KUALA LUMPUR: Sheila Sharon Steven Kumar, widely known as 'Inspector Sheila,' recently professed that she has gained her father's approval to marry someone of a different race and religion, even if that man is a Malay Muslim.
The 35-year-old said the most crucial aspect for her is finding a man who can make her happy and accept her.
"My father didn't pressure me. He informed me that if I choose to marry a Malay man, I could convert to Islam. It's about the heart; race doesn't matter. I embrace this openness because I am Malaysian.
"I have yet to find a man who meets the criteria to be my husband," she said during an exclusive interview with Harian Metro at the New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd (NSTP) News Studio.
Sheila recently took to Facebook to share her quest for a prospective partner, prompting numerous inquiries from interested individuals.
"It's true that many men, not only Malays, Chinese, and Indians but also Punjabis, have shown interest in getting to know me.
"Physical appearance doesn't matter to me; I am not attracted to handsome faces. However, I have a preference for younger men.
"It's an added bonus if they can appreciate someone like me, who is assertive," she shared.
While Sheila has read all the received messages, she said she has not yet responded or accepted any date invitations.
Sheila highlighted that another criterion is that the man must be single, actively engaged in sports, and, most importantly, respect women.
"I prefer a fit man; I don't want someone overweight because I will be seeing his face 24 hours a day once we are married," she said.
Sheila also stressed the importance of good English speaking skills, a love for traveling, prioritising family and religion, meeting certain standards, and having a global mindset.
"So far, I haven't found a suitable man, and none have passed the screening," shared Sheila, who holds a Bachelor's Degree in Languages and Linguistics from the University of Malaya.
The increasing attention Sheila has received has drastically transformed her life since her story went viral.
As the eldest among eight siblings, she has witnessed a significant surge in her Facebook followers, soaring from 8,400 to 16,000.
Sheila admitted to staying indoors for two days when her story gained traction on social media. When venturing outside, she took precautions by wearing a face mask and a hat.
However, she observed a shift in the negative perception surrounding her, with many individuals now approaching her for selfies, an interaction she welcomes.
Sheila has also been approached by various companies with offers to participate in live broadcasts. After consulting with a lawyer, she confirmed that such engagements were permissible as long as they did not interfere with her ongoing court case.
As someone who aspires to become a lawyer herself, Sheila said she embraces the new opportunities that have emerged.
