The album Malaka is Ali’s desire to incorporate Middle Eastern culture (specifically music) with the elements of 70s Indonesian rock, cinematic soul, funk, disco, and afro beat to create a new groove and sound straight from the contemporary and vibrant Indonesian music scene. The title “Malaka” itself, represents the entrance where the Middle Eastern first come to Indonesia through trading in Malacca Strait / Channel many centuries ago. With all lyrics written in Arabic, this album builds on the influence of Middle Eastern art and music, which over centuries has assimilated itself deep into Indonesian culture and way of life. This album is trying to capture those long journeys, the “cultural dialogues” of our ancestors way back in the past, and bringing it back with modern touch through musical language. Malaka promises to deliver diverse and unique sounds (experience), with the mix between Middle Eastern and South East Asian cultures, in term of music. Which can’t be found in any other parts of the globe.