Dayang Nurfaizah, an acclaimed Malaysian singer from Kuching, Sarawak has been blessed to spend more than two decades doing what she truly loves – singing. “My journey with music began when I was 13 years old, while I was in Form 1, performing and taking part in singing competitions. I officially started my career in 1999, and since then music has taken me to many beautiful places and moments. For me, singing has always been very personal. It’s how I tell stories, how I express emotions, and how I connect with people.”

She reflects on how her upbringing shaped her character and outlook on life. “Growing up in Kuching was very simple and grounding,” says Dayang. “My family played a big role in supporting my love for music. They always reminded me to stay humble and true to myself. Those early years shaped who I am today – someone who values hard work, sincerity, and never forgetting where I came from.”

“One of the most emotional moments in my career was winning the Anugerah Juara Lagu with Lelaki Teragung. After being in the industry for many years, that moment felt very meaningful. It reminded me that every step of the journey – the ups and downs were worth it. It was a moment of gratitude for the music, the audience, and everyone who supported me along the way,” she shares.

Like many artists, Dayang has faced challenges throughout her journey in an ever-changing industry. “The music industry is always evolving, and as an artist you constantly feel the need to grow and stay relevant. There were moments when I questioned myself and wondered what the next step should be. But I realised the most important thing is to stay true to your voice and your identity as an artist. Once you focus on the music and the sincerity behind it, everything else becomes clearer.”

“I find inspiration in emotions, in stories, and in the people who listen to my songs. When someone tells me a song helped them through a moment in life, that means everything to me. It reminds me why I started singing in the first place,” she says. 

Throughout her career, sincerity has remained a guiding principle. “Sincerity is very important to me. I believe in being honest with the music and always giving my best in every performance. I also believe in respecting the people you work with and the audience who support you. Those values have guided me throughout my journey,” she adds. 

“Success for me is being able to still do what I love after so many years. If people still listen to my music and feel something from it, that’s already a blessing.”

~ Dayang Nurfaizah

Looking ahead, Dayang continues to dream of expanding her musical horizons. “There are always dreams. I would love to collaborate more with international artists and bring Malaysian music to a wider audience. Music is universal, and I believe our stories and culture deserve to be heard beyond our borders.”

She remains committed to growth and authenticity in her work. “I want to keep growing as an artist and continue creating music that feels honest and meaningful. As long as I can keep singing and connecting with people, I’ll be happy,” shares Dayang.

To aspiring artists who wish to follow a similar path, Dayang offers heartfelt advice drawn from her own experiences. “Believe in your voice and be patient with the journey. There will be challenges, but if your heart is truly in music, keep going. Stay humble, keep learning, and never lose the passion that made you start,” she encourages.

*All Photos Credit to Rizalman Couture

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In this Top 10 Malaysia exclusive interview, Anna Jobling reflects on her personal journey on navigating the industry, the principles that anchor her growth and how she continues to hold her ground as the ultimate it-girl.

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In this Top 10 Malaysia exclusive, Intan Serah reflects on her personal journey, the values that have guided her growth and the aspirations that continue to inspire her next chapter.

Beginning her sporting career in athletics before making the transition to futsal and football, Intan Serah holds a Degree in Sports Management from the University of Malaya, a qualification that complements her experience as a professional athlete. She has also carved a presence in the creative and entertainment space. “Beyond the pitch, I’m active as a content creator and have experience as a streamer, actress and host, which has allowed me to connect with audiences across different platforms and industries,” Intan shares, a testament to her versatility both on and off the field. 

As the discussion shifts to a crucial phase in her career, Intan looks back on a decisive choice that redirected her journey. “One of the most meaningful moments came when I moved away from an individual discipline and entered team sports at a competitive level. That change marked a turning point, sparking a sequence of accomplishments where every win strengthened confidence and momentum,” she explains. That path later opened doors beyond Malaysia, creating opportunities on the global stage, including time spent in New York, USA, for her.

Reaching that level of success was not without its challenges. Intan candidly shares that one of the biggest obstacles she faced was the lack of exposure and limited opportunities, particularly within women’s sports.

