Despite his growing popularity and solid footing in the local entertainment industry, Syafiq Farhain remains determined not to abandon his primary career as a firefighter from the Fire and Rescue Department Malaysia (JBPM).
The son of former Saleem frontman, the late Saleem, said the thought had never crossed his mind, as he believes it was his firefighting career that paved the way for his success in the music industry.
"I truly love my main career. Through this job, I was also able to hone my singing talent through the fire department’s combo band. I don’t think I would be singing if I hadn’t become a firefighter,” he said.
Met at the national-level World Firefighters Day Carnival 2026 in Johor Baru recently, Syafiq, whose full name is Nursyafiq Farhain A.M. Salim, 32, said he has so far had no difficulty balancing his official duties with his singing performances.
The singer of Kamar Hati said his posting at the Corporate Management Division at the JBPM headquarters requires him to work office hours, allowing him to fulfil performance invitations during weekends or at night.
The father of two also shared that his latest single will be released soon.
"If we look at current trends, many artistes are releasing heartbreak songs. However, I haven’t reached that stage yet,” he said.
Syafiq has previously released several singles, including Sayang Maafkan Aku, Sepi, Kau Bidadari, Demi Setia and Aku Jatuh Cinta.
Asked about comparisons often made between his voice and that of his late father, Syafiq said he does not mind.
"I’m his son. Like father, like son. Naturally, there will be similarities to some extent. But it all depends on each listener’s ears. So far, I’ve accepted every comment positively,” he said.
Having served with JBPM for 13 years, he also expressed gratitude over the overwhelming response from thousands of visitors at the carnival, many of whom took the opportunity to snap selfies with him.
"With the lively atmosphere at this carnival, as firefighters we can truly feel the support of the local community, feel appreciated, and there is a sense of satisfaction,” he said, adding that the exhibition of fire department assets and machinery was among the crowd’s main attractions. – Bernama
