Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia – In the heart of Malaysia’s Negeri Sembilan, a group of young musicians is making waves, not only in their local community but on the global stage as well. Lentera Kesuma (LKS), a traditional music team based at MRSM Kuala Klawang, is redefining the boundaries of traditional music with their innovative approach and unwavering dedication to their craft.
LKS’s journey began within the hallowed halls of MRSM Kuala Klawang in 2017. United by their shared passion for music, this group of exceptionally talented young musicians embarked on a journey that would soon earn them numerous accolades and international recognition. Their journey is a testament to the power of music to bridge cultural divides and bring diverse communities together.
One of LKS’s most remarkable achievements was their viral performance of Blackpink’s hit song, “DDU-DU DDU-DU,” played on traditional Malaysian instruments known as caklempong. This electrifying rendition captivated audiences worldwide, amassing an astonishing 6 million views on YouTube. It was just the beginning of their global recognition.
Another viral sensation followed when LKS performed a caklempong version of Blackpink’s “DDU-DU DDU-DU,” garnering an astounding 5.2 million views on YouTube on March 1, 2019. Their talent continued to shine on TikTok, where a performance of “Teruna dan Dara” by MASDO reached 71.5k views on March 23, 2023, with their YouTube rendition achieving 1.2k views on March 3, 2023. These accomplishments reflect not only their musical prowess but also their ability to connect with a global audience.
LKS’s exceptional performances in local competitions have not gone unnoticed. They have consistently outshone their peers, securing numerous prestigious awards. Among their achievements, they were crowned champions at FESMA (Traditional Music Carnival) in 2017 and clinched Gold Awards at FKM (Malaysian Schools Music Arts Festival) in 2018 and 2019. Additionally, they achieved first place and received Gold Awards at FESMA in 2019, solidifying their reputation as a force to be reckoned with in the Malaysian music scene. In 2021, they continued their winning streak, emerging as the top performers at FKM.
LKS’s achievements extend beyond Malaysian borders. They have garnered international acclaim for their exceptional talent and innovative musical fusion. At the Music and Stars Awards 2023 in Estonia, they received the coveted Gold Star Chamber Music Award, Best Traditional Music Performance, Best Music School Award, and Best Chamber Music Teacher. This recognition is a testament to their ability to seamlessly blend traditional and contemporary elements into a captivating musical experience.
In 2021, LKS claimed the First Prize at MUSE, an international competition held in Athens, Greece, further solidifying their global standing. They were also honored with the Gold Star Winner title at the Music and Stars Award 2021 in Estonia. Their international accolades demonstrate that LKS is not only a source of pride for their local community but also a cultural ambassador for Malaysia on the world stage.
LKS’s journey to success is marked by discipline, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of musical excellence. Their training regimen is a testament to their commitment to their craft. The group’s members typically practice around 3 hours per day on weekdays and 4 to 5 hours on weekends. Their practice sessions cover a wide range of instruments, as they aim to master each one and pass on their knowledge to future generations. Discipline, time management, and unwavering dedication are the cornerstones of their success.
Preparing for competitions is a meticulous process for LKS. They begin by thoroughly reviewing the terms and conditions of each competition and meticulously managing their schedules as students. To enhance their performances, they collaborate with outside coaches who help them compose and arrange their songs. Choreography and dance routines are crafted by the group members themselves, with extensive research and attention to detail. Beyond structured practice sessions, they immerse themselves in the music, humming the songs to capture their essence and emotions fully.
Acknowledging their path to success, LKS extends heartfelt gratitude to their mentors and teachers. One such mentor is Sir Mawlid, an external coach who has played a pivotal role in arranging their songs. His contributions extend beyond music theory, as he assigns homework to deepen their understanding of music. LKS also owes a significant debt of gratitude to their current teacher and advisor, Miss Nurin Alyani. She imparts not only musical knowledge but also vital life virtues, including perseverance, respect, consideration, and practicality. Additionally, the group acknowledges the invaluable guidance received from their seniors and alumni, who offer wisdom based on their own experiences and management skills.
LKS’s commitment to making a positive impact extends beyond their music. When asked about a humanitarian project they would support, they express a profound commitment to ‘Mercy Malaysia,’ a non-governmental organization dedicated to providing medical relief, mental and psychosocial support, water, sanitation, hygiene, and disaster risk reduction programs in line with international standards. Their choice reflects a deep-rooted desire to contribute to the betterment of society and aligns with their mission to create positive change through their music.
Lentera Kesuma (LKS) is more than a traditional music team; they are ambassadors of cultural fusion, innovation, and the power of music to inspire and connect people. As they continue their musical journey, the world eagerly awaits their next harmonious creation, knowing it will be nothing short of extraordinary.