Taufik Batisah || Singapore's rising star

Taufik and Harmuni

2005-08-08T20:33:00.000+08:00

I wouldn't have known abt this ad that launched today on Suria channel if Raz hadn't sms-ed me abt it. If u haven't had the chance to catch this ad, erm, it's in Malay, I could try to translate it but.... gimme time k. I never did well in Malay class so yea.

Btw does any1 knw how to put in subtitles into a wmv vid? If any1 knws of any program that's free n can do that, pls tell me alrite? Wanna put subtitles into the short Harmuni ad eh. Thx in advance if any1 knws:)

Click play to view the short ad in Malay!

You may also download it here.

I haven't been blogging but I'm not really back nw. I still gotta work on National Day tmr! No half day somemore. Sobz! Hmm shd I wear red n white tmr to work? Haha. Happy holidays to you all!

"Reach Out For The Skies" MTV

2005-07-02T07:12:00.000+08:00

An all New NDP 2005 Theme Song was launched! This year's theme song was written to reflect our nation's commitment towards building a better future.

To further highlight this commitment, the Theme Song will be sung by two of Singapore's rising stars, Taufik Batisah and Rui En.

Click HERE to see Reach Out for the skies MTV.
Click HERE if you want to save the video.

The Mandarin version is sung entirely by Rui En.

Source: http://www.ndp.org.sg/index.jsp

Get Down On It VIDEO

2005-04-28T15:40:00.000+08:00

Taufik didn't sing this song with his fellow Singapore Idol finalists Christopher Michael Lee, Daphne Khoo, Jeassea K Thyidor & Leandra Veronica Rasiah @ Muzika Ekstravaganza. Instead Malaysia's Akademi Fantasia 1 winner, Vince Chong, performed this song with them.

Click to download VIDEO.

Available for a limited number of downloads only.

MP3s from Muzika Ekstravaganza

2005-04-28T15:32:00.000+08:00

Available for a limited number of downloads only.

Taufik

1) My Boo
2) Let's Stay Together
3) Sinaran

Christopher, Daphne, Jeassea, Leandra, Vince

1) Get Down On It

Muzika Ekstravaganza - SINARAN

2005-04-28T01:21:00.000+08:00

I have re-uploaded this video.
Click to download.
The file will be available for a limited number of downloads.
I've only uploaded this video from Muzika Ekstravaganza cus it's not up on the official website. The rest can be downloaded from Taufik's official website.

Muzika Ekstravaganza - some images for My Boo

2005-04-25T08:07:00.000+08:00

"Muzika Ekstravaganza" concert brings Singaporeans and Malaysians together

2005-04-25T07:50:00.000+08:00

By Wong Siew Ying, Channel NewsAsia

SINGAPORE : The leaders of Singapore and Malaysia have given high praise to a landmark concert organised by MediaCorp and Radio Television Malaysia.

The information ministers of both countries said Muzika Ekstravaganza had brought the people of both countries closer, and created opportunities for collaboration.

It was the first of a musical series jointly produced by both sides after an eight-year break.

Singapore Idol Taufik Batisah was the toast of both information ministers who watched the concert on Saturday.

The musical, a revamp of the "Rampaisari" concerts of old, featured the music and talents of Singapore and Malaysia and was telecast 'live' simultaneously on MediaCorp's Suria channel and RTM's TV1.

And fans won't have to wait another eight years for the next installment -- another concert will be held in Kuala Lumpur in six months.

The concert was described as a unique opportunity to enhance people-to-people relations and to create an additional cultural bridge between both countries, particularly as TV has the power to reach millions of households.

Said Singapore's Information, Communications and the Arts Minister Lee Boon Yang, "TV is a very powerful medium. The messages that TV sends out right to the homes of millions of Malaysians, millions of Singaporeans can have a very powerful impact.

"So through TV, through entertaining the audience watching TV, we can deliver very important messages. We can set the stage, we can influence the minds of people so that we can create a new mood to reflect this very friendly, very warm and very fruitful relationship between the two countries."

Malaysian Minister for Information Abdul Kadir Sheikh Fadzir said, "I'm sure more frequent events like these will be very good for both our countries and people."

Such tie ups between the two countries' national broadcasters will pave the way for future cooperation to tap wider market opportunities in the media industries, as well as in content development.

MediaCorp and RTM will also be co-producing two drama serials, one in Mandarin and the other in Malay.

While the scripts are still being worked out, those behind the programme hinted that one of them could be a romantic comedy.

Source: http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/144260/1/.html

Bridging ties through music

2005-04-25T07:46:00.000+08:00

SINGAPORE: Malaysia and Singapore showcased their top talents in a musical attempt to warm diplomatic ties between the two countries here last night.

The Muzika Extravaganza was the result of a meeting last December between Information Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Kadir Sheikh Fadzir and the republic’s Information, Communications and Arts Minister Dr Lee Boon Yang.

Themed "Duet Between Nations", it was jointly produced by the national broadcasters of the two countries - Radio Television Malaysia and MediaCorp Singapore - through its Malay channel Suria.

Last night's musical diplomacy came after an eight-year hiatus of a twin concert between the two countries, previously called Rampaisari. The variety show began in 1980 as a platform for MediaCorp, then known as the Singapore Broadcasting Corporation, and RTM to strengthen ties

The programme was suspended in 1998 after relations between the neighbours soured.

The highlight of last night's event, televised live over the two national stations, was a duet between Malaysian Idol Jaclyn Victor and Singapore Idol Taufik Batisah.

Other Malaysian artistes who performed were Siti Nurhaliza, Dayang Nurfaizah, Francesca Peters, rap group Ruffedge and Akademi Fantasia winner Vince.

A GIFT BETWEEN FRIENDS: Dr Lee presenting Abdul Kadir a present at his office yesterday. - Bernamapic

Singapore's Gurmit Singh, who plays "Phua Chu Kang" also appeared together with other artistes such as Eka Mairina, Triple Noize, Ramli Sarip and Suhaimi Yusof.

Earlier, Abdul Kadir, who was also on a two-day visit to Singapore, paid a courtesy call on Dr Lee.

Malaysia will host next year's concert.

Source: http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2005/4/24/nation/10775019&sec=nation

Taufik, Sly to sing for free on May Day

2005-04-18T00:25:00.000+08:00

Fans of Singapore Idol Taufik Batisah and runner-up Sylvester Sim will get to watch them perform for free as part of this year's May Day celebrations.

The labour movement has invited the popular duo to sing at a carnival-cum-concert at the Esplanade's Waterfront Bay, where about 30,000 union members and their families are expected to turn up. The outdoor event is open to the general public.

At a briefing yesterday, National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) assistant secretary-general Mdm Halimah Yacob said it was important to provide avenues for homegrown talent to showcase their abilities.

Such a move, she added, was in line with the May Day theme, Creating Opportunities for More Jobs, also the labour movement's focus for this year. The message will be driven home throughout the series of activities being planned from April 29 to May 15.

Organising committee chairman Mr Seng Han Thong said: "The main concern for our workers now is job security. We see more companies restructuring and people want to know whether their job is safe. Even the public sector is outsourcing, therefore it's crucial that we continue to make strides to help enhance workers' employability."

Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong is expected to touch on such issues when he delivers his first May Day rally speech at the NTUC Centre auditorium.

On the eve of the rally, Mr Lee will launch a new NTUC youth chapter, Young NTUC, to "attract and nurture younger unionists", said NTUC president John De Payva.

May Day Awards will be given to 56 people and 11 companies at a dinner on April 29, in the presence of Trade and Industry Minister Lim Hng Kiang.

A week later, 85 outstanding workers from the electronics and engineering industries will receive the Model Workers Award from Deputy Prime Minister Professor S Jayakumar.

Manpower Minister Ng Eng Hen will accompany 600 senior citizens and children to Sentosa, while 10,000 foreign workers will enjoy a free trip to the Singapore Zoo with Health Minister Khaw Boon Wan. - Lee U-Wen

Source: http://www.todayonline.com/articles/45323.asp

MediaCorp-RTM mega-show to feature big names

2005-04-18T00:21:00.000+08:00

By Yvonne Cheong, Channel NewsAsia

SINGAPORE: It's going to be a duet between two countries, two major broadcasters and two rising stars who were crowned Idols in their home countries.

Singapore's MediaCorp TV 12's Suria and Malaysia's RTM TV1 are organising a mega-show which will feature Singapore Idol Taufik Batisah and his Malaysian counterpart Jaclyn Victor.

Artistes like Suhaimi Yusof and veteran Ramli Sarip as well as regional sensation Siti Nurhaliza will also perform in the show.

The show, titled Muzika Ekstravaganza, will be aired on Suria and RTM TV1 at 8:30pm on 23 April.

Besides the Malays, the show also hopes to reach a non-Malay and younger audience.

So, personalities like Gurmit Singh - who plays the iconic Phua Chu Kang - and four Singapore Idol finalists including Christopher Lee and Jeassea Thyidor will also be on the stage.

Suria's programming director, Mohamed Ali, said: "I think this is a fantastic opportunity for talents to meet, and when talents meet wonderful things happen. I think this Music Ekstravaganza will be one such platform."

"We're certainly hoping for an annual television event and it's our hope that our partners will host us next year in Malaysia. It is my personal wish that this will become a tradition between Suria and RTM," he added.

This is not the first time the two stations are collaborating.

Some Singaporeans and Malaysians may remember Rampaisari, the former annual show co-produced by the two broadcasting stations.

It was last held some eight years ago.

Producers promise that Muzika Ekstravaganza will be a much more elaborate and colourful show.

Suhaimi Jais, controller of EagleVision, said: "We've decided to import a lot of influence from Morocco, the Mediterranean, Bollywood, Hollywood as well as Singapore and Malaysia, so that we can improvise these elements."

Rap band Triple Noize will also be meeting their Malaysian counterparts Ruffedge during the two-hour show.

Source: http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/142647/1/.html

India's Pop Idol judge gives Taufik the thumbs-up

2005-04-09T16:12:00.000+08:00

Stumbled upon this article when I was reading through WEEKEND TODAY newspaper PG 28, APRIL 9 - 10 2005.

The Indian Idol judge, who is also a singer, is in town for a one-night concert tonight. He is SONU NIGAM.

Below is the Taufik mention:

Btw click on this banner somewhere above or below to go to the mtvasia contest for TAUFIK stuff.

Searching for Singapore's answer to Malaysia's Siti Nurhaliza

2005-04-09T01:06:00.000+08:00

I was reading PG 30 of THE STRAITS TIMES on FRIDAY APRIL 8, 2005 when I came across this article written BY LAUREL TEO. There was a Taufik mention, which I have scanned below.

Basically the article talked about how Malaysian singer Siti Nurhaliza is "one of the most beloved pop icons in her country", the Malaysian icon, and not only that, she also has an appeal broad enough to be embraced by the region, and how she helped "wipe away nationalistic feuds" between Indonesia & Malaysia recently, for the people in both countries have a common love for her.

The writer reflected and wondered if Singapore would ever produce a star like Siti and if only we could lay claim to a star embraced by millions of Asean residents.

Here is her concluding paragraphs which mentions TAUFIK:

I hope like Siti, one fine day, Taufik will also be able to hold a concert at the Royal Albert Hall in London. Let's all pray for the best for our very own Taufik Batisah.

Ask Me: Taufik

2005-04-09T00:17:00.000+08:00

Credit: nor @ the ShoutBOX

By Lennat Mak

Taufik Batisah is a blessed man. He's got talent, luck, a top-selling debut album and love from his family and fans -- everything an aspiring entertainer could wish for. After emerging tops at the first Singapore Idol competition, Taufik has been on a rollercoaster ride with his debut album Blessings. Still we managed to get Taufik to spend some time to answer questions submitted by fans on our Graffiti Wall. Here's what the first Singapore Idol has to say!

***

Taufik: "All I need now is love from my family."

What're your hopes for your debut album Blessings? -- Hui Min, Singapore

The album has exceeded my personal expectations -- it has gone double platinum! I'm grateful for all the support everyone has given me and I couldn't have hoped for a better result!

Who's your favorite American Idols winners -- Kelly, Ruben, or Fantasia and why? -- afiz, Malaysia

Kelly Clarkson, because she has proven to be able to sustain herself as an artist with her current album.

How does it feel to be so famous all of the sudden and how has fame changed you? Thanks and good luck! -- Steph, Singapore

It was a shock for me initially. But after a while, I start learning things really fast and started knowing the dos & don'ts when you are famous. I don't think I have changed much, just that I am now more conscious of myself and how I present myself to the public.

Do you remember the time when you realized that you wanted to be a singer? If yes, how old were you then? -- Zee Singapore

I was about 5. I used to dance and sing to Michael Jackson all the time. I was a huge fan!

What are the thoughts flashing through your head each time you remind yourself that you are the first Singaporean Idol? -- Nazeera, Malaysia

I don't constantly remind myself that I am the Singapore Idol. But when I do, I tell myself that I have to continue working hard to better myself.

Which international FEMALE superstars are you willing to sing or have a duet with? -- Bing Jian, Singapore

Alicia Keys 'coz besides being an amazing performer, she is also a great songwriter and I admire her for that.

What are some inspirational words would you like to say to other fellow Idol Wannabes for the next season of Singapore Idol? -- Bing Jian, Singapore

Believe in your dreams and never give up despite the criticism others may give you.

How would you describe yourself in 3 words? -- Ariesgirl89, Singapore

Tall, dark & handsome. Hahahahahah!

What do you think of local bands like Pug Jelly and Electrico? -- Hui Min, Singapore

I think they deserve credit for their musical contributions for the local music scene and much respect to that.

What is it like to be mobbed by thousands of fans when you try so hard to just spend time with your mom or friends? -- Zul, the webmaster of TaufikOnline, Singapore

It's nice to know that I am being appreciated by my fans. It just takes getting used to and I'm glad that my family & friends are understanding when we go out and I get held up by fans who want autographs.

Sales for Blessings have been pretty unbelievable! Do you think the response would be any different if you released a first album of more original (English) material instead? -- Gleam, Singapore

I hope not! I will eventually release an album with material that I have written myself and I hope that the support for that will be as amazing as Blessings or even better.

What is that one thing you do not want your fans to copy from you? -- Dumexyla, Singapore

Don't eat too much junk food!

What are the simple pleasures in your life? -- Marissa, Singapore

Eating junk food!

What qualities in a girl do you look out for? -- Liah21, Singapore

Intelligence, sense of humour, and understanding.

If you have to choose between your lover and a career which one would you choose? -- Erisa, Singapore

At this stage, my career is more important as I am just starting out. I think love can wait as I am still young. All I need now is love from my family.

Source: http://www.mtvasia.com/Feature/Askme/20050406000307/index.html

Taufik in 7-ELEVEN catalogue

2005-04-07T01:08:00.000+08:00

Just thought I'd scan this for you.

Click image to view.

Miss Singapore Universe 2005: Finals

2005-04-05T10:34:00.000+08:00

A repeat telecast will be shown on Saturday at 5.30pm on Channel 5.

Taufik's performances

Screencaps will be added gradually later on.

manja apr 2005 S$2.50

2005-04-01T20:53:00.000+08:00

Click images to view.

sensational singles!
fall in love with them!

TAUFIK BATISAH, the Singapore Idol is not only popular in Singapore, on the contrary he's already beginning to be mentioned in KL. In fact, since Taufik was announced Singapore Idol, there were already those who asked: "Who's cuter, Taufik or Zahid (champion of Akademi Fantasia 2, Malaysia's most popular reality programme)."

In KL, Zahid is hot. From stories of his arrogance with the media who accused him of treating them badly, till stories of his weight which looked like being pumped, and now constant like an air balloon.

And Taufik on the contrary, is said to have something more in order to attract fans' hearts. Not only with his appearance which is pleasant for the eyes to look at, on the contrary, his voice and his entire package which is being characterised by the media here as commercial.

Only, which is not pleasant is that already a dispute is beginning when Taufik is being shown on a printed media with pink clothes and thick make-up! Taufik has space to create a name in KL, but the first thing which he has to learn: push aside the pink clothes and that thick make-up!

Single and with far visions. Are they the bachelorettes and bachelors that you desire? In order to know it, dive into their feelings.

Taufik Batisah
23 years old

Occupation: National Service

Recreation: Skateboarding, basketball and badminton

Favorite phrase: "Learn from mistakes" and "Nobody's perfect"

Dream woman...
Polite, smart, understanding and can joke. Appearance of my desired woman - the combination of three artistes namely, Natalie Imbruglia, Siti Nurhaliza and Aishwarya Rai....(how's the product like ya?)

Dream wheels...
Ferrari 360 Modena

Most beautiful dream...
When I performed on stage at the Indoor Stadium in front of thousands of spectators... Like a dream becoming a fact!

Horrible dream....
Losing the people I love or the people who I love changed towards me.

After becoming an Idol, what do you long for...
Privacy. Sometimes I want to be alone. What more if I feel tired or my mood is not good, that's bad mood. Yet, I must be cautious because every movement of mine is being observed. However, I'm aware this is a part of the career which I chose.

Regarding Taufik...
"He sang the Bukan Kerana Nama song with his own style. With the blessings of fans and his mother he can pass the artistic world well. But one is not yet enough in order to ensure the success of an artiste. In the case that an artiste is too passionate about the horrible response of fans at the early stage, he will become restless when it comes to the release of the second and third albums. Hah... here is the determination of fate of an artiste. Here God will test the confidence of an artiste. Just look at what had happened to Whitney Houston and Michael Jackson. They have done things which is a loss and when confidence in your ownself has increasingly faded."

MUZIK EXTRAVAGANZA
SATURDAY 23Apr 8.30PM
Be entertained with a grand concert the combination of Singapore and Malaysia artistes. Siti Nurhaliza, Dayang Nurfaizah, Jaclyn, Ruffedge, Rahimah Rahim, Eka Mairina, Ramli Sarip, Hazrul Nizam, Taufik Batisah and many more artistes from these two countries will present a sensational concert.

