Malaysian Singer Ezad Lazim Prepares for Hajj, Seeks Prayers for Smooth Journey
Translated from Malay, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
TLDR
- Malaysian singer Ezad Lazim will perform the Hajj pilgrimage for 45 days, departing on April 30 with his wife.
- He expressed some anxiety about the journey, as it's his first time in the holy land, and sought advice from fellow musicians.
- Ezad will also focus on a new song and concert with his band, Exists, upon his return, while arranging care for his two children during his absence.
As a prominent figure in Malaysia's music scene, Ezad Lazim of the iconic band Exists is preparing for a deeply personal and spiritual journey: the Hajj pilgrimage. This significant undertaking, spanning 45 days, will see Ezad and his wife, Zeana Ramli, depart for the holy land on April 30th. While the opportunity is a profound blessing, Ezad candidly admits to a degree of apprehension, acknowledging this will be his first visit to Mecca and Medina. His humility in seeking guidance from seasoned pilgrims like Along Exists and Shah Slam reflects a common sentiment among first-time Hajj pilgrims in Malaysia, where community and shared experience are vital.
I will be performing the Hajj pilgrimage for 45 days and will depart for the holy land on April 30. Please pray for everything to be made easy. I have some concerns because I have never been there.
Beyond the spiritual preparations, Ezad's commitment to his music career remains strong. Upon his return, he and the rest of Exists are slated to dive straight into preparations for a new song and their upcoming 'Memento Mori' concert. This dedication showcases the balancing act many Malaysian artists undertake, managing personal milestones with professional obligations. The band's continued activity, even with members pursuing significant personal events, highlights their enduring appeal and commitment to their fans.
I asked Along and Shah a lot, who have experience. After returning from there, we will focus on the concert and recording the song.
However, the most pressing concern for Ezad is the welfare of his two young children, Puteri Rania Keisha, 13, and Putra Muhammad Darwish, 11, during his extended absence. Leaving them for 45 days is a considerable challenge, particularly as their previous domestic helper did not return from Indonesia. Ezad has secured a new helper and plans to monitor the children closely via CCTV, while also relying on close family members. His mother-in-law's recent cancer surgery adds another layer of consideration, as he wishes not to burden her. This deep parental concern is a sentiment universally understood, but in the Malaysian context, the strong emphasis on family and community support networks becomes particularly evident as Ezad navigates these arrangements.
Insya-Allah, close family will look after the children if they have the opportunity. Previously, I had a domestic helper, but she did not return after going back to Indonesia.
Ultimately, Ezad places his trust in God for the well-being of his children and the smooth execution of his pilgrimage. His reliance on faith ('tawakal') is a cornerstone of Malaysian culture, particularly when facing significant life events. The article, published in Utusan Malaysia, reflects the national media's focus on the personal and spiritual aspects of public figures' lives, often highlighting their adherence to religious duties and family values, a perspective that resonates deeply within the local audience.
However, I have found a new domestic helper. Hopefully, this helper is okay because she will spend a lot of time with the children. I will monitor through closed-circuit cameras (CCTV) at home.
Originally published by Utusan Malaysia in Malay. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.