“There were moments when the pathways weren’t clearly defined, which meant I had to take full responsibility for my own development,” she explains. Through those experiences, Intan learned the importance of discipline, independently managing her performance and actively seeking — or even creating — opportunities to stay competitive. 

Recognised as a constant source of inspiration and motivation, Intan Serah shares what continues to drive her forward. “I stay inspired by remembering why I started and the responsibility I carry as a national athlete,” she says.

Beyond her personal ambitions, she draws motivation from knowing that her journey resonates with young girls who look up to her. “Understanding that my actions and choices can encourage them to believe in themselves and pursue sports with confidence gives my work a deeper sense of purpose.” Grounded by the unwavering support of her family and close friends, and strengthened by the trust placed in her by sponsors, Intan remains focused and driven as she continues to push ahead. 

Turning her attention to the future, Intan speaks about a dream she has yet to fully pursue — making a deeper impact in youth and grassroots sports development, especially by encouraging young girls to believe that they belong in sports and can pursue multiple paths beyond the field.

Looking ahead to the next few years, her focus remains clear. “My main goal is to continue performing at a high level and staying consistent as an athlete, while keeping my body in one piece for as long as possible — that part is important,” she confidently adds. Beyond the pitch, Intan hopes to further expand her presence in media, content creation and business, with the aim of building something sustainable for the long term.

Most importantly, she is driven by a desire to continue giving back to her country. By representing Malaysia with pride, elevating women’s sports and helping create better opportunities for future athletes, Intan hopes to shift the focus from mere survival to true performance. “If I can continue to grow, give back and still enjoy the journey along the way, that would be a win,” she says.

Intan closes by sharing sincere advice for those setting out on a similar journey. “Be patient, remain disciplined, and trust your own path,” she says, highlighting the value of self-growth and balance while urging aspiring athletes to focus on improving a little each day. “Have faith in yourself, stay aligned with your purpose, and allow your progress to speak on your behalf.”

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In this Top 10 of Malaysia feature, Aniq reflects on his journey, discipline and the drive behind his ascent as he continues to lift Malaysia’s weightlifting ambitions onto the global podium.

Balancing the demands of elite sport and academics, 24-year-old Aniq Kasdan is both a full-time national weightlifter and a Sport Management student at UiTM Shah Alam. His journey is marked by discipline, charisma and perseverance that extends beyond the competition platform. Growing up as one of seven siblings, Aniq describes a childhood shaped by modest means but rich in perspective. “We were happy, even when things were difficult,” he shares. “It taught me to stay grateful in every situation.”

When the conversation shifted to his career, Aniq points to a central early milestone: his first competition win. He recalls, “That moment actually became a major turning point and strengthened my belief in myself, realising what I’m capable of.” 

Reflecting on the beginnings of his weightlifting journey, Aniq credits two key figures who set him on his path. “My journey in weightlifting began because of two important individuals: my older brother and my first coach. Along with the strong support from my family, they encouraged me to pursue weightlifting seriously.”

Every journey has its share of challenges, and for Aniq, the toughest came during the Movement Control Order (MCO). “The biggest challenge I faced was during the MCO period, when I nearly gave up due to a lack of hope in the sport,” he shares. “With God’s will, I managed to persevere, thanks to the constant encouragement and support from the people around me”—a moment he now looks back on with pride. Aniq continues by sharing his personal ways of staying inspired and motivated, “I would always remember my family as they remain my main source of strength and purpose, as well as reflecting on the long process it took to reach my current level.”

For Aniq, success isn’t measured by trophies alone. “Success is defined by setting daily personal targets and committing myself to achieving them consistently,” he shares. Looking further ahead, he adds, “and in the long run, my biggest dream is to become an Olympic gold medalist and win as many championships as possible.”

Aniq has this to say to anyone embarking on a similar path: “To those starting their journey, my advice is to work hard and never give up too early, because every effort will pay off – it is only a matter of time.”

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In this exclusive Top 10 of Malaysia interview, Zizan takes us behind the spotlight — reflecting on the path that shaped him, redefining his meaning of success and revealing the principles that keep him grounded. With authenticity as his compass, he offers honest insights into the industry for hopeful talents determined to leave a lasting impact of their own.

