‘Why not?’ - Iman Suhana defends Aisha Retno’s casting as Puteri Gunung Ledang

Actress Iman Suhana has defended the casting of singer Aisha Retno as the lead in the musical theater production of Puteri Gunung Ledang. Suhana, a graduate of theater direction, believes Aisha Retno's selection is a valuable opportunity for emerging talent.

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Why not? Give her space and a chance. We don't know her prior experience in theater.

"Why not? Give her space and a chance. We don't know her prior experience in theater," Suhana told Utusan Malaysia. She added that such decisions are typically made by directors like Puan Sri Tiara, who understand production needs and have valid reasons for their choices.

Drawing from her own experience working with Tiara for three years on a long-running musical, Suhana expressed confidence in the production's selection process. "I believe there are specific considerations. We shouldn't be quick to say someone is unqualified. We aren't that great ourselves to judge others," she stated. Suhana highlighted that actors can develop well with the right guidance when given an opportunity.

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We shouldn't be quick to say someone is unqualified. We aren't that great ourselves to judge others.

Suhana's comments came in response to her earlier social media post discussing how supporting roles in dramas and films carry challenges equal to lead roles. She reiterated that judging an actor's potential prematurely is unfair, emphasizing that every performer can grow with proper mentorship.

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When given the opportunity, an actor can develop well if guided properly.