KUALA LUMPUR: A friendship forged nearly a decade ago has led Malaysian music veteran Fauziah Latiff, affectionately known as Jee, to accept an invitation from singer and medical professional Jessie Chung to record a duet titled “Tak Terpisah.”

Fauziah, whose full name is Siti Fauziah Sheikh Abdul Latiff and who has spent more than three decades in the music industry, said she was delighted to collaborate with JessC on the project.

“In truth, the collaboration came together rather quickly once we reconnected,” she said. “JessC asked whether I would consider recording a duet, and when I heard the song, I was deeply moved.”

She described the project as particularly meaningful because the song centres on the theme of friendship.

“The first time I listened to Tak Terpisah, I found myself in tears. The song has real soul. I simply tried my best to deliver it with sincerity for everyone who listens,” she added during the launch of JessC’s Malay-language album Dekati in Shah Alam recently.

The album features six new tracks, including the duet Tak Terpisah.

Fauziah also spoke warmly of JessC’s work ethic, saying it inspired her to keep singing.

“I truly respect the way JessC approaches her work. While recording the song and filming the music video, I was very impressed by her determination.

“She encouraged me to give my very best. This collaboration has brought a wonderful energy to both myself and my career,” she said.

 

JessC, who now resides on the Gold Coast in Australia, revealed that she had long hoped to collaborate with the veteran singer.

“About ten years ago, when we performed together at a concert, I mentioned the idea of a duet to Kak Jee. I waited quite a long time because she was so busy,” she said.

“I must admit it wasn’t easy to persuade her. But after I returned from Australia a few months ago, I was delighted when she finally agreed.”

JessC said she was especially pleased when Fauziah was moved to tears upon hearing the song.

“She cried when I played it for her, and I was so happy that she liked it,” she said.

The singer also confirmed that Fauziah will appear as a special guest at her upcoming solo concert at the Arena of Stars later this month.

“Kak Jee will perform three songs, including Tak Terpisah. Of course, she will also sing one of my favourite songs, Dia, during the concert,” JessC said.

Originally from Sarawak, JessC expressed her hope of working with more Malaysian artists in the future.

“I grew up in Canada and the United States, and I now live in Australia. However, I remain a Malaysian citizen,” she said.

“I often return home to visit family and meet my fans. I was born in Malaysia, and I truly love the Malay language.”

Known professionally as JessC or Dr Jessie, she is recognised both in the medical field and in music. Her artistic direction often explores music as a form of therapy.

JessC also holds degrees in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Integrative Medicine-Oncology from the Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine in China.