Singaporean rapper and businessman Sheikh Haikel has revealed that he has stage 4 colon cancer, after keeping his diagnosis private for more than a year.
The 50-year-old shared the news publicly on Friday, 4 September, in an emotional Instagram video.
https://www.instagram.com/sheikhhaikel/reel/Dc2eRtQPznp/
He told CNA Lifestyle that the cancer has spread to his liver. His wife, Anna Belle Francis, separately told Berita Harian that he has undergone surgery and is currently receiving treatment.
He Had Kept His Diagnosis Private for More Than a Year
Sheikh Haikel told CNA Lifestyle that he was diagnosed more than a year ago.
He and his family initially chose not to disclose his condition because they did not want others to worry.
However, he said he felt it was now appropriate to speak publicly about his illness after the cancer spread to his liver.
In his Instagram video, Sheikh Haikel said he had previously told friends he was fine when they asked about his health. He also apologised on behalf of Anna Belle, explaining that she had kept the diagnosis private at his request.
According to The Straits Times, friends had noticed that he had lost weight.
Anna Belle told Berita Harian that the tumour is aggressive. She said Sheikh Haikel has undergone surgery and the family is now focusing on his treatment.
Sheikh Haikel Says He Intends to Keep Going
Despite the diagnosis, Sheikh Haikel said he plans to continue with his life and work.
He acknowledged that the past year had been difficult, with both better and more difficult days, but said he was determined to remain strong.
In his Instagram video, he told supporters that he would give his treatment his “best shot”.
Sheikh Haikel and Anna Belle also intend to remain involved in their food business, Hai Ge Ji. The business recently moved its outlet from North Bridge Road to Bussorah Street.
He is also preparing to launch a podcast called Final Applause, where he plans to speak about his experience with cancer and treatment.
The couple, who have three children, said they hope making his condition public can encourage more open conversations and offer support to others going through similar experiences.
A Familiar Name in Singapore Entertainment
Sheikh Haikel has been a prominent figure in Singapore's entertainment scene for decades.
He first gained wider recognition in 1991 as part of rap duo Construction Sight, which won the regional television talent competition Asia Bagus.
He later built a career as a solo rapper, actor, radio personality and businessman.
Messages of support have been posted following his announcement, including from fellow entertainers and public figures.
For now, Sheikh Haikel has made clear that he intends to continue working while undergoing treatment.
