Puteri Balqis laments fixation on clout over craft

TEENAGE actress Puteri Balqis shared candid thoughts on the state of the Malaysian entertainment industry, which increasingly prioritises clout and popularity over acting craft.

The 19-year-old, affectionately known as Aqish, expressed empathy for veteran actors who have voiced disappointment over modern award shows that heavily favour social media follower counts.

The former Anugerah Skrin Best Actress winner said she often looks to the late Tan Sri P. Ramlee's life to keep her own career grounded.

"Every time acting quality is left unappreciated while popularity takes centre stage, I remind myself of P. Ramlee's journey," she shared in a recent Instagram Story.

"He was an artiste who was once worshipped, only to face the bitterness of rejection and even mockery on stage during his decline. The lives of P. Ramlee and Saloma were not always as picture-perfect as they are often portrayed."

On fan support, Puteri Balqis noted that true appreciation isn't measured by loud online cheers or massive voting drives.

Instead, she expressed deep gratitude for quiet, unexpected gestures of solidarity.

"I have come to realise that not all supporters are loud," she noted.

"There are those who may not cast votes, but are actively defending artistes in comment sections without needing to announce their loyalty to the world.

"I call them silent supporters. They might not always be visible, but they often appear at the most unexpected times," she added.

Ultimately, the young star emphasised that artistic validation does not rely solely on holding up a trophy on stage.

"Every time award shows come around, I remind myself that appreciation doesn't always come in the form of a win. Some forms of gratitude are not loudly declared, but that does not make them any less meaningful," she said.