THEY have been rumoured to be a couple for several years now. But last Sunday, Shahir, whose real name is Ahmad Shahir Zawawi, 29, finally opened up about his relationship with award-winning actress and singer Erra Fazira, 43.

The champion of talent reality show Akademi Fantasia (Season 8) admitted that they were in a serious relationship and that he was ready to take the plunge.

When NST contacted Erra for comments, the silver screen primadonna of the 1990s remained tight-lipped.

Earlier last week, when NST interviewed Erra during the launch of beauty product Triplewhite Gluthathione at Parkroyal Kuala Lumpur, she said she was in no position to say much about her relationship with Shahir.

“As a woman, I don’t think it is appropriate to talk about the next level of our relationship.”

Erra said her focus was on her career and her daughter, Engku Aleesya Engku Emran, 8.

“I admit that at one time, I did give some thought on getting married again. However, as time passes, I realised that if I’m fated to marry, I will. And if I don’t, it’s fine, too. I don’t go looking for a potential husband.

“On that note, it is only normal for anyone wanting to love and be loved, but I’m not going to make this a big issue. In the meantime, I’ll just go with the flow and take a day at a time,” she said.

“As of now, I’m happy with the life that God has laid out for me. Besides work, I have ample time to dote on Aleesya,” she added.

Aleesya, however, gets a little worried when she has to leave her mother, to be with her father, Engku Emran Engku Zainal. The two divorced in 2014.

“Each time before she leaves my house, she’d tell me to hug the pillows at night when I feel lonely and miss her,” said Erra of the only child.

Besides Aleesya, Erra said her close friends had also expressed their concerns about her singlehood, prompting them to matchmake her with their acquaintances.

“When I am not working, I prefer to stay home. I’m not the type who would go out and meet people without a goal,” said the former beauty queen.

“Some friends have passed me messages from eligible men. But, since I’m not much into the dating game, there has been no follow-up action.

“But then again, if they are really serious, I’m sure they’ll find a way.”