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Johan Ghazali is a national athlete and ambassador who has dedicated his life to sports, discipline and the pursuit of excellence. “I started my journey at a very young age with a deep love for martial arts, which eventually grew into a lifelong passion and career,” says Johan. “My path has been shaped by both hard training and continuous learning — inside and outside the ring. Education has always played an important role in my growth, helping me balance intellect with athletic performance. Today, I see myself not only as an athlete but also as a role model for youths who believe that passion, hard work and purpose can change lives.”

“I come from a humble background where values like respect, perseverance and humility were deeply instilled in me. My parents taught me that success is not just about winning, but about how you carry yourself through every challenge. Growing up in a disciplined environment taught me to stay grounded, focused, and grateful — lessons that have shaped the person and athlete I am today,” he shares.

One of the most defining moments in Johan’s career was representing Malaysia on the international stage for the first time. “Standing there with our flag on my chest gave me a deep sense of pride and responsibility. That experience completely changed my mindset — it was no longer just about me, but about carrying the hopes of an entire nation. It reminded me why I do what I do.”

“The toughest challenges have always been mental — dealing with pressure, expectations and the physical toll of constant competition. Injuries and setbacks are part of every athlete’s journey, but I’ve learned that recovery isn’t just physical; it’s emotional and mental too. I’ve overcome these moments by staying focused on my purpose, surrounding myself with the right team, and constantly reminding myself why I started in the first place,” he adds. 

Inspiration for Johan comes from two things — his love for Malaysia and the younger generation who look up to him. “Every time I train or step into a fight, I think about the people who believe in me and the youth who might see me as proof that dreams are possible. That keeps me moving forward even on the hardest days,” says Johan with enthusiasm. 

“Discipline, integrity, and respect — these three values are non-negotiable in everything I do. Discipline keeps me consistent, integrity keeps me true to myself, and respect reminds me that success is nothing without humility. Whether in sports or in life, these principles guide every decision I make.”

Success, to Johan, isn’t just about titles or trophies – it’s about growth, becoming a better version of himself every day and using his platform to inspire others. “True success is when you can uplift others through your journey and leave an impact that lasts beyond your career,” he says.

“My biggest dream is to use my platform to uplift Malaysia and inspire unity through sports and positive influence. I want to help shape a generation that believes in building a stronger nation — not just through achievements, but through character, compassion and collaboration,” says the talented athlete. “Beyond that, I hope to contribute towards creating a better world, where young people from all backgrounds can rise with confidence, respect and a sense of purpose.”

In the coming years, Johan’s goal is to continue representing Malaysia at the highest level, expand his influence as an ambassador, and contribute more towards youth development. He also hopes to collaborate with organisations that share the same mission — to make sports a force for unity, confidence and positive change.

“Stay patient, disciplined and humble. Success doesn’t come overnight — it’s built through years of sacrifice, sweat and belief in yourself. Surround yourself with people who push you to be better and never lose sight of your purpose. Most importantly, always carry your flag with pride, because when you fight for something bigger than yourself, you become unstoppable,” advises Johan. 

The post Discipline, Power, Precision: The Johan Ghazali Story appeared first on Top 10 Lifestyles.

Avery Chin and Sylvia Lim’s journey is filled with milestones, they became the first-ever International Magicians Society world record holders, received the Merlin Award as the World’s Best Quick-Change Artists and were crowned the Grand Champions of 2 Minutes to Fame. They are also proud recipients of the prestigious Ten Outstanding Young Malaysian award, a recognition that celebrates their contributions and achievements.

They have collected multiple international awards and showcased their signature performances across continents. “Our story has captured the attention of global media, from CCTV to CNN and America’s History Channel,” says Avery excitedly. “Our achievements have been shared in more than 100 countries through television, news, magazines, radio and online media.

“Beyond performing, we empower others by serving as Guinness World Records consultants, guiding brands, businesses and individuals to achieve global recognition through extraordinary record-breaking feats,” says Sylvia. “We are committed to proving that with vision, passion and persistence, anyone can create history,” adds Avery. 

