The Late Sharifah Aini's Guidance Continues To Inspire Shiha Zikir

By Marfika Adnan Haris Fadzilah

KUALA LUMPUR, June 6 (Bernama) -- More than a decade after legendary singer Datuk Sharifah Aini passed away, the invaluable advice and life lessons she imparted continue to serve as a guiding light for singer Shiha Zikir as she navigates the highs and lows of the entertainment industry.

For 39-year-old Shiha, whose full name is Nurshiha Mohd Zikir, Sharifah Aini was more than just a mentor. She was a mother figure who offered invaluable guidance on resilience, life management and the importance of sincerity in sharing one's blessings with others.

She said having the opportunity to witness firsthand how Sharifah Aini weathered the challenges of show business without ever compromising her principles remains one of the most meaningful lessons she carries with her today.

“I saw for myself how Umi (Sharifah Aini) faced every challenge in the entertainment industry. No matter what happened, she handled it calmly and never ran away from problems.

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“Umi taught me how to be a woman with a strong heart and a resilient mind. I witnessed how she dealt with all sorts of situations in the industry, yet she remained relevant and respected throughout her career,” she told Bernama recently.

The ‘AEWO’ singer said one piece of advice from Sharifah Aini that has stayed with her over the years was to focus on the positive and not dwell on the negative opinions of others.

According to Shiha, that principle has helped her maintain a positive outlook and stay focused on her career despite the ever-changing nature of the entertainment industry and its many challenges.

She said Sharifah Aini also stressed the importance of sound financial management and having savings as preparation for difficult times.

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“Umi always reminded me to save money. Back then, many people would say, ‘Why save so much?’ But Umi taught me to be disciplined. When you're young, it's easy to spend whatever you earn and buy all sorts of things.

“But when COVID-19 happened, I realised how important that advice was. Had I not followed Umi’s guidance to set aside part of my income, things could have been much harder during that period. I was not only able to take care of myself but also help family members and friends who were affected,” she said.

Shiha said she also admired the late singer’s generosity, recalling how Sharifah Aini quietly extended assistance to those in need without seeking recognition or public attention.

“I saw it with my own eyes. Whenever she helped someone, she never publicised it. Umi would simply tell me, ‘It’s okay, Shiha. This is for our life in the hereafter.’ I kept those words close to my heart,” she said.

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For Shiha, the memories and lessons she gained from the legendary entertainer will remain among the most treasured gifts of her life and career.

As a tribute to the woman who played such a significant role in shaping her as an artiste, Shiha will join a line-up of renowned performers at the ‘A Tribute to Datuk Sharifah Aini’ concert at Dewan Filharmonik PETRONAS here tonight, in honour of the late songstress’s enduring legacy.

-- BERNAMA