VETERAN actress and director Ellie Suriaty Omar, 53, emphasised that aspiring actors must develop mental and physical resilience to thrive in the competitive world of acting.
Speaking at a forum titled 'Lihatlah Dunia: Trofi FFM Merubah Hidupku' during the lead up to the 33rd Malaysian Film Festival (FFM33), Ellie encouraged young talents to embrace challenges on set as learning experiences.
"It's disheartening when new actors claim they are bullied by senior performers. As someone who transitioned from acting to directing, I've never witnessed bullying. What exists is mutual respect and learning."
Ellie refuted allegations of bullying by senior actors, labelling such accusations as harmful to the industry.
"If new talents can't handle the demands of the craft, perhaps they should consider being influencers instead of actors. This career is tough, and no one is here to pamper you," she remarked.
Recalling her own experiences, Ellie shared how she worked with legendary actors like the late Kuswadinata, Latiff Borgiba, and Datuk Sharifah Aini.
"They were disciplined and professional, even when directed by someone younger. Accusations of bullying against senior actors are baseless and damaging. We must respect the industry that feeds us."
Ellie also expressed her reluctance to collaborate with individuals who propagate such claims, stating, "I love this creative industry deeply. Those who tarnish its reputation will not have a place in my projects."
The forum was part of the FFM33 Golden Evolution Intuition event, jointly organised by the Malaysian Entertainment Journalists and Writers Association and the National Film Development Corporation.
In addition to celebrating local cinema, the two-day event aimed to inspire young Malaysians to appreciate and contribute to the nation's film industry.
The panel featured industry icons Datuk Rosyam Noor, Fauziah Ahmad Daud, Maya Karin, and Erra Fazira, with Ellie moderating.