By HAMIMI KASSIM
KUCHING: “I have never sought out popularity or chased glamour. I sing because it’s my interest. That’s my only intention.”
These are the words said by 21-year-old Muhd Zaidani Zikri, who is a person with autism, when met at Uptown MetroCity Matang here while performing or ‘busking’ popular Malay and English songs from his smartphone.
Dani – which is what he likes to be called – never expected to receive the amount of support and positive feedback from those around him.
“Most of the responses I’ve received were positive. There are also some who request songs and have encouraged me to continue doing what I’m doing,” he said.
According to Dani, he has started performing at Uptown MetroCity Matang more than a year ago.
“This portable Bluetooth speaker which I bought myself has accompanied me,” he said, adding that he can be found performing there from 7pm until 11.30pm.
Based on this writer’s observations, Dani’s interest in music and songs are obvious as he seems to have been transported to his own world when he starts to sing.
When asked about his life, Dani revealed that he is from Matang Batu 10 and rents within the Metro City Matang vicinity.
According to him, he grew up like any normal person and doesn’t see his disability as a weakness.
“I am the eldest of two siblings and my sibling is studying at UiTM. My parents raised me the same as other children as there is nothing less, nothing more,” he said, adding that he also owns an OKU (person with disabilities) card.
Dani explained that his parents never prevented him from singing at Uptown MetroCity Matang as they know about his interest for singing.
“My advice to others out there is to not look at whatever you have as a barrier.
“Always think positively and have a strong heart. If you have an interest, as long as it is not harmful, continue doing it,” he said, adding that he hopes to perform at Kuching Waterfront one day.
