Cover Dato' Sheila Majid has performed all around the world

Honoured for her enduring influence on Malaysia’s musical and cultural landscape, the legendary songstress is celebrated for four decades of artistry and impact

Malaysia’s cultural landscape has long been shaped by artists who push boundaries and elevate local identity. Among them stands Dato’ Sheila Majid, whose voice—warm, textured, unmistakably hers—has been the soundtrack to generations, bridging eras and communities.

See more: Rhythm of a nation: The trailblazers who revolutionised Malaysian music

Where many see music as entertainment, Dato’ Sheila Majid sees heritage. From her breakthrough in the 1980s,  she established herself as a Malaysian artist on the international stage. Her landmark album Legenda, a tribute to P. Ramlee, reimagined his classics while honouring Malay musical roots.

Tatler Asia
Above Dato’ Sheila Majid was honoured as Tatler Most Influential Malaysia

Dato’ Sheila Majid’s rise was historic. She became the first Malaysian artist to enter the Japanese market, performing sold-out concerts to critical acclaim. She later became the first Southeast Asian to perform at London’s Royalty Theatre and the first Malaysian singer on MTV Asia. With hits like Sinaran, Antara Anyer dan Jakarta, and Ku Mohon, she built a musical identity that was modern yet rooted in her distinct sound.

Read more: Tatler Ball 2025 charitable causes: A night of supporting women from all walks of life

Even after four decades in the spotlight, Dato' Sheila Majid continues to evolve. Her 2017 album Boneka, released after a 13-year hiatus, proved her artistry remains compelling, achieving both critical and commercial success. Beyond performance, she has championed arts education, women’s representation in entertainment and the preservation of Malaysia’s musical heritage. Her influence has earned her numerous accolades, including the Ahli Mangku Negara (AMN), the Darjah Indera Mahkota Pahang (DIMP) and multiple Anugerah Industri Muzik wins. 

At Tatler Ball 2025, Dato' Sheila Majid received the Culture Award, recognising her achievements and lasting impact on Malaysia’s artistic identity. She was presented with a Royal Selangor trophy and also received two pairs of Getha Lux Suite Aurum TRX tickets and a YSL Beauty MUSE Eau de Parfum fragrance—tokens of appreciation for a career that has touched millions.

Tatler Ball 2025 is proudly sponsored by Cortina Watch Malaysia, Getha, YSL Beauty, KPJ Healthcare, Moët Hennessy, The St Regis Kuala Lumpur, and Royal Selangor.

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Aina Nur Sarah
Senior Lifestyle Writer, Tatler Malaysia
Tatler Asia

As Senior Lifestyle Writer, Aina writes across the lifestyle vertical, covering wellness, travel, arts and entertainment. Based in Kuala Lumpur, she previously worked at CLEO Malaysia, where she headed the lifestyle, culture and entertainment sections.