Singer Tom finds passion and overcomes fear in surfing

For singer Tom, the ocean is more than a holiday destination; it's a space for self-challenge, tranquility, and family bonding through surfing. Her journey into the sport began unexpectedly during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown in Langkawi. Initially attracted by the stylish image of surfers, Tom soon discovered a deeper satisfaction in mastering the waves.

"The real satisfaction is when you succeed in standing on the surfboard," Tom, whose real name is Raja Farah Afzal Raja Ikram, told Pancaindera. "That's what made me fall in love with this sport."

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The real satisfaction is when you succeed in standing on the surfboard.

She advises aspiring surfers to invest in professional classes, recalling her own early struggles. Tom initially bought a surfboard and tried to learn independently for two weeks without success. She later realized her board was for professionals, not beginners, and that learning the basics correctly was crucial for balance and control.

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That's what made me fall in love with this sport.

Tom acknowledges that surfing has taught her patience and discipline. However, the sport is not without its dangers. She recounted a terrifying experience in Langkawi where she nearly drowned after falling from her board and being caught by a large wave. "Automatically, I could swim because of the survival instinct," she said, noting that the incident improved her swimming ability.

Beyond near-drowning, Tom has also encountered other risks, including a jellyfish sting that required hospitalization. She cautioned that the ocean's dangers are not always visible, mentioning the presence of crocodiles in some waters. Despite these challenges, Tom remains dedicated to surfing, a passion she now shares with her children.

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Automatically, I could swim because of the survival instinct.