Google Doodle pays tribute to Saloma

Google is paying tribute to Singaporean-Malaysian actor, singer, and fashion icon best known as Saloma in it’s latest Google Doodle. For those that are young and still haven’t heard of her, Saloma was trend-setter of Malaysian entertainment from the late ‘50s through the early ‘80s. She has recorded over 500 songs, and through her charismatic film work, paved the way for future generations of female actors in the country. 

Saloma was born as Salmah Ismail in Singapore on January 22, 1932, and first started to explore her skills as a vocalist at just seven years old. During her teenage years, she began to sing professionally, starting her music career through performances at nightclubs and weddings. 

She hit celebrity status when she transitioned to acting by the mid ‘50s. She also happened to married to Malaysia’s most iconic entertainer P. Ramlee in 1961. She’s usually sporting her signature coiffed hairdo and inimitable clothing (much of which she sewed herself) while starred in movies throughout the ‘60s and released albums for the rest of her life.  

On this day in 1978, she made history when she was awarded Malaysia’s first Biduanita Negara (National Songbird) by the Malaysian government of the time.

For those who wants to listen to her songs or perhaps a fans of her, check out this specially curated Saloma playlist with some of her notable hits such as ‘Bila Larut Malam’, ‘Di Manakan Ku Cari Ganti’ and ‘Perwira’. 

Google Malaysia is giving away limited-edition Saloma Doodle t-shirts in their Saloma trivia quiz on Google Malaysia’s official Twitter page today. So make sure to check it out and participate!