SHAH ALAM: After nine weeks of performance battles, Zaaim Abdullah who is also Siti Nordiana’s protege has been crowned the winner of reality programme Mentor 7 which was held at Sri Pentas 2, Plaza Alam Sentral here, last night.
The 28-year-old from Alor Star who had put his job as a server at a fast food restaurant on hold, also drove home a brand new ride worth RM70,000 sponsored by Aerocar and RM80,000 cash prize, as well as a trophy.
“To become a singer has long been a dream of mine. I can’t describe how I feel right now, I’m just so happy,” said Zaaim moments after winning the top spot.
It was a stiff competition with all four finalists giving their best throughout the two-hour final showdown which was broadcast live on TV3, but Zaaim won over the judges and got their votes with his rendition of Bukan Rayuan Gombal by Judika.
His duet performance with Lan Solo for the song Gemuruh by Awie and Amy Search, also charmed the audience.
“His win is well-deserved as he worked really hard to get to the finals,” said Siti Nordiana.
Pasya or his full name Faizul Ashraf Fauzi who is singer-songwriter Aizat Amdan’s protege came in second. He walked away with RM40,000 cash prize and a trophy.
Third spot went to Selangorian Muhammad Azmirul Hafiz Azman. The protege of Hafiz Suip, the 24-year-old received RM20,000 cash prize and a trophy.
Farranisha Shazwany Mohd Faizul, 18, from Sabah whose mentor was Datuk Syafinaz Selamat, finished fourth and took home RM10,000 as well as a trophy.
The judges were singer Mas Idayu and composer Datuk Wah Idris.
The contestants were scored based on points awarded by the judges (50 per cent), 30 per cent online votes and 20 per cent from a semi-professional jury.
The show was hosted by Nana Mahazan and Shuk Sahar.