A note from me.

2005-03-30T10:10:00.000+08:00

I've re-uploaded these High On Life performances.
#1 Taufik's Backup Against The Wall
#2 Christopher Lee & Daphne Khoo's FLY

Alternatively, you can also get #1 @ Taufik's official site, TaufikBatisah.net. And #2 @ Christopher Lee's official site, ChristopherLee.org

Anyway, I'm sure you all know this already. Taufik will be performing on TV again this SATURDAY (April 2) @ the Miss Singapore Universe 2005 Grand Finals. The show starts @ 7.30 pm on Ch 5. I usually don't watch this show but well, now we all have a reason to watch it! You wouldn't wanna miss it! Hopefully I can be at home at that time.

Anyway, as I've stated @ the ShoutBOX, I think the time has come for this blog to go off for a short hiatus/break that will take at least 2 & a half months, starting from 31st March all the way to mid June. The reason is to focus on the all important exams! But I probably will still post a bit here & there but still, for the MOST UPDATED news, do visit Razlan's TaufikBatisah.net & Jamelia's Taufik-Batisah.net =P And the Manja scans, yes I'll still put it up a day before April. Since it has been out since more than a week ago, it should be fine to put them up now since everyone who wanted to buy it probably have bought it already.

And for vid collectors/lovers, fret not. I'll still put up your requests if I got what you want but do gimme time yeah? Taufik fans, you'll soon be able to get Taufik's Singapore Idol performances @ TaufikBatisah.net Christopher Lee fans, you can head to ChristopherLee.org for everything on Chris. Both these sites are helmed by the same guy, Raz.

And Olinda fans, from 1st April onwards, Oli performances will be up. I know I'm very very late with this. But thanks for the patience.

Alrighty, if you got anything to share, you can always email me.
Study/work hard but remember to relax too once in a while!

This is not a scene at a pop concert; it is a community club's youth recruiment drive

2005-03-25T00:30:00.000+08:00

IDOL WORSHIPPERS: Screaming girls displaying photographs of Taufik at Bukit Batok Community Club.

IDOL POWER

BY PEH SHING HUEI

A DAY TO REMEMBER: A young fan meets Taufik at the community club.

IT TOOK Taufik Batisah one day to get two years' work done.

In a staggering display of celebrity pulling power, the Singapore Idol winner's guest appearance at Bukit Batok Community Club's youth recruitment drive last month attracted 420 registrations in one day.

It would normally have taken the constituency two years to sign up that many people.

"It was amazing," said Ms Tricia Lee, the ward's youth task force chairman. "We wanted something different and Taufik was perfect."

The 23-year old singer, a Bukit Batok resident, was also appointed the constituency's youth ambassador.

"I feel very honoured and I hope this will encourage the youth to take part in more grassroots activities," Taufik said of his new role.

The success of his star appearance in attracting young residents seems to have sparked a new wave of Idol fever.

Taufik is already earmarked to make another appearance, at Bukit Batok's National Day dinner, together with the competititon's first and second runners-up, Sylvester Sim and Olinda Choo.

"We had Taiwanese host and singer Zhang Di at last year's dinner," said Ms Lee, 26. "That was popular with the older folk, but I don't think it would attract the young.

With the Idols, that's our cup of tea."

Even Idol finalists who were knocked out in earlier rounds of the competition are getting invitations.

Christopher Lee was approached to judge a children's talent show in Pasir Ris last month and Daphne Khoo performed at a Telok Kurau residents' Get-Together-Fiesta a fortnight ago.

"When people knew that there would be Singapore Idols coming, they went 'wow'," said Ms Mary Goh, Telok Kurau's event coordinator.

"It is the in thing. Signapore Idol is still fresh in people's minds and young people still have a very srong interest in them. Daphne was surrounded by young autograph hunters."

17-year old Daphne, who sang three songs at the event, said: "I love to be there when the community comes together. There are lots of young people, so it's nice to know they can connect with me."

Ms Goh said she would consider getting more Idols for future family events, as it only cost "a few hundred dollars" to engage Daphne's services.

Ms Penny Low, an MP for Pasir Ris-Punggol GRC, said she was "heartened" that different role models were helping draw young people to grassroots activitites, adding that she is open to the idea of inviting Idols to her ward.

"If I know of such people in my constituency, I would be happy to show them to the community."

Source: THE STRAITS TIMES THURSDAY, MARCH 24 2005

Presenting the first music celebrity on MyStamp ...

2005-03-24T00:56:00.000+08:00

Credit: Noriah

Click image to view.

Own a special limited edition MyStamp sheet featuring Taufik at only

~ MyStamp stamp sheet includes 20 "1st Local" postage stamps
~ Available at all post offices from 28th March to 19th June 2005
~ Taufik is managed by Artiste Networks

Source: SingPost

Taufik goes solo on April 19

2005-03-22T12:04:00.000+08:00

SINGAPORE Idol Taufik Batisah will give his first solo showcase at the Kallang Theatre on April 19.

Presented by Singapore Post and Sony BMG, the one-hour show - titled An Evening With Taufik - features songs from his debut album Blessings.

Tickets to the show, which will not be for sale, can be obtained by participating in Send Your Blessings, which is a SingPost and Sony BMG joint promotion.

Tickets to the show, which will not be for sale, can be obtained by participating in Send Your Blessings, which is a SingPost and Sony BMG joint promotion.

Fans can purchase a set of four teddy bears at $60 each at the Singapore Post Centre in Eunos Road 8 and the Killiney Road Post Office till April 19.

The first 500 customers who buy a set of teddy bears will each be given a ticket to Taufik's showcase.

In addition, 100 winners from the 500 ticket-holders will be picked in a lucky draw on April 13 for a meet-and-greet session with Taufik after the show.

Alternatively, fans who purchase a copy of Blessings can take part in a lucky draw to win tickets to the event.

All contest forms, which will be found in the latest copies of Blessings, must reach Sony BMG by April 18.

Winners will be contacted after the draw.

~ An Evening With Taufik will be held at the Kallang Theatre on April 19 at 8pm.

Source: Life!Buzz The Straits Times Tuesday, March 22, 2005 PG 10

Taufik in police uniform

2005-03-21T02:52:00.000+08:00

Special THANKS to nazeera @
http://cheekycheekybambam.blogspot.com/
for allowing me to post the pictures here.

Also a SHOUT OUT to emi, hey gurl so sorry for the trouble cause this blog doesn't have ARCHIVES! I removed it a long time ago lah.

The pictures below are taken from nazeera's father's January 2005 issue of Police Life magazine.

HIGH ON LIFE LIVE CONCERT-TONIGHT

2005-03-19T10:51:00.000+08:00

Source: PG 38 WEEKEND TODAY MARCH 19 - 20 2005

SingPost presents "An Evening with Taufik"

2005-03-19T01:16:00.000+08:00

Credit: Noriah

For Immediate Release

SingPost's First Music Partnership with SONY BMG MUSIC ENTERTAINMENT and the Singapore Idol's first showcase in Singapore

Singapore, 18 March 2005 - Singapore Post (SingPost) has partnered record label, SONY BMG MUSIC ENTERTAINMENT to present "An Evening with Taufik" at the Kallang Theatre on 19 April 2005 from 8 to 9 pm. This marks SingPost's first music partnership with SONY BMG and the Singapore Idol's first showcase in Singapore.

Send Your Blessings Joint Promotion

A Send Your Blessings joint promotion between SingPost and SONY BMG will be organised as part of the showcase. Taufik fans can visit either the Singapore Post Centre or Killiney Road post offices between 28 March and 19 April 2005 to purchase a set of four teddy bears at $60 net to send to their friends, family and loved ones. Each teddy bear, signifying a blessing or warm greeting, comes with a gift-tag for customers to write a personalised message and the teddy bear will be delivered by SingPost's door-to-door delivery service to any address within Singapore of the customer's choice.

The first 500 customers to buy a set of four teddy bears will each be given a ticket to this exclusive showcase. Tickets alone will not be for sale. In addition, 100 winners from the 500 ticket-holders will be picked in a lucky draw to be conducted on 13 April 2005 for an up-close-and-personal session with Taufik after the showcase.

First Music Artiste to be featured in MyStamp

In conjunction with the music showcase, SingPost will release a special MyStamp sheet of 20 "1st Local" stamps featuring two images of Taufik. This stamp release makes him the first music artiste to be featured in MyStamp. Taufik fans and collectors will be able to purchase the Taufik MyStamp sheet from 28 March 2005 onwards at all post offices. It will be on sale while stocks last at S$15 per sheet.

"This strategic partnership between SingPost and SONY BMG is part of our continuous marketing focus to offer contemporary and delightful experiences through SingPost's extensive network and convenient services. We join Taufik, with his inaugural Blessings album, in spreading the joy of giving and receiving "blessings", and we are delighted that we are able to deliver through Speedpost these teddy-bear blessings on behalf of our customers to their family and friends. In addition, Taufik fans can look forward to adding the Taufik MyStamp Sheets to their treasured collectors' items of Taufik," said Ms Lynette Koh, Senior Director of Sales and Marketing, SingPost.

"We are excited to form this new strategic alliance with SingPost and we are always looking for interesting ways to bring music to a wider audience. This partnership provides the perfect platform for SONY BMG to showcase Taufik's immense talents on stage. We hope this will be the start of a beautiful friendship with SingPost to continue our efforts to develop artistes," said Mr Paul Khor, General Manager of Marketing, SONY BMG MUSIC ENTERTAINMENT.

- End -

About Singapore Post Limited

SingPost is a household name in Singapore with strong brand recognition. It is the dominant provider of domestic and international postal services in Singapore. It is one of the most efficient and profitable postal operators globally and offers customers a one-stop mail, logistics and retail distribution network in Singapore.

With a highly efficient mail delivery services utilising a sophisticated distribution infrastructure and advanced mail processing technology, SingPost estimates that it has achieved domestic mail market share of greater than 95 per cent. It believes that its Spring joint venture is a market leader in private cross-border business mail solutions.

