KUALA LUMPUR: Award-winning film director Osman Ali has admitted that new actors and actresses who were serious about becoming successful stars were "far and few".
The man behind hit films as Ombak Rindu and Jwanita said that many newcomers to the film industry were merely interested in gaining popularity on social media.
Consequently, there has been a lack of truly talented young stars with the potential to go far.
"It's a pity that we don't have that many young actors and actresses who are truly talented and serious about work, compared to Thailand, Indonesia, South Korea, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States.
"In these countries, young stars really work hard to improve themselves and aim high in showbiz," said Osman in a news report today.
"Back home, we've got too many 'flash-in-the-pan' starlets who are more concerned about their social media following.
"Some of them look good but sorely lack talent. People like them won't go far in showbiz."
Osman, 48, is now working on a drama series about teenagers. He said that despite a lack of young actors and actresses with potential, he would do his best to guide those whom he believed were serious about work.
"I always enjoy working with new actors and actresses who are versatile. They can play youths as well as older characters well.
"What is most important is their attitude and discipline at work. Strong social media following is not necessary," he said.