KUALA LUMPUR: Singer and actor Noki recently opened up about a rebellious phase during his school days that made him miss out on the full student experience.
The K-Clique member, whose real name is Ahmad Ikhwan Aji, 31, said that his attitude began to change during primary school following an incident that left a deep impression on him.
“I started rebelling after being accused of a crime I didn’t commit.
“In Year 6, a radio was broken, and I was blamed for it, to the point where I cried. Since then, I fought back and became a naughty student.”
He left school after Form Two, regrettably missing pivotal moments such as celebrating graduation with his peers.
“When I look back, I regret not being able to experience the beautiful moments of my school days.
“I didn’t get to experience the moment when SPM students signed their shirts or celebrated their graduation after finishing their exams. I only have a Ujian Pencapain Sekolah Rendah certificate,” he told BH Online.
Noki added that his experiences after leaving school provided him with invaluable life lessons.
“I learned a lot through life on the streets — not to brag about, but to use as a lesson and a warning.”
He stressed the importance of knowledge, saying, “Islam also demands that we gain knowledge.”
Admitting he went through a difficult period after quitting school, Noki eventually went to live on his own and initially lacked direction.
“What parent wouldn’t be angry when their child decided to quit school? At that time, I was young and thought about living on my own.”
He described sleeping in cyber cafes and begging restaurants for food.
“When I look back, I really feel sorry for disappointing my parents. But I don’t tell this story with pride, but as a lesson,” he added, grateful that he has now matured.
Noki will star in “Dorm 403”, directed by Raja Mukhriz, and which features Zairi Aziz, Muaz Zabir and Nik Rifaie.
The TV3 drama explores the dark side of boarding school life, featuring elements of love, revenge, betrayal, secrets and tragedy.
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