About SONY BMG MUSIC ENTERTAINMENT

SONY BMG MUSIC ENTERTAINMENT is a global recorded music joint venture with a roster of current artistes that include a broad array of both local artistes and international superstar, as well as a vast catalog that comprises some of the most important recordings in history. SONY BMG MUSIC ENTERTAINMENT is 50% owned by Bertelsmann A.G. and 50% owned by Sony Corporation of America.

~~~~~~~~~~

For general information on SingPost, call 1605 toll-free
or visit www.singpost.com

Taufik's Stamps

2005-03-19T00:57:00.000+08:00

Source: Taufik-Batisah.net

Taufik will be the first to launch his own set of stamps on 28 March 2005. A sheet of 20 stamps will cost $15. In addition, the first 500 customers to buy a set of four teddy bears at S$60 will each win a ticket to an exclusive Taufik showcase on April 19. The stamps will be available at all post office.

The launch of the stamps is in conjuction to celebrate Taufik's first music concert coming on 19th April 2005. Look out for the release of these stamps which are limited edition.

Take a look at these stamps.

Purchase 4 of these bears to get a tix to Taufik's concert.

Stamps featuring Singapore Idol Taufik Batisah to go on sale end March

2005-03-19T00:40:00.000+08:00

By Ken Teh, Channel NewsAsia

SINGAPORE : Stamps featuring Singapore Idol Taufik Batisah will go on sale at the end of the month - making him the very first music artiste to be featured on Singapore stamps.

But there is a hefty price to pay for idol worship - each sheet of 20 stamps costs S$15.

In addition, as part of a joint promotion between SingPost and Sony BMG, the first 500 customers to buy a set of four teddy bears at S$60 will each win a ticket to an exclusive Taufik showcase on April 19. - CNA

Source: http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/138077/1/.html

Message from Taufik!

2005-03-18T10:21:00.000+08:00

Credit: nor @ the ShoutBOX
Source: TaufikBatisah.net - The Official Website of Taufik Batisah, the FIRST Singapore Idol!

To my dearest fans,

It's been 3 months now since the Idol competition and I must say I feel like a new born baby learning new things about this music industry. I must say I'm still adjusting to my new family which you guys are a part off and I thank you all for being with me on my journey. There will be ups and downs and I may do the right things and the wrong things but I hope you guys will stay by me for as long as God allows me to be in this music industry. Thank you for all your love, support and confidence in me and I promise I will give you guys nothing but the best from me.

Love,
Taufik

Click to view larger scan of the written message

'LIVE' & Exclusive* High On Life, Sat, Mar 19, 8pm

2005-03-18T01:27:00.000+08:00

Get high on life with your favourite celebrities such as Singapore Idol Taufik Batisah, Taiwanese singer Wang Lee Hom, Fann Wong and many more!

High On Life
'LIVE' Sat, Mar 19, 8pm

As part of our nation's anti-drug abuse campaign, your favourite celebrities will get you high on a night of powerpacked entertainment held at the MediaCorp TV Theatre!

Catch Taufik Batisah and some of the Singapore Idol finalists perform "live" together for the first time after Singapore Idol: The Final Showdown.

Click image to view.

Make a date with Singapore Idol Taufik Batisah...

and Singapore Idol finalists!

Fann Wong

Fiona Xie

Rui En

Soak in his melodious voice as popular Taiwanese singer Wang Lee Hom belts out songs from his latest album.

Celebrities Fann Wong, Rui En and Fiona Xie will also be making a special appearance at this concert.

The 'live' event will be graced by guest-of-honour Assoc Prof Ho Peng Kee, Senior Minister of State for Law and Home Affairs.

High On Life is brought to you by the National Council Against Drug Abuse and Central Narcotics Bureau in conjunction with the Anti-Drug Abuse Campaign 2005.

Source: http://ch5.mediacorptv.com/shows/specials/view/902/1/.html

Trading in his own currency

2005-03-17T11:30:00.000+08:00

SINGAPORE'S 50 Cent never wanted to be a 50 Cent rap-a-like.

Mohamed Nizar, 19, loves the rapper's music but he only joined - and won - the 50 Cent rap-alike contest organised by Universal Music in 2003 because he wanted to see his favourite rapper and Eminem live together in Tokyo.

After the experience, he was inspired to launch his hip-hop career as rapper Nthral.

"When I listen to rap, I go into my own world. For me, it's mostly the music and the attitude that comes with the music. At one point, I was like, why is everyone singing about love? So, I turned to rap."

The rapper by night is pretty ordinary by day. The second son in a family of four is an aerospace engineering student at Singapore Poly - incidentally the same school that former Usher-wannabe and now bona fide star Taufik Batisah graduated from.

He loves rap so much that even girls take a backseat. But, he points out that his parents consider education a priority.

"I was out with a girl once. There was a rap video playing on a giant screen and I stopped to watch. She had to wait for me to finish watching it," he recalled with a laugh.

"But that's me. If I don't talk about rap, it feels strange. If I do talk about it, I talk a lot.

"I'll rap until I'm 23 or 24, and if I'm still nowhere, like now, I'll stop. I do realise the importance of having a backup plan."

This Friday night, Nizar will perform at the launch party of 50 Cent's new album The Massacre at the club Rouge. But not as 50 Cent, but as Nthral.

It's certainly a step in the right direction. - Jeanine Tan

Source: TODAY THURSDAY MARCH 17, 2005 PG 41

He quits, again

2005-03-17T11:02:00.000+08:00

LOS ANGELES - American Idol dropout Mario Vazquez went on CBS' Late Show With Davd Letterman on Tuesday to give his Top 10 reasons for quitting the talent quest over the weekend. But he didn't finish that either.

His list went: "No. 10: Well, for starters, I was really, really drunk.

"No. 9: I've got my eye on the ultimate prize: Belgium Idol.

"No. 8: Yeah, my career's over, but I just saved a bundle on my car insurance.

"No. 7: After seeing Michael Jackson, maybe I don't want to be a pop star.

"No. 6: Ryan Seacrest is all hands.

"No. 5: I started liking when Ryan Seacrest was all hands.

"No. 4: Screw it - I'm quitting this, too."

He then stopped reciting and left the show, playing up his claim to incomplete fame for laughs.

Vazquez, a hot favourite to win American idol 4, officially cited "personal reasons" for quitting the talent search.

Reuters

Source: Life!Buzz The Straits Times Thursday, March 17, 2005 PG 12

GIANT POSTER: TAUFIK!

2005-03-17T06:00:00.000+08:00

Credit: Taufik-Batisah.net Gallery

Click image to enlarge.

Source: Lime Magazine MARCH 2005

Making stars of students

2005-03-16T23:57:00.000+08:00

AFTER helping one Idol reach the pinnacle of celebrity, Singapore Polytechnic is rallying its students to vote for another potential star.

Tay Yi Ning (picture), a third-year student from Singapore Polytechnic's (SP) School of Business, is a contestant in this year's Miss Singapore Universe pageant.

SP has placed a link on the first page of their website and sent emails to its staff and students with instructions on how to place votes for Tay.

Sounds familiar? It's what they did for alumnus Taufik Batisah prior to last December's Singapore Idol final.

For this year's Miss Singapore Universe pageant, the public can send SMSes to vote for the contestants, with the three receiving the most votes automatically advancing into the finals. The results of the SMS vote will be announced tomorrow, and the final will air live on April 2 on MediaCorp TV Channel 5.

Han De Long, 18, president of Temasek Polytechnic's business studies club, felt that SP's support of Tay was aimed solely at helping raise the institution's image.

"To have a school support someone in this way is weird," said Han.

"I think Singapore Polytechnic is just using (Tay's and Taufik's) popularity to publicise the school."

"This is just SP's way of supporting its students," responded Valerie Ng, 19, president of Singapore Polytechnic's school of business club.

"Every alma mater is proud of its students. It's not a case of tapping on their popularity."

Singapore Idol winner Taufik Batisah said it helped knowing his old schoolmates were behind him. "SP's support gave me the extra push and encouragement to work harder and give my best," he said.

Tay, 20, who is presently pursuing her diploma in business administration, was initially surprised when she found out about her school's support. "I wanted to keep the whole thing hush-hush initially," she said.

"But once SP put my story on its homepage, I had to be more conscious of my behaviour - people in school started to tiau (stare at) me!" - Clarence Lim

Source: PG 28 TODAY WEDNESDAY MARCH 16, 2005

Idol speculation

2005-03-16T23:10:00.000+08:00

NEW YORK - The mystery has deepened over why American Idol finalist Mario Vazquez quit the show abruptly on Sunday.

TV network Fox said he would be replaced by Nikko Smith, who didn't make it to the 12-finalist line-up last week.

Vazquez, 27, on Monday added "intuition" to his "personal" reasons for quitting.

"There were some personal areas I really needed to focus on. It was my intuition, that gut feeling everybody has... It's inexplicable," he told the New York Times.

He also ruled out the health of a family member as the trigger factor.

But Vazquez, who worked for fashion designer Vera Wang before his Idol stint, also told TV's showbiz magazine Extra: "This is not the last you hear of Mario Vazquez."

Extra said he was spotted in Las Vegas at an Alicia Keys concert last Saturday.

Meanwhile, on the Internet, fans speculated that he did not want a restrictive Idol recording contract.

Others said he did not want the world to discover any skeletons in his closet.

It is a stretch, but others are even convinced that he is due to testify in the Michael Jackson child molest case.

Vazquez's backup vocals is on a track in Jackson's 2001 Invincible album.

Source: Life!Buzz The Straits Times Wednesday, March 16, 2005 PG 2

Watch Maia Lee Sizzle and Win a $500 Travel Voucher at TalentQuest '05 Finals!

2005-03-16T03:45:00.000+08:00

Credit: Noriah

Date : 20 Mar 2005
Time : 1800 hours - 2230 hours
Venue : Singapore Conference Hall

TalentQuest '05 is a nationwide singing, songwriting, and emceeing competition. After rounds of elimination, the finalists are finally out!

The Finals are up and coming on this Sunday, 20 March, 6pm at Singapore Conference Hall. Hosted by UFM1003 DJ Lina and WKRZ DJ Jensen!

The categories include Vocal Solo, Group, Original Composition, and Emceeing. You won't believe the standard this year. It's absolutely fabulous! The competition is really up to the mark this year, which literally translates into an event not to be missed!!

What's more, there will be a guest performance by MAIA LEE! Watch her sizzle on stage!

Vote for your favourite finalist at our finals using your ticket stud, and stand a chance to win a $500 travel voucher from Chan Brothers Travel!

Support local youth talents, support an NUS event, support Maia or win a whopping $500 travel voucher. Whatever your reason may be, you can't miss our TalentQuest '05 finals! You can get your tickets at $16 each at all SISTIC outlets or SISTIC website www.sistic.com.sg.

There's only 1 week left to go, so what are you waiting for?

For more information about TalentQuest '05, do visit www.tq.com.sg

Organiser : NUS Students' Science Club
Tel: 9794 2324
Email: sci10244@nus.edu.sg
Website: www.tq.com.sg

Venue:
SCO Concert Hall
7 Shenton Way
Singapore Conference Hall, Level 1 (nearest MRT station: Tanjong Pagar MRT station)

Time: 6pm
Ticket Price: 16 dollars per ticket (inclusive of SISTIC charge)

Book your tickets online now at http://www.sistic.com.sg/SOPApp/SOPPortal/portal_proxy?uri=zcq.8!DzFGe2k0uY@px38p4l13dydc5=AzsJFM

Online voting: Play Judge

Who do you think to be the most popular tQ05 contestant? Cast your vote now. The voting is free of charge, and you stand to win attractive prizes.

Source:
http://www.tq.com.sg/index1.php
&
http://www.channelnewsasia.com/cna/cgi-bin/bizmoves/article.pl/events?id=900

X-factor, charisma 'more important' than marital status

2005-03-15T23:59:00.000+08:00

SYLVESTER Sim's almost-marriage left many wondering how it will affect his popularity.

IT'S COOL:Sylvester (pictured with Taufik) holding drinks from 7-Eleven convenience stores. The company says his near-marriage doesn't affect his work as its spokesman.

Many fans were shocked, others disappointed.

News broke last week that he and fellow Idol Maia Lee had secretly applied for a marriage licence.

Artiste Networks' Ken Lim - who manages Sly - even said that marriage could 'change his image' and might even kill his career.

But as far as endorsements go, marriage is no big deal, say several companies who use celebrities in their campaigns.

Asked if the news would affect Sly's deal as a spokesman for 7-Eleven convenience stores, its marketing manager Tan Siew Shuen replied: 'This question has not crossed our minds. This piece of news involves Sly's personal life.'

The two other brands which Sly endorses - CleverWhite and HSC Drinks - declined to comment.

But other brands, too, say that a celebrity's marital status was only a small factor, if at all, in an endorsement deal, and that they had no clause in their contracts that ruled out marriage.

Said Ms Evelyn Chiang, sales and marketing manager for Swatch, which made Taufik Batisah its first Singapore ambassador last month: 'It doesn't matter if the person is single or married. What he does need is the X-factor and charisma that can link to the brand's target market.'

Said Ms Wong Mei Ling, brand director for Tag Heuer, which has new father Allan Wu as one of its ambassadors: 'Whether the celebrity is married or not is not a criterion. What's more important is that he or she has to fit the brand spirit. Look at Brad Pitt (also a Tag Heuer ambassador). He's an icon, whether he's married or not.'

But she added: 'Sylvester's fan base may be younger. If the celebrity is idolised, it may be best for him to be single. He can feed on the fascination of fans.'

On Allan and Li Lin's hush-hush marriage in December 2003, she said it did not cause the company any disquiet. Allan has been a Tag Heuer ambassador since 2003.

'They're in love, everyone has their own way of getting married. They were unconventional. That's not bad. Allan won't lose his individuality or personality just because he's married. And neither will Li Lin.'

FAMILY PERKS

Celebrities we spoke to - both single and married - also did not perceive any bias against marriage by companies.

Said single Tay Ping Hui, a spokesman for Expressions for Men and for Tag Heuer: 'Even if I should get married, I don't think it will be an issue.'

Said Aaron Aziz, who recently became a father and who endorses skincare brand Clinique: 'Being married means you can get endorsements for other products suitable for families, like diapers or milk.'

Adrian Pang also said he has 'not lost a deal because of being married'.

And he quipped: 'If I were asked to promote my favourite brand of condoms, I would definitely consider.' - By Jill Lim with additional reporting by Sheela Narayanan.

Source: THE NEW PAPER/Tuesday, 15 Mar 2005 Page 25

Leandra to meet dad ... finally

2005-03-15T14:53:00.000+08:00

Jeanine Tan
jeanine@newstoday.com.sg

Leandra has not seen her dad for 18 years.

SINGAPORE Idol finalist Leandra Rasiah (picture) - who made her mark in the singing competition by thrilling audiences with her rendition of Michael Jackson's Ben - will next week meet her natural father for the first time.

The 18-year-old of Eurasian and African-American parentage lives with her Eurasian mother and maternal grandmother in Singapore, while her father - a member of soul group The Drifters - lives in Houston, Texas.

"I'm excited. I'll be in Houston for a month to see my dad," she told TODAY during a break from rehearsals for High On Life, an anti-drugs concert to be held on Saturday.

Leandra's fellow Idol alumni Taufik Batisah, Sylvester Sim, Olinda Cho and Daphne Khoo will also perform at the concert, which will be telecast live on MediaCorp TV Channel 5 at 8pm.

"Have you been to Houston?" Leandra asked this reporter suddenly. "No? Me neither!"

As long as she has known her father, she has communicated with him by telephone.

"When we talk, there are awkward silences sometimes. Then I'll say, 'I love you' and he'll say, 'I love you too'.

"I'm shy (about saying that in real life). Eighteen years is a long time to not see each other!"

Leandra will make the trip with her 29-year-old sister and their mother. They will meet her father's family - which includes three stepbrothers, two stepsisters and Leandra's six nieces and nephews.

"They're really looking forward to seeing me. I think I'll be able to get along with them because they would be like my friends. I'm not so sure about my dad, though," she said with a nervous laugh.

Another highlight in her life, post-Idol, is the three-year contract she signed "a couple of weeks ago" with an artiste management company.

According to Leandra, Pug Jelly's former manager Gregory Wright will manage her.

"Should I tell you this? I guess it's time," was how she broke the news.

"Hopefully, there will be an album by September," she said.

"I really want to perform at the MTV Asia Awards next year.

"I'm writing a lot of songs now. These songs are based on my life and how I can meet my dad - finally."

Source: PG 32 TODAY TUESDAY MARCH 15, 2005

Idol contestant quits

2005-03-15T13:08:00.000+08:00

NEW YORK - American Idol finalist Mario Vazquez (above), considered by some as a leading contender to win the Fox talent show, quit the show on Sunday.

He was replaced by Nikko Smith, who was ousted last Wednesday, USA Today said.

Vazquez, 27, told TV Guide that he quit to handle "personal issues with my family." But his mother said she knew of no problem involving the family and had no idea why he quit.

In a press statement, Fox cited "personal reasons" for Vazquez's decision to withdraw.

At a Fox party last week for the 12 finalists, Vazquez had praised Smith and said he was disappointed that the latter was kicked out.

Source: Life!Buzz The Straits Times Tuesday, March 15, 2005 PG 10

Sly: We're still together

2005-03-15T12:35:00.000+08:00

Sujin Thomas

THE saga continues. Singapore Idol runner-up Sylvester Sim, 22, said that while he is not about to marry finalist Maia Lee, also 22, anytime soon, they have not broken up.

PHOTO: SHINMIN WANBAO

Marriage plans for Sim and Lee have been put on hold - but not permanently.

In fact, he is not ruling out marrying her in the long-term.

In a telephone interview with Life! yesterday, he said that he was 'definitely not' keeping his distance from Lee despite adverse publicity following their marriage application.

'I can tell you that I still care for her,' he said.

Asked if marriage was possible once they have established their careers, he said with a laugh: 'It's hard to say, you'll find out.'

Last Thursday, news broke of how the couple had, on March 2, applied to get married.

After the stories came out, Sim, who was then in Taiwan, issued a statement to say the application was 'an act of impulse' made in 'a moment of weakness'.

Lee then told Life! that she and Sim had broken up over the phone just before the news broke, and were no longer together.

The break-up was for the sake of their careers, she said.

Yesterday, Sim said that he and Lee will now annul their marriage application by writing in to the Registry of Marriages 'within the next two days'.

In fact, he said, they had planned to annul the application shortly after lodging it because it had been a 'rash decision'.

They would have done so even if the newspapers had not reported on it, he said.

'After we applied for it, we felt weird already and started talking about it.' He added that he 'really can't remember' exactly when the decision was made.

The interview was arranged by Artiste Networks, which is managing Sim. Speaking from its office here, the singer sounded generally cheerful.

He did not want to elaborate on what led him and Lee to lodge their marriage application in the first place.

'It's very hard to say, lah. It's chemistry. You've got to be happy with who you're with.'

He said that he and Lee had often talked about marriage whether 'we're just joking or really sincerely saying it'.

He also spoke of his attraction to her.

'She's the kind that seldom talks much and I feel like she's one of those anti-social sorts, much like me,' he said with a laugh.

'We also realised that we have the same personality and have a lot of things in common, from music to everything else.'

He said that he had not told anyone about the marriage application, including his parents.

