Cakra, whose full name is Cakra Konta Paryaman, is an avid animal lover who spends up to RM6,000 a month to care for over 30 stray cats he has been sheltering at his Jakarta home for the past three years.
The raspy-voiced singer said all the cats were rescued from the streets and have become part of his daily therapy.
“Recently, I rescued a cat with a heart condition that requires constant oxygen. So, I bought it an oxygen generator and gas supplies.
“I make sure each cat receives weekly treatment. All of them have been sterilised and are free to roam around the house,” he said at a press conference in conjunction with the announcement of “Divine Concert – Cakra Khan” recently.
Cakra, who employs a house helper to assist in caring for the cats, said his love for animals is not dependent on their breed or appearance.
“I don’t care what type they are – as long as they’re healthy, that’s enough. All my cats are village cats,” he said, adding that he hopes to open a shelter one day.
The singer, who also enjoys gardening as a form of self-therapy, believes every animal that comes into his home is a blessing.
“I always try to do something for them, no matter how small, so I can feel useful. I’ve never been afraid of running out of money to care for them. I believe there will always be a way.”
During the press conference, Cakra announced that he will be performing a more intimate-style concert at Plenary Hall, KLCC on Aug 2, following a similar performance at The Star Theatre in Singapore on July 18.
“In previous concerts, I performed with a full orchestra with a more serious sound. This time around, I want it to be freer and more playful. I arranged the songs, lighting, and stage myself so the audience can experience something more personal,” he said.
The concert will also introduce his second album, “Divine” which was released last year – more than a decade after the launch of his debut album.
“My first album came out in 2013. After that, I focused more on singles because the promotional strategy suited me better. But as a singer, I still want to leave behind something lasting, which is why this album means a lot to me.
“With ‘Divine’, I stepped out of my comfort zone and was given the freedom to explore different genres, including pop, ballads and classical. Some songs are emotional, others are joyful,” said Cakra, who recorded the album in several locations including Bali and Bandung.
The concert, organised by Shiraz Projects, will feature guest artistes including Titi DJ, Ade Govinda, Marsha Milan Londoh, Faizal Lubis, Ernie Zakri, and vocal group Trio XL.
“I love creating space for collaborations,” Cakra said. “For instance, I’ve never sung a duet with Ernie before, but I know she’s extraordinary.
“I’m also obsessed with classical music, which is why I invited Trio XL – their voices are strong and technically refined.”
Tickets for the Kuala Lumpur concert on Aug 2 are priced between RM255 and RM1,295 and can be purchased here, while tickets for the Singapore concert on July 18, priced between SG$128 and SG$248, are available here.