TENGKU Iskhan Shah Tengku Haidar has never been known to sing, despite being recognised as one of the country’s versatile actors.
However, the 38-year-old award-winner, better known as Que Haidar, is taking the plunge with his debut single, Kisah Cinta, a poignant tune dedicated to his No. 1 fan — his father Tengku Haidar Tengku Daud, who died at 69 in 2001.
“Kisah Cinta isn’t strictly about me missing my father.
“I also dedicate it to my mother, siblings, wife and two daughters because I love them,” said Que during the single’s launch at No Black Tie in Kuala Lumpur (KL) recently.
Describing his father as his teacher, Que credited Tengku Haidar for instilling in him a thirst for knowledge.
“My father passed away at home. Before that, he was always in the pink of health.
“Even though 16 years have passed, I still remember that day and mourn his loss.”
Que came up with Kisah Cinta’s melody last year during a journey between KL and Ipoh with a friend.
He subsequently penned the lyrics with the help of a friend, lyricist Ana Pena, and decided to have his Akademi Fantasia 2015 student Syamel Fodzly sing the song.
However, Que’s family members and friends persuaded him to sing it instead.
“They said since the song is my labour of love, I would be the best person to sing it and it would be good for me to try something new.”
Que admitted that he was “no singer” and merely attended a few singing lessons conducted by vocal instructor Siti Hajar Ismail, while studying performing arts at the National Arts, Culture and Heritage Academy (Aswara) between 1997 and 2001.
“I recorded the song within a day, with help from Along of Exists, who arranged the music.”
He said the tune was accompanied by a string quartet, a percussionist and a guitarist.
The song is supported by Ikatan Seni Komuniti Anak Felda (ISKAF), of which he is a member.
Que is also an arts lecturer at the non-governmental organisation, which promotes performing arts among youths in Felda settlements.
He said he was still an actor, but was more selective with television and film roles now.
That said, the talented actor hoped that Kisah Cinta could be made into a theme song for a suitable film, or TV drama.
So is Que serious about starting a singing career?
“I can’t answer that question, as this is a one-off project in memory of my father.
“I will send it to major radio stations and if fans’ feedback is strong, I may consider recording more songs,” said Que, who is married to choreographer Linda Jasmine Hashim.
They have their own fashion brand, The Haidars, and the couple have managed a Ramadan stall at the Bangsar Shopping Centre for the last six years.