Misha Omar Remembers Mentors Who Shaped Her Journey

PETALING JAYA, Oct 24 (Bernama) — As she prepares for her solo concert next month, renowned singer Misha Omar admits she cannot hide her longing for two people who deeply influenced her artistic journey — the late Datuk Adnan Abu Hassan and the late Siti Sarah Raissuddin.

 Misha, whose real name is Samihah @ Aisah Omar, 43, said she often wishes that both could be here to witness how far her journey has taken her. 

“I’m grateful that I can still stand here today, singing with the same energy and support. How I wish they were still here to witness this sweetness,” she told Bernama during a recent media session for her upcoming concert, DiA Misha Omar.

Adnan was her mentor and the first to discover her talent after the Bintang RTM 2001 competition, while Siti Sarah was her fellow contestant who rose to fame alongside her.

“I wish Abang Dee (Adnan) could see me — the star he moulded from nothing, nurtured, and gave songs to, shaping me into who I am today. And though Siti Sarah is no longer here, her spirit continues to live within me,” she said.

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Recently, Misha had the opportunity to serve as a judge for a performance by Siti Sarah’s daughter — an experience she described as both touching and inspiring.

“It was such a sweet and meaningful moment. I  will continue to carry their spirit within me,” she said.

Speaking about her upcoming solo concert, DiA Misha Omar, which will take place at Mega Star Arena, Kuala Lumpur, on Nov 29, the Bunga-Bunga Cinta and Pulangkan singer said the show will feature a refreshed lineup of songs with new musical arrangements and a unique performance concept.

The two-hour concert, she said, is structured as a narrative that takes the audience on a journey through her life and 23-year career in the music industry.

“The song selection isn’t just my decision alone — there are four or five people in my team who help with it. My hope is that when the curtain opens, the audience locks their eyes on the stage, feels the music, and connects with it.

“To create a good show, we can’t just focus on performing hit songs. It must be balanced. Whether a song is underrated or a hit, it deserves equal love. I want to cherish them all and give my best,” she said.

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The Machang, Kelantan-born singer said the concert is also her way of expressing gratitude and love to fans who have supported her throughout more than two decades in the industry.

“They’re willing to spend money, and some even told me they’ve booked Airbnbs and hotels just to be with me.

“I really appreciate that — I’m quite sentimental by nature. Anyone who loves me, I love them back. For me, it’s a blessing to have this kind of relationship with my fans,” said Misha, who is currently undergoing vocal training under Datuk Syafinaz Selamat.

To ensure the best performance quality, Misha said she is now focusing on vocal and stamina training, along with regular fitness routines to prepare for concert night.

“I’ve been working gradually, becoming more intensive over the past month. November will be packed with rehearsals and preparations, but I see it all as a joyful process,” she said.

The Break singer added that past experiences have taught her how to manage stress better, allowing her to approach this concert with calm and gratitude.

“Although there will be challenges, this time I don’t want to be too pressured. For me, it’s more of a celebration. I just want to enjoy every moment on stage and honour the trust of my fans who are coming to see me perform,” she said.

— BERNAMA