Actress Syad Mutalib Seeks 'Scary' and 'Homewrecker' Roles to Broaden Acting Scope

Malaysian actress Syad Mutalib, often cast in tearful roles, harbors a desire to explore darker and more challenging characters. She expressed a keen interest in venturing into horror genres and portraying 'wanita penyondol' (homewrecker) characters to showcase her acting versatility.

"Throughout the filming of the drama series 'Bidadari Tanpa Syurga,' I shared my dream with Kak Nad (Nadiya Nisaa) of starring in a horror production. I truly desire it and don't mind whether I play a possessed victim or the entity doing the possessing," Syad stated. She is eager to explore new territory and is open to 'homewrecker' roles, provided they align with her image and are not overly daring.

"As an actress, I feel such characters offer a very enjoyable performance to explore on set," she added. Syad, who has been married for two years, shared her gratitude for her understanding husband, who supports her career. While he imposes no restrictions, Syad maintains her own boundaries as a Muslim woman.

"Alhamdulillah, life after marriage has been very good. My husband is very understanding of the career I am in and considers my work a professional duty," she said. "My husband knows who I am, and although he doesn't set limits, I, as a hijab-wearing individual, know my boundaries. I believe audiences and producers nowadays also understand the limits that an actress wearing a hijab needs to maintain."

Addressing concerns about career prospects after marriage, Syad admitted initial worries about fewer job offers compared to single actresses. However, advice from industry friends shifted her perspective. "Before I got married, people did talk about this, making me very scared and wondering if it was true," she recalled. "But a friend advised me that no matter what happens, sustenance is vast and always available everywhere. I respect the business side of television stations or producers who might have their own lists of artists. However, I believe my sustenance has never been misplaced."