30/07/2025

LYFE WEDNESDAY | JULY 30, 2025

25

Niena Baharun set to act again after two-year break AFTER a two-year break from the entertainment world, Datin Niena Baharun is now returning to the film set with renewed passion, taking on a more challenging role on the silver screen. Set to star in an upcoming action film, the 32-year-old actress shared she has also resumed acting classes to prepare herself mentally and emotionally for a role that demands deep character immersion. “People may think acting is easy, but it is difficult. Moreover, this is a film, so I have been attending acting classes to ensure I can fully embody the character,” she told reporters after the Malaysia Bridal Fashion Week 2025 event organised by The Gown Atelier. Niena, whose real name is Amaniena Kamarul Baharun, explained she took time off from the glamorous world due to her responsibilities as a mother to two young children. The decision to return to work was not easy, but she was drawn to the film’s storyline and the opportunity to try a genre she had not explored before, namely action. “I was 50-50 about accepting the offer because I had to consider my time and my family. But after thinking it over, I realised the filming period for this movie is shorter than a drama series. The role is also different from anything I have done before.” She added that she has also been paying more attention to her physical fitness, committing to pilates sessions at least three times a week. “I never used to work out, but after trying pilates, I have grown to love it because it does not build bulky muscles or anything like that. It just focuses on the whole body,” she said. – Bernama Niena says her upcoming acting role is different from anything she has done before.

M’sian singer Saint Kylo to collab with Anderson Paak o Indie artiste to take part in Jameson Distilled Sounds Kylo is an independent artiste with four singles and an upcoming EP to his name.

Kuala Lumpur. As an independent artiste, he has four singles and an upcoming EP titled Paid For to his name. Distilled Sounds is Jameson’s first music programme. The Irish whiskey brand created Distilled Sounds to connect artistes from across the world to create and perform new music for fans, while providing them exposure and mentorship. Jameson previously worked with local artiste Claudia Tan. Together with Paak, Tan released Draw Me , a fusion of Malaysian pop and Papua New Guinean R&B and soul. The Semalakama singer said she is aiming to collaborate with talented young composers such as Ikhwan Fatanna and Hael Husaini, believing their fresh musical sensibilities could breathe new life into traditional Malaysian rhythms. “If the opportunity arises and they are open to having me interpret their work, why not?”she said. Zehra, who was a host on Selamat Pagi Malaysia (RTM) for over two years, said she does not regret giving up her job as it has brought her peace and more freedom to focus on her family and personal passions. “In the past, it was stressful being tied to a hectic newsroom job. Now that I am doing something I love, it does not feel like work. In fact, I am earning more than I did before,” she said. Zehra also said she would not rule out returning to hosting, particularly for formal programmes or events, though she admitted acting is not her forte. She recently took part in Konsert Simfoni Budaya 2, organised by the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra. She said the large-scale performance was a “motivational boost” to stay active in the music scene. – Bernama

artiste, so to feel seen on a global stage, mentored by someone such as Anderson Paak is wild. I am just a kid from Taman Melawati and now I am sharing space with artistes from all over the world, writing music, learning from the best and putting Malaysia on the map. That kind of belief? It means everything,” said Kylo. Kylo is no stranger to commanding a stage. The R&B and funk indie singer has performed at various festivals, including Good Vibes and Riuh in the City. He also performed at the Jameson Distilled Sounds takeover at the Zhongshan Building in

S ELANGOR–BORN artiste Saint Kylo is set to work with Grammy-winning music producer Anderson Paak. As part of Jameson Distilled Sounds, Saint Kylo will write, record and perform new music under Paak’s supervision. “I have been grinding for years as an indie

Zehra Zambri to promote traditional music

WHILE many local singers prefer modern music trends, Zehra Zambri remains committed to championing and elevating traditional Malaysian rhythms through a contemporary approach to stay relevant with today’s audience. The former newsreader said singing is not just a passion but an integral part of her identity, which she is determined to strengthen after a long hiatus from the entertainment industry. “Many (supporters) told me to continue with traditional music because that is my strength. I am also very passionate about this genre. Maybe, I can give it a contemporary touch in line with the times,” she said recently. Zehra, who recently made a comeback by participating in the 11th season of Astro reality show Gegar Vaganza , acknowledged there are still fans and organisers who value her talent and identity as a singer rooted in traditional music. “I feel among the many artistes championing traditional music, my name is still mentioned. That is truly an honour for me,” said Zehra, who is currently planning the release of her latest single.

Niena has been taking acting classes to prepare for the film. – PICS FROM BERNAMA

Zehra says singing is part of her identity. – PIC FROM INSTAGRAM @ZEHRAZAMBRI