As to how they felt about the matter, he said that he did not know their sentiments but 'as a son, I want to say sorry to my parents for making this selfish decision'.

He added that he has since realised that marriage is a process in which his parents should be included.

Asked about Lee's ex-boyfriend, drummer Patric Ang, Sim said: 'What's in the past, we don't bring up. That's the best part of our relationship. I just love her for who she is now.'

Source: life! THE STRAITS TIMES Tuesday March 15 2005

TAUFIK in HALAL magazine

2005-03-15T09:02:00.000+08:00

Credit: Taufik-Batisah.net

Click image to view.

COVER

PG 07: COVER STORY

PG 18: Taufik goes to Bagus!

Taufik-Batisah.net

Extracts from HALAL magazine

Food for Thought

~ Taufik considers himself rather picky and not very adventurous when it comes to food.
~ He loves fast-food - or anything that's coated with batter, deep-fried and served with fries and chilli sauce on the side.
~ He doesn't mind curry, but dislikes fish heads.
~ He eats vegetables only because it's the healthy thing to do and not because he enjoys it.
~ He likes food with garlic in it.
~ Taufik can cook spaghetti, but once failed miserably when he was attempting to cook curry.
~ When he orders mee goreng, he often requests for his order to be cooked without onions, bean spouts and vegetables but with egg and meat.

Taufik is not the only one whose appetite can be likened to a growing teenager's upon seeing the excellent value-for-money spread at Bagus by Banquet. It's no wonder why.

The 23-yr-old, who had just released his debut album, Blessings to a sales figure of 30,000, is blessed with such a huge scrumptious meal that even the rest of the crew (and there were about eight of us in all) couldn't finish.

There was a good 15 main course items on the table, with about nine different kinds of beverages laid out from one end of the table to the other. Taufik just couldn't resist the spread, sliding from end to end with chopsticks and spoon poised over the table just so that he can sample just about every dish.

And the picky eater was quick when making up his mind. "I'm no fan of Japanese food, particularly sushi, but I love the beef teppanyaki, and that's because it has lots of garlic in it, and I am a garlic lover. The other Japanese dish that I don't mind having here is teriyaki chicken."

The lad doesn't like durian, but he raised disbelieving eyebrows when he actually tucked into one of Bagus by Banquet specialty - the savoury durian fried rice - quite heartily albeit after sniffing curiously at the unassuming-looking dish. Truth to be told, the accent of durian is stronger than what most would expect, all against a melange of savoury spices and flavours that the local fried rice is made of, but the R&B guy likes it.

"The strange thing about me is that I don't like the durian fruit, but I like durian ice-cream and durian puffs and all that contains durian, particularly this durian fried rice." The garlicky chicken rice also gets his thumbs up. It's no surprise that this fast-food lover warmed up to the generous fish and chips and pasta with crayfish more quickly than the other dishes.

The mummy's boy also relishes the fact Bagus by Banquet is friendly to shallow pockets and empty stomachs. Upon entrance, you are given a card, which records your purchases from the stalls that you patronize. You will only be billed upon exiting with the card.

Taufik says, "This place is quite convenient for me to patronize. It's got a good selection too, you can try something different each time."

Who knows? You might just catch Taufik having a quiet luncheon with family and friends some time soon at Bagus by Banquet. But just a gentle reminder: be polite enough to wait for him to finish up before obliging you with autographs and pictures. All right?

--------

This scribe thinks that Taufik is generally suspicious of anyone who totes a notebook and pen or tape recorder.

While chewing on chicken thigh and French fries, he relaxes and laughs disarmingly when you put away these devices, and tenses up when you write down something not quite politically correct ad verbatim, or when you retrieve a notebook that was formerly closed and hidden from sight.

And that's no surprise. Expectations (of good behaviour and professional competence) are mounting on the 23-yr-old boy who suddenly woke up to double platinum album sales for his debut, Blessings, and girls (and some middle-aged aunties) screaming his name at appearances and parties.

"I'm pretty reclusive. My room is my sanctuary; it's where I do my own thing, listen and compose my own music. I'm quiet even as a child and at school. And if you ask me, I have never been a rebellious kid."

And if it's anything that he had to sacrifice for fame, it would be his rather fierce independence.

After a series of posed smiley shots (that had incidentally launched a thousand magazines) with the collective urge and coax of the creative director and photographer, he was then allowed to express himself whichever way he wanted. He had a smirk and a come-hiker look that I incidentally loved, but one business and media savvy character suggested it might turn out 'too attitude' and thus may be 'commercially unsafe' for publishing on the cover or for a cover story.

I had nudged the marketing manager quietly saying that he's a talent who won't stay staid, that he can grow, and somewhere in him there's a budding maturity just waiting to manifest, both personally and professionally.

"Before this whole fame thing, I didn't care what I said or what I did. I've always done what I liked, what I cared to do. But I have to be a lot more careful now."

"One thing about me is that it can get scary when I bottle things up. I'm not the sort to show that I'm angry with someone or something until the last straw. I'm pretty prone to erupting. And you'd probably know after all this time on (Singapore Idol) that I'm a pretty obvious person.

You'd know immediately if I don't like you, or if I'm angry with you."

You don't need to be a psychic to know this. All you need is check his obvious reactions of disbelief and gratitude after he's been sifted off from Idol wannabes week after week during the Singapore Idol stint.

But that's no big issue with his friends, who still hang out with him over the weekend when National Service doesn't call him on duty. He's recently got himself a skateboard, too, which he's still trying to find time for because of his busy schedule. And then he launches into wanting to drive a sports car and going to a cold country just so that he could touch snow. Now that he's old enough to have a girlfriend, (he grins approvingly at this statement) Taufik said he'd probably be drawn to women who are intelligent conversationalists, understanding and 'not the sort to get flustered by the slightest thing' (this immediately excludes this throng of screaming fans, sorry girls....)

HIGH ON LIFE

2005-03-15T00:51:00.000+08:00

Credit: On TV again & Noriah & Taufik-Batisah.net

Special appearance by the Singapore Lions
Fiona Xie
Rui En
Fann Wong
Wang Lihong
Taufik & Singapore Idol finalists

'Live' Concert
19 Mar, Sat, 8 pm, Ch 5

On MEDIACORP TV Channel 5

It is part of NCADA's campaign to promote drug-free lifestyle.

The tickets to "HIGH ON LIFE" concert are strictly for invited guests and schools only.

Secondary schools and ITE which participate in NCADA's drug-free school programs are allocated a limited number of tickets, on a first-come-first served basis.

The concert will be telecast live on Channel 5 from the MediaCorp TV Theatre on 19 March from 8.00pm to 9.30pm.

Source: PG 20 TODAY TUESDAY MARCH 1, 2005

Sylvester Sim on the cover of this week's 8 DAYS.

2005-03-14T13:46:00.000+08:00

Source: TODAY MONDAY MARCH 14, 2005 PG 29

8 DAYS Issue No 753 MAR 10 - MAR 17, 2005-DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES

2005-03-14T13:30:00.000+08:00

Click images to view.

COVER: Desperate Housewives secrets spilled!

PG 20: RED ALERT

PG 23: ASIA Votes

PG 84: SEE IDOLS On YOUR PHONE!

Marriage? Career comes first

2005-03-14T13:21:00.000+08:00

Hong Xinyi

LOOKS like Sylvester Sim and Maia Lee are the only Singapore Idol contestants with marriage on their minds.

Swinging singles (from left) Leandra Rasiah, Christopher Michael Lee, Olinda Cho, Taufik Batisah, Beverly Morata and Daphne Khoo at rehearsals.

When Life! met their peers - Taufik Batisah, Leandra Rasiah, Christopher Michael Lee, Daphne Khoo, Olinda Cho and Beverly Morata - at a concert rehearsal last Saturday evening, all six not only professed shock at the Sim-Lee almost-marriage, but said they would put their careers first if caught in a similar situation.

It was reported last Thursday that Sim and Lee, both 22, had on March 2 registered to get married.

Sim subsequently issued a statement to say the marriage application was 'an act of impulse' made in 'a moment of weakness'.

When interviewed last Friday, Lee told Life! that the relationship had ended as both of them decided to concentrate on their careers.

'I was very shocked when I heard the news,' said Rasiah, 18, at a rehearsal for the upcoming anti-drug High On Live concert.

Khoo, 17, was also surprised at the news, adding that the break-up was 'a pity'.

She said: 'The relationship could have been something special.'

Morata, 26, offered a different view. She said: 'These two are crazy like that. They are very spur-of-the-moment people.'

But no one would admit that they knew the two were already in a relationship.

Lee, 19, said: 'There was so much media speculation during the competition that was not true, we didn't ask them if they were together.'

The six Idol contestants all declared that they would put career before marriage.

'For me, my career would definitely come first,' said TAUFIK, 23. 'Winning Singapore Idol is just a stepping stone, now I have to step up my game.'

And for Cho, 24, life might well be a balancing act.

'I would put my career first. You can't hide your career, but you can always hide your marriage.'

~ The High On Life Concert will air on Channel 5 on March 19 at 8pm.

Source: life! THE STRAITS TIMES Monday March 14 2005

Taufik & Sylvester Fever @ MiWorld Mobile

2005-03-14T11:32:00.000+08:00

Click image for details.

Taufik & Sylvester

2005-03-14T00:11:00.000+08:00

Credit: Lee @ the ShoutBOX.

10 autographed posters up for grabs! The top 10 users who download the most Taufik & Sylvester mobile content wins their autographed posters! Promotion ends 17 April 05.

Click image for details.

Terrific Taufik Mobile Downloads!

2005-03-13T02:26:00.000+08:00

Credit: Noriah

Stay close to Taufik with your mobile phone by downloading Call Tones, MP3 Tones, True Tones and Polyphonic Tones of the songs from his debut album 'Blessings'! And don't forget to complete your downloads with exclusive Taufik MMS Animations & Wallpapers!

Click image to view.

Source: http://www.starhub.com.sg/geefundownloads/index.html

Show will go on without him

2005-03-12T23:59:00.000+08:00

DESPITE Taufik and Sylvester being no-shows at this weekend's HSC event, the show will still go on.

Fans still have a chance to be among 10 winners who will meet the Singapore Idol and the runner-up at an up-close-and-personal session. You need only to go to Booth B25/26 at Suntec Hall 602 between 6pm and 7pm today and tomorrow with the Singapore Idol Collector's Trading Cards.

Three empty HSC bottles entitles you to redeem a trading card at the booth.

At 7.30pm on both days, the five participants with the most number of cards will be announced.

HSC is even riding on the talk of the town by setting up a poll box at the booth where fans can vote if they think Sly and Maia should stay together.

Source: http://newpaper.asia1.com.sg/top/story/0,4136,84452,00.html

FOLLOWING MARRIAGE FIASCO...

2005-03-12T23:58:00.000+08:00

Sly's meet-the-fans session at Suntec CANCELLED

By Tan Dawn Wei
dawntan@sph.com.sg

ARE the first ripples from Sylvester Sim and Maia Lee's surprise marriage plans and subsequent break-up already hitting home?

Singapore Idol rocker Sylvester was supposed to make an appearance tomorrow at Suntec City to meet fans, but the organiser decided it was unwise to do so.

Citing 'security reasons', PH Sales and Marketing - which distributes the HSC range of beverages which runner-up Sylvester and Singapore Idol Taufik Batisah endorse - decided the idols should skip the event, the Shin Min Daily News Record-Setting Carnival.

SAFETY

Said Ms Jessie Chen, PH's marketing executive: 'We're afraid the media and the fans might turn up in full force and we might not be able to handle it. We have to put our celeb spokesmen's safety above all else.'

While she conceded that the news of their secret marriage plans had an impact on the decision to cancel the appearance, the company was considering moves to call it off before that.

She cited security concerns.

'On top of that, when the news broke about Sly and Maia, we felt the situation would be worse because it would likely draw a lot more people there,' she said.

The two would have been married by next Monday after making an application at the Registry of Marriage on 2 Mar. But after news leaked about their secret plans, Sylvester issued a statement on Thursday saying it was 'an act of impulse' and 'an extremely rash decision'.

In an exclusive interview with The New Paper published yesterday, Maia claimed that not only was the marriage off, the two had also decided to go their separate ways because of pressure on Sly from his record label and management company.

Artiste Networks' artiste and repertoire director, Mr Jonathan Tan - who manages Sly - called the cancellation of Sly's appearance a 'coincidence'.

He said he was notified by HSC on Tuesday morning that the location at Suntec Convention Hall 602 was too small and not suitable for holding an autograph session.

Sly was supposed to return from Taipei today, then leave on Monday to continue preparing for his album. He has been in Taipei doing recording, image styling and photo shoots.

Now that the HSC appearance is cancelled, he will continue to stay in Taipei 'for as long as it takes to get everything done', said Mr Tan.

But the HSC event looks to be the only one affected for now. Sly's next scheduled public performance here - at the High On Life anti-drug concert for the National Council Against Drug Abuse (NCADA) - will go on as planned on 19 Mar.

It will be shown live on Channel 5 at 8pm and will involve all of the Singapore Idol finalists except Jerry Ong, David Yeo and, interestingly, Maia. The three are not available to participate.

Preparations for Sly's album are also on track, said Mr Tan. There is no exact date for the album launch yet, but Mr Tan reckons it will take more than a month to get it ready for release.

Asked how the news of his planned marriage and now breakup will impact Sly's music career, Mr Tan said fans seem to be very supportive and, as for advertisers, 'so far, everything has been rosy'.
- With additional reporting by CHANG MAY CHOON.

Source: http://newpaper.asia1.com.sg/top/story/0,4136,84452,00.html

Careers come first

2005-03-12T18:16:00.000+08:00

The marriage between Singapore Idol finalists Sylvester Sim and Maia Lee is over even before it begins

Sujin Thomas

MARRIAGE plans between Sylvester Sim and Maia Lee are off. That, at least, is what Lee told Life! in a telephone interview from Taipei yesterday afternoon.

There will be no wedding bells for Maia Lee and Sylvester Sim, and she said their relationship ended three days ago.

The Singapore Idol finalist said she has been there for a holiday with 'friends' since Thursday and will be back tomorrow.

She insisted that she was not there to be with Idol runner-up Sim, who is currently in Taipei to record his album and do publicity shoots.

'I didn't tell him I was coming and haven't gone to look him up,' said Lee, 22.

On Thursday afternoon, Shin Min Daily News broke the story of how the two had registered to get married last Wednesday.

Asked about this, Sim, also 22, issued a statement to say the marriage application was 'an act of impulse' that he made in 'a moment of weakness'.

He added: 'I realised soon after that I made an extremely rash decision. My only consolation is that I have not signed the official documents.'

Asked about this yesterday, Lee confirmed that they were no longer together.

'I don't think it's the end of the world. It's really a mutual thing and we didn't quarrel,' she said calmly.

She said they ended their relationship over the phone on Wednesday.

Sim had called her to re-evaluate their marriage plans.

Ken Lim, who runs Sim's management company, Hype Records' Artiste Networks, had called Sim earlier that day after he was alerted by a Chinese newspaper reporter about the marriage registration.

Sim and Lee decided then that their careers should come first, and called it quits.

She said she only realised that a newspaper had reported on her marriage plans after friends and family in Singapore sent SMSes to her shortly after she arrived in Taipei on Thursday.

She added that she was not aware of what Sim had told the press in his statement.

Despite the split, she said that she still loves him 'as a friend' and regretted that the whole issue had become a 'serious situation'.

'Initially I thought that people who appreciate music would not care' about their marriage plans, 'but this is Asia after all'.

'Look at Britney Spears. She can get married, annul it five hours later and people still love her for who she is.'

Her parents are supportive of her as they know that she 'can handle my own stuff'.

'They are not angry or upset at all because they understand me.'

Asked to clarify if she and Sim were merely postponing marriage plans, she replied: 'How do we put this on hold? We have to cancel it.

'To be in love is two persons' business. There's more to what the readers read.'

Source: life!

TAUFIK on cover of HALAL magazine.

2005-03-12T18:00:00.000+08:00

The Real Taufik
& his love-hate
relationship
with fame

ON SALE NOW!

Source: PG 14 SATURDAY, 12 MARCH 2005 BERITA HARIAN

Contracts don't say can't get hitched

2005-03-11T23:59:00.000+08:00

THERE are no specific clauses in their artistes' contracts that address their marital status or prevent them from getting hitched.

This was Sony BMG and Artiste Networks' response to a query by The New Paper.

They added that nobody had forced Sylvester to do anything against his wishes.

Ms Kelly Chew, managing director of Sony BMG, said: 'Sly will need to make his own decisions about his personal life as our involvement with him is only in his professional life as a recording artiste.'

LEGAL DOCUMENT

Sony BMG declined to show us the contract as it is a legal document.

The New Paper was unable to contact Singapore Idol winner Taufik Batisah to ascertain whether there is a similar clause in his contract.

Mr Ken Lim, who runs Artiste Networks, also insisted that he didn't try to influence Sylvester when they spoke over the phone about the marriage application.

He also reiterated that the company doesn't get involved in the artiste's private matters.

'We don't want to get to a stage where we end up managing their relationships, because it can be very taxing, messy and you'll have never-ending problems.

'My biggest concern is how a marriage would suddenly change his image, and how the news is received by the audience, because it could help or kill a career.

NOT READY

'Fans look at and think of him in a certain way - as someone young, not committed at this point, still searching for what he wants.'

Anyway, Mr Lim felt that Sylvester is not ready for marriage at such a tender age.

'Marriage is a commitment beyond falling in love, and not to be taken lightly.

'He hasn't even stabilised his career, and he hasn't discovered what he wants to do with his life.'

Source: http://newpaper.asia1.com.sg/top/story/0,4136,84395,00.html

SINGAPORE IDOL RUNNER-UP SYLVESTER SIM APPLIES TO MARRY IDOL CONTESTANT MAIA LEE, THEN CHANGES MIND

2005-03-11T23:58:00.000+08:00

Maia: My mind's a blank

OVER the past 48 hours, a tearful Maia Lee has been through a rollercoaster of emotions.

Anger. Frustration. Disappointment. Pain.

Not surprising, since her romance with Singapore Idol runner-up Sylvester Sim has also been a rollercoaster ride.

She told me in an exclusive interview: 'We're like Romeo and Juliet - maybe we're not meant to be.'

Not that she's contemplating killing herself over love, but that their relationship had been star-crossed since they met as rivals on Singapore Idol.

And now, resignation and regret over the marriage to Sylvester Sim that could have been - but wasn't to be.

After months of acting coy about being together, they had quietly gone to the Registry of Marriages to apply for a marriage licence on 2 Mar.

Then just as the media were tipped off about their wedding plans came another bombshell: Sylvester was pulling out, describing their application as 'an act of impulse'.

