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A Tale of Tradition and Modernity: PETRONAS' 'Dilema Irama' Explores Malaysian Culture Through Music

2023 Media Release - 4 Apr

KUALA LUMPUR, 4 April 2023 – PETRONAS has released its Hari Raya Aidilfitri festive film ‘Dilema Irama’ – a story showcasing the beauty of Malaysian culture and heritage.

The film captures the essence of Aidilfitri with its emotionally charged storyline and original musical compositions that takes audiences on a journey of self-discovery and family relationships.

Directed by renowned local film director Hyrul Anwar, ‘Dilema Irama’ is the story of a father and son who share a great passion for music though of different genres.

Nadim, an emerging contemporary music composer, faces a dilemma when he reluctantly agrees to play the gambus for his father’s traditional music performance at an Iftar event, causing a conflict between them. As the story unfolds, audiences get to see how the pair re-bond through music.

PETRONAS Senior General Manager of Group Strategic Communications, Datin Anita Azrina Abdul Aziz said, “Traditional songs are Malaysians’ pristine heritage. They reflect multi-generational cultures that are rich in art and finest in manners.”

“The beauty of traditional festive songs is what inspired us to produce 'Dilema Irama', which features three original musical compositions. Anchoring on PETRONAS’ festive celebration theme for 2023 ‘Roots for the Future’, the story, we hope, will inspire a renewed sense of pride and appreciation for Malaysia's diverse cultural traditions and customs,” she added.

Watch ‘Dilema Irama’ with family and friends on PETRONAS’ Facebook page and YouTube channel from 3 April.

Nadim (leftmost on stage) reluctantly helping to play gambus in his father’s traditional music group at an Iftar event.
Tensions rise between Nadim and his father, as a result of their differing opinions in music.
After all, it is a time for us to strengthen our bonds with family, while celebrating the culture and traditions that we inherit from them.
Set in a picturesque town in Johor, this musically and emotionally charged father son drama hits close to home with a feeling of nostalgia.
Man Gambus deep in woes while embracing the mini gambus he made for Nadim when he was a kid.
Younger Nadim & his father bonding over their shared love for playing the gambus together.
Picturesque view of a palm oil plantation in a Johor town.
A nostalgic moment between Nadim and his father riding a motorcycle.