Family Man

Can you introduce yourself?
My name is Zul. I’m working as a technician in the semiconductor industry, but my hobbies are more towards the arts. I love to draw actually. But I’m kind of busy with work and will soon be getting married to my partner Shereen, so I’ve been too exhausted to draw much lately.

Congrats, that’s so exciting! Let’s talk about your hobby first—when did you realise that you like to draw?
I started learning how to draw around primary 3, but it wasn’t a consistent hobby. Eventually, I found myself returning to it whenever I felt like something was missing in my life, and I’ve kept it up ever since. It’s like therapy for me.

What do you usually like to draw?
I’ve always wanted to draw portraits but I’m bad at it, so I do more stippling instead because it’s easy and dark, so it hides all of your mistakes (laughs).

We also heard you have your own clothing brand—tell us a bit about that.
Yes, but I’m moving slowly with it right now. I’ve been thinking about how local brands have become too modern. I grew up in the skate and hardcore scene, and I want to bring that kind of vibe back. That’s why I keep my designs quite simple. They’re just elevated basics. Supreme and Palace are my go-to brands, and my brand is inspired by them too.

Yeah, we often draw inspiration from the things we love and consume most too. Do you shop a lot?
I don’t really shop a lot because the skate scene is quite simple and I like simple things.

Do you skate then?
Used to. I stopped because I’ve got two kids now aged six and five, and I don’t intend to injure myself for their sake (laughs).

Precious! Have you learned anything about yourself or about life since becoming a dad?
I’ve never really thought of it, but I guess being a dad teaches you a lot like how to show love and be strong. You have to put up a really strong front in front of them because they’re so innocent, especially when you’re handling all the bullshit life throws at you.

Is there anything in particular that you hope your kids will remember as they grow up?
That having their dad as their best friend is okay. I try to be very close with them. I bring them out and talk to them all the time. Honestly I’m very clingy—I just want them to know that they will always have a best friend in me.

Aww, that’s so sweet! What do you usually do with your kids?
I bring them to new places and events like Baybeats to expose them to new music and experiences. My son is great at drawing too. I don’t really let them use phones—I give them paper and pens instead. I try to avoid screen time.

Do you then also avoid using your phone in front of them?
Yeah, when I’m with them, I try my best not to use my phone. I only start using it after they’ve gone to sleep. I make a conscious effort to avoid it because kids pick up on everything—they reflect and imitate what you do. I want to do my best to be a good role model for them.

One last question, what are your hopes or goals for next year?
My only goal is to pass my property exam so that I can maybe make a career switch. It’s a difficult exam and it’s only held every three to four months. It’s on a first come, first served basis, so it’s really difficult to even get a slot to take the exam. I missed the previous one so I have to wait till March 2026 for the next opening!