The entertainment scene welcomes a festive musical surprise this Hari Raya season. ICMA (USA) “Best Asian Pop” winner and US-Asia Healing Pop Queen JessC has teamed up with Malaysian entertainment icon and renowned TV host Dato’ AC Mizal to release their brand-new festive single “Mari Menari Raya,” distributed by Universal Music Malaysia.
“Mari Menari Raya” blends Hip-Hop Rap with contemporary pop music, bringing a refreshing rhythm and vibrant energy to traditional Hari Raya music. Produced by an American music producer, the track features lively arrangements that combine festive melodies with rap segments, creating a modern sound that retains the cultural warmth and spirit of Raya while presenting it through a global pop lens.
JessC, an artist under Future Global Entertainment Australia, shared that the song is one of her most challenging works in recent years. “The rhythm of this song is very powerful, and the inclusion of rap elements makes it a completely new experience for me. I hope that during Hari Raya, everyone can sing together, dance together, and celebrate the joy of the festive season through this song.”
In the track, JessC delivers melodic lead vocals with her expressive and uplifting voice, while Dato’ AC Mizal contributes energetic rap verses. The fusion of their distinct styles creates a dynamic performance filled with excitement and vitality.
JessC praised Dato’ AC Mizal’s professionalism during recording: “Dato’ AC Mizal is extremely dedicated. Every detail was handled with great care. Even though it was our first collaboration, we had great chemistry, and that really brought an extra spark to the song.”
Dato’ AC Mizal, a member of legendary Malaysian rap group 4U2C, is widely recognized as an actor, singer, television host and comedian. Beyond his professionalism, he brought warmth and humour to production, frequently sharing jokes on set and creating a relaxed, cheerful atmosphere.
At the press conference held at St. Giles Boulevard Hotel in Kuala Lumpur yesterday, Dato’ AC Mizal praised JessC and her team: “In my more than 30 years in the entertainment industry, this is one of the most professional and outstanding teams I have ever seen.”
Lyrically, “Mari Menari Raya” captures heartwarming Hari Raya moments — festive lights, Takbir night, Rumah Terbuka gatherings, traditional delicacies like lemang, and joyful family reunions. The song also reflects Malaysia’s multicultural spirit with the line: “Tak kira siapa, tak kira bangsa, bila Raya kita satu warna” (No matter who we are, no matter our race, during Raya we share one colour).
As an advocate of music therapy and healing through music, JessC hopes the song will bring positive energy during the festive season. “Joy itself can be a powerful form of healing. I hope this song can uplift people’s moods through its rhythm, helping everyone release stress and feel the warmth of togetherness.”
JessC will perform at the “Let’s Raya Fiesta” Malay New Year Countdown Concert on 14 March 2026 (Saturday) at PWTC. She will be the only Malaysian Chinese artist among 42 performers, and will perform “Mari Menari Raya” live with Dato’ AC Mizal.
When asked about future collaborations, JessC shared that she hopes to work with Sheila Majid, citing her ability to blend international flavour with Malaysian cultural identity. JessC also revealed that besides releasing new music this year, she is preparing for her year-end concert and has invited Dato’ AC Mizal as a special guest.
“Mari Menari Raya” is more than just a festive song — it is a celebration of joy, unity and hope, inviting everyone to “Menari Raya” together.
Selamat Hari Raya — Mari Menari Raya!
