KUALA LUMPUR: Entering Malaysia's entertainment industry offers opportunities but challenges actresses to balance intimate scenes with personal values and societal expectations.
Actress Siti Khadijah Halim, 27, recently opened up about the challenges she faced early in her career when addressing these concerns.
"Since I first started acting, I expressed my preference for avoiding physical contact on set.
"I got to know that when Kak Mira (Filzah) performs these types of scenes, the production uses camera tricks to avoid actual touching.
"However, when I brought this up, they just laughed at me," she told Harian Metro.
She reflected on feeling dismissed due to her appearance at the time.
"I wasn't wearing a hijab, and I noticed that my opinions were often overlooked.
"It felt like I wasn't respected, especially as someone new in the industry. But now, with the experience and success I've gained, I hope productions are more understanding."
Siti Khadijah emphasised that her aim isn't to avoid genuine performances but to balance professionalism with personal comfort.
"As actors, we don't want unnecessary contact. What matters is delivering emotion authentically," she said.
Over the years, Siti Khadijah has learned to handle public criticism, especially concerning her onscreen interactions. "I've acted in scenes involving physical contact, but I ensure there's mutual understanding and permission beforehand.
"I always maintain boundaries and consider the other actor's comfort. I have my family's reputation to uphold as well," she said.
Siti Khadijah, who starred in From Saga with Love, spoke about her collaborative efforts with directors and co-stars to minimise excessive physical interactions.
"For instance, in scenes with Hun Haqeem and Ikmal Amry, I discussed ways to tone down the physicality. "The production team respected my concerns, and we worked out a balanced approach."
Understanding the sensitivities of her colleagues is equally important to her.
"Some actors, especially those who are married, prefer to avoid physical contact.
"I respect that. I want everyone to feel comfortable and ensure professionalism on set," she added.