This is essentially a nation branding effort that utilises symbols like colours, the national flower, the national anthem, military uniforms, medallions, rituals and patriotic songs. Increasingly countries are reinventing themselves and, in each time, repackaging its symbolisms for both internal and external audiences. This reputation has a profound impact on a country’s image and the way it is perceived.

Keywords: Nation branding, historical heritage, hybrid history, tourism, popular songs.Ī ‘nation branding’ project disseminates the reputation of a country, just as a company’s or product’s brand image is created through advertising and branding. Naturally, he embodied and imbued this into a popular song until it became accepted by many as the Malaysian identity. Symbols of historical heritage that are firmly intertwined within the performing arts culture live within the soul of Ahmad Nawab.

Any nation branding effort for Malaysia will always be infused with elements of historical heritage within the archipelago that are hybrid and shared. This article discusses the concept of ‘nation branding' used as a marketing tool for the tourism sector of Malaysia. National songs represent and build kinship amongst Malaysians who associate themselves with a more ‘authority-defined’ ideology because it is based on ethno-national politics as a result of colonial legacy. This song introduces and highlights cultural heritage musical elements of the three main ethnic groups in Malaysia: the Malays, Chinese and Indians with a touch of kompang (single-headed frame drum), Kelantan Wayang Kulit (shadow puppets) music, serunai (quadruple reed wind instrument), tabla (a pair of double-headed drums), accordion and seruling (flute). The song was initially recorded in English and later translated into seventeen languages for international markets. In 1999, Malaysia Truly Asia was composed by Dato’ Seri Ahmad Nawab and it became the most iconic song for the ministry's branding campaign. In this process, songs play a significant role. Since 1972, Tourism Malaysia has been making efforts at branding Malaysia as a unique tourist destination in South East Asia.

Dowlod lagu malaysia dengan dirinya