Every October, the Malay language comes alive across Singapore through Bulan Bahasa– a national celebration of language, identity, and heritage. This year, the festivities culminate in a fittingly poetic finale: “Gurindam Kota Kita”, held at Wisma Geylang Serai on 11 October 2025, from 8.00pm to 9.30pm.
The closing night, graced by Guest-of-Honour Mr Zhulkarnain Rahim, promises to be a sensory tapestry of words, rhythm and performance , a showcase that bridges generations and art forms under the theme Pesona Bahasa, Warisan Budaya (The Charm of Language, The Heritage of Culture).
Gurindam Kota Kita: Where language meets performance
The evening begins with a Silat showcase by Nawal, setting a tone of strength and grace. From there, audiences will journey through beloved Malay classics such as Anggerik Desa, Selendang Sutera, Boria Bahasa, and the heartfelt duet Cinta Sejati, performed by Aqmal N, Azra Zulaikha, Sheera J, Elfee Ismail, and Eddy Ali.
Each performance serves as a reminder that the Malay language is not only spoken but sung, danced, and lived. The night’s poetic heart will beat through original puisi and syair by Afi Hanafi, PBM and Anis Qurratu’aini, accompanied by violinist Megat Firdaus– a collaboration that underscores how timeless verse continues to find new resonance in contemporary art.
The storytellers of today
The showcase, directed by Cultural Medallion recipient Nadiputra (Almahdi Al-Haj Ibrahim), promises to balance nostalgia with innovation. Nadiputra’s creative vision is rooted in the belief that language and culture must evolve to stay alive- a philosophy reflected in the evening’s mix of traditional syair and modern theatrical interpretations.
Adding levity and character, Azman Shariff, Khaziah Yem, and comedian Husin Saaban will bring the night to life with citra pieces and skits, humorous yet heartfelt glimpses into everyday Malay identity. These interludes highlight how humour and storytelling continue to serve as cultural glue, connecting generations through shared laughter and lived experience.
A finale that brings it all home
The event’s crescendo, Petang di Geylang Serai, will see all performers unite in a stirring ensemble performance that celebrates the spirit of community and togetherness. It’s a symbolic reflection of how Bulan Bahasa itself has always been more than a festival; it’s a collective reminder of who we are, where we come from, and how our words carry our history forward.
As the lights fade and the applause settles, Gurindam Kota Kita leaves audiences with one simple truth: that language, when cherished and celebrated, becomes more than communication, it becomes connection.
Event details:
📍 Wisma Geylang Serai
📅 Saturday, 11 October 2025
⏰ 8.00pm – 9.30pm
🎭 Bulan Bahasa 2025: Gurindam Kota Kita
