The singer is getting used to married life and is adapting well to his wife’s Chinese heritage, writes Bibi Nurshuhada Ramli
Marrying into a family of a different ethnicity can sometimes take getting used to, but for singer Hazama Azmi, his Chinese in-laws have been nothing but welcoming.
Having tied the knot with Genervie Kam on Jan 15, he and his violinist wife celebrated their first Chinese New Year as a married couple recently.
To welcome Hazama into the family, Kam’s relatives held a traditional tea ceremony, where he was officially introduced to every family member.
“In previous years, I felt awkward when I celebrated the festival with her family, but this time, they took me in as one of their own.
“I used to receive ang pows, but this year, I was the one giving them out. I no longer feel like an outsider, so it has been extra special for me.”
Previously a Christian, Kam converted to Islam in mid-2016 as a surprise to Hazama.
“As her husband, I’m ready to teach her more about Islam, especially when the situation calls for it. She’s very open to learning.”
Kam’s family has also been very understanding about the religion’s do’s and don’ts.
“They specially prepared a separate halal dish only for me.
“Another instance was when they checked with me beforehand to see if I had a problem with them reciting a religious prayer.
“They have been careful and respectful in that sense, so I’m very thankful.”
As a public figure, Hazama cannot run away from criticism or judgment. He had told Kam to brace herself for such things and to just ignore whatever negativity that comes her way.
The next step in the couple’s life is to have a child, and Hazama says the sooner, the better.
“I am 33 and Gen is 37, so we shouldn’t delay it. Please pray for us.”
The couple have yet to go on their honeymoon, which for them is not that important at the moment.
“We can have our honeymoon wherever and whenever we want later.”
Meanwhile, Hazama will be busy with singing talent search, Mentor Milenia, which airs on TV3 every Sunday at 9pm.
“My protégé (Muhammad Fareez Hazwan) won the previous season, so I don’t know if I can maintain such success since the show’s format is a little different this year.
“Still, I hope to at least reach the finals. We’ll give our all and fight to the end.”