IF ASHRAFF Rannil – an almost omnipresent DJ from the popular Pelangi 91.4 FM – was a brand or product, I
personally think that his name would be synonymous with some phrases alluding to his sunny personality, great versatility, ‘ beguiling progression, and – to top it all off – an exemplary determination.

In my semi-intensive research on this somewhat multi-talented and endearing young Bruneian, it was his big, impressive archive of professional shots that impressed me the most. With his photogenic, good
looks that can at times be androgynous (useful in this line of work), Ashraff makes for an exceptional male model.

It is no wonder then that he was discovered and picked to be the first official spokesperson for the posh IA Salon by its very owner, Cecilia. Aside from this, Ashraff Rannil has also in the past taken on acting as side projects, as well as releasing two hit singles so far, entitled “Kau Disisi” and “VIP”.

In addition, he made his mark for a few long months just last year, becoming the chosen host for the second season of locally produced – and highly credible – reality TV series, ’132F’. He even runs a small but successful business called ‘Adadeh clothing’ that offers the coolest gears online (Facebook) especially aimed at teenagers.

All this – and I haven’t even mentioned his continuous, seemingly endless series of emceeing or presenting gigs, which not only covers birthdays, weddings, proms and other special, public events, but also extends to some intimate functions through his widespread connections in Kuala Lumpur.

Though back in 2007 he already played a part in the annual RTM/RTB show, alongside other Malaysian celebrities, as well as taking on the role of assistant producer for the recent and lauded Pelangi Awards, this DJ still considers interviewing Dato Siti Nurhaliza as his highest achievement.

After proving that he is indeed “capable of doing things both as a front-liner and behind the scenes”, Ashraff went on a KL trip, the highlights of which were seeing his foster parents (Dato’ Aziz Satar of ‘Bujang Lapok’ fame and Datin Hashimah) and another photo-shoot, this time for an upcoming issue of Perempuan magazine.

Tonight, music enthusiasts will get the chance to see DJ Ashraff Rannil himself in action live at JPCC Amphitheatre for the RTB Appreciation Night commencing at 8pm. Entrance is free for this showcase, which will feature Fakhrul Razi, Maria and A Band Once, among so many other stars.

Expect also to be entertained by the winners of Bintang Kecil, Bintang Radio, My Melody, Talentime and Simfoni Tanahair. Ashraff also has his regular shows like ‘Hi-Pelangi’ every Monday from 8pm, as well as ‘Hello Brunei Darussalam’ on Wednesdays between 6am and 10am.

“I don’t look at any of this as jobs but more like ‘paid hobbies’,” he commented. “I consider myself very lucky to be able to use my talents at full force… I’m just an ordinary boy from Tutong living his dream, and I’ve worked so hard to be where I’m at now.”

As for his advice to youths out there – “Sincerity is the key! Whatever you do, whatever you say, be true to yourself, and be comfortable in your own skin. I’ve surrounded myself with the most positive people…
“My family and siblings keep my feet on the ground. I also love reading motivational books because they’re like vitamins to me. Plus, I just love pushing myself to the limits because I’ve had rejections and been way down before, but that has only made me better prepared.”

This feature story actually began with a surprise phone call weeks ago. Ashraff Rannil, who I may not be close with but can confidently vouch for is ever so sweet and respectful towards other people, contacted me to help write a little piece on him – just so that he may “end this eventful year on a bang!”

While I don’t think my so-called assistance is needed for somebody already high-profile, also obviously hardworking, positively bold and genuinely nice to boot, it surprised myself to learn that he is now excitedly gearing up for an even busier, and hopefully more productive year, come 2010.

His last words, delivered with that trademark cheeky grin, to the readers: “For anybody out there who’s got anything that I could do for them… Umm, yeah, give me a test drive!” And so, I look forward to seeing what else he has in store, for all of us, and may his career continue – to forever flourish, I say.

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