A familiar figure to regulars at the park, Pak Habib teaches free aerobics classes every Thursday to Sunday, starting as early as 8am and drawing a loyal following of all ages and backgrounds.

Armed with a playlist of over 2,000 songs from various genres, he blends fitness with fun, mixing everything from silat and Tai Chi to yoga, dangdut and zapin to keep things lively.

“I mix it up so people don’t get bored. I also offer motivational and fitness tips during class,” said the former Telekom Malaysia technician, who holds a diploma in sports science.

His workouts, which focus on balance, blood circulation, muscle flexibility and breathing, are light and accessible, making them suitable for all ages.

Pak Habib’s venture into aerobics began in the 1990s thanks to a friend who sought a male instructor.

“Back then, aerobics were usually taught by women. I initially declined but, with a bit of encouragement and some sports knowledge, I gave it a shot – and here I am, still needed by the community even as age catches up,” he shared.

Despite many urging him to slow down, Pak Habib remains steadfast in his belief that age should never be a reason to stop moving.

“We may have physical limitations now, but that doesn’t mean we stop. We adapt to our abilities.

“The one gift Allah has given me is that I can speak well – I provide motivation, make jokes, and bring humour. That’s what makes my classes vibrant,” he said.

Indeed, with smiles all round and a whole lot of energy, Pak Habib continues to defy age and inspire many – one aerobics move at a time.