Now, many believe it is time to give something back.
FMT and Backyard Pub & Grill in Taman Sri Hartamas will hold a special fundraiser for longtime Strollers members Hussein Idris and Billy Chang on May 24 at 5pm.
The event, titled “The Strollers: The Farewell”, aims to help raise funds for Hussein’s mounting medical bills after he suffered a stroke and heart attack earlier this month.
The evening will also celebrate Chang’s long career as he prepares to retire after over 50 years as a bassist.
Drummer Hussein, 75, remains warded at Hospital Serdang after suffering two strokes.
Chang, who turns 78 in July, recently announced his retirement after being deeply affected by Hussein’s condition and after discussions with family members who urged him to place his health first.
The evening also carries the weight of goodbye.
With Chang preparing to retire and Hussein battling serious health complications, The Strollers — Malaysia’s longest-performing band — will reach the end of their journey after nearly six decades in music.
Fans, veteran musicians and old friends of the band are expected to attend the gathering.
Recognised as the country’s first pop band, The Strollers helped shape Malaysia’s entertainment culture from the 1960s onwards, becoming one of the defining acts.
More than music
FMT executive chairman Nelson Fernandez said the fundraiser was about gratitude as much as music.
“These musicians gave Malaysians joy for decades. They were there during our happiest moments, our dances, our romances and our youth,” he said.
“This is our opportunity to stand beside them when they need us.”
Fernandez said The Strollers represented something much bigger than entertainment.
“The Strollers were never only a band. They became part of the social fabric of Malaysia,” he said.
“FMT felt this was something we had to do, not just as a media organisation, but as Malaysians.”
He said he hoped fans would respond in the same spirit the band inspired through its music.
“Hussein and Billy gave so much of themselves to audiences over the years,” he said. “We hope Malaysians will come together once more in the same way their music once brought people together.”
Backyard owner Jerry Chong said the idea for the event immediately struck an emotional chord.
“When we discussed this event, it never felt like business. It felt personal,” he said.
“These are musicians who gave people beautiful memories and we wanted to create a space where fans could give something back.”
Chong said he hopes the venue will feel like a homecoming for fans who grew up listening to The Strollers.
“The music may be old, but the memories are still alive,” he said.
“This event is about friendship, gratitude and respect for musicians who helped shape Malaysia’s entertainment culture.”
Organisers hope the evening becomes a reunion of memories for a generation that once found joy, unity and belonging in the music of The Strollers.
They are encouraging fans to donate old Strollers memorabilia for a special auction during the evening.
The items may include vintage photographs, records, posters and collectibles linked to the band’s long history.
Reservations can be made through Backyard manager Darren Pereira at 014 239 5949.
All donations for Hussein and Billy will go through the Persatuan Karyawan Malaysia’s Public Bank account, 3108024130, under the reference “Aid for Hussein”.