JOHOR BAHRU, May 12 — Although he is gaining recognition as a singer, Syafiq Farhain remains determined not to abandon his career as a fireman.
Syafiq, 32, whose father is the late singer Saleem, said leaving the Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) has never crossed his mind as he believes his role as a firefighter was the stepping stone that helped him gain recognition in the music industry.
“I love my job. As a member of the department’s musical group, I was also able to further develop my singing talent. I don’t think I would have become a singer if I hadn’t joined the fire department,” he told Bernama.
Speaking at the National-Level International Firefighters Day Carnival 2026 here yesterday, Syafiq, whose full name is Nursyafiq Farhain AM Salim, said he has so far had no difficulty balancing his responsibilities as a firefighter with his singing career.
The Kamar Hati singer said his current posting at the Corporate Management Division at the JBPM headquarters allows him to work regular office hours, making it easier for him to accept invitations to perform during weekends or at night.
Firefighter Syafiq Farhain, who is also a singer, poses for a picture in Johor Bahru May 11, 2026. — Bernama pic
The father of two also shared that his new single, composed by a local songwriter, will be released soon.
Syafiq has already released several singles, including Sayang Maafkan Aku, Sepi, Kau Bidadari, Demi Setia and Aku Jatuh Cinta.
When asked whether people still compare his voice to that of his father, Syafiq said it is something he cannot avoid, but he has never taken it personally.
“I’m his son. Naturally, there will be similarities. But, at the end of the day, it’s what a person hears with their ears. I choose to take every comment positively,” he said.
Having served with JBPM for 13 years, Syafiq also expressed gratitude over the overwhelming turnout at the International Firefighters Day carnival, where thousands of visitors took the opportunity to snap photos with the firefighter-celebrity.
“With the lively atmosphere at this carnival, we as firefighters truly feel the support and appreciation from the community. That sense of recognition is very meaningful to us,” he said, adding that the exhibition of firefighting assets and machinery was among the event’s biggest attractions. — Bernama
