Image Credit: Sharifah Aini Tribute FB
KUALA LUMPUR, June 6: More than a decade after the passing of legendary songstress Datuk Sharifah Aini, her words of wisdom continue to guide singer Shiha Zikir through the unpredictable world of entertainment.
For 39‑year‑old Shiha, whose full name is Nurshiha Mohd Zikir, Sharifah Aini was more than a mentor — she was a mother figure who instilled resilience, discipline, and sincerity.
“I saw for myself how Umi (Sharifah Aini) faced every challenge in the industry. She never ran away from problems, always calm, always dignified. Umi taught me to be a woman with a strong heart and a resilient mind,” Shiha told Bernama.
One piece of advice has stayed with her: focus on the positive and ignore the noise. That principle, she said, has helped her maintain perspective and stay grounded despite the pressures of show business.
Sharifah Aini also emphasised financial discipline. “Umi always reminded me to save. Back then, people would ask, ‘Why save so much?’ But when COVID‑19 happened, I realised how important that advice was. Because of her guidance, I could take care of myself and even help family and friends who were struggling,” Shiha recalled.
Shiha remembers Sharifah Aini’s generosity most vividly. “I saw it with my own eyes. Whenever she helped someone, she never publicised it. Umi would simply say, ‘It’s okay, Shiha. This is for our life in the hereafter.’ Those words remain close to my heart.”
For Shiha, the lessons and memories of Sharifah Aini are among the greatest gifts of her career. Tonight, she will honour her mentor’s legacy by performing at A Tribute to Datuk Sharifah Aini concert at Dewan Filharmonik PETRONAS here, joining a line‑up of renowned artistes in celebrating the enduring influence of one of Malaysia’s top songstresses.
— BERNAMA