Dalia mesmerising the audience during her performance at the UMS concert.
KOTA KINABALU: At just 12 years old, Dalia Linda Sayeed, a multi-talented young musician, turned her grief into a mission of hope, performing in a charity concert to raise funds for a cancer association in memory of her late mother.
The concert, held at the Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) Recital Hall on Sunday, was organised by Valiant Music School, with Dalia as its shining star. Despite her young age, she dazzled the audience with her musical prowess, playing the electric guitar and performing a heartfelt rendition of Mr. Loverman.
Dalia’s journey into music began this May, two years after losing her mother, Datin Linda Anthony, to Covid-19.
Her father, Datuk Seri Ghulam Sayeed, described the endeavor as both a tribute and a form of healing. “Music became her therapy,” he shared. “It allowed her to transform her grief into something beautiful, continuing her mother’s legacy of helping others.”
Dalia is no stranger to breaking barriers. Known as Malaysia’s youngest polo player and racehorse owner, she is also an ace swimmer, saber fencer, wildlife photographer, and budding poet. Her recent foray into music adds another feather to her cap, as she mastered the piano, violin, guitar and ukulele in under seven months.
“I was nervous but determined to give my best,” Dalia said about her debut concert performance. “Knowing this concert would help others made me excited to be part of it.”
Ghulam Sayeed expressed immense pride in his daughter’s achievements. “Dalia’s strength and dedication inspire me. She is an example of how the younger generation can channel their energy into meaningful causes,” he said.
He also shared his hopes of motivating other children to use their talents for good. “I want young people to do something productive—whether it’s music, sports, or charity—rather than waste time on unproductive activities.”
The event was sponsored by the Datin Linda Anthony Foundation, established by Ghulam in honor of his late wife. The foundation has undertaken numerous charitable initiatives, particularly for children and Covid-19 relief efforts.
“Linda always believed in ‘charity without borders,’ and this concert reflects her spirit,” Ghulam said. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to a cancer association in Sabah.
Valiant Music School founders praised Dalia’s journey as a testament to the power of music. “Dalia’s transformation has been awe-inspiring,” said Melissa, a representative from Valiant. “Her resilience and passion remind us of music’s ability to heal and inspire.”
The concert also celebrated the school’s success in nurturing young talents since its inception in 2017. “This platform allows children to express themselves creatively and contribute to meaningful causes,” said Melissa.
Dalia’s father and the Valiant team emphasised how her musical journey is a tribute to Datin Linda’s memory. “The melodies that fill our home now are not just music but a source of strength and a tribute to her mother’s enduring legacy,” shared Melissa.
Dalia’s remarkable performance captivated the audience, leaving an indelible mark on everyone present and solidifying her place as a beacon of hope and resilience for the younger generation.