Said Maia yesterday: 'My mind's a blank. I feel lost.

'A friend is getting married today, so you can imagine how sad I am. But since Sly's so cool about it, I should also appear cool.'

-- KELVIN CHNG

Yes, they weren't even supposed to be a couple.

They were so secretive about their marriage plans that not even their family members or friends knew about it.

Even Sylvester's record label, Sony BMG, and his management company, Artiste Networks, did not know, claims Maia.

But, instead of becoming man and wife, they broke up.

Two nights ago, Sylvester and Maia dramatically ended their relationship - over the phone, no less, as he is in Taipei shooting his album cover and publicity photos.

Then he issued a statement to the media as he was not available for interviews, but didn't allude to the break-up.

The 22-year-old singer said: 'What I did was an act of impulse. At a moment of weakness, I submitted a marriage application. I realised soon after that I made an extremely rash decision. I was naive to have thought that I was ready for such a commitment.

'My only consolation is that I have not signed the official documents.'

So what started out as a six-month whirlwind romance - they got together on 22 Oct, the night she was eliminated from Singapore Idol - has ended up becoming a public nightmare.

So what sparked Sylvester's sudden change of mind? A simple case of cold feet or something more?

Maia thinks that Sylvester may have faced pressure to back out, even claiming that there was a clause in his contracts that required him to remain single.

But Sony BMG and Artist Networks clarified that there is no such clause and insisted that they don't interfere in an artiste's personal life.

But Artiste Networks director Ken Lim did say he was concerned about how marriage would affect Sylvester's image.

But he stressed that when they spoke over the phone about the marriage application, he didn't try to influence Sylvester's decision.

Mr Lim said: 'I asked him, 'Is this what you want?' and before I could ask him anything else, he told me he made a mistake.'

Maia, 22, is resigned to her fate.

'We can't save it. There's no way we can be together anymore. We have no choice but to go our separate ways,' she said.

Surely they can continue to date?

Maia - who claims that she's finding it increasingly difficult to contact him on his handphone - retorted: 'Do you think his parents... will let him after all this?'

When The New Paper contacted Sylvester's father, he declined to comment.

Although it was hard to admit, Maia felt that this episode is a 'blessing in disguise', and reiterated her ex-boyfriend's statement.

She said: 'We were both busy with our schedules, so we didn't think clearly or see the repercussions, because we never expected it to become such a big issue!

'If nobody found out, we'd probably have gone ahead with it.'

But why were they so eager to get married in the first place?

After all, both of them just turned 22 in January, and have dated for only six months.

Maia revealed they started discussing marriage in November - even before the Singapore Idol grand finals.

The single mum of a 3-year-old boy explained: 'This piece of paper means a lot to me. We thought getting married would make us feel more secure about each other.

'Because we knew we'd be going overseas a lot for our jobs, and honestly, we have some trust issues. But we were in love and cared for each other deeply. It was intense.'

Right now, Maia is keeping her private heartbreak at bay by focusing on her work - she'll be releasing her own album in June - and moving on with her life.

Source: http://newpaper.asia1.com.sg/top/story/0,4136,84396,00.html

When Sly and Maia did a Britney

2005-03-11T16:45:00.000+08:00

Jeanine Tan
jeanine@newstoday.com.sg

In a moment of weakness: Sylvester Sim with Maia Lee during the filming of a music video at Pasir Ris beach on October 18, 2004.

YES, they did apply for a marriage licence. But no, Singapore Idol runner-up Sylvester Sim and fellow finalist Maia Lee are not getting married.

A search yesterday on the Registry of Marriages website showed that on March 2 a marriage application was filed by Sim Siang Long Sylvester and Lee Zhi Ying. Both are 22 years old.

But in a written statement to the media sent through his management company Artiste Networks, Sylvester last night expressed regret over what he termed "an act of impulse".

"In a moment of weakness, I submitted a marriage application. I realised soon after that I made an extremely rash decision. I was naive to have thought I was ready for such a commitment. My only consolation is that I have not signed the documents," said the statement. He went on to apologise for any inconvenience caused.

Sylvester could not be reached for comment on his mobile phone. A representative from Artiste Networks said he is currently in Taiwan recording his debut album.

Meanwhile Maia, who is a single mother to a three-year-old son, would only say when TODAY called her: "I'm fine, I'm happy. I mean, I'm not fine, I'm not happy... I don't know, lah. I'm sorry, I have no comment."

Last October, TODAY broke the news about their budding romance, publishing photos of the pair in close contact during a music video shoot at Pasir Ris beach. The pair has always denied the rumours, even declaring in an episode of the show that there was no truth to the media reports. Further, Maia told TODAY in a later interview that her then-fiance had been unhappy upon seeing the photographs.

When contacted yesterday, owner of Artiste Networks and former Singapore Idol judge Ken Lim said: "I knew about it this morning from a reporter from the Chinese press. I felt that Sylvester was acting on impulse. "I asked him, 'How?' and he said, 'Yah' - and then he said he was going to retract the application. This is a very personal matter so I suggested that he address it on his own in a statement."

Lim, who claimed not to see the issue as a serious matter, laughed as he said: "Sylvester is basically full of surprises. His character is like that. He is a person who is quite creative and carefree, and I suppose this decision was made in the context of his character being like that."

Contrary to reports in a Chinese newspaper yesterday, Lim denied Sylvester had been warned that his three-year contract with Artiste Networks would be terminated if he got married and ended up being unpopular with fans. "Definitely, it's not true. (If he really got married), then he would just be a married singer."

Source: TODAY

Sly to marry Maia?-A SYLVESTER SIM & MAIA LEE update

2005-03-11T16:09:00.000+08:00

Sujin Thomas

ARE they really getting married, was it an impulse decision, or could this just be a publicity stunt?

Oh me, oh Maia, is this marriage thing a publicity stunt or is Sly truly in love with his fellow Singapore Idol contestant?

A check with the Registry of Marriages website shows that Singapore Idol runner-up Sylvester Sim and finalist Maia Lee, both 22, are tying the knot.

The couple registered their marriage last Wednesday as Sim Siang Long Sylvester and Lee Zhi Ying.

These names tallied with those in documents given to Life! by MediaCorp during the Singapore Idol competition last year containing information on the 12 finalists.

A clerk, known only as Miss Wu, called Shin Min Daily News on Wednesday to say that she had spotted the couple a week ago while queueing up with her boyfriend to lodge an electronic marriage application.

It was 4.30pm then, she said, and there was only one other couple in the queue.

Sim and Lee, who were both wearing caps, appeared to be in a hurry, she added. He wore a white T-shirt and black jeans while she wore a tight-fitting white top and big sunglasses.

Miss Wu noticed them only after her boyfriend pointed Sim out to her, and she then caught sight of Lee's distinctive tattoo on her arm.

A spokesman for Artiste Networks, Sim's management company, told Life! yesterday that the singer was uncontactable as he was in Taiwan recording his debut album.

A reliable source told Life! that Lee, who is a single mother of a three-year old son, is also in Taiwan at the moment.

However, in a statement to Life! through Artiste Networks yesterday, Sim said his marriage application was 'an act of impulse' that he made 'at a moment of impulse'.

He said: 'I realised soon after that I made an extremely rash decision. My only consolation is that I have not signed the official documents.'

According to information on the Registry of Marriages website, upon lodging a marriage application, a couple have to book a solemnisation date, the earliest being 21 days after that day.

If the couple then chooses to cancel the solemnisation, they will have to write officially to the registry.

Sly says in a statement that the marriage application with Maia Lee was 'an act of impulse'.

Hype Records' director Ken Lim, who was a judge at the Singapore Idol competition, said he learnt of the couple's marriage application yesterday from Chinese newspaper reporters.

'It's not surprising seeing that it's Sylvester,' he said, adding that Sim has a 'creative and carefree personality and is very instinct-based'.

However, Lim was quick to draw the line between business and personal matters.

'We do not tend to look into personal matters of our artistes. As long as you do your job, that's all that really matters,' he added.

Artiste Networks is the management arm of Hype Records.

When Life! asked the other Singapore Idol finalists about this, they were stunned.

Finalist Olinda Cho, 25, said: 'Are you serious? I'm going to check it online myself.' She said there were rumours of the couple's love affair during the competition, but added that marriage is too soon for them.

Sim and Lee grew close during the competition probably due to their similar rock attitude and image.

When she was eliminated in a later round of the finals, Sim said then that he 'felt a loss' because she was 'one of my buddies'.

On the Morning Express show on Oct 22 last year, Class 95FM deejay Glenn Ong said that he had seen the couple holding hands at the Singapore Radio Awards the day before.

He also said Sim had confirmed in front of 20 people that he was dating Lee.

When asked about this later, Sim said with a laugh: 'I feel that Glenn was just doing his job as a DJ,' implying that the deejay was merely entertaining his listeners.

It has become apparent now that they were more than just friends.

Even Singapore Idol Taufik Batisah was taken aback when told of the marriage application. 'What? You have got to be kidding me,' he said yesterday.

He added that he did not know about the couple's intentions and declined to comment on their relationship.

However, some fans said they saw this coming.

NSMan Terence Chang, 19, said he expected it after he read that Lee had broken up with her drummer-fiance Patric Ang after she met Sim.

'I'm quite happy for them. They are very compatible - one can sing and the other can dance,' he said.

However, other fans were caught off-guard. 'I thought they were just rumours. I didn't think they'll actually get married,' said law undergraduate Grace Tan, 20.

But she added: 'He's entitled to his own private life. I'll still continue to support him for his talent.'

Hype Records' Lim said: 'He has a future, I don't want him to be ruined by something like this.'

Source: life!

Fiknatic Outing - Cancelled!

2005-03-11T06:00:00.000+08:00

As copied & pasted from Razlan's post @ TaufikBatisah.net - The Official Website of Taufik Batisah, the FIRST Singapore Idol!

Hi all,

Unfortunately, the "bad" news is true. Taufik's appearance at Suntec this Saturday has been called off, and therefore there is no purpose for us to push on with Fiknatic Debut Outing. Please see below for official information from Artiste Management.

But not all hope is lost, of course! Knowing how many of us (including yours truly!) will be utterly disappointed with the turn of event, there are some things in store for us. Check out those phrases in bold in the announcement.

I will be back later to elaborate more on those.

Appearance sessions for Taufik and Sylvester at "Shin Min Daily News Record-setting Carnival" this weekend (12 and 13 March) at Suntec Hall 602 is cancelled due to security reasons.

But meanwhile, fans can still take part in the Redemption of Singapore Idol Trading Cards at Suntec Singapore Hall 602, Booth B25/26, from 11th - 13th March 2005.

This is how it works:
- Accumulate as many trading cards as possible, present them at our HSC Booth 25/26 during the time stated below, and you can stand a chance to "Get Upclose & Personal with Taufik & Sly"
- Cut-off time for "Accumulate trading cards to Stand a chance to Get Upclose & Personal with Taufik & Sly" will be between 6.00 to 7.00 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday
- There will only be 5 winners each day (total 10 winners for the 2 days)
- Each of the winner is to get a A3 poster, 1 pair of concert tickets and a tea party with Taufik & Sly

Taufik in SALAM 05

2005-03-11T00:20:00.000+08:00

Credit: Noriah

Hi,

Here's an article taken from a NUS magazine... by

'Terbitan Persatuan Bahasa Melayu Universiti Kebangsaan Singapura'
(or in English, Malay Language Publication Union National University Singapore)

: - SALAM wajah 2005 (Pg 26)

Click image to view the Malay article.

English translation:

taufik batisah

Actual Malay article By: Rabiatul Adawiya Binhan
Photographer: Asyurah Ismail

Taufik Batisah is the first Singapore Idol winner in Singapore. He has already recorded his first album titled Blessings after he won Singapore Idol. He is managed by music company Hype Records.

After winning Singapore Idol, is your life different from before?
Certainly. Now, I'm able to feel the mental and physical pressure more so when I'm busy managing recording for my album. Can say tired. Yet, what can I do, this is my dream. All this I take as an experience and I'm elated that I get to do all this. This is a dream which is clear for me.

What are your feelings getting chosen to become the face of HSC drinks and also SWATCH watches?
I feel touched because they put confidence in me to pull customers to buy their goods.

As an idol, are you more cautious with your movements and behaviour at public places?
That's already certain. I try to behave more maturely and always think ahead before I do anything.

In your life, what are the values which you find important?
I give priority to patience, trust, hard work and not giving up hope easily.

Have you felt that your win is a success for the Malay society who are always being looked down?
In my opinion, everyone is of equal standard and must believe in their own abilities. Moreover, if we try and strive to succeed, if God permits you will succeed. My win in Singapore Idol showed to all that confidence in themselves will help to achieve their dreams.

As a Singapore Idol, how can you nurture values which are good to the society?
I will try to become a good role model especially to the young men & women in Singapore and I also will help charity organisations as much as I can. Yet, all people have their respective weaknesses so I can only try to become a good example to the young men & women in Singapore.

How can you help to wipe out the opinions of many people regarding the values that have been connected with Malays like lazy and cannot succeed?
I don't agree with people's opinions in connection with Malays. There are many Malays who have already succeeded today.

Last words for those who want to achieve their dreams to become a successful singer.
Don't easily give up hope and don't allow other people's words to hinder you from achieving your dream. Be assured of your own abilities and give focus in order to achieve your dream.

Women more idolised-An American Idol 4 update

2005-03-10T10:58:00.000+08:00

THE women just do it better, if ratings for the fourth season of American Idol are anything to go by.

For the second week, the women-only episode of the competition drew more viewers then the men-only episode in America.

According to Nielsen Media Research, last week's women-only epsiode averaged 26.9 million viewers, making it the most watched show for that week. In contrast, the men-only episode, which was the fifth most watched show of last week, pulled in 23.6 million viewers.

During last year's American Idol, only four men advanced into the final 12.

So for season four, the producers made changes to the show format so that there would be an equal number of men and women in the final 12.

Whether the format changes will spawn a male winner seems questionable at this point, with the women leading the popularity stakes.

Season two winner Ruben Studdard was the only male who has ever triumphed in the competition, with Kelly Clarkson and Fantasia Barrino taking the title in season one and season three respectively.

But first, there's the question of which men and which women will make it to the final 12. Tune in at 10pm tonight on MediaCorp TV Channel 5 to find out.

Source: PG 56 TODAY THURSDAY MARCH 10, 2005

Get to know me better-A JEASSEA THYIDOR update

2005-03-08T23:16:00.000+08:00

... On TV, says S'pore Idol finalist Jeassea Thyidor

By Jeanmarie Tan
jeanm@sph.com.sg

JEASSEA Thyidor was the first contestant to be booted out of Singapore Idol.

Now, she's the first one back on TV.

Together with actor Timothy Nga (above), she'll be hosting a new infotainment series, Urban Escape, which susses out alternative, little-known hangouts in Singapore.

The 24-year-old Filipino-Canadian babe was humble about her progress.

She told The New Paper: 'It's a good feeling, but everyone's doing their own thing. Mine just happens to be on TV. I'm just happy being busy.'

The show has taken Jeassea to places like Kranji, Punggol and Pulau Ubin.

But more importantly, she hopes it will give audiences a chance to get to know the 'casual, silly, spontaneous' side of her personality.

She said: 'I was eliminated so early. This allows people to become more familiar with me, so that I can build a platform and pursue a singing career later.

'Even if I put a CD out now, it won't sell if people don't know who I am.'

Next up for Jeassea is the National Council Against Drug Abuse (NCADA) anti-drug concert, High On Life, which will be shown live on Channel 5 on 19 Mar at 8pm.

She'll then be honing her acting chops in a drama starring some Singapore Idol alumni, which airs in June.

She said: 'I have no script, no info. All I know is that it's set in a CD shop.'

Although Jeassea has no management agency and zero hosting experience, she still scored the Urban Escape gig based on a friend's recommendation, calling it a 'lucky shot'.

But others are speculating there's more than luck involved.

A source blabbed that Jeassea is so ambitious she panders to industry people whom she thinks can help further her career.

In fact, a few days after Taufik Batisah won Singapore Idol and Sylvester Sim emerged runner-up, she was spotted flirting openly with them at a party.

But Jeassea insisted she's no 'suck-up'.

'When it comes to creative expression, I will go to an extent and won't be shy to ask for help. But there's definitely a limit (to my ambition).'

~ Urban Escape premieres over Channel 5 tomorrow at 7.30pm.

Source: http://newpaper.asia1.com.sg/hey/story/0,4136,84255,00.html

A DAPHNE KHOO update

2005-03-08T09:40:00.000+08:00

Source: PG 30 TODAY TUESDAY MARCH 8, 2005

The dream is alive-A CHRISTOPHER LEE update

2005-03-07T13:31:00.000+08:00

'Chrissypoo' to be pop singer ... or engineer?

Yong Shu Chiang
shuchiang@newstoday.com.sg

HE MIGHT not have gone all the way in Singapore Idol, but the sixth person to be knocked out of the talent contest last October has learnt a lot from his first stab at fame.

"I told my mum, 'This is something I might really want to do'," said Christopher Lee, who completed his National Service recently. The 22-year-old, dubbed by his fans as "Chrissypoo" - a nickname he now professes to be tired of - is contemplating his next move.

Will it be university, where he might study engineering, or will it be stardom? CHRISTOPHER will delay his studies if need be, but a career in engineering is an alternative he will consider.

"It's a relief (National Service) is done, but it's scary because I have to think about what to do next," he told TODAY recently. "I'm still looking for projects (to allow me) to learn more about the industry, to see if it's a viable thing to do. There's nothing better than learning first hand, in the real world."

Prior to joining Idol, CHRISTOPHER was self-conscious about performing.

"Idol didn't only give me a taste of what to expect (from a pop career)," he said. "It challenged me to break out of a shell, to get out there and express myself on stage."

He has also learned not to stray from his strengths. The tenor with a semi-classical style said that trying to adapt to an unfamiliar approach was his downfall in Idol. He was overmatched by contestants - Taufik Batisah, the eventual Idol winner, for example - who were more comfortable with singing pop.

