There is something satisfying about a youngin getting his dues from good old-fashioned work ethic. It’s not that looks or, what some attribute as, luck, and good timing aren’t part of the conversation. Those factors can only get you so far if you’re not willing to show up and show out, especially in a business that requires your entire physicality for your portfolio. Case in point: Meerqeen.

Most recently, the mononymic actor cut his weight within weeks to achieve the ideal physique for the character he’s playing. It’s a typical commitment-to-the-role undertaking, highly visible to the public, methods popularised by the likes of Christian Bale and Jared Leto. (Might we add: the specific facial hair choice akin to Henry Cavill’s infamous moustache incident). 

What’s perhaps less seen is the commitment to the profession that goes on when you pull back the curtains. Meerqeen and his management wholly participated in the making of this cover story and shoot. While it’s fairly common for the talent and crew to socially huddle when already well-acquainted, the actor did not glaze over other production members, though only briefly meeting for the first time. Engaging equally, the energy he exuded throughout the shoot made it smooth.

It’s a respect for all parties involved that may stem from humbler beginnings. Look past the heartthrob status, unmissable social media numbers, and brand ambassadorship for luxury brands, and you find the origin point of his career, when the Ampang-born celebrity earned his head start from placing third at a youth icon competition in 2020.

“Honestly, when I joined Hero Remaja, I didn’t come in with big expectations. I just wanted to learn, gain experience and see how far I could go,” Meerqeen (government name: Muhammad Shameer Shauqeen Shaiful Izam) shared, having clocked countless audition rejections since the age of 16. “The success that came after was something I’m very grateful for, but it wasn’t something I assumed would happen. I’ve always believed in focusing on the work and letting the results come naturally.”

While his first acting gig in the comedy-horror film Kelaster was pivotal in Meerqeen’s career, it was his breakthrough role in the long-running drama Melur Untuk Firdaus, where his performance as Firdaus Iskandar blew open doors to a wider variety of genres. Romantic lead in Ash & Aish and Cinta Untuk Sekali Lagi; action-centred parts in Modus Operandi; and nuanced expressions in dramas like Framed. It’s arguably the transition from television to cinema that marks a milestone in career evolution; in feature films Harimau Malaya: The Untold Journey, Klepet, and Wantugo.

Although the current streak he’s on comprises more wins than losses, Meerqeen remains grounded. He admits to self-doubt that surfaces between projects, often rooted in the offhand critique of his acting. Questions of aptitude and life direction (well, he did mention in past interviews what he’d be if not an actor: an insurance agent or zoologist) instinctually prompt for pause and reflection. 

Yet, rather than a setback, the criticism became a set-up. “It pushed me to work harder, to understand my craft more deeply, and to constantly improve myself. In a way, those moments shaped me just as much as the successes did. Now, I see doubt as part of the process. It reminds me that there is always room to grow and motivates me to keep becoming a better version of myself,” he writes.

Though only turning 25 this year, his stature and eloquence lend to a more mature spirit. He elaborates on the individuality of prior roles, each equipped with their own set of challenges. Some push him emotionally, while others test him mentally. All, it’s safe to say, pull him outside his comfort zone. 

“I think that’s what makes the journey so fulfilling with every project. I’m not just acting but constantly learning, evolving and deepening my understanding of the craft. Experiences like these remind me why I started and they stay with me long after the project ends,” he states. 

An upcoming project, details of which he did not divulge, is one he’s clearly very excited about. Chiefly because it deviates from how he conventionally approaches preparation; one more opportunity for exploration and stretching through the process. It’s evident that both his fervour and mindset toward the job were moulded by something deeper.

“I fell in love with the world of acting when I was a kid and it’s thanks to my aunt. She’s an actor and singer. My grandfather was also an actor. So, in some ways, this passion for acting runs in my blood,” he tells of a recollection on set with his aunt. His amazement at how actors were able to memorise their lines and simultaneously perform them sparked curiosity and consequently, the inspired decision to try his hand at it. “I wanted to give acting a shot,” he remarked.

Having family in the industry didn’t just shape an outlook. It granted the young thespian a chance to observe their journeys up close. To see the reality behind the glamour of what it truly takes to sustain a vocation in the field. It drafted a roadmap that seemed less of a fantasy, creating a keen awareness that success doesn’t exactly come easy.

Hence, the need for all the necessary preparations; whether priming for the task at hand, or simply being in the right headspace. Ultimately, he draws the drive from within himself, but the foundation and perspective that his family provided guides him. 

Don’t be mistaken. The pragmatic bit of holding the position of eldest son and proving that the entertainment route was viable also played in the overall consideration. The sense of responsibility to ensure that what he was pursuing is not fuelled by dedication alone, but is an endeavour that could be stable and meaningful in the long run.

