ARTIST
Producing 'Sarawakil Deepavali' was a massive milestone for me. It is the first-ever Tamil song recorded specifically to represent Sarawak’s minority Indian community. Our community here has a distinct history and culture, and it deserved to be celebrated in song.
From Episode 2: The Indian-Bidayuh Artist Bringing Iban Music to Life
Biography
Rajaram Raj is a groundbreaking independent recording artist and cultural bridge builder based in Kuching, Sarawak. Representing a uniquely diverse lineage, Rajaram is a fourth-generation Sarawakian of mixed Indian and Bidayuh heritage. His multicultural identity extends into his own household; his father is Indian, his mother is Bidayuh, and his wife is of Chinese-Iban descent.
Before committing seriously to his musical path in 2023, Rajaram pursued a practical professional trajectory, completing a diploma in business studies and working as a banker before transitioning into a role as an aviation security officer for AirAsia. His musical foundations, however, were laid at the age of six, singing traditional devotional songs at his local temple, which deeply trained his ear in classical Indian vocal structures and ragas (melodic frameworks).
While working in aviation, a chance encounter with Iban recording artist Alessandro shifted Rajaram's career trajectory. Recognizing the immense popularity and cultural footprint of the Iban music market across Borneo, Rajaram made the bold, strategic choice to debut in the Iban language—despite not speaking it fluently at the time.
His debut single, "Sulu Lumour Satu" ("My Number One Lover"), became an instant viral phenomenon, racking up 100,000 views within 48 hours and eventually crossing the 3 million view milestone. Listeners were instantly captivated by his distinct vocal styling, which seamlessly blends traditional Iban melodies with a natural, Indian-influenced vocal vibrato. Committed to authenticity, Rajaram has since spent over a year learning to speak fluent Iban to deepen his connection with his fan base.
Beyond Iban pop, Rajaram is a pioneer for minority representation in East Malaysia. He wrote and produced "Sarawakil Deepavali", making history as the first-ever Tamil song recorded specifically to celebrate and represent the unique Sarawakian Indian community. Today, his evolving discography spans nine Iban tracks, a Tamil cultural anthem, and a Malay Hari Raya collaborative project.
Domain Focus
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EP. 2: The Indian-Bidayuh Artist Bringing Iban Music to Life
In this episode of Sarawak Icons, we sit down with Rajaram Raj, a Sarawak-born artist from Kuching whose unique musical journey has captured the hearts of many. Of Indian and Bidayuh heritage, Rajaram made a name for himself by singing Iban songs, breaking cultural boundaries and proving that music has no limits. From his beginnings in Sarawak to becoming a recognised voice in the local music scene, Rajaram shares his journey, challenges, inspirations, and what it means to represent Sarawak through music that connects people across cultures. His story is a reflection of what makes Sarawak truly special — unity through diversity. 🎙️ Real People, Real Stories, Real Sarawak
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