“Our upbringing taught us the values of hard work, resilience and pride in our roots.”

Magic is Avery’s lifelong passion. “After graduating in civil engineering, I chose to follow my true passion and step into the entertainment world as a full-time magician. Sylvia, on the other hand, always had a deep love for fashion. When we combined our passions, the art of quick-change was born. It is a performance that merges illusion and design into something truly unique.” 

“One of our greatest life goals was to achieve a Guinness World Record, to bring glory to our country by showcasing Malaysia’s talent to the world. After setting our first record, doors began opening internationally, giving us countless opportunities to represent Malaysia on some of the biggest stages across the globe,” Sylvia recalls. “Our upbringing taught us the values of hard work, resilience and pride in our roots.”

One of the most pivotal moments in their career was their first Guinness World Records challenge, which took place outdoors under extreme conditions. “On that day, a typhoon made everything unpredictable. Our costumes were made from delicate, lightweight fabric and controlling our quick-change techniques in such weather was incredibly difficult,” Avery reminisces. 

“The most critical part was the final transformation, where I tossed confetti into the air above Sylvia’s head and she would instantly change from a short dress into a long white gown. However, the Guinness World Records adjudicator advised us not to perform this finale as the wind could blow the confetti away – exposing the secret and causing the attempt to fail.”

“Against all odds, the transformation worked flawlessly, and we successfully set our very first Guinness World Record,” Sylvia says proudly. “We were overwhelmed with tears of relief and pride. It felt like the world finally saw us, and we knew our dream had became history.”

“The toughest Guinness World Records challenge was the record for the most costume changes in 30 seconds,” Avery explains. “Originally, the requirement was to complete 9 costume changes in 30 seconds. But just two weeks before the official attempt, the Guinness World Records team raised the number from 9 to 15 costumes. We had very little time to re-strategise and prepare under the new rules.”

Instead of backing down, the duo trusted their teamwork and refused to let the new rules shake their determination. “In the end, we exceeded the requirement, completing 16 costume changes in just 30 seconds and setting a new record,” says Sylvia.

“My advice to anyone starting in this field is simple: never walk alone. Talent can help you win a competition, but it is teamwork that allows you to win the world. Behind every performance, every record, and every success is a team that trusts, supports and pushes each other to be better,” he says. “You must also train your mind to go beyond limits, see the invisible, believe the incredible, and achieve the impossible. This art is not just about costumes or techniques; it’s about vision, creativity and the courage to turn imagination into reality. If you can combine passion, teamwork and persistence, you won’t just be a performer – you’ll be a history maker.”

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Mohana Kumara Velu, better known as Mona KV is a Malaysian visual artist and curator based in Kuala Lumpur, whose work explores storytelling, symbolism and femininity—drawing inspiration from emotion, identity and cultural memory. “I graduated with distinction from the Malaysian Institute of Art in 2010 and had the privilege of apprenticing under artists such as Maamor Jantan and Jeganathan Ramachandram. Over the years, I’ve done exhibitions in Malaysia, Europe, the United States and across Asia,” reveals Mona.

“I grew up in a home where creativity was encouraged. My grandfather gave me my first watercolour paint set when I was three and treated every little painting I made like a treasure. Even though I was placed in the science stream at school, my heart always leaned toward painting. Thanks to a family that supported and encouraged me, I had the courage to pursue art,” she shares. 

A major turning point came with her solo exhibition ‘Within’ in Bali in 2018. “Although I had exhibited internationally before, that show felt pivotal. It gave me the clarity and confidence to scale up. Since then, more doors opened, and I was honoured with the Woman Art Award in Barcelona in 2024 and again in London in 2025. It affirmed how far I’ve journeyed—and how deeply my work resonates across borders,” says Mona.

Like any creative profession, Mona acknowledges the challenges. “There are tight deadlines, creative blocks, and the balancing act of creative process such as logistics, curation and communication. Staying relevant is also important. It means keeping up with trends, evolving platforms and audience engagement without compromising your voice. I’ve learned to stay consistent, focused and adaptable while preserving the integrity of my work,” says Mona. 

