Bung, Malaysia Trully Asia???

"Malaysia urges Indonesia to drop plans to sue over folk song" written in Jakarta Post. The folk song they were referring to is "Rasa Sayang ee", that actually is a Maluku folk song.

I was so pissed reading the article. The arrogant Malaysian Minister said that "The song has its roots in Malay archipelago which includes Indonesia, Malaysia, southern Thailand and Brunei, and is also sung by people southern Africa, and Sri Lanka." [quoted]

Of course la!!! Didn't he know that in the 60s, this was the most popular song (and the easiest one!) that was sung among students? Afterwards then it was chosen as an International Student's Song. So, that's why it is well known, even in Africa!!!

And this guy, a chairman from the advisory board of a copyright organization!!! Gosh!! Even worse, an Ambonese!! He said (in Harian Media Indonesia) that it's OK for the Malaysian to use that song, since the author is unknown. Omigod!!

"Londonderry Air" is an Ireland folk song, was sang during JFK's funeral since his ancestors are Irish. Even though the author is anon, and then the song was popular again in the US (the "Danny Boy" song) by Jim Reeves an American singer, still it's registered as Ireland Folk Song.
So, Bung, the anon part won't be a "big deal", as long as you understand the root of the song, and understand your own culture!!

NOW, why "Rasa Sayang ee" is a Maluku Folk Song, (Bung)?

Rasa sayang ee
Rasa sayang, sayang ee
Ee, lia dari jau...
rasa sayang, sayang ee..

It is SO common to use the word "ee..." in conversations among Maluku people. I bet there are no such dialects in Malaysia that uses this expression, like the one in "Rasa Sayang ee.."

The rhythm is definitely TOTALLY NOT a Malay style... c'mooon, where did a malay picked that kind of rhythm?? while visiting someone in Maluku??? Yeah, right! Pough-lease!!! You can do better than that.

So, stop this nonsense Malaysia!!
Be creative and pick your own song (and culture, and batik, whatever!!)
Don't use my Ambonese song!!


btw, you are all welcome to sign a petition regarding this matter at:
http://www.petitiononline.com/rasasyge/