One of TV3 and TV9’s Syukur Selalu brand ambassadors, Hafidz Roshdi rises above controversies by counting his blessings, writes Tahir Alhamzah
His name may not ring a bell, but Hafidz Roshdi found himself embroiled in social media controversies recently.
As they say, any publicity is good publicity, and the goings-on for the 22-year-old actor, both personally and professionally, have kept him in the news.
Hafidz rose to prominence when he landed a starring role in the TV3’s drama Tundukkan Playboy Itu last April.
His heroine for the drama, actress Uqasha Senrose caused an uproar in social media after she expressed her dissatisfaction when it was reported that Hafidz’s then-fiancee was jealous about her acting with him.
When the actor tied the knot with Nurul Suhada Mat Shukri last May, netizens once again got excited over the surprise wedding. After all, Hafidz was previously quoted as saying that he had no plans to settle down anytime soon as his then-fiancee was still studying. The excitement got out of control and some even ridiculed the newlyweds.
“Thankfully, we have since gone past caring about what others have to say. My wife too has got used to the part and parcel of my life as an actor,” says the obviously blissfully married Hafidz.
According to him, besides focusing on their new life together, his wife is also busy focusing on her studies.
One may think the controversies have ended with the wedding. But lo and behold, three days later, a fake Instagram account of his wife emerged.
“She doesn’t have one. When I found out about it, I messaged the account holder, who claimed to be her fan. He later changed it into a fan club account of her,” says Hafidz, who admits that it is rather odd since his wife is not even a celebrity.
“Right now, there’s nothing much I can do. I will continue to monitor the account and if he steps out of line, I won’t think twice about taking action.
“The photos posted on the account did not come from us. He may have taken them from my social media accounts or from other people’s. But as long as there is no funny business, I will just let things be,” says Hafidz, who has taken some time off this Ramadan.
“I’m taking the opportunity of the fasting month to rest. Since getting married, I’ve been busy filming. As this is our first Ramadan together, I’d like to spend more time with her.”
They spent the first week of Ramadan with his family in Shah Alam.
Nevertheless, he is not totally off the entertainment scene radar. As one of the seven brand ambassadors for TV3 and TV9 for its festive season campaign, Syukur Selalu, Hafidz has activities lined up.
This is an annual brand campaign where Media Prima Television Networks (MPTN) puts forward content via a multitude of integrated platforms to amplify the spirit of Ramadan and Syawal.
“I’m grateful for all the blessings thus far. I’m glad that via this campaign, I can join various programmes such as the meet-the-fans sessions at Bazar Syukur Selalu and Jom Masjid events, as well as visiting various orphanages,” says Hafidz who is also the brand ambassador for Maria Miracle, a food supplement health product.
MPTN aims to present an opportunity for brands to connect and engage with its audience.
Last year’s campaign commanded over 80 per cent of the Malay TV viewers, together with a widespread digital, social and on-ground engagements.
It has also established a unique collaboration with Fraser & Neave Holdings Bhd as its official partner for the campaign.
This year’s edition of the campaign jingle, Syukur Selalu, is performed by Dayang Nurfaizah and Black. Its music video features all the ambassadors including Fasha Sandha, Janna Nick, Fattah Amin, Amar Asyraf, Raja Afiq and Uqasha Senrose.
After Raya, fans can catch Hafidz in the theatre production of Lela Manja at Istana Budaya. He plays Raja Muda, alongside Nabila Huda, Aeril Zafrel and Syazwan Zulkifli. The production is directed by Ramli Lani.