Google, today (November 26th), is celebrating the beloved Singaporean-Malaysian actress, singer, and fashion icon, Saloma.
Photo via The Patriots
Saloma, who was born Salmah Ismail in Singapore on January 22, 1932, first started to explore her skills as a vocalist at just 7-years-old.
By her teenage years, she began to sing professionally, starting her music career through performances at nightclubs and weddings.
She then quickly became a celebrity figure after transitioning to acting in the mid’50s.
In 1961, she married fellow entertainment icon Tan Sri P. Ramlee, and over the years that followed, the “legendary power couple” forever altered Malaysian entertainment through music and film.
Photo via Sinar Harian
Sporting her signature coiffed hairdo and inimitable clothing, much of which she sewed herself, Saloma starred in movies throughout the ‘60s and released albums for the rest of her life.
On this day in 1978, she made history when she was awarded Malaysia’s first Biduanita Negara (National Songbird) by the Malaysian government at the time.
Saloma is also best known for being a trendsetter of Malaysian entertainment from the late ‘50s through the early ‘80s.
She had recorded over 500 songs, and through her charismatic film work, paved the way for future generations of female actors in the country.
To all fans out there, let’s keep her memory alive by checking out Google’s specially curated Saloma playlist with some of her notable hits such as ‘Bila Larut Malam’, ‘Di Manakan Ku Cari Ganti’, and ‘Perwira’.
While you’re at it, be sure not to miss YouTube creator Cassidy La Creme’s elegant rendition of Saloma’s Chik Chik Ke Boom and Nur Amira Syahirah’s epic drum accompaniment to Selamat Pengantin Baru!
That’s not all, Google will also be carrying out a Saloma trivia quiz on their official Twitter page today where fans can stand a chance to win limited-edition Saloma Doodle t-shirts. So, be sure to watch that space to participate!
Thank you, Saloma, for using your artistic gifts to inspire all those who have come to know and love your work.
By: Aishah Akashah Ahadiat
