Love was in the air on Valentine’s Day at Kinta Riverfront Hotel, Ipoh, when popular singer DJ Dave feted orphans, children with special needs and single mothers at a party. Datuk Irwan Shah or DJ Dave was born on Valentine’s Day and has been celebrating his birthday with such children for the past 40 years.
The inspiration behind this outpouring of love was a disabled boy who suggested he sing in the Malay language, when he was trying to break into the entertainment scene. He has not looked back since, singing not only in Malay but also in other local languages, becoming a true Malaysian singer to boot.
This birthday party, hosted for the first time in Ipoh, was attended by over a hundred children and their guardians from Precious Gift Orphanage Society, Pusat Harian Kanak-Kanak Spastik Bandaraya Ipoh, Yayasan Ozanam Drop-in Centre (Sungai Siput), Sikh Single Mothers’ Association and Pertubuhan Pengurusan Pusat Jagaan 1 Malaysia.
DJ Dave’s family and close friends were also present to share the special occasion. While DJ Dave had organised his birthday parties in many towns and cities in Malaysia, Ipoh city was chosen this year as his wife, Datin Seema, was born here.
Upholding the motto, “Today’s child, tomorrow’s world”, DJ Dave lighted up on seeing how his guests enjoyed the sumptuous food and his songs. Each child also received a red packet (ang pow) as it was still Chinese New Year. The five homes also received a personal donation of RM2000 each, from the singer.
The crooner delivered two songs, Elton John’s “Something About The Way You Look Tonight” and his own hit, “Ingin Bersua”. Children from the homes staged impromptu performances, including Psy’s popular, “Oppa Gangnam Style” to the delight of those present.
DJ Dave is working hard on his brainchild, Yayasan Artis 1Malaysia, of which he is the president. This foundation, with funds from the Federal Government, looks after the welfare of local artists, especially those above 60 years of age.
Emily
