8 Malaysian Artists Nominated for the 19th Freshmusic Awards, Setting a New Record

(Kuala Lumpur, 17th) Organized by Freshmusic, the 19th Freshmusic Awards (FMA) announced its nominees on April 16, with Malaysian artists delivering a standout performance. A total of eight Malaysian singers and bands were nominated—marking a record high.

This year’s awards reviewed 1,201 albums and EPs, along with over 20,000 singles, before finalizing nominees across seven major categories. The FMA is widely regarded as one of Southeast Asia’s most influential Chinese-language music awards.

Among the highlights, Malaysian singer-songwriters Aki Huang and Lin Shuicao emerged as key contenders. Aki’s self-written and produced track “You Love Me” earned a spot in the Top 25 for Song of the Year, while Lin Shuicao’s “Home” also secured a nomination, reflecting Malaysia’s multicultural identity through its composition.

Meanwhile, Haezee was nominated again for Best Regional Album (Malaysia) with “UNLOCKED.” Rising artist JEANTONIC also made waves with the EP “Mind The Gap,” showcasing strong next-generation talent.

In the band category, Penang-based One Morr Time received their first nomination with “Good, you?” alongside Astral Angels, Yoki Ng, and NO TIME FOR SILENCE. Notably, punk band NO TIME FOR SILENCE earned dual nominations for Best New Group and Best Regional Album with “WARD 13A’s DEATH RESUME.”

This year also marks a structural shift for the awards, removing categories such as Best Male/Female Vocalist and Best Band, focusing instead on works and emerging talents to reinforce its “Fresh” identity. Despite the changes, the nominee list remains star-studded, featuring Chang Chen-yue, Yoga Lin, Emil Chau, Mavis Fan, Khalil Fong, Paul Wong, and Kumachan.

The winners of the 19th Freshmusic Awards will be announced on June 22 at 8 PM via the FreshmusicSG YouTube channel, with a simultaneous podcast discussion.