SHAH ALAM: Singer Zaki Yamani remains unfazed by comments from certain netizens questioning his financial standing; instead, he asserts that he has been earning his own income since the age of 13.
Zaki—whose full name is Ahmad Zaki Yamani Jamal Ubaidillah, 20—claims to work hard to cover his own financial commitments, without relying on his father or anyone else.
"In my view, we shouldn't belittle others. Those who have supported me from the start know how hard I work.
"I don't use my father's money or anyone else's. I work to pay for my own commitments. Only those close to me know this," he said in a recent Berita Harian report.
Zaki was addressing comments made by netizens during a social media live stream, where they suggested that his close friend, singer Azeva, should look for a wealthy man.
Zaki, who is the son of legendary singer Datuk Jamal Abdillah, said he accepts such public comments and jokes with an open mind, as these individuals are unaware of his financial obligations.
"I don't care what people say, because they aren't the ones paying for my house, car, or other bills. I've been working since I was 13, and I'm now nearly 21.
"Perhaps they aren't used to seeing young people working to cover their own expenses," he remarked.
Zaki added that his experience working from a young age has taught him how to manage his finances effectively to secure his future.
He further noted that while some might assume he has no savings, he is, in fact, actively focused on long-term financial planning.
"Many might think I don't have any savings, but the truth is, I am thinking about the future.
"My mother is one of the people who constantly reminds me to save money. I also learned from my father that we need to have savings for the future.
"I want to buy a house and run a business. As young people, we shouldn't be too extravagant. My principle is to save 70 per cent of my earnings and spend only 30 per cent," he said.
Commenting on his relationship with Azeva, Zaki described the singer as a disciplined individual who is adept at generating income through business.
He added that their close relationship has allowed them to understand each other's personalities and life goals, though they remain just good friends.
"Azeva and I are indeed very close, and we know quite a bit about one another. Nevertheless, we remain good friends.
"Azeva is disciplined, skilled at generating income, and has a knack for business. That is one of the reasons I enjoy her company.
"When I befriend someone, I look at what they are doing for their future," he said.
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