Malaysian barber to give free haircuts over 96 hours in record-breaking attempt

Besides running a barbershop, Kalitasan also has a barbering academy where he and three other teachers train youths from the B40 group. Photos: Kalitasaan Selvoturai

Five years ago, barber Kalitasan Selvoturai, 36, earned two spots in the Malaysia Book Of Records (MBR) – for "Most Haircuts (144 haircuts) in 24 Hours by an Individual", and "Longest Non-Stop Haircuts Relay By A Group in 72 Hours".

From Aug 22-26, he will be attempting another MBR record where he plans to give free haircuts for 96 hours.

Kalitasan, who runs a barbering academy and barbershop called Dhass Skills Academy in Batu Caves, Selangor, will be attempting the feat together with 21 other people – 19 students from his academy and two barbers from Singapore.

This effort is part of his contribution to society as Malaysians prepare to celebrate the country's 67th Merdeka. This event is held in collaboration with the Malaysian Indian Congress.

'Barbering is often overlooked, but it's a valuable and respected trade, says Kalitasan.

"As we approach Merdeka Day, I wanted to do something meaningful for our country. This record attempt isn't just about setting a new milestone; it's my way of giving back to the community and celebrating our nation's independence in a memorable way," said Kalitasan during an interview in Batu Caves recently.

The feat will take place at Netaji Hall, Menara Manickavasagam in Kuala Lumpur.

The father of one has been running the academy since 2019, where he has trained over 150 students from the B40 group.

"I decided to start this academy to train the B40 group because I believe in empowering the youth from lower-income backgrounds with skills that can provide them with a sustainable livelihood."

Kalitasan, born in Bidor, Perak, relocated to Kuala Lumpur in 2004 to live with relatives after the passing of his mother. After finishing his secondary education in KL, he turned to a close friend to learn the art of barbering, using the skill to support himself.

"Back then, I was very poor and didn’t have much money to survive. I couldn’t pursue higher education due to a lack of funds. To get by, I learned barbering and gradually built my own business. I decided to focus on teaching this skill to youth from the B40 group because I believe they deserve the same opportunity to improve their lives and secure a better future," said Kalitasan, who has posted updates on his upcoming feat on his Facebook.

Kalitasan holding the certificate for 'Longest Non-Stop Haircuts Relay By A Group in 72 Hours'. Next, he will attempt another record by giving free haircuts for 96 hours non-stop.

He says that barbering is often seen as a simple, routine job rather than a skilled profession. On average, barbers can earn anything from RM2,000 to RM4,000 per month.

"Barbering is often perceived as less prestigious. But it demands precision, creativity, and a deep understanding of different hair types and styles.

"Barbering is often overlooked but it's a valuable and respected trade that can open doors to a better future. By learning this skill, these young people can take control of their lives and build a stable career," says Kalitasan, who runs the academy with three teachers.

Barbering has evolved from a basic grooming service into a sophisticated, trend-driven industry. Photo: 123rf

At the academy, students undergo a three-month course where they learn essential skills such as basic hair cutting, hairstyling, shaving, hair washing, and facial treatments.

He adds that, over the years, barbering has evolved from a simple grooming service to a sophisticated, trend-driven industry.

"Those days, barbershops focused on basic haircuts and shaves. Nowadays, we offer a wide range of services, including advanced hairstyling, beard sculpting, and skincare treatments. We have many customers requesting for personalised styles based on Bollywood and Kollywood movies."

To book your appointment for a free haircut during this feat, call 018-782 1853.