As an actor, talent and technique are undoubtedly important, but there are other aspects of professionalism that are often overlooked: good manners and staying humble.
Good manners are the foundation of building positive relationships with directors, fellow actors and crew members; humility is the ability for actors to accurately view their own talents and flaws while being void of arrogance.
Seasoned actress Kartina Aziz, 69, who is fondly known as "mama", said that by possessing these qualities, chemistry in a performance can be developed more easily, leading to the production of quality dramas or films.
She noted that some young actors today seem too arrogant and do not respect their seniors in the industry.
"In the old days, I had the chance to work with legendary actors like Normadiah, S. Kadarisman, and Kuswadinata. "They joked around but taught us to respect each other. It doesn't matter if you are the lead, second lead, all are the same," she said when met by Bernama at the Dari Poket Artis Ke Poket Artis 2.0 programme here recently.
The actress, known for her roles in the drama Rumah Kedai and the film Mami Jarum, also advised newcomers to seize every opportunity to learn as much as possible from their seniors.
"If you want to act, do it properly, dedicate your life to the set, and learn as much as you can from senior actors. If you are 20 years old, you have 40 more years to reach our age (as seasoned actors), with many challenges ahead," she said.
She added, if a senior actor gives you advice, accept it with an open heart and see it from a positive perspective.
Additionally, the Best Comedy Actress at the 16th Malaysia Film Festival hopes that producers or the relevant parties ensure that the payment received by seasoned artistes commensurate with their experience.
Last week, Kartina was among 20 seasoned artistes who received a cash donation of RM5,000 and a supply of health supplement products from a private company.
"They (producers) seem to lack concern for the fate of seasoned actors who should be appreciated. For example, Norlia Ghani, who started acting during the P. Ramlee era, is not just anyone in the industry. With the quality and experience she has, payment should be based on her merit," she said. – Bernama