Now, CHRISTOPHER is fielding offers for private gigs and benefit concerts as he wants to bank on his popularity and continue getting exposure. Plans for a solo album aren't confirmed yet, although he hoped his family could get in on the act.

"Ultimately, I could still do something in the music industry. I have no idea. Basically, I just have to sit tight and be patient."

'My day at TODAY'

THREE contestants from MediaCorp TV12 Kids Central show Jobs for Juniors joined Yong Shu Chiang during his interview of Singapore Idol finalist Christopher Lee. Maya Menon, 11, was the winner of the episode, which aired on Saturday. Here are some of their views of their day with TODAY:

Maya's day was just packed!

Little did I expect that a day that started off with an aching back would be one filled with excitement and joy. In the course of those nine hours on Sunday, I made two good friends, visited the TODAY office and interviewed a top celebrity.

So much so that when it was all over that night at 10pm, I had forgotten all about my backache.Having watched Singapore Idol, I was really excited about meeting Christopher Lee. My head spun. I had no idea what to ask him. I felt unprepared. And it was all happening on camera!

Right after the interview, we had to shoot photos of Christopher. I was quite nervous because I thought he would get agitated, but Christopher was obliging and easy-going and didn't seem to mind a bit when we asked for various poses.

I first asked him for his "star smile"! I then asked for a classic stand-by-the-wall-and-smile pose. I feel when it comes to newspapers and magazines, well, the classic poses always fit just right.

It was a great relief when the badges were handed out and a wonderful moment when I received the gold badge! But still, that did not seem to be the main highlight of the day. I made two wonderful new friends and had an experience that really mattered!

- Maya Menon, 11 years old

Suan Hin had fun with CHRISTOPHER

It was a peaceful day with white fluffy clouds drifting across the azure blue sky, which started out at the TODAY newsroom.

We had a talk by the reporter and photographer before we set off to M Hotel to meet Christopher Lee. While waiting for my turn to interview him, I took some pictures.

When my turn came, I had a lot of fun with Christopher, who was friendly and likes to joke around. Then, I took some pictures of him in odd poses.

- Loh Suan Hin, 13 years old

Tough job, but Nicole loved it

My day at TODAY was exciting and fun.

The morning started in the conference room with a reporter and a photographer, who shared with us some important lessons. They gave tips for conducting interviews and I learned some of the basic questions to ask: Who, what and when.

I also learned that there are different ways to take pictures, depending on the subject and how to create the appropriate scene for each photo. I had no idea how much work it takes to be a photojournalist, but I loved every minute of it.

- Nicole Attwater, 12 years old

Source: TODAY MONDAY MARCH 7, 2005 PG 29

Excuse me, are you a virgin?-A JERRY ONG update

2005-03-07T13:24:00.000+08:00

Source: TODAY MONDAY MARCH 7, 2005 PG 29

Ask Me: Taufik

2005-03-07T01:00:00.000+08:00

Credit: Lee & MTV @ the ShoutBOX.

Singapore Idol winner Taufik wants to answer your questions!

So start posting them HERE. Most interesting questions will get picked for Taufik to answer. Closing date: March 14, 2005

*Before you can post a question, you must first JOIN MTVASIA.COM. Once registered, click Reply @ the first post HERE to ask your questions. If you are already a registered MTVAsia.com member, just SIGN IN and you should be able to post questions!*

I DREAM & ONE LAST-CHART updates

2005-03-06T10:45:00.000+08:00

Click image to view.

One Last is @ #3.
I Dream is @ #11.

Blessings-Chart update

2005-03-06T10:27:00.000+08:00

I MET TAUFIK-A fan's story

2005-03-02T10:16:00.000+08:00

TAUFIK in THE STRAITS TIMES MONDAY 28/02/05 IN newspaper

2005-02-28T18:45:00.000+08:00

Credit: My brother

Click image to view.

COVER of IN newspaper

PG 11: Me & my idol

Not staying Idol

2005-02-28T17:21:00.000+08:00

Teo Pau Lin

Click image to enlarge.

Cheers: While new 7-Eleven spokesman Taufik Batisah hopes to buy an apartment with his earnings, Sylvester Sim wants to save it.

FANS of Sylvester Sim should start setting aside some pocket money.

The Singapore Idol runner-up will release his debut album at the end of next month or early April.

The yet-unnamed Mandarin release will feature seven or eight of his own compositions, and one or two cover versions. Some of the songs are penned by Taiwanese lyricists.

His album will come about two months after the successful launch of Idol winner Taufik Batisah's album, Blessings, last month. It has so far sold 31,000 copies, and topped the local RIAS chart for five weeks.

But Sim, 22, does not feel pressured to outsell Taufik.

"I don't compare, because his is English and mine is Mandarin. I'm very happy for him. I just hope I can do as well," he said last Saturday at Double O club.

The Idol pair held a closed-door party there for 100 fans as the new spokesmen for 7-Eleven convenience stores - Taufik for the Big Gulp drink and Sim for the Slurpee crushed-ice drink.

Both seemed equally popular.

Details of their endorsement fees were not disclosed but the pair are prudent about how they are going to spend it.

"I'll save the money because what I need, I already have," said Sim, adding that the most expensive item he has bought since the Idol competition is a $4,000 electric guitar.

NSman Taufik, 23, will have to wait till October when he completes national service before he receives earnings from his album and endorsement deal.

"I'm hoping to buy an apartment so I can live with my mother," he said.

He currently lives with his brother in Bukit Batok.

"It doesn't matter how many rooms it has. I'm quite a simple guy, but it'll probably be in the west because my heart is in the west," Taufik said.

Come October, he will also start promoting his album in Indonesia and Malaysia where, he was told, he already has fans.

"I heard there are already pirated copies of my album in Malaysia," he said with a laugh.

Source: Life!People The Straits Times Monday, February 28, 2005 PG 6

Lime magazine MARCH 2005 S$3.00

2005-02-28T16:55:00.000+08:00

Click image to view.

COVER: SPECIAL TWIN COVER ISSUE

PG 9: STAR TREK

PG 30: Sylvester interview

PG 42: FAVE LOCAL TV SHOW

PG 43: FAVE SINGAPORE IDOL FINALIST

PG 48: Idol Tog

PG 49: Idol Essentials

PG 62: SECOND COMING

PG 86: Campus Hottie!

GIANT POSTER: TAUFIK!

Credit: Taufik-Batisah.net Gallery

Singapore Idol Taufik named Bukit Batok youth ambassador

2005-02-28T00:04:00.000+08:00

Credit: Noriah & Youth ambassador

By Wong Siew Ying, Channel NewsAsia

SINGAPORE : Singapore Idol Taufik Batisah has been made the poster boy for the newly set up Bukit Batok Youth Task Force.

It is part of the move to attract younger Singaporeans to participate in grassroots activities, in line with Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong's call for youths to be more involved in community and national affairs.

Forty-seven-year-old Junaidah Tarjo had been doing active community work since her teenaged years before she started helping out at the Bukit Batok grassroots five years ago.

But there aren't too many like her; she says it is not easy getting the young involved.

Therein lies the draw of borrowing star power to front community projects.

And Singapore Idol Taufik has made all the difference.

A youth recruitment drive garnered 420 registrations in one night, compared to just over 230 in the whole of last year.

Said Ms Junaidah, secretary at Bukit Batok Branch, "When we want to recruit them they will ask what are the benefits, what else, what they should do. But once we mention the celebrity's name, for example Taufik will be around, everyone is so excited; just ask when and what time without asking any further."

Said Taufik, the Bukit Batok Youth Ambassador, "A lot of parents told me that their kids look up to me and so hopefully with the position that I have currently, I can encourage the kids to do positive stuff, get out there and and go for their dreams. Hopefully, I can make it look hip and cool for them to take part in grassroots activities."

Indeed, the cool move has drawn support among the young.

"He is a popular guy so he can attract young people," one person said.

"We can gather all his fans and get involved in community work," said another.

Just exactly how many of them will be actively involved is anyone's guess; but one thing is certain -- the star-gazing won't stop here.

Said Dr Ong Chit Chung, MP for Jurong GRC, "We're looking at some singers, some pop stars, models, even very young entrepreneurs who will be real good role models for them. What we want the youth to do is let them feel that there's something for them to identify with and participate in."

By the looks of this, the youth-driven event has got off to a good start; but it is not stopping here.

The Youth Task Force hopes to organise more events to appeal to the young. For a start, the Singapore Idol will be making a special appearance at a mini concert next month. - CNA

Source: http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/134729/1/.html

Taufik Achieves Double Platinum Status

2005-02-28T00:00:00.000+08:00

Credit: Noriah

Taufik Batisah and fans at Bishan Junction 8

Singapore - In less than three weeks since its release, Taufik Batisah's debut album Blessings has sold 30,000 copies and garnered double platinum status -- an unprecedented highlight for the local music industry as no English album has achieved double platinum status within the last decade.

"I feel tremendously excited about how well the album has sold," says the 23-year-old premiere Singapore Idol. "I am very grateful to all who have supported me. I will continue to work hard as the sales result is the best 'Thank You' I can give to my family and fans."

Fans were just as delighted to share in Taufik's success as the casually charming singer appeared at Junction 8 and Plaza Singapura last weekend for his first-ever official autograph sessions. Decked in a Billabong cap, trademark dog-tag necklace, laid-back tee and cargo pants, Taufik did not perform any songs but obliged to hugs when requested by some of his excited fans.

With his current single "One Last" playing on loop over Power 98 and WKRZ 91.3, Taufik's song looks set to take over the charts just as "I Dream" did, so this is one young talent not to be missed as Taufik will be making another autograph-signing appearance at IMM Level 3 this Sunday February 27 at 4pm.

Also, for those who did not manage to catch him in action, every purchase of Taufik's Blessings from now until March 1, will allow listeners a chance to win passes to his exclusive debut album showcase and many other exciting prizes.

-- Jocelyn Chua

Source: http://www.mtvasia.com/News/200502/23011667.html

Hip-Hop For Hope

2005-02-27T18:49:00.000+08:00

March 19, 2005 @ YMCA Auditorium

Music For Good, Beats-Society and YMCA of Singapore present Hip-Hop For Hope in aid of Operation Restoration: Sri Lanka - a project under the YMCA Disaster Relief Programme for Sri Lanka tsunami victims. Taufik has kindly donated 5 autographed CDs of his album, Blessings, which will be sold at $20 each.

The confirmed line-up so far: Trivalation, Public ey3z, Imran, Psykelecticz, Apiz iLM, Vanilla Shaque, 2ways, Tha Theoriz, Velvet Groove, Souble Opposites and Orcle Phlow.

Supported by TNT Music Centre and Sony BMG. Official Drink Sponsor: Fruit Tree. Look out for more details soon!

Title: Hip-Hop For Hope
Venue: YMCA auditorium (1 Orchard Road)
Date: Saturday March 19, 2005
Time: 4:00pm - 9:00pm
Tickets: $8 includes one Fruit Tree can drink (not on sale yet)

Source: http://www.musicforgood.org/events.html

APM 2005 @ Suntec City!-4 photos

2005-02-26T23:19:00.000+08:00

Source: AnakMelayu.com

Click image to view.

Vince's starry, starry night

2005-02-26T13:32:00.000+08:00

... ends with S'pore girls getting all starry-eyed

By Eri Akbar
eri@sph.com.sg

SINGAPORE Idol Taufik Batisah was not the only one who sent cameras flashing after the Anugerah Planet Muzik awards show last Friday.

Malaysian singer Vincent Chong Ying-Cern, better known as Vince, also drove the girls snap-crazy.

He may not be as famous as Taufik here, but his heartthrob looks were enough to render the girls starry-eyed.

The 26-year-old Chinese Briton has a talent that matches his looks.

He made a good first impression on the Singapore audience with his big ballad, Mengapa Harus Cinta (Why Must Love), at the annual Malay Grammys held at Suntec City.

He won Best New Male Artiste, beating local singer Iskandar Ismail.

Vince, like Taufik, is also a product of a TV talent show. He was voted the winner of Akademi Fantasia 2003, a reality popstar-making series modelled after a Mexican TV programme.

APPROACHABLE

Vince came across as an approachable guy, who's neither too friendly nor aloof.

On the fanfare he's been receiving, the singer told The New Paper: 'It's flattering actually. But I don't see it as attention as I like meeting people.

'I used to be very shy.'

Vince said he overcame his shyness after joining Akademi, which put him and his fellow contestants through nine weeks of lessons in vocals, dance and stage presentation.

The dishy singer said he was once a 'fat boy' who was the butt of jokes among his schoolmates. Now, he's having the last laugh.

Vince got into shape after taking up sports like soccer, badminton and jet-skiing. He once told a Malaysian newspaper that his girlfriend must be as sporty as he is.

The good news - for all his female fans - is he's not taken. But the bad news is, he's not looking.

Vince said: 'I can't be selfish and have a girlfriend. It's not fair to her when I'm too focused on my career.'

The singer showed his sensitive side too, when he was seen practically weeping after every elimination round on Akademi. It was because of the bond he had formed with his fellow contestants, he said.

Vince is also a family person who's close to his sister-manager Vanessa, and his parents.

It was his parents who steered him towards show business. After all, his housewife-mum once dreamt of becoming an actress, and his architect-dad, a singer.

They bought him cassette tapes, let him learn the keyboards and sing in the choir. Their auspices have certainly paid off.

In Vince's self-titled album, released by EMI Malaysia last year, he wrote seven out of the 10 tracks.

Vince said with a dimpled smile: 'I guess I get to live out their dreams.'

The singer, who has a marketing certificate, is taking fame in his stride. He's unfazed by fans mobbing him everywhere he goes.

Vince said: 'I don't mind if they get overzealous and pull my shirt. They are just showing their support.'

Source: http://newpaper.asia1.com.sg/hey/story/0,4136,83711,00.html

Taufik's Blessings-Taufik in Teens magazine March 2005

2005-02-24T23:22:00.000+08:00

Credit: nofitaufik

Click images to view.

You Call Yourself a FAN?-Quiz for TAUFIK fans in Teenage magazine March 2005

2005-02-24T20:56:00.000+08:00

Credit: nofitaufik

Click image to view.

high five-TAUFIK in herworld magazine March 2005

2005-02-24T20:39:00.000+08:00

Credit: nofitaufik

Click image to view page.

TAUFIK BATISAH

2005-02-24T19:43:00.000+08:00

THEBAGPAGE /Sujin Thomas

Right now, the first Singapore Idol is into jackets - he has more than 10 of them in his wardrobe.

For this photo shoot, Taufik, 23, comes dressed in a plain white T-shirt, blue jeans and a striking red bomber jacket he got for $60 from 77th Street at The Heeren.

Despite the success of his debut album, Blessings, he is not about to slip into sartorial spending sprees.

Says the singer: "A Lot of my stuff is given to me by my fans. I still have to look good as an artiste, so many fans have been really great in helping me out."

Judging by the wattage of his smile, the Taufik fan base is a sizeable one

HIS BAG

The people from Pony, the sports apparel label, gave me this Pony bag as a birthday present last December.

I usually carry extra shoes and T-shirts with me when I go for photo shoots so that I have a spare change of clothes. This bag is perfect because I can put all my stuff in it.

8 THINGS IN HIS BAG

1 Belt
I bought this brandless belt four years ago at Peninsula Plaza for $60 when I was at the peak of my Usher fanaticism. It's similar to one that Usher owns, and I also wore it on a few Singapore Idol shows. Recently, I went back to the store and saw it being sold really cheap. I think I got cheated.

2 Stussy cap
My favourite cap is my brother's Von Dutch cap that he gave me. I just washed it so it's still drying. I'm a fan of trucker caps and this is my next favourite.

3 Topman sunglasses
I recently bought a pair of aviator-type sunglasses from a shop in Far East Plaza but it broke in my bag. I like huge sunglasses and this pair hides my tired eyes very well. I got these for about $20 some time ago.

4 Swatch Scuba wristwatch
I like thick watches and this was one of the chunkier watches from Swatch. They gave it to me in December last year. What I really like about it is that it looks like a cuff.

5 Kung Fu Hustle card calendar
I got this at the gala premiere of the movie at Orchard Cineleisure. Stephen Chow, who starred in the film, was there to watch it with us. I keep this as a reminder of that day.

6 Quiksilver wallet
A fan gave this to me on my birthday in December. My old wallet was yellow in colour and falling to bits. I plan to use this till it falls apart too.

7 Wrist cuff
I'm a fan of cuffs. I had a brown one which I lost the week before the second Singapore Idol semi-finals show. A fan gave this to me as a replacement.

8 40GB iPod Photo
This was given to me by my fans who chipped in and bought it for me as a belated birthday present. I have a range of music in there, from R&B and hip-hop to jazz. I've got Michael Buble, Coldplay, Travis, Eric Benet and even George Michael songs. I listen to it almost everywhere I go.

Click images below to view article scans.
I had to break the ONE page up into like 2 parts lah, the left side one shows ALL the things mentioned above. The one on the right, shows Taufik's head in full.

Photographer: Steven Lim

8 THINGS IN HIS BAG

TAUFIK BATISAH

Source: FEBRUARY 24 2005 THE STRAITS TIMES URBAN PG 23

Celebs get painted

2005-02-24T18:29:00.000+08:00

Local stars, as seen through the eyes of Asian artists

Mervin Tay
mervin@newstoday.com.sg

POSING in front of cameras is all in a day's work for celebrities. But being the subject for an artist was a new experience for Diana Ser, Cheryl Fox, Sharon Au and Tay Ping Hui.

They each got three portraits done and the process was documented last month in a four-part series Celeb Portraits on MediaCorp TV12's Arts Central.

The public can now view these artworks until March 6, at the Wisma Atria shopping mall. If you like any of the art pieces, you can buy them at a charity auction which will take place today between 6pm and 8pm, in benefit of Action for Aids.

For the celebrities, the experience of being an artist's subject was different from posing for photos.

In fact, they felt more exposed, as the artists tried to capture their personality and emotions in the artwork.

Said Channel NewsAsia presenter Diana: "Artists have much more leeway to interpret what they think of me compared to photographers."

Agreeing with Diana, fellow presenter Cheryl Fox said there was more interaction between artist and subject.

"There is less art direction compared to photography, and more interaction from both sides. This will help the artist in understanding and capturing the emotion of the subject," she said.

And because each artist can interpret the subject differently, different facets of Sharon Au were captured in the three separate artworks.

"My favourite is the piece by Miguel Chew, because he has accurately portrayed aspects of my character, like intensity and loneliness, which viewers don't see from the funny and wacky Sharon Au on television," she said.

The artwork is done on a vinyl canvas, with florescent lights showing Sharon's silhouette through a blue screen.

Actor Tay Ping Hui's personality also came through during his sessions with the artists.

"They all said that I possessed a sense of intensity, and was almost always in deep thought," he said.

"To a large extent, they are very right, because I can get very focused on things that I do, which can come across as a ferocious intensity."

Source: PG 40 TODAY newspaper THURSDAY FEBRUARY 24, 2005

Taufik and Sly downloads

2005-02-24T18:18:00.000+08:00

CAN'T get enough of Taufik and Sylvester, or find that your homemade wallpaper or video of your favourite singer on your handphone is a tad too unprofessional?