In earlier interviews, Meerqeen has mentioned inheriting his work ethic from his father, a professional football player. There was much he gleaned from his discipline and consistency, more so during trying times. As one who does not quickly surrender to his circumstances, his father modelled the attitude to adopt towards adversity.

On the other hand, Meerqeen’s mother is not short on doling out practical life advice. A motivational speaker by trade, she instilled in her son the value of showing respect no matter the background. “I remember she used to tell me that how you treat people will always come back to you. That’s something I carry with me especially in this industry where you meet so many different people.”

To someone with over a million followers, we’d say that’s a pretty solid recommendation. Not everyone who has a spotlight can amass up to eight-figure likes on content that spans lip-sync performances and lighthearted humour. Polished modelling shots and campaigns further reinforce a somewhat sub-identity of a key opinion leader in an era where every person is their own brand. 

We’d like to think the dynamic digital presence commands the attention of a younger crowd not on superficial charm. It’s the additional glimpses of daily life in an occupation that otherwise eludes most. There’s that dash of personality and affability shining through. The actor acknowledges that the lines dividing personal and public lives are greatly blurred, thanks to social media.

His answer to a toxic Internet world that revolves around comment sections instead of face-to-face interactions is to find bliss in ignorance. Go on airplane mode. Take a drive. Touch some grass. When asked about what he wants his audience to really see in him beyond a superficial online image, his response is a reasonable reminder. 

“I want them to see that I’m still learning and growing just like everyone else. Social media can sometimes show only the highlights but behind that, there’s a lot of hard work, self-doubt and effort. I hope people can relate to that and feel encouraged to keep going in their own journey.”

In his own journey, Meerqeen learnt a little more about himself over the last year. By overcoming certain trials, his endurance demonstrated a higher level of resilience than he had ever thought he possessed. Maybe it’s cliché, but the significance of patience and trusting the process was a resulting revelation.

“Sometimes I get too caught up in work and I forget to slow down, especially when things get busy back-to-back. I’m learning that it’s just as important to take a step back,” he mused, “I think I want to be better at balancing my time and energy. Spend more quality time with my family, reconnect with the people who matter, and also make space for the things I genuinely enjoy outside of work.”

He, like many of us, knows that these key aspects help to reset the human psyche. More crucially, allow for an enhanced return when equipped with a clearer mind. Better managing this scale is something Meerqeen is persistently working on, but surely becoming increasingly mindful of it with each step.

Ironically, what he’s interested in pursuing—but never quite had the time to—still ties to the business. Whether directing or developing stories, it’s the efforts that go on behind the camera that captures his fascination. “I think storytelling is powerful and being able to shape narratives from a different perspective really intrigues me. It’s something I hope to explore when the time is right.”

It doesn’t mean what’s within his realm resonates any less. There’s the gnawing notion that there are endless possibilities to discover as an actor. Yes, he has been pushed before, but more diverse and demanding roles still exist to tap into an unseen potential. Who else can he be besides what’s written on a script?

“I’m also really looking forward to working and sparring with more experienced and renowned actors, because that’s where a lot of real learning happens. Being around people who have mastered their craft pushes you to elevate your own, and that’s the kind of environment I want to keep putting myself in as I grow in this industry,” he explains.

At the same time, there’s a fresh avenue the actor has opened himself to. By setting up his own talent management company, he’s taking a crack at the industry from a renewed angle. Presently, he’s in the midst of expansion, onboarding and nurturing new talents. Spot the pattern, because working with inspiring individuals and supporting their journeys ignites his passion. And—you guessed it—poses as yet another juncture to learn a thing or two along the way too.

“We’re still building and refining things behind the scenes, so I’ll be sharing again when everything is more concrete,” he clues in. “But for now, it’s an exciting step for me not just as an actor, but as someone who wants to contribute more to the industry as a whole.”

What’s next to attain is not unfamiliar. It’s not just a selection of grandiose or difficult parts to personify on screen. It’s the stage to wear those skins on. To broaden towards a platform bigger than the local arena aligns with the unchanging goal to chase constant growth. It cements his profession, and lets him represent where he comes from in the best way.

Meerqeen is likely not too far from the aspiration. The term “promising young talent” would be wasted on the rising star. His charisma speaks for itself. The ability to connect with folks across platforms and borders walks the talk. There’s a resonance that is complemented by professionalism. 

The groundwork established by a supportive family is in place. The infrastructure he assiduously extends skyward brick by diligent brick. The trajectory isn’t guaranteed to be a breezy one. But the actor knows that. Buckling up and doubling down, enthusiasm in tow and the quest for growth in focal view, one can only anticipate the heights he could reach.

Photography: Chee Wei
Creative Direction and Styling: Asri Jasman
Art Direction: Joan Tai
Hair: Keith Ong
Makeup: Rachel Seok at PLIKA MAKEUP
Photography Assistant: Szen Cheah
Styling Assistant: Jane Law