Hello Mentor EP16 | Global Sensation & Malaysian Sweetheart Zee Avi’s Homecoming

Zee Avi talks about music, mental health and what it felt to reroot and come home.

By Matt Khoo on 2023-11-27 at 7:11 AM

Updated on 2025-03-17 at 6:14 AM

“I was actually born and bred to be a lawyer but I was rebellious. I didn’t tell my family or friends that I was posting music on Youtube as KokoKaina. My parents knew that I love singing but I was really afraid at first. It’s why I kept it a secret.” 

About the episode

In Episode 16 of Hello Mentor, Malaysian singer-songwriter and global sensation Zee Avi joins Derek Toh for an inspiring conversation about her extraordinary journey in music, her passion for advocacy, and her return to Malaysia after years abroad.

From her humble beginnings in Sarawak to becoming the first Malaysian signed to Brushfire Records, Zee Avi's story is one of authenticity, resilience, and staying true to her roots. She opens up about her early days as a secretive YouTube artist under the alias KokoKaina and how she defied expectations to pursue her dreams.

Getting to know Zee Avi

Zee Avi (@zee.avi on Instagram) is a Malaysian singer-songwriter, guitarist, ukulele player and visual artist. She made her debut in music in 2009 when she signing to Brushfire Records. Her debut would make her the first Malaysian to reach many international marks in the US and Asia. 

She has performed at esteemed festivals and on many iconic stages, performing tours in the US, Asia, and 6 different cities in China, and much recently, Bangalore, India. 

Zee’s songs have also appeared in ads, TV series like Gossip Girl, Parenthood, Private Practice, Good Doctor, SPY and in movies like 21 Jump Street, The Oranges and Ola Bola.

Now, more than 10 years later, Zee is a self-funded, independent artist who is still creating music for her long term appreciators around the world. 

Why Zee Avi Came Home

After more than a decade in the United States, Zee Avi returned to Malaysia to reconnect with her family and the local music scene. Her decision wasn’t just personal—it was also driven by a desire to give back to the creative community in Malaysia.

"I just felt it was time to bow out gracefully from the States and come back home," Zee said. "Family was my first priority, but I also wanted to be part of building the music industry here."

Advocating for Mental Health and Anti-Bullying

Zee Avi is also a strong advocate for mental health and anti-bullying. Having personally faced challenges, she emphasized the importance of creating safe spaces for conversations about mental well-being in Malaysia. She hopes to use her platform to destigmatize therapy and mental health support, especially for creative individuals who often struggle in silence.

Her Advice to Aspiring Musicians

For those navigating Malaysia’s evolving music industry, Zee offers practical wisdom:

1. Educate Yourself: "The music industry is 70% business and 30% creativity," she explains. Knowing how to manage the business side of music is key.
2. Be Kind: Building meaningful connections requires kindness and respect. "Good things happen to kind people," Zee shares.
3. Stay Authentic: Success isn’t just about numbers. Zee reminds aspiring artists to focus on creating meaningful, heartfelt music.

Hello Mentor is a podcast show that platforms raw discussions on career, ambition and success with inspiring and accomplished individuals.

Hello Mentor is hosted by Derek Toh, Founder and CEO of Hiredly.

Listen to all episodes on Spotify for your dose of inspiration and career advice from real people who’ve been there!

Looking to elevate your career? Explore job opportunities on Hiredly and find your perfect match.

By Matt Khoo on 2023-11-27 at 7:11 AM