KUALA LUMPUR: It's often said, "Successful people are not gifted; they just work hard, then succeed on purpose."
Many Malaysian celebrities have embodied this expression, building thriving businesses from modest beginnings.
These artistes have ventured beyond entertainment, proving that with hard work and persistence, anything is possible.
From cakes to cosmetics and beyond, they share their inspiring stories.
Siti Nurhaliza: Cake seller-turned-business mogul
Popular singer Datuk Seri Siti Nurhaliza Tarudin started her journey helping her mother sell cakes.
"Even in primary school, my sister and I would wake up at 5am to help with the frying and packing," she told Harian Metro.
She later took sweets to sell around town, including at the local police barracks.
With perseverance and the right partnerships, Siti launched SimplySiti, now one of Malaysia's leading brands.
"SimplySiti, under CTDK Holdings, has been in business for 14 years," she said.
The venture hasn't been without its challenges, but Siti and her team remain committed to quality.
Aeril Zafrel: From plantation worker to cosmetics tycoon
Actor Aeril Zafrel's journey began in the fields, where he worked alongside his father in palm oil and pineapple plantations.
Seeking a better life, he left his hometown in Batu Pahat, Johor and moved to Kuala Lumpur, working as a salesperson before exploring acting.
In 2016, Aeril and his wife, Wawa Zainal, started Wawa Cosmetics from scratch.
"We had no idea about running a business," he admitted, "but we learned everything ourselves."
Today, Wawa Cosmetics is a household name, a testament to their resilience and willingness to learn.
Shuib: From cargo worker to successful entrepreneur
Actor and comedian Shuib worked in the cargo department at AirAsia before joining Raja Lawak Season 3. He fondly remembers his job as a ramp agent, handling baggage and assisting flights.
His career as a comedian blossomed from his determination to support his family.
In 2020, Shuib launched Bubblebee, a honey-based beverage brand. The business, though successful, faced challenges.
Shuib's journey took an unexpected turn when he was called by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) for questioning.
Though he faced public scrutiny, he remained resilient.
"Through it all, Bubblebee has become widely recognised," he said.
Mila Jirin: Overcoming hardships to become a businesswoman
Singer Mila Jirin grew up in Penang, where her father worked as a laborer, and her mother took on factory work to support the family.
To help, Mila worked odd jobs after finishing school and eventually pursued singing.
Encouraged by her husband, Mila began her entrepreneurial journey.
Starting with small businesses, she now owns Bizmilla Wedding Centre, which has grown into a successful catering and event management company with 20 banquet halls and multiple kitchens across Malaysia.
Zoey Rahman: Building a brand from personal savings
Zoey Rahman started his acting career in 2005 and balanced his studies in interior design with his passion for entertainment.
In 2017, he launched Mika Series, a skincare line developed from his savings, without external support.
"The biggest challenge was capital," he said.
"But I was determined to make it work."
Zoey attributes his success to careful planning, financial prudence, and a focus on branding.
"Many assume it's easy for artistes to sell products, but Mika Series is my own business," he said.
Today, his brand has gained a loyal customer base, proving that determination and resourcefulness go a long way.