In this Malay name, there is no surname or family name. The name Nik Mat is a patronymic, and the person should be referred to by their given name, Nik Akif Syahiran. The word "bin" or "binti"/"binte" means 'son of' or 'daughter of', respectively.
On 11 November 2017, it was announced that Nik Akif has been promoted to the Kelantan's first team for 2018 season.[4][5] On 3 February 2018, Nik Akif made his first league appearance for Kelantan in a 1–2 defeat over Melaka United coming off bench for Fadhilah Pauzi.
Terengganu
On 8 December 2020, Nik Akif officially sign 2 years contract with Terengganu FC.
On 23 November 2017, Akif Syahiran has been enlisted in Malaysia U22's 30-man provisional squad for the 2018 AFC U-23 Championship.[9] On 10 January 2018, Akif made his first appearance for the Malaysia U23 came from the bench in the 88th minute in a 1–4 defeat to Iraq at Changshu Stadium.[10]