KUALA LUMPUR, July 6 — She’s been accorded many titles throughout her career in the music industry, spanning 40 years.
But Datuk Sharifah Aini will be best remembered for her melodious voice, beauty, trademark big hair and moles.
The legendary singer, who turned 61 last week drew her last breath at 1.26am yesterday at the Intensive Care Unit of the Damansara Specialist Centre after she was admitted on Tuesday with breathing difficulties.
Her remains were laid to rest at the Bukit Kiara Muslim cemetery yesterday afternoon. She was diagnosed with lung fibriosis or interstitial lung disease two years ago.
Hundreds of her close friends, family members and fans turned up at her funeral. Among singers who showed up at the Al-Taqwa mosque in Taman Tun Dr Ismail were Datuk Siti Nurhaliza Taruddin, Datuk Irwan Shah (DJ Dave), Herman Tino, Uji Rashid and Datuk Khadijah Ibrahim.
DJ Dave said her departure was a loss to the nation’s artistry industry as she was someone who contributed much to the industry’s development.
“I’ve lost a good friend today. We’ve known each other since 1971 and have remained good friends.
“She was definitely a woman in a class of her own. She was unique and I had high respects for her strong principles and opinions.”
He said although his best friend was gone, he was grateful that he was able to enjoy her company for one last time, three weeks ago at her home together with other veteran artistes.
Another close friend, celebrity chef Datuk Redzuawan Ismail (Chef Wan) said the fondest memory that will remain with him was when Sharifah Aini was pregnant and requested he cook his special ‘Mee Rebus’ for her.
“I was touched that she wanted to have some of my special dishes when she was expecting. It brought me much joy and tears when I saw her enjoying my cooking.”
Having known Sharifah Aini since he was 23, Chef Wan said she was passionate about cooking.
“I used to visit her at her house and we used to cook a variety of Asian delicacies.
“We would always have a good time cooking and laughing in the kitchen. She was particular about cleanliness and she would always remind me to keep my cooking station clean at all times,” he said.
“Her departure is a big loss to the nation as she was not only a star but a source of inspiration for many.”
Childhood friend, Datuk Mat Yasin Ismail, 60, who knew the songstress since he was six, said he remembered playing games like ‘Kelereng’, a traditional game that consist of throwing marbles and ‘catch’ with her.
“Whenever she used to visit our village in Umbai, Malacca, I remember us playing all sorts of games,” he said.
“And when we were in the same team, I would get scolded by her for my mistakes.”
Mat Yasin, however, said they lost contact with one another when they were in about Standard Three.
“On hearing about her passing, I felt as if a part of my childhood had left me,” he said.
Sharifah Aini’s son Aliff Omar requested all quarters to forgive his mother for mistakes she may have done through human failings and to pray for her.
“I thank everybody who cared for her. I hope they pray for her and also for her family so that they be strong.”
