Airul Firham ends country's long-wait for podium finish at World Skills Competition

The 21-year-old National Youth Skills Institute student became the country’s first medalist since first participating in the event in 1993.

"I feel proud, happy and grateful for this win," said Airul Firham who won a bronze medal in the hairdressing skills category.

When asked to comment on his interest in the field of hairdressing, Airul Firham said it was more of a surprise as he was more inclined to uniform jobs such as police.

"My sister- in-law is a teacher at GIATMARA in the field of fashion. She often competes in competitions. At the same time, I also do haircuts for friends.

“Maybe from there, she saw my skill in hairdressing. I attended GIATMARA and then I went to Khal Hair Salon,” he explained.

He also enjoys the creative aspect of this field, in which the different modules require him to play with different hairstyles and colours.

With his skills, he entered several competitions in the country and abroad such as Vietnam, New Zealand and most recently in Sao Paulo.

“There were 8 modules such as Modern Classic, Main Fashion, Bridal Long Hair Up and Hair Tattoo being judged on. My score was always consistent compared to the other competitors but it was just not in my favour this time,” he said.

While admitting that he was still too young to open his own salon, Airul Firham is eyeing the gold medal at the next World Skills Competition to be held in Abu Dhabi in 2017.

“After failing to win the gold in Brazil, my aim is to win it in Abu Dhabi. At the same time, I want to coach others,” he said.

At the competion, he was also named as the recipient of the 'Best of Nation' which recognised the best participant for each competing country.

Airul Firham was also among 12 participants to receive the medallion of Excellence after collecting more than 500 points in their respective fields.