Melaka: National songstress Datuk Seri Siti Nurhaliza Tarudin was honoured with the Melaka Arts and Culture Icon Award tonight. She described the accolade as a source of motivation to continue creating and contributing to the arts, culture, and tourism of the historic state.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Siti Nurhaliza expressed her gratitude, stating, 'I am deeply touched and wish to thank the Melaka state government for this recognition. If there are opportunities and invitations, insya-Allah I would be happy to participate, particularly if they involve traditional songs and initiatives that celebrate Melaka's identity.' Her comments were made during the New Year's Eve 2026 celebration and the launch of Visit Melaka Year (TMM) 2.0 at Encore Melaka, Klebang.

Commenting on the song 'Senandung Anak Melaka', which has gained widespread popularity, Siti Nurhaliza said she is open to further collaborations to promote traditional songs in the future. The event also recognized Mohd Fauzi Mohammad, the composer of the TMM theme song, Senandung Anak Melaka, as 'Tokoh Pemerkasaan Seni Tradisional Melaka'.

Meanwhile, Melaka Tourism Friendship Ambassador Datuk Fan Bingbing received the Melaka International Cultural Diplomacy Icon Award for her significant role in promoting the state's culture and tourism globally. The awards were presented by Yang Dipertua Negeri Tun Mohd Ali Mohd Rustam.