Malaysia-based magician goes far on reality talent show
PETALING JAYA: He is thankful for the love and support he has received from Malaysians who have been following his journey on
Asia’s Got Talent.
“Since I came here, Malaysians have been very welcoming. This is my new home. I’m very proud to represent Malaysia in Asia’s Got Talent,” said Sobhi Shaker.
Shobi is a Syrian magician who specialises in card tricks. Now based in Malaysia, the 24-year-old is one of nine finalists on the reality talent show competition.
He now stands a chance to win the grand prize of US$100,000 (RM408,000).
“I don’t know how to describe my happiness. When I woke up this morning, I still couldn’t believe it.
“I need someone to pinch me so that I know I’m not dreaming,” he said in a phone interview from Singapore.
Sobhi performed in the grand finals of
Asia’s Got Talent on Thursday night in front of judges David Foster, Anggun and Jay Park at Marina Bay Sands.
He showcased a meaningful card trick, inspired by his life story as a Syrian who had to leave his home country to escape the war.
“For my act, I had a concept where I wanted to deliver this message of hope through my struggles.
“In this world, there is pain, poverty and war. I want the audience to know that as long as we have love for each other, we can always hope for happiness,” he said.
Sobhi added that he was proud of his struggles because “they made me who I am today”.
He said his family in Syria cried when they heard the good news.
“My parents and two siblings said I have made them proud,” he said.
The former professional footballer’s family moved him to Malaysia in 2015.
Currently, he works as a supervisor at a restaurant in Shah Alam.
Music producer Foster was moved by Sobhi’s performance, saying his message of hope was “profound”.
Indonesian singing sensation Anggun said more performers like Sobhi were needed to help convey a message of peace and love in the world.
The public can vote to decide on the winner.
Voting opens from now until 11.59pm on Dec 13. Fans can vote via Facebook Hashtag, Facebook Messenger and Google Search.
Vote for Sobhi Shaker with the hashtag #AGTVote23. For more information on voting, visit www.AXN-Asia.com/AGTVote.