'I'm dating my career'

For celebrities in showbiz, it is not easy to stay totally clear of gossip and controversy.

Malaysian actress-host and reality TV star Fazura knows that only too well.

Earlier this year, the Internet was abuzz with rumours that she was dating then-eligible bachelor and Singapore Idol winner Taufik Batisah.

The pair, both judges on Malaysian reality comedy show Maharajalawak Mega 2014, denied the allegations. The chatter died when it was revealed that Taufik had a long-time fiancee, Ms Sheena Akbal, whom he married in April.

Recalling the rumours, Fazura joked in a telephone interview with The New Paper: "I'm like, 'Taufik?' I'm dating Ryan Gosling!"

The 31-year-old, who is single and whose real name is Nur Fazura Sharifuddin, was in town on Saturday to break fast with fans at Kampong Ubi Community Centre as part of a StarHub TV Hari Raya promotional event.

She was joined by Malaysian actress Nabila Huda, Malaysian comedic duo Sepahtu and local comedy group Bora.

"Taufik and I are practically bros - we go way back to the times when I was dating (Singapore Idol 2 winner) Hady Mirza (in 2007).

There is no way I could have feelings for him," said the star of E! reality TV show Facing Up To Fazura, which premiered last December.

Thankfully, the rumours did little to change their friendship.

"Neither of us bothered with it, we brushed it off.

Besides, the only thing I am in a relationship with is my career," said Fazura, who will star in upcoming Malaysian romance flick Langit Cinta.

Fans can also catch her in the movie Kami Histeria on Aug 6 at 10pm and drama series Kisah Cinta, which starts on Aug 14 at 3pm.

Both are showing on Sensasi (StarHub TV Ch 123).

Fazura said she could not be happier when she learnt that Taufik, 33, was getting hitched.

"He's a very private person and very good at keeping secrets so when I found out, I could not wait to meet her," said Fazura. For now, love is the last thing on her mind - work comes first.

The multi-talented entertainer, who released her debut track Sayangi Dirimu last year, is in talks to collaborate with Taufik on a song. "He approached me with the idea to feature on a track. I can't say much about it but it's really catchy," she said.

The plan is on hold due to their individual commitments.

It is set to be a busy year ahead for Fazura, who is involved in campaigns to champion animal rights.

"Maybe in the past, I was busy looking for guys and dating. But now, my priority is standing on my own two feet and achieving all that I have set out to do," she said.

FASHION LABEL

She's also focusing her energies on her fashion label House of Doll, which will make its Kuala Lumpur Fashion Week debut next month.

She said of the collection: "I'm all about female empowerment and girl power. So it will be a fun and feminine ready-to-wear line that exudes elegance."

While Fazura counts herself blessed to be able to dabble in other ventures, she will continue to prioritise her entertainment career.

"I know other celebrities might try to take advantage of fame to do other things, but I think it's important to remember why you're in the industry," she said.

ashikinr@sph.com.sg

This article was first published on July 13, 2015.
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