Actors need to be sensitive, says singer-actor Awie

MELAKA, March 22 (Bernama) -- The country's rock singer/actor Datuk Azhar Othman or Awie has advised actors to be more sensitive and aware when acting to ensure that their performance is not against the teachings of Islam that can spark controversy.

He said the local arts and entertainment industry did not need to be too open with scenes that were overboard and inappropriate, especially for Malay and Muslim actors.

“We live in Malaysia where steamy scenes are inappropriate but if they are acting in a foreign country, it is up to them.

"Drama or film directors should avoid scenes with such elements," he told reporters after attending a press conference with the rock group, Wings for the 'Wings Raikan Cinta Ramadan' breaking fast programme at a hotel here today.

Earlier, actor Zul Ariffin shocked the country's entertainment industry when he uploaded a video containing a teaser of a steamy scene of an upcoming drama on Instagram which he then deleted, before offering an apology.

Awie, who is famous for his iconic character ‘Husin’ in the top-grossing ‘Hantu Kak Limah’ film, said the action was seen as shameful and not suitable for the country's entertainment industry.

Today, Minister of Communications and Multimedia Tan Sri Annuar Musa through his Twitter account made a statement that Zul would also face legal action under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 over his posting.

The section provides for a maximum fine of RM50,000 or imprisonment of not more than one year or both upon conviction.

Meanwhile, in the upcoming Ramadan, Wings comprising Awie (vocals), Syam (guitar), Edrie (guitar), Eddie (bass) and Black (drums) will perform in the ‘Wings Raikan Cinta Ramadan’ programme on April 16 at the hotel.

According to Awie, the event will include a Ramadan tazkirah (sermon) session, congregational Maghrib, Isyak and tarawih prayers in addition to the handing over of donations to orphans and the group’s performance.

-- BERNAMA