Mum ensures Internet fame won't spoil child 'reporter'

 

Muhammad Haziq Mohd Asyraf answering questions in an interview at his home in Sungai Petani recently. - BERNAMA PIC

SUNGAI PETANI: Muhammad Haziq Mohd Asyraf, 12, became a social media sensation when his video reporting the discovery of a python in Bukit Selambau went viral.

His mother, Nur Shakilla Zainol, 33, however, was keeping things in check to ensure that his popularity would not get in the way of his studies.

Nur Shakilla said she made sure Haziq's online activities would not overwhelm the child, and so far, she had rejected more than 20 requests from individuals and companies for her son to do product reviews.

"I have to reject them, informing them that my son is unwell or has to go to school. Haziq did not protest when I turned down the requests," she said recently.

If there was a true interest to take part in any of the programmes, she said Haziq would have agree to it and she would not force her son to accept an invitation.

Nur Shakilla said she hoped her son would choose the right path while pursuing his interest, adding that she would not pressure him to decide on things.

SK Bukit Selambau headmaster Subberi Salleh said the school would want him to excel in his studies.

He urged people not to take advantage of the boy as he was worried that Haziq's studies would be affected.

"The school has no problem with Haziq wanting to attend any invitation, so long as he does not neglect his studies. We will also monitor things as what we do is for Haziq's future. Those who wish to have Haziq on their programmes should find a suitable time that will neither affect his studies nor health," said Subberi.

Haziq had also interviewed Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri recently, asking about various matters, like the prime minister's favourite meals and day-to-day routine. - NST