Help is on the way. Come March 10, MediaCorp Studios will launch a range of Taufik and Sylvester mobile downloads, including connecting tones, multimedia messages and video clips of both guys.

This collection of never-before-released content will be available to subscribers of all three telcos, so everyone can have access to them.

Contact the respective telcos for more details.

Source: PG 38 TODAY newspaper THURSDAY FEBRUARY 24, 2005

Idol contest for teenagers

2005-02-24T17:52:00.000+08:00

Local organisers say show is not like original Idol contest and will not be telecast

Mervin Tay
mervin@newstoday.com.sg

THE Idol fever rages on and not only because of the new season of American Idol, currently being telecast on MediaCorp TV Channel 5.

Teenage Idol, a local talent search aimed at teenagers between the ages of 13 and 19, is the latest spin-off of the Idol phenomenon.

Auditions, semi-finals and the finals for this singing competition will run from next month until June.

Organised for the first time by Teenage magazine and supported by Unusual Productions, the winner will - in true Idol style - get a one-year recording contract with EQ Music.

He or she will also land an endorsement deal with sports drink iSport, and win $3,500 in cash and prizes.

Despite the obvious similarities, the organisers dismissed any comparisons with the original Idol contest, particularly its judging format.

"The contestants will be judged primarily by a panel of five judges, unlike American Idol, where results are based mainly on SMS polling," said a spokesperson for Teenage magazine.

"For Teenage Idol, SMS polling will only take up a certain percentage of the judging criteria."

Moreover, the contest - unlike the original Idol - will not be televised.

The spokesperson did not reveal who the judges were.

Through this competition, the organisers hope to tap into unexplored youth talent, since most contests for this age group are mainly model searches or beauty pageants.

"Teenage Idol will provide a platform for younger contestants to showcase their musical interests and talent, which would probably not be given the same credit in a more general competition," said the spokesperson.

And the competition is not timed to ride on the American Idol craze, but will cater to potential participants.

"We expect most participants to be full-time students. So, it is more important that all the qualifying rounds of competition are held on weekends and during school holidays," said the spokesperson.

The registration form is available in the February and March issues of Teenage, and the closing date for submission is Monday.

For enquiries, call 6372 3411 or visit http://www.msn.com.sg/TeenageIdol05 for more details.

Click image to enter Teenage Idol 05 website.

Source: PG 38 TODAY newspaper THURSDAY FEBRUARY 24, 2005

3loGy Live-be there

2005-02-24T17:30:00.000+08:00

This is the first TAUFIK appearance this week.

25th Feb 2005, 5pm, Orchard Green Park (next to Orchard MRT station)
Free Admission

SingTel presents
3loGy Live

It's gonna be huge.
It's gonna be loud.
It's gonna be a blast.
Charge down and party on with your favorite local and international stars. Be there!

Be part of the moment.

Hosted by:
Mark Lee & Jamie Yeo

Click image below to view the advertisement for the EVENT and check out who else other than TAUFIK will be there!

3loGy
It's 3G. And beyond

www.ideas.singtel.com/3logy

Source: TODAY newspaper THURSDAY FEBRUARY 24, 2005 PG 15

UPDATED-details about each of Taufik's appearances this week.

2005-02-24T16:58:00.000+08:00

Firstly, I try to give the most accurate information I can find. BUT if there is any discrepancies or mistakes, please alert me k. Thank you very much.

Event #1: SingTel 3G Launch
Date: Friday 25th February 2005
Time: 5pm
Venue: Orchard Green Park (next to Orchard MRT station)
Free Admission

--------------------------------

Event #2: Youth Task Force "Youth Recruitment Drive with Taufik Batisah"
Date: Friday 25 February 2005
Time: 8pm onwards
Venue: Bukit View Primary School

Credit: whaymein @ Taufik-Batisah.net

Taufik will be gracing this event. He would be sharing his inspirational moments, participate in a Q&A session and engage in interactive games with all his fans. There are also autographed CDs to be given away. So don't miss this opportunity to chill out with the MAN himself... *Entrance is FREE*

--------------------------------

Event #3: 7-11 Party with Taufik and Sly
Date: Saturday 26 February 2005
Time: 2.30pm
Venue: Double O (dbl O)
Double O (dbl O) is a Club/Pub/Disco @ 11 Unity Street, #02-20 Robertson Walk
(*This event is for 7-11 contest winners only)

--------------------------------

Event #4: Taufik Autograph Session
Date: Sunday 27 February 2005
Time: 4 p.m.
Venue: IMM Level 3

Last chance to Get your "BLESSINGS" CD autographed by Taufik. For those who already got your CD autographed by Taufik, if can, try to give way a bit lah to those who hasn't got it yet. I know there are still many fans who has not gotten the chance to. But still hope every of his fans will be happy k.

Terms and Conditions
1) Autograph session will be 1 hour. Taufik will sign as many as he can within the time stipulated. Strictly on first come first served basis.
2) Taufik will sign on album cover only. Limited to 1 per person.
3) No photo-taking on stage. Fans are welcomed to snap pictures off stage.

As of now, that is the last autograph session at this point of time.

If you're gonna be @ any of those events, I hope you will have a good time k. All the best in meeting Taufik.

The Idol-Article is taken from Get Real: The undergrad magazine

2005-02-24T00:54:00.000+08:00

Credit: jas07 @ Taufik-Batisah.net

Get Real (GR): You mentioned that you would like Singaporeans to start seeing you as an artiste, and not just the Singapore Idol. Which direction is your music going to take?

Taufik: You know, I have to be real now. I'd like to venture into R&B or soul but it's quite a niche genre here in Singapore. I'll definitely start writing pop songs, but they will be influenced with R&B and a bit of jazz. But definitely more on the mass appeal, like pop.

GR: Even for your future albums?

Taufik: I'll try to give at least one R&B song, just to be real with myself, to have the balance, but eventually I want to have something for everyone. I don't want to be self-centred and only write what I like; I want to write music that would appeal to many people.

GR: Any plans to go into the Malay music industry? For example, Sylvester would be heading to Taiwan to concentrate on Chinese music.

Taufik: I believe that my fans are from all races, so I want to be fair and not shift my focus to Malay music only. The only reason I included the Malay classic "Ibu" in my album was to dedicate the song to my mother, as it would be easier for her to relate to a song in Malay. Plus, the song was by the legendary P.Ramlee, and I'd thought that it would add a nice finishing touch on my debut album as a tribute to my mother.

GR: That's good news for your non-Malay speaking fans! As a magazine for young adults like yourself, we also want know - What does the Singapore Idol do in his free time?

Taufik: Sleep! I hang out at coffeeshops with old-time friends from secondary school, my childhood days and my skateboarding days. No havoc partying, but sometimes we go to a club, for example, to celebrate someone's birthday. I also hang out with my main band mate, Mark, and our "extended hip-hop families"!

GR: And what's the real Taufik away from the limelight and at home like?

Taufik: I'm very reserved and at home, I tend to just stay alone in my room. I'm close to my mother, but I prefer to keep my problems to myself only. I think I'm somewhat introverted in that sense.

I'm the kind of guy who likes to see the people around me happy, but don't press my buttons - I like to please people, but if others take advantage of me that way, you will get it form me!

GR: Give us an example of what would piss you off!

Taufik: Bad service! I used to work as a pizza delivery boy and mascot boy and I always took it upon myself to make sure the customer is happy, but in fast food restaurants and boutiques, you still get "attitude" from staff although you're a paying customer. Bad service spoils my day, man.

GR: Even now, despite being a recogised face??

Taufik: Yeah! But I understand that in my position now, I have to try not to run my mouth and lose it when I get pissed off by say, bad service, in public.

GR: We're also interested in how diverse your music tastes are. We understand why you're a big fan of Usher - many young people are. But how did you catch on to soul legends like Stevie Wonder?

Taufik: I actually caught on to Usher from being a fan of Michael Jackson's. Usher to me was like the new and improved version of MJ!

I also like Al Green, Marvin Gaye, George Michael, Stevie Wonder... I love that song, "I Just Called to Say I Love You" (promptly breaks into a rendition of the chorus while jounalists in the room giggle and swoon)but it sounds like a YAMAHA keyboard song, Haha!

My musical tastes are probably a result of my elder brothers' influence. Growing up, you tend to listen to whatever was in the house and you perceive what your elder siblings listen to as hip and trendy! My elder brothers were into hip-hop and R&B and I caught on to that genre and also began experimenting on my own.

I like the idea that I can introduce people to different kinds of music, instead of doing what is popular. For example, the younger generation had probably never heard of "Me and Mrs Jones" prior to the Singapore Idol finals, but many people have come up to tell me they love the song now.

GR: Tell us more about your album. What's your favourite song on Taufik Blessings?

Taufik: The first song "One Last" and the last song "Ibu". "Ibu" because it was a tribute to my mother and the recording was very emotional for me. "One Last" because the song is very Taufik, very me. That's the kind of song I'm all about.

GR: But that's a sad song!

Taufik: Yeah, but the best songs that I write are when someone breaks my heart.. And I've got a lot of songs like that haha!

GR: We're sure 2005 is going to be a busy year for you now that your debut album has hit the shelves! We want to know what the future beckons - would you like to have more control over the kind of songs that you record in your future albums?

Taufik: I would love to sit down and write my own songs and take my time to perfect them. Ultimately, that's my dream - To write and produce my own songs and having people being really receptive to my music and buying my albums for my songs. I want to reach the masses; I want to create music everyone can enjoy.

Winx Club Magazine-Feb 2005

2005-02-24T00:23:00.000+08:00

Credit: Amalina @ TaufikBatisah.net - The Official Website of Taufik Batisah, the FIRST Singapore Idol!

Taufik, the name that has been on everyone's lips since the grand finale of Singapore Idol on December 1st. Everyone knows him, everyone loves him. Now, he has launched his new album with an amazing pre-sales figure of 10,000 (at press time) he has struck Gold!

Winx Club caught up with this singing sensation and revealed some of his dreams, his take on friendship, and of course about his style!

Winx: Hi Taufik, so how has it been going from Singapore Idol to recording artiste?
Taufik: Being able to record my own album was definitely a fun experience. I also learned a lot about the process, realising that it is not as easy as it seems.

Tell us your experience recording your single, I Dream.
It was definitely tedious! It's not as easy as playing a song once through and singing. I have to sing over and over again just to make sure it's perfect.

Do you have any expectations for your new album, Blessings?
I just want to see my fans' reactions towards this album and I really hope that they like it. I am also very grateful for their support.

Why the title, Blessings for your first album?
I am very blessed, to be given this opportunity to sing and to do what I like, and not everyone is so lucky. I am just grateful to be in this position.

Did you ever think all these would ever happen to you, you know, being the first Singapore Idol, cutting your own album?
Oh no, when I was younger, I thought of being an entertainer, but I always knew that it was a dream, not something that would come true. Never really imagined it to turn out this way, that's why I feel that I'm very blessed.

Let's talk about friendship. What does it mean to you?
There are 2 kinds of friendships to me. The first is those who are just acquaintances and then, there are real friends. Real friends that are there for you no matter what happens, just like my friends who have been there for me through my whole Singapore Idol experience, through all the criticism and rumours. I really wouldn't have made it through everything without them.

Is it then inconvenient to hang out with your friends with your new celebrity status?
It is not really an inconvenience, but there are people who come up to me when I'm with my friends and who are just happy to see you so I would feel bad if I were to just walk away. I would definitely oblige them in taking photos and all. There were times when it started with a few who recognised me and came up to me for autographs and photos then soon, it became like a mini press conference with people crowding around me. And before I know it, my friends would be pushed to one corner, waiting for me! I really don't know how my friends feel and whether they are awkward, I'm just happy that they are still there for me! (Laughs)

How about your family? Do you still have time for them?
My schedule is really tight at the moment and though I do not have a lot of time for with my family, I am trying to balance all my commitments, like work, promotions and national service as well. I'm thankful that the management team is helping me with my schedule and allowing me time to rest as well.

So what are some of your plans for the future? Any plans to bring your album out of Singapore?
I think there might be plans to promote the album outside Singapore, but we're still taking it one step at a time. We'll still see how the response is in Singapore and then hopefully, go from inside out. (Smiles)

Stella's Style File

Dressed in hip-hop attire of a red t-shirt, navy blue jacket and baggy jeans, Taufik oozes style and has evolved from his Singapore Idol days.

When asked about his favourite accessory, he said it is definitely a Trucker cap. His other favourites include shades, chains as well as sneakers!

Click images to view.

PG 2

PG 3

URBAN tomorrow-Taufik reveals what's in his bag - and fans will be delighted

2005-02-23T18:57:00.000+08:00

Click image to enlarge.

Source: Life!Buzz The Straits Times newspaper Wednesday, February 23, 2005 PG 2

Lime magazine MARCH

2005-02-23T18:51:00.000+08:00

Click image to enlarge.

Charity Auction BeeDees Cami & Shorts Set autographed by Sylvester / Taufik

2005-02-23T18:04:00.000+08:00

There are TWO colors, GREEN & PINK and in TWO sizes, ALL signed by Taufik & Sylvester. You can auction for them HERE. AUCTION ends TOMORROW.

All proceeds from this auction will be donated to the Singapore Red Cross Society in aid of the Tidal Waves Asia victims.

8 DAYS magazine Issue No. 751 FEB 24 - MAR 3, 2005 $2.00

2005-02-23T17:33:00.000+08:00

Click images to view.

COVER: BACK TO SCHOOL

PG 18: UNDERWEAR (ROLE) MODELS

PG 19: Ive autographed jeans before, but never lingerie - it felt very funny! And I have no idea what the girls will be doing with the autographed camisoles and shorts! - TAUFIK

When you read the article on PG 18, please note that there is an online auction being held for the 150 sets of autographed brand new young women's underwear. This is for charity and ALL proceeds go to the Singapore Red Cross Society for the Tidal Waves Asia fund. If you got the means, please do visit http://sg.auctions.yahoo.com

Thank you. The auction ends TOMORROW (Thursday Feb 24).

Taufik's Appearances for this Week!

2005-02-22T01:22:00.000+08:00

To gaia moore @ the Shout/Tag BOX, you're one of the lucky winners to Party with Taufik & Sylvester this Saturday! ENJOY that special day k hehe.

Event: Youth Task Force "Youth Recruitment Drive with Taufik Batisah"
Date: 25 Feb, Fri
Time: 8pm
Venue: Bukit View Primary School

Event: Singtel 3G Launch
Date: 25 Feb, Fri
Time: 5pm
Venue: Open Field beside Orchard MRT

Event: 7-11 Party with Taufik and Sly
Date: 26 Feb, Sat
Time: 2.30pm
Venue: Double 0
(*This is only for 7-11 contest winners only)

Event: Taufik Autograph Session
Date: 27th Feb
Time: 4 p.m.
Venue: IMM Level 3

Source: TaufikBatisah.net - The Official Website of Taufik Batisah, the FIRST Singapore Idol!

a mother's love-manja magazine march 2005 $2.50

2005-02-21T20:36:00.000+08:00

Here are the English translations for PAGES 050, 051, 052.

Credit: apple @ Taufik-Batisah.net

The hardship of a mother bringing up her children gives TAUFIK BATISAH the inspiration to put his best effort to achieve success. An afternoon with Taufik and his mum, MDM NORMAINAH BACHOK.

What Mum says about Taufik

"Taufik since in Boon Lay Primary School has been very smart. He always got number one. There was once when he got number two and he said that the teacher was a "cheat". He kept to himself for several days. Until his father had to pacify him.

Taufik also likes to dress up since small. Wear a hat and even his father's clothes. I have never scolded him because he knows his responsibility as a student. It's not difficult looking after him. I have never compared my children although Taufik is smarter than his two elder brothers. Although he is the youngest, he neither asked to be pampered nor asked for more attention.

When he was small, Taufik had shown an interest in singing. Because when I went to work, he would often go to his uncle's house, the late A Ramlie and my younger sister's, Maria Bachok. Maybe it's from there that his talent was developed. When he sings, everybody must keep quiet. He really likes the Hindustan song, John Johnny Johnathan!

Taufik could read prayers and has completed reading the Al-Quran once. As a family we often go to Jamek Mosque at Telok Blangah near the World Trade Centre for religious and Quran reading classes. Actually, Taufik's father and myself wanted to send him to Trengganu to learn Islamic Studies. But Taufik said he would like to continue schooling in the English mainstream. We didn't force. The important thing is, whatever he does, he does it well.

I have never forced Taufik to study. But I did buy him assessment books to practise. He really liked studying since young until he went to Jurong Secondary School.

As he grew older, Taufik became a quiet child and preferred to coop himself up in his room. He was busy composing songs with his computer. I felt that probably he was affected by the divorce of his parents. But Thanks to Allah, his studies was okay. Until he chose to go to Singapore Polytechnic.

I was overwhelmed when Taufik worked part-time to pay for his school fees. He did all sorts of things. He ever became a clown and delivered pizza. He also helped selling "kueh" at the coffee shop and he had many other part-time jobs. Sometimes I pitied him pitied him seeing how hard he worked so as to pay his school fees and buy school books. Taufik also gave me his salary. I can say that Taufik is a child who does not like to burden his parents. Likewise for his elder brothers. They are close. If they played, they would play together. Taufik likes active/aggressive games since young. When he was younger, he liked playing the roller blade. He ever went to Pasir Gudang to motor race when he grew up.

Talking about girlfriends, he had so many girls who liked him in school. Ever, in secondary school, there was this female student from India who shouted, "Taufik I Love you". I felt it is normal for teenagers. But I didn't understand too when Taufik told me that this student from India shouted, it just felt different. Maybe she liked Taufik too much. The sad thing was, a few weeks later, we found out that she had died of leukemia. I was so sad. Ya lah, there's nothing wrong for them to be friends. I don't mind.

Now when he's popular, I understand too if Taufik has many female fans. I'm not worried. Because we have given him good guidance from small. Also, Taufik knows how to carry himself.

Gossip? Normal lah. I understand too well the artiste's world. Because my sister, Maria Bachok, was an artiste in the 70s. So I won't be shocked if Taufik is being connected to any artistes. Because I know Taufik wants to chase his career as a singer. I ever told Taufik that if he wants to get married, wait till I get my CPF. Now I'm 53 years old. I don't mind who his choice is. The important thing is, the girl must be religious and courteous.

