Adik Waniey Says Limited Performance Opportunities in Kelantan Once Made Her Consider Quitting Music
KUALA LUMPUR, July 3 — Singer Adik Waniey has revealed that the limited opportunities available to female performers in Kelantan once pushed her to consider leaving the music industry in search of a more stable source of income.
The 35-year-old singer, whose real name is Azmahirwani Nordin, said restrictions governing public performances by female singers in the state have significantly reduced the number of engagements she receives in her home state.
Speaking to reporters during a press conference for the upcoming Kelate Ke KL 2026 concert, Waniey admitted that she currently receives almost no performance invitations from Kelantan and instead relies on bookings from other parts of the country.
According to her, the guidelines introduced by the Kelantan state government have made it increasingly difficult for female singers to sustain a career locally.
She said the lack of opportunities has, at times, left her questioning whether she should continue pursuing music professionally.
Waniey disclosed that she had seriously contemplated giving up singing altogether, especially after facing criticism on social media where some internet users labelled her as an artist who was no longer in demand.
She said such comments were discouraging, particularly when they overlooked the reality that the shortage of performances in Kelantan was largely influenced by existing regulations rather than a lack of public support.
Despite those challenges, Waniey has continued building alternative sources of income while remaining active in the entertainment industry whenever opportunities arise.
She explained that in addition to performing, she works as a TikTok livestream host involved in product marketing and promotional activities.
The singer also helps manage an event management business with her husband, providing professional sound system services for various functions and events.
Waniey said those ventures have allowed her to maintain financial stability during periods when singing engagements are limited.
She acknowledged that she had previously considered relocating to Kuala Lumpur to expand her music career and improve her chances of securing more performances.
However, after weighing the decision carefully, she chose to remain in Kelantan because the family business they had established there had already achieved a stable footing.
According to Waniey, relocating would have required sacrificing a business that continues to provide a dependable source of income for her family.
Earlier, the singer expressed her excitement over being selected to perform at the Kelate Ke KL 2026 concert, describing the event as a valuable opportunity to reconnect with fans and showcase Kelantan-born talent on a larger stage.
Scheduled to take place on August 29 at Zepp Kuala Lumpur, the concert will feature several well-known artistes from Kelantan, including Eda Ezrin, Den Manjo, Rosalinda, Man Khan, Fendi Kenali and Aris Kapilla.
For Waniey, the concert represents more than just another performance, but also an opportunity for Kelantan’s singers—particularly female artistes—to reach wider audiences beyond their home state.
