Daler Yusuf Reveals Unethical Practices, Claims Some Industry Players Offer Trips Before Jobs
PETALING JAYA: Actor Daler Yusuf has added his voice to growing concerns over unethical behaviour in Malaysia’s entertainment industry, revealing that male actors are not immune to exploitation and inappropriate advances, particularly during the early stages of their careers.
Daler, whose full name is Daler Yusuf Khamrokulov Muhammad, said his experience occurred when he was still new to acting and actively reaching out to directors and producers in hopes of securing roles.
Challenging the long-held perception that only women need to be cautious in the industry, Daler stressed that male performers are also vulnerable, especially when they lack industry connections or influence.
“When you first start acting, it’s not just women who need to protect themselves. Men aren’t safe either,” he shared in a comment on Threads.
According to Daler, his enthusiasm to break into the industry led him to contact several key figures. However, some responses crossed professional boundaries, raising serious concerns about ethics and abuse of power.
Blurred Lines Between Opportunity and Exploitation
Daler revealed that certain individuals requested personal photos via messaging platforms such as WeChat, while others went as far as inviting him on trips before any legitimate job offer was discussed.
He described these encounters as deeply uncomfortable, noting that such requests place young actors in a vulnerable position, where ambition can be exploited by those in positions of authority.
Despite the pressure, Daler said he made a conscious decision not to compromise his values, even if it meant missing out on potential opportunities.
“I chose not to take shortcuts. I believe that sustenance and success come from God,” he said.
The actor added that placing trust in faith and personal integrity ultimately brought him peace, reinforcing his belief that meaningful and positive opportunities would come without the need for moral compromise.
Daler’s disclosure comes amid heightened scrutiny of Malaysia’s entertainment industry following comments by actress Mimi Lana, who expressed outrage over allegations of exploitation and human trafficking shared by Norashikin Mohd. Aziz, the mother of former child actress Puteri Balqish.
Mimi stressed that such issues should never be dismissed as gossip or social media drama, but recognised as serious realities that leave lasting trauma on victims.
By sharing his own experience, Daler has broadened the conversation, highlighting that exploitation in the entertainment world affects individuals regardless of gender.
His account underscores the urgent need for stronger safeguards, clearer professional boundaries, and a cultural shift within the industry to ensure that aspiring talents can pursue their careers without fear of coercion or abuse.
-wilayah.com.my
