Malaysian Idol Grand Finale
September 24, 2005 – 11:51 am23/9/2005, after four months, Malaysian Idol Season 2 Grand Finale was aired live. Why it must be called ‘grand’ I can’t understand. It wasn’t too grand in any way.
The final two are Nita and Daniel, representing two different races. They presented three songs each yesterday night at Genting Highlands Arena of Stars, and as it is with finales, they performed much better than usual.
If I am to be honest, I think Nita should be the Malaysian Idol. After all, I cannot imagine a little kid being the Idol. Even though Daniel is extremely talented, I don’t think he has matured enough to be the Idol, representing Malaysians.
Yet I’m rooting for him. Why? Because I don’t fancy Nita and as a result of that, the race factor sinks in. Daniel is a Chinese, and that is why it’s Daniel all the way. Well, most of the way anyway.
Coming to the songs. Paul Moss was indeed quite ‘high’ that night, giving positive comments like never before. I missed Jaclyn Victor’s wowing performance last season. Both contestants failed to reach her standard, in my opinion. Of course, each of them have their own field and talent, and sometimes, it really is difficult to compare. Daniel had to go first, possibly because he lost the coin toss (and those who lose the coin toss are bound to go first in such competitions). His first song, Mimpi, was quite disappointing.
Round one went to Nita, without a doubt.
Then the second song. Daniel sang his ‘theme song’, ‘Heaven Knows’ by Rick Price. Much better. I like that song anyway, and Paul was displeased with Daniel not having much eye contact with the cameras. Nita sang the song she did best. And in a way, round two goes to her, subject to opinions.
The final song, Nita with ‘Mimpi’, the winner’s single, and Daniel with ‘Angin Malam’. Both were equally good. Paul Moss was literally ranting about the cameras while commenting Daniel’s performance.
Perhaps Malaysian Idol is much deeper than it looks. A battle between two dominant races, both who have always been suppressed by each other in different ways? I shouldn’t think too much, but one has to wonder, especially since the Chinese and Malays have not always been good buddies. The winner will be representing all Malaysians. I wonder whether there will be any manipulation, which I do hope not.
Daniel
Nita