'I'll be back, perhaps God has something better' — Aliff Aziz

KUALA LUMPUR – Singer and actor Aliff Aziz says he is in no position to comment on his absence from local television stations in recent years.

Aliff, whose full name is Mohammad Aliff Aziz, 35, said he believes every opportunity in the acting world is predetermined and that he has no control or influence over casting decisions.

"I don't work at a local television station. So I myself am not sure and would not dare comment on what is actually being discussed or whether it is true or not.

"For me, I always hold to the principle that wherever there is rezeki (sustenance), that is where I will give my best," he told reporters at the media preview of iQIYI's latest drama Madu Atau Racun here yesterday. (Quotes translated from Malay.)

He added that should opportunities at local TV stations come his way, he would do his best, as it was not within his power to decide who is chosen.

Aliff acknowledged he has feelings like anyone else but chooses to view challenges positively.

"If I hear such things, of course I feel sad. But I remind myself that perhaps God has prepared something better.

"Even though some say they do not want me in a certain place, alhamdulillah there are still others who give me opportunities," he said.

The eighth-season Gegar Vaganza champion said he was grateful to still be given space to work despite various perceptions and criticism.

"Among all the negative comments, I believe many are still praying for me, whether openly or quietly," he said.

Aliff's absence from local small-screen productions had previously raised questions among viewers, with some claiming the Singapore-born actor had been blacklisted from local TV channels.

He returns in Madu Atau Racun, directed by Eyra Rahman, which streams on iQIYI from Aug 14. The 12-episode drama also stars Uqasha Senrose and Elisya Sandha.