KUALA LUMPUR: Dangdut icon and Gegar Vaganza 5 contestant Amelina reveals she was a factory girl prior to her singing career which began in the 1990s.
And she is proud of it, as it reminds her how sheer hard work and being passionate about her talent propelled her to making it in the music scene.
The 44-year-old whose real name is Norazlina Amir Sharipuddin said in an Instagram post today that she worked in electronics company TDK’s factory in Nilai, near Seremban, and this job helped her build up her confidence and taught her to be resilient.
In the post which accompanied a recent photo of her standing outside the factory, Amelina said: “25 years ago I began work as a production operator, after finishing secondary school.
“In this factory, I had many good, educational experiences which taught me to be independent and resourceful.
“I’ve never felt ashamed of being a factory girl. Work was hard, but it was good, honest work and I learnt the importance of teamwork and perseverance.
“And it was in this factory, too, that I built up confidence to become the singer and artiste that I am today.”
Amelina also said she earned RM450 a month, did not take holidays and celebrated her birthdays in the factory with colleagues.
“Even though the pay was low, I got along great with my colleagues, and did my best to help my parents and siblings with the money.
“I really miss my old pals in TDK, where are you guys now?" she said.
Netizens praised Amelina for remembering her humble beginnings and sharing her story with them.
“I worked in a factory too, in the power supply department. Thanks for sharing Kak,” said Ziana.
“I was in the Alps factory nearby. I always saw you leaving your premises back then,” said Along.
“Perhaps you can pay tribute to your days as a factory girl with a new single,” suggested Mohamad.
Amelina who hails from Nilai, launched her self-titled debut album in 1994.
She has three studio albums to her credit, and won her first major award, Best Traditional Pop Album (Asyik) at the Anugerah Industri Muzik 1997.