Art remains Mona’s way of processing life. “I’m inspired by quiet moments, nature, poetry, observation, passing thoughts and the stories life offers. What keeps me going is remembering why I started. It was never about recognition. Creating gave me clarity, comfort and a sense of connection. When I feel stuck, I return to that space—just me, my thoughts, and the act of creating something honest.”

Authenticity is at the heart of Mona’s practice. “I want to make art that feels like truth. Sometimes it’s uncomfortable, sometimes tender but always honest. I also believe in using my platform to uplift others, especially underrepresented voices,” says Mona who previously curated an event showcasing artists with autism and Down syndrome. “For me, art should be expressive and inclusive.”

Success to Mona is not just about accolades or visibility. “It’s about resonance. If someone pauses in front of my work and feels something, that is success to me. If it helps someone feel less alone or more seen, then I have done what I came here to do. I also measure success by how aligned I feel with my purpose—not by how loud the world is, but by how peaceful I am within.”

She dreams of creating a space that unites artists and the community. “A place to create, connect and give back—with artist residency programmes and support for underprivileged communities. I imagine it as a safe and inspiring environment where art and people can grow together. It’s something deeply personal to me, and I hope to make it real in the near future,” shares Mona. 

Currently, Mona is working on a new body of work as part of a personal project that she hopes to unveil soon. “I plan to continue showcasing my art internationally, especially across Europe and Asia. I am also exploring new ways to tell stories through different media to keep challenging myself creatively,” she says enthusiastically. 

Her advice to emerging creatives is: “Don’t wait for permission. Start where you are, use what you have and create like no one’s watching. Stay curious and humble but never shrink to fit anyone’s version of acceptable. Learn from critique, but don’t let it silence you. And most importantly, keep your heart in the work—it is the one thing no one else can replicate.”

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Colleen Augustin works as a Kids’ MMA Coach and a Women’s Personal Trainer. “I coach Kids’ MMA and Kids’ Muay Thai at Baekho Martial Arts Academy. I also coach Kids’ Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) and Beginners’ Muay Thai at Central MMA,” she says excitedly. 

Colleen holds a high school diploma, along with a certification as an ACE Personal Trainer and a newly added Pre & Post Partum Certificate. “I started working at 16, taking on various roles—from teaching English to refugee children to working as a Web Content Assistant,” she shares.

Staying active has always been a part of Colleen’s life, thanks to her parents’ strong support. “I’ve done various martial arts growing up, sticking to Aikido from ages 10 to 17 before switching to MMA, BJJ and Muay Thai. I also did ballet from age 6 to 17 and played basketball competitively from the age 10 to 17.”

Her athletic career took off when she began competing and training in MMA for a couple of years, even getting the opportunity to compete at one of the highest amateur levels of MMA. In 2019, she earned a gold medal at the IMMAF-WMMAA Asian Open strawweight division and bronze medal at the IMMAF-WMMAA World Championship strawweight division.

Colleen also excelled in endurance sports. At 16 and 17, she competed in 10km trail and road races, and later in Spartan obstacle course races. “I was blessed to be sent around Asia for the Spartan APAC Championships in 2017, where I placed 3rd overall, and the Spartan SEA Championship Series in 2018, where I placed 1st. I also competed in the Spartan World Championships in both years.”

Today, Colleen continues to train and compete in BJJ and has also embraced a new sport—American Flag Football, which she started three years ago.

Colleen credits much of her achievements to her parents’ support and the values they instilled. “They were always supportive and pushed me to become a better version of myself. They encouraged me to pursue my passions and told me, “If you do what you love, the money will follow.” They taught me how to deal with losses, failures and work hard for what I want.”

 As an athlete, balancing work, training and life is her biggest challenge. “Juggling two sports is still a struggle, and many have told me to stop because I risk overtraining, especially with my injury history. But I can’t find it in my heart to give up. So, I’m still working through that,” she says with a smile.

Coaching brings its own set of lessons. “The most challenging part is understanding each child’s individual needs. Every child learns differently, and I sometimes struggle to find the right words to communicate with them,” she explains.

