’s first concert in Sarawak exceeded expectations, reaffirming the deep bond he shares with his Sarawakian fans. Among the notable guests were MTCP Minister Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah and Kuching North City Commission (DBKU) mayor Hilmy Othman.