Bingkai Karya – One of the most unique and heartfelt youth romance films to come out of Indonesia is Perahu Kertas. Adapted from the novel of the same name by Dewi Lestari, the film stars Maudy Ayunda as Kugi and Adipati Dolken as Keenan. In addition to strong performances by two talented leads, the film is also known for its sweet, memorable soundtrack. Now, nearly 13 years since the film’s release, Bunga Reyza breathes new life into one of its beloved songs, “Tahu Diri,” written by Dewi Lestari herself.
Bunga never expected that the song, originally sung by Maudy Ayunda—would become her latest single. “At the time, I was just visiting the Sony Music Indonesia office and happened to meet Keke Kananta (Head of A&R). He asked me to listen to the song, and I immediately fell in love with it. When I got home, I recorded a cover video, which eventually got sent to Dewi Lestari. That’s how it was finally decided that “Tahu Diri” would be my next release.”
According to Bunga, “Tahu Diri” carries deeply meaningful lyrics. The song explores the emotional turmoil of someone confronted by the return of a former love they’ve tried hard to forget. “It paints the confusion one feels when their ex suddenly shows up out of the blue. Even though the relationship has ended and they’ve been trying to move on, the sudden reappearance stirs up all sorts of feelings. I’m sure many people can relate to this, either they’re going through it now or they’ve been through it before,” Bunga shares.
It only took two weeks to record, mix, and get the track ready for listeners. Still, Bunga admits the process came with its own challenges. “Doing a remake is never easy because people are already familiar with the original version and have certain expectations for how it should be sung. That was the challenge for me: how to bring a fresh interpretation to the song without losing its original essence. For the arrangement, we raised the key in some parts and changed the ending a bit to offer something new for today’s listeners. You’ll be able to hear it for yourself soon.”
The soloist from Cimahi hopes the song will be warmly received by listeners. “Of course, I hope the emotion I tried to convey in the song reaches your hearts, even if it’s a little sad, because so many people have gone through heartbreak like this. But, hopefully, “Tahu Diri” can keep you company during those quiet, emotional nights. This song is for anyone trying to move on but still haunted by an ex who keeps coming back,” Bunga says.
Taking on a remake has also taught Bunga valuable lessons, especially while listening to the original version. “I learned a lot about interpreting “Tahu Diri”. Since it’s a soundtrack from Perahu Kertas, which starred Maudy herself, I didn’t want to just sing it, I wanted to deliver the message behind it. I read the novel and watched the film to really understand what Kugi, the character, was feeling. I wanted to tell the story as Kugi, but also as myself. I hope the result satisfies everyone, whether you’ve loved the original for years or are just now discovering the song through my version,” Bunga concludes.
Bunga Reyza’s latest single, “Tahu Diri,” is available on digital platforms starting July 4, 2025.
