#SHOWBIZ: Syed Saddiq, Bella Astillah turn wedding reception into RM300,000 'Kenduri Rakyat' for needy

OCT 10 marks a new chapter for singer-actress Bella Astillah and politician Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman as the couple prepare to tie the knot.

With reception ceremonies scheduled in Muar, Johor on Oct 25 and Kota Kinabalu, Sabah on Oct 31, their upcoming nuptials have become one of the year's most anticipated celebrity events.

But beneath the glamour and excitement, the pair are using their big day to champion a cause close to their hearts.

For the Muar member of parliament, hosting their wedding reception is less about lavish celebrations and more about giving back.

Through a planned Kenduri Rakyat (People's Feast), the couple are teaming up with local brands to distribute over RM300,000 worth of essential provisions to families in need.

"From the start, I wanted to make sure this feast was well organised. It's the best way for us to share our joy with the public," Syed Saddiq explained.

"Rather than asking for monetary gifts, easing the financial burden on everyday people feels far more meaningful."

He hopes their approach will encourage young couples not to rack up massive debt for a single, lavish day.

To set an example, their main reception in Kuala Lumpur is being scaled down to just 200 guests, though fans across the country can still tune in via live TV and online streams.

Bella added that holding the Sabah reception in Kota Kinabalu makes travel far more convenient for loved ones across the state.

"If it were up to me, I'd have loved to hold it in my hometown of Sandakan," Bella noted.

"But most of our sponsors are based in KK. Looking at the logistics, KK sits right in the middle, making it much easier for guests travelling from Lahad Datu and other parts of Sabah to join us."

Ahead of their big day, the couple had the privilege of spending over two hours with the late Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohd Ali, just three days before her passing—a meeting that left a profound mark on them both.

Syed Saddiq recalled her lively spirit as she shared stories of enduring love, stressing the vital role of tolerance, compromise, and education in building a strong foundation.

For Bella, her advice offered a personal source of strength.

"She told me that I must be strong and always stand by my husband—to be gentle, yet resilient," Bella said. "She reminded me that while the journey won't always be easy, mutual trust and respect will carry us through, God willing."

Looking ahead to family life, Syed Saddiq shared his eagerness to step into his new role as a stepfather to Bella's two children, Mohamad Ayden Adrean and Ara Adreanna.

He revealed that he began reading parenting books late last year to prepare.

"Bella has done an incredible job raising them; they are remarkably polite and well-mannered," he said.

"I feel fortunate. My role is to offer support, and I'll do my absolute best to carry out that responsibility."

Despite a packed schedule—with the solemnisation ceremony landing right after the tabling of Budget 2027 and the start of parliamentary sessions—Syed Saddiq assured the public that his official duties will remain a priority. Similarly, Bella plans to continue her acting and filming career without interruption.

"We set clear expectations from the beginning," Syed Saddiq added. "It would be unfair of me as a husband to limit or stop Bella's career ambitions."

With her family and children's full backing, Bella looks forward to this next chapter with gratitude.

"The children are thrilled and can't wait," she said. "I'm deeply thankful for everyone's support and prayers as we begin this new journey together."