Author's Note

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Dear Readers,

The first time I heard this song, Debunga Wangi, was in the film Rock (2005), directed by the late Mamat Khalid. The film follows a band called Rimba Bara, competing in the "Battle of the Bands." I have a special connection to this movie because parts of it were filmed in my hometown, Taiping. One of the funniest moments happens during their first performance at a fun fair where they end up playing to an audience of just three workers! Their expressions went from excitement to pure disbelief — it was one of those awkward but hilarious moments you can't forget.

For years, I tried to find the song they performed, and I finally got it this year. The lyrics resonated with me deeply, as Debunga Wangi seems to speak about the longing for companionship — a feeling of being alone but dreaming of finding someone to share life with. It's a sentiment I can relate to, as I, too, hope to find someone to share moments with, someone who can bring sweetness and joy, much like the song itself expresses.

In writing Hearts Unveiled, I was also inspired by themes often found in Malaysian dramas, where cultural expectations and societal barriers prevent people from being together, even when they come from the same race or background. I hope readers will find these themes relatable and enjoy the journey of Zul's character as much as I enjoyed writing it.

With heartfelt gratitude,
Syaf Azry

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