My hope: "Fik, be strong in facing the entertainment world. Mum's not asking for anything other than praying for Fik to succeed and to always remember mum's advices to Fik. Once you are successful, do not forget who you are."

What Taufik says about Mum

"Mum has never beaten or scolded her children when we siblings make mistakes. Nagging and pointing out mistakes, ever lah. If Taufik always watched tv and dilly-dally on prayers, mum will surely nag at Taufik.

Studies-wise, mum didn't really force us siblings. My two elder brothers and I know our responsibilites as students and children. We siblings did not go for tuition classes. W studied on our own. If we went out, we knew what time we have to be home. We siblings did not have curfew time.

Thanks to Allah, Taufik was able to continue schooling even though Taufik's parents divorced. Taufik was also affected lah a little bit here and there by the divorce. But what to do, Taufik's parents were not fated to be together. Taufik's relationship with father 'Alhamdulillah'. As their child, Taufik respect them.

Taufik would like to advise those youth/teenagers whose parents have divorced: "Don't let this incident affect us. We must carry on with our responsibilities as a youth because our future is in our own hands. We determine it."

Taufik pity mum, seeing her work alone since she and my father divorced. That was why during the school holidays Taufik did all sorts of work to pay for my own education. Studying and working is really tiring. When I'm really so tired I would prefer to be alone in my room. As a young teenager, Taufik was like other teenagers. There were times when Taufik felt that Taufik had hurt mum's feelings. Ya lah, when I'm too tired, I ever talked back to mum when mum grumbled. That was why when Taufik recorded the song Ibu, Taufik felt so sad. I cried. It took awhile to overcome the sad emotions. Taufik felt that Taufik does not give enough attention and love to mum.

Now Taufik's situation is different. Our life as a family is quite comfortable. My brothers and I told mum to stop working. Taufik feel pity seeing mum work from morning till evening. Sometimes till night. But mum was always proud of the work that she did. Mum said that she was earning money in the halal way for our family.

Now we are happy that mum is at home. Mum can cook for us. Mum always asks Taufik, "What do you want to eat?" Taufik likes mum to cook 'asam pedas'. Mum's 'asam pedas' power!

Taufik would say that Taufik's 'rezeki' Alhamdulillah. Taufik would like to work even harder for mum's happiness. Mum does not ask for anything. She doesn't like expensive things. She likes if Taufik saves for the future.

Taufik's mum is very cool/patient. She doesn't freak out or get angry when there's gossip about Taufik. Mum knows the ups and downs in the artistes world. But she always advises Taufik to be careful when making friends. Don't be proud and remember who you are. Furthermore Taufik's triumph in Singapore Idol was based on the people's votes. Taufik must treasure and appreciate all of my fans.

Taufik feels that Taufik has inherited mum's patience. From dad, Taufik has inherited his streetsmart qualities. Taufik's father was once a smart businessman previously. He is a very hardworking person. He will always do his best in everything he do. Taufik feel that these qualities in both my parents are the ones that brought success to Taufik in Singapore Idol and in my studies. The one who mostly encourages Taufik to excel in whatever Taufik does is my mum. Patience, diligence and the hardship mum went through in bringing us siblings up often make Taufik more focused to achieve success.

Taufik's hope for mum: "Mak, Fik promise to make you happy. Fik will work hard to succeed. Fik will remember mak's reminders. Hopefully, Fik will be able to tackle the trials and tribulations of the entertainment world. Insya-Allah. Fik love Mak."

Click scans to view.

COVER: \"Usah biarkan penceraian ibu bapa menjejas kehidupan kita.\" TAUFIK

PG 006: paling SEKSI!

PG 050: kasih ibu

PG 051: Kata Taufik tentang Ibu

PG 052: Fik sayang mak.

Bhumiband's hattrick

2005-02-21T12:18:00.000+08:00

Sujin Thomas

SINGAPORE Idol Taufik Batisah held his own against much-lauded entertainers like Indonesia's Kris Dayanti and Malaysia's Siti Nurhaliza at the Anugerah Planet Muzik 2005 song awards last Friday.

Bhumiband wins Best new Duo/Group, Best Singapore Song and Best Singapore Album. -- DESMOND WEE

Flanked by two acoustic guitarists onstage, Taufik did a stunning turn before the 4,200-strong audience as he belted out the song Bukan Kerana Nama (Not For The Name).

Held at Suntec Singapore Convention Halls 601 and 602, the yearly regional Malay music awards show was watched live for the first time by 25 million TV viewers here and in Malaysia, Brunei and Indonesia.

Malaysian hip-hop group Ruffedge belts out a number. -- DESMOND WEE

Its hosts were Indonesia's Shanty and Sarah Sechan, Malaysia's Aznil and homegrown radio station Warna 94.2FM's DJ Adi Rahman, who lent much colour to the evening with their playful antics.

The three-hour-long show ended with Singapore scoring five hits in a total of 17 categories.

Meanwhile, Malaysian singer Siti Nurhaliza is pretty in pink. -- DESMOND WEE

The biggest winner was Bhumiband, the alternative ensemble which won in the Best New Duo/Group, Best Singapore Song and Best Singapore Album categories.

Veteran rocker Ramli Sarip won the Lifetime Achievement Award for his 35 years in the regional music industry - and aptly got a standing ovation when he strode onstage to accept the award.

Capping the night was a group performance by newly crowned Best New Female Artiste Dia Fadila, Ramli and local musician Hazrul Nizam, Malaysia's Widya from the pop group GSC, and Indonesia's Kikan, from hot pop group Cokelat, and Glen.

Source: Life!People The Straits Times Monday, February 21, 2005 Pg 10

Taufik @ APM 2005-LIVE performance of Ramli Sarip's Bukan Kerana Nama

2005-02-21T00:04:00.000+08:00

Oh ya wanna give a shout out to LENA who's living in Brunei and got to see Taufik @ APM via ASTRO!! Yeah!

LYRICS

Ramli Sarip - Bukan Kerana Nama
(as sung by Taufik @ APM 2005)

Jangan kau pandang bibir yang manis
Kerana ia bisa menghancurkanmu
Jangan kau pandang wajah yang indah
Kerana ia bisa meracunmu

(chorus)
Dengarkanlah teman
Dengarkan bersama
Aku menulis bukan kerna nama
Kerna sifat kasih
Pada sesama insan
Dan menyatakan kasih sayangku
Kita sama semuanya sama
Apa yang ada hanyalah kehidupanmu

Jangan kau dengar puisi dusta
Kerana ia merosakkan jiwamu
Dengarkanlah puisi di pusaka
Yang telah turun menurun hari ini

(chorus)
Dengarkanlah teman
Dengarkan bersama
Aku menulis bukan kerna nama
Kerna sifat kasih
Pada sesama insan
Dan menyatakan kasih sayangku
Kita sama semuanya sama
Apa yang ada hanyalah kehidupan

DOWNLOAD

Like a 'Fashion Parade'

2005-02-20T23:34:00.000+08:00

Viewpoint
Anuar Saran
Image consultant

NORMALLY, for glamorous award shows that involve artistes, the typical choice of clothes are - black gowns or formal suits. But the Anugerah Planet Muzik 2005 saw various fashion that is interesting and colorful, especially so from Indonesian and Malaysian artistes. ...

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.... Many male artistes including Shahrul Gunawan, Delon, Hazrul Nizam and Faiz Nawawi from Brunei look smart in neat cut jackets, whilst Hans Isaac was unique with his coldroy jacket. Even Taufik Batisah also looks like a huge star who has been taken care of well from head to toe. Taufik is my choice as the star that is most happening looking at his whole appearance.

Click image to view.

Taufik Batisah

Source: BERITA MINGGU newspaper 20 FEBRUARY 2005 Pg 7

BM FOKUS - ANUGERAH PLANET MUZIK 2005

2005-02-20T22:35:00.000+08:00

THE ATMOSPHERE IS LIKE... ... 'A REPEAT TELECAST'

By
Hanim Mohd Saleh

(Excerpts from the article that appeared in the BERITA MINGGU newspaper today. Apologies if the translation ain't 100% accurate.)

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.... It's obvious that after five years, APM still has to depend on the artistes that have repeatedly performed on the stage of the award show like Kris Dayanti, Siti Nurhaliza and for the first time, Melly Goeslow to give something different towards the night's event.

The three divas teamed up to sing their popular songs and it clearly shows why it is hard for the three of them to not be looked up to by new artistes even though they each have been going strong in the music industry for more than a decade. It cannot be imagined what the situation will be like if Siti decides not to participate in APM anymore, like how she stepped back from Juara Anugerah Lagu ke-19 TV3, which clearly felt her absence.

Melly also showed how she is not just unique as a composer, but also in the way she dresses - even though her black gown which is very gothic (like those in scary films) made viewers quite uneasy.

Before the appearance of the three divas, another artiste that did help make the show a better one was Taufik Batisah who was very mesmerising on the song Bukan Kerana Nama even though, he said, he only practised for a week. His performance was as a mark of respect for the recipient of the APM 2005 Achievement Award, Ramli Sarip. I feel, compared to the other Malay songs that Taufik has sung before this, namely Ibu and Belaian Jiwa, this was Taufik's best perfomance thus far. ...

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Source: BERITA MINGGU newspaper 20 FEBRUARY 2005 Pg 6

REMINDER-Get your "BLESSINGS" CD autographed by Taufik TODAY!

2005-02-20T15:56:00.000+08:00

20th Feb (Sun) - Plaza Singapura Front Plaza Level 1 @ 5pm

Terms and Conditions
1) Autograph session will be 1 hour. Taufik will sign as many as he can within the time stipulated. Strictly on first come first served basis.
2) Taufik will sign on album cover only. Limited to 1 per person.
3) No photo-taking on stage. Fans are welcomed to snap pictures off stage.

After today, there will be ONE more autograph session held NEXT SUNDAY.

Source: http://www.sonybmg.com.sg/event_taufik.html

Maxim March magazine

2005-02-20T02:24:00.000+08:00

Credit: Taufik-Batisah.net

You obviously have many female fans, but have you had many guy fans approach you too?
The male fans are more cool and not so crazy; they're more sedate, I would say. They usually say, "We're very proud of you, that you won Singapore Idol." And it will be like, "See you, brother, have a good day, man," that kind of thing.

What about "aunty" fans?
Have, a lot! [laughs] I went for my cousin's wedding and by the time I reached there, the aunties were screaming and literally tearing me apart. I wouldn't say it's fun; it's very exciting. And when they stand next to me and take photos, the others will tease them, "Eh, so close ah?" and they will reply, "This one like my son lah." They're very sweet.

What do your brothers think of your win?
My second brother lives in Johor Bahru and he's like, "It's really weird; when I see you in the magazines, in the papers, and now when I meet you, I get very excited, like wow, I'm going to meet Taufik." It's damn funny. But when he meets me, it's back to normal. I live with my first brother and he's normal, he's always scolding me. He's always very straight with me, there's no sugar coating with him.

Your album is Blessings....what's the one talent you wish you were blessed with?
I wish I could play the piano really well, so that I could play and sing. That would be the ultimate. I play the guitar, but I can't really play the piano, although I know certain chords. But it's more like a small kid playing.

You've described your worst habit as eating chocolate...what's your favourite?
On man, I love Ferrero Rocher! And I love any hazelnut chocolate. Actually I love every kind of chocolate. On my birthday, they had this big Taufik Ferrero Rocher ice-cream cake. It was very nice, but a lot of my friends were there, so I didn't get to eat much of it.

One of your previous jobs was a mascot...
Yeah, Downtown East was doing its opening, the theme was food or something like that and I was a curry puff. On a skateboard. Quite a hip curry puff, eh? I had to skateboard all around and it was quite good work. Did I fall? No, imagine a big curry puff on the floor. [laughs] That would be damn cute, man!

And you've also been a clown...
I did a clowning job, for a bank. It was for some promotion they were having and we were stationed at various branches. We just had to play with the kids, make balloons and stand there for a few hours. I had to wear the whole clown get up; that was interesting.

Your list of favourite films is interesting....
I know, the last one, right? The Wizard of Oz? That's a classic, man; it's an all-time favourite.

Isn't it a bit gay?
No lah. I loved it when I was a kid, but even if I watch it now, I would still be excited about it. I would love to see it again.

Have you ever had to choose between your mum and a girl?
Not yet. But if I had to, I would convince either side. So, if my mum doesn't like the girl, I will convince my mum, or if the girl doesn't like my mum....then that's her problem. She has to like my mum; it's my mum who I have to convince.

And regrets about any performance in the Singapore Idol competition?
I dyed my hair for disco night; that was the worst, man! And the outfit, oh my God! Actually, I picked the outfit, so don't blame the stylist. It was very Growing Up. The hair was orange or something, the clothes were like a line dancing outfit...luckily the voice was okay. I embarrassed myself and made a fashion boo-boo on national TV.

Click image to view.
(All scans THANKS to Taufik-Batisah.net)

COVER

PG 1

PGs 26 & 27

PG 28

PG 29

PGs 30 & 31

PG 32

PG 33

exclusive family event!

2005-02-20T02:20:00.000+08:00

Click for the details.

it's all new!-*Florence Lian on the COVER of family magazine Issue 1 March 2005 with her 2 daughters?

2005-02-20T02:10:00.000+08:00

PHOTOS-Valentine's Day Dinner Date with Taufik and Sylvester

2005-02-19T17:32:00.000+08:00

Thank you so so much to J from Triumph International - Singapore. You rock babe!

Click on each image to view.

EMI admits slip-up in Ibu

2005-02-19T17:12:00.000+08:00

Sujin Thomas

YES, it was a mistake to say that the song Ibu (Mother) was written by P. Ramlee.

EMI Music Publishing, which holds the copyright to the number covered by Singapore Idol Taufik Batisah on his debut album, has admitted in a press statement that it had erred.

It explained that the slip-up arose before it had 'an opportunity to listen to the song recorded by Taufik and to review the lyrics'.

The liner notes in his album credit the song to P. Ramlee.

But last month, Sharif Rahman, 85, told Life! that he was the song's lyricist. Life! then did a check with the Composers and Authors Society of Singapore.

At that time, the check revealed there were at least two different songs bearing the same title Ibu. One was written by 1960s composer Ahmad Jaafar and the other by P. Ramlee, said EMI then.

A week later, Compass released a statement saying that the song was composed by Ahmad and written by Sharif for the 1950s P. Ramlee movie Ibu. It said that P. Ramlee did not write the song.

While EMI has now agreed with Compass' findings, it also noted that in its agreement with Ahmad in 1990, he had confirmed that he composed Ibu's melody and wrote its lyrics.

He had also indemnified EMI 'against all claims relating to the right, title and interest in the song'.

EMI added that it is now investigating Sharif's claim as the lyricist, though it noted that it is 'possible that there may have been a legal or equitable assignment of Mr Rahman's rights (if any) to Mr Jaafar'.

Sharif declined to comment when Life! contacted him yesterday.

EMI is also disputing a claim by Sony BMG, which recorded Taufik's album, that Sony had cleared Ibu's copyright with EMI.

Contacted yesterday, Ms Kelly Chew, managing director of Sony BMG, insisted that it had obtained EMI's approval before it went ahead with the recording.

EMI also said that the lyrics on Taufik's version were changed without prior approval.

Not true, said Ms Chew, who said the lyrics of Ibu are identical to those in P. Ramlee's rendition.

EMI said it is discussing the matter with Sony BMG.

Source: Life!Buzz The Straits Times newspaper Saturday, February 19, 2005 Pg 2

Youth Recruitment Drive with Taufik Batisah

2005-02-19T03:52:00.000+08:00

Credit: whaymein @ Taufik-Batisah.net

Taufik will be gracing a Youth Recruitment Drive at the Bukit View Primary School on Friday 25 February 2005 from 8.00pm onwards. He would be sharing his inspirational moments, participate in a Q&A session and engage in interactive games with all his fans. There are also autographed CDs to be given away. So don't miss this opportunity to chill out with the MAN himself... *Entrance is FREE*

Taufik Batisah || Singapore's rising star

Taufik and Harmuni

"Reach Out For The Skies" MTV

Get Down On It VIDEO

MP3s from Muzika Ekstravaganza

Muzika Ekstravaganza - SINARAN

Muzika Ekstravaganza - some images for My Boo

"Muzika Ekstravaganza" concert brings Singaporeans and Malaysians together

Bridging ties through music

Taufik, Sly to sing for free on May Day

MediaCorp-RTM mega-show to feature big names

India's Pop Idol judge gives Taufik the thumbs-up

Searching for Singapore's answer to Malaysia's Siti Nurhaliza

Ask Me: Taufik

Taufik in 7-ELEVEN catalogue

Miss Singapore Universe 2005: Finals

manja apr 2005 S$2.50

A note from me.

This is not a scene at a pop concert; it is a community club's youth recruiment drive

Presenting the first music celebrity on MyStamp ...

Taufik goes solo on April 19

Taufik in police uniform

HIGH ON LIFE LIVE CONCERT-*TONIGHT*

SingPost presents "An Evening with Taufik"

Taufik's Stamps

Stamps featuring Singapore Idol Taufik Batisah to go on sale end March

Message from Taufik!

'LIVE' & Exclusive* High On Life, Sat, Mar 19, 8pm

Trading in his own currency

He quits, again

GIANT POSTER: TAUFIK!

Making stars of students

Idol speculation

Watch Maia Lee Sizzle and Win a $500 Travel Voucher at TalentQuest '05 Finals!

X-factor, charisma 'more important' than marital status

Leandra to meet dad ... finally

Idol contestant quits

Sly: We're still together

TAUFIK in HALAL magazine

HIGH ON LIFE

Sylvester Sim on the cover of this week's 8 DAYS.

8 DAYS Issue No 753 MAR 10 - MAR 17, 2005-*DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES*

Marriage? Career comes first

Taufik & Sylvester Fever @ MiWorld Mobile

Taufik & Sylvester

Terrific Taufik Mobile Downloads!

Show will go on without him

FOLLOWING MARRIAGE FIASCO...

Careers come first

TAUFIK on cover of HALAL magazine.

Contracts don't say can't get hitched

SINGAPORE IDOL RUNNER-UP SYLVESTER SIM APPLIES TO MARRY IDOL CONTESTANT MAIA LEE, THEN CHANGES MIND

When Sly and Maia did a Britney

Sly to marry Maia?-*A SYLVESTER SIM & MAIA LEE update*

Fiknatic Outing - Cancelled!

Taufik in SALAM 05

Women more idolised-*An American Idol 4 update*

Get to know me better-*A JEASSEA THYIDOR update*

*A DAPHNE KHOO update*

The dream is alive-*A CHRISTOPHER LEE update*

Excuse me, are you a virgin?-*A JERRY ONG update*

Ask Me: Taufik

*I DREAM* & *ONE LAST*-CHART updates

*Blessings*-Chart update

*I MET TAUFIK*-A fan's story

TAUFIK in THE STRAITS TIMES MONDAY 28/02/05 IN newspaper

Not staying Idol

Lime magazine MARCH 2005 S$3.00

Singapore Idol Taufik named Bukit Batok youth ambassador

Taufik Achieves Double Platinum Status

Hip-Hop For Hope

APM 2005 @ Suntec City!-*4 photos*

Vince's starry, starry night

*Taufik's Blessings*-Taufik in Teens magazine March 2005

*You Call Yourself a FAN?*-Quiz for TAUFIK fans in Teenage magazine March 2005

*high five*-TAUFIK in herworld magazine March 2005

TAUFIK BATISAH

Celebs get painted

Taufik and Sly downloads

Idol contest for teenagers

HIGH ON LIFE LIVE CONCERT-TONIGHT

8 DAYS Issue No 753 MAR 10 - MAR 17, 2005-DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES

Sly to marry Maia?-A SYLVESTER SIM & MAIA LEE update

Women more idolised-An American Idol 4 update

Get to know me better-A JEASSEA THYIDOR update

A DAPHNE KHOO update

The dream is alive-A CHRISTOPHER LEE update

Excuse me, are you a virgin?-A JERRY ONG update

I DREAM & ONE LAST-CHART updates

Blessings-Chart update

I MET TAUFIK-A fan's story

APM 2005 @ Suntec City!-4 photos

Taufik's Blessings-Taufik in Teens magazine March 2005

You Call Yourself a FAN?-Quiz for TAUFIK fans in Teenage magazine March 2005

high five-TAUFIK in herworld magazine March 2005

3loGy Live-be there

UPDATED-details about each of Taufik's appearances this week.

The Idol-Article is taken from Get Real: The undergrad magazine

Winx Club Magazine-Feb 2005

URBAN tomorrow-Taufik reveals what's in his bag - and fans will be delighted

a mother's love-manja magazine march 2005 $2.50

REMINDER-Get your "BLESSINGS" CD autographed by Taufik TODAY!

PHOTOS-Valentine's Day Dinner Date with Taufik and Sylvester