Colleen is learning on the job as she is still new to teaching 4 to 6-year-olds. “Teaching martial arts to young kids involves lots of games and creative methods. I’m currently learning from other coaches and exploring better teaching methods. It’s very much a trial-and-error process. I’m grateful to work with gyms that allow me to grow, and I’m surrounded by people who offer great advice and input.”

Colleen firmly believes in staying true to herself and doing everything with passion. “Trust the process – God has a plan,” she says. “For me, success as an athlete means being able to compete long-term, keep improving, and reach higher levels. I never want to be stagnant.”

“As a coach, success is when the kids I teach are able to apply the values they have learned through martial arts in life. Personally, it’s about being able to give back to those I love – being there for them without hesitation when they need me.”

Her heartfelt advice for those just starting out in her field is, “Kids sense when you’re not genuine. Stay true to who you are, be patient with yourself and the kids. It’s okay to laugh at mistakes. It’s a learning process for both sides. Just be the person you wished you had around when you were a kid – that’s a good place to start.”

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Sharwita’s journey began with a passion for style, which led her to build a career in fashion. “Over the years, I’ve walked runways both locally and internationally, coached aspiring models, and collaborated with brands across fashion, beauty and lifestyle sectors,” she shares. “Academically, I come from a background in Business Management, but life has been my biggest teacher, shaping me through every shoot, show and challenge. Today, I’m focused on using my platform to empower others while continuing to grow as a creative force in the industry.”

“I come from a humble background in Malaysia, where culture, tradition and resilience were part of daily life. Growing up, I was taught the importance of hard work, grace under pressure and staying grounded no matter how far you go,” reflects Sharwita. These early lessons combined with big dreams, helped shape her identity — a confident woman who believes in chasing dreams fearlessly and standing tall through challenges. “Every step I take in the fashion and media world is anchored by integrity, gratitude and self-belief.”

One of Sharwita’s proudest milestones was representing Malaysia at the Cannes Film Festival twice, an international platform that not only showcased her work on a global scale but also highlighted Southeast Asian talent. Another key achievement was empowering young models through catwalk coaching, helping them build confidence and presence.

To Sharwita, success is about growth, impact, staying true to herself, and building a legacy. “If I can wake up every day doing what I love and inspire others along the way, that’s already a win. I want to feel proud of the person I see in the mirror — how I made others feel, the doors I helped open, and the standards I helped raise. If my journey inspires the next generation to believe in their worth and take up space with confidence, then I’ve done more than succeed — I’ve made my mark,” says Sharwita proudly.

“One of the most important projects in my pipeline is building a strong and sustainable foundation for the fashion industry in Malaysia. I’ve seen the raw talent we have, but I also see the need for proper guidance, platforms and international exposure,” she says excitedly. “My vision is to create a space that nurtures the next generation of fashion professionals, while also opening doors for international collaborations. I want Malaysia to be recognised not just as a market, but as a creative force. This isn’t just about fashion, it’s about building a legacy that inspires, uplifts and empowers.”

“Over the next few years, my goal is to expand my presence both locally and internationally as a mentor and creative force. I plan to elevate my fashion and runway academy to greater heights, expanding its reach, impact and visibility across Malaysia and beyond,” she shares. “I want to create more opportunities for aspiring models, especially those from diverse and underrepresented backgrounds, and provide them with the tools to succeed on international platforms.” 

“I also aim to collaborate with global fashion brands, representing Southeast Asian talent on world stages. Beyond the runway, I see myself stepping into more impactful roles whether it’s acting, brand ambassadorships or even launching my own fashion line. I’m looking forward to work with more brands in Malaysia and globally. Everything I do is driven by purpose, with the ultimate goal of building a legacy that empowers, educates and inspires through fashion and movement.”

Sharwita shares her biggest advice, “Stay true to who you are and be ready to do the work. In this industry, confidence is key—but so is discipline. Don’t rush to fit in—build your own identity. Learn the craft, stay consistent and don’t be afraid of rejection. Every ‘no’ is preparing you for a bigger ‘yes.’ Also, never compare your journey to anyone else’s. Your walk, your voice, your story – it matters. And always remember – humility and professionalism will take you further than just talent alone. Own your space, but with grace.”

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