05/12/2025

FRIDAY | DEC 5, 2025

25

LYFE

From auditor to actress o Heartfelt change in direction changes outcomes

L EAVING a stable corporate career for the unpredictable world of entertainment is a move many hesitate to make but for actress Thasha Krishnakumar, the leap was necessary. Before entering the acting scene, Thasha spent four years working as an auditor with two major international firms – KPMG and Ernst & Young. “Acting had always been my passion, but I remained cautious about pursuing it, knowing the risks involved,” she told Bernama in an exclusive interview at Wisma Bernama here recently. “For women especially, joining the entertainment industry earlier is better because certain roles come with age limits,” she said, explaining why she eventually chose to take the plunge. Understanding she needed financial stability during the transition, Thasha started an online business in 2021 called Kedailah.

The brand began on Instagram before expanding to TikTok, providing her with additional income while she pursued acting full-time. Her acting journey took off with Unnodu Naan Iruppen , a Naavin Samrat short film released on YouTube in 2018. Her performance caught the attention of prominent local director Dr Vimala Perumal, who cast her in Tamiletchumy 2 in a supporting part. She later appeared in her first feature film, Undercover Rascals , before securing a lead role in the Ramarajan series. Thasha’s major breakthrough came with the Astro Vinmeen series Uppuroti Chidambaram , Shalini Balasundaram’s 2022 premiere. Playing a negative character for the first time, she said the role opened new doors in her career. “People started recognising my talent. Even kids and elderly viewers began noticing me,” said the 31-year-old actress from Seremban, who is the youngest of three sisters. She also appears in Pasanga 3 , the highly anticipated continuation of the popular Pasanga franchise. The third season will begin airing next Monday with more than 200 episodes lined up for the year. The next schedule is set to resume i n

ONE STAGE, three stars. The coming New Year’s night at Resorts World Genting is set to start 2026 with an electrifying celebration of anime and pop culture at the Anime Fantasia Live at Resorts World Genting from Dec 29 to Jan 3 next year. As part of the six-day celebration, fans can look forward to an immersive festival experience, featuring ACG exhibition booths, official merchandise sales, daily cosplay competitions, mini games, fan meet-ups and so much more. Capping off the celebration is a high-energy concert on Jan 3, bringing together three unique acts on one stage in cohesion. The evening will feature Japanese pop icon Airi Suzuki, renowned for her journey from Hello! Project Kids to °C-ute and Buono! before launching her successful solo career. Airi’s appearance is set to be one of the most anticipated highlights for fans in Malaysia. Joining her is Noa, the rising Gen-Z singer songwriter whose dreamy, self-produced sound has captured millions across Japan. Since her debut in 2022, she has built a strong following through viral tracks, quickly cropping up in modern J-pop as one of the most intriguing new voices. Adding a local touch to the lineup is KLP48, Malaysia’s very own international sister group within the AKB48 family. With a diverse roster of members from Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia and Hong Kong, the multilingual group has made a strong debut with energetic stages and their release of Heavy Rotation . Their New Year performance at Arena of Stars promises the upbeat, fan-favourite icon charm that has defined the 48-group legacy worldwide. Together, these artistes will deliver an electrifying night of music and pop-culture celebration, blending contemporary J-pop and the youthful spirit of anime fandom with icon energy to open the new year on a high note. Tickets are priced from RM228 to RM288. Ticket sales to the public will open on Dec 2 at 12pm. For long-time anime fans, J-pop followers or those simply looking to start 2026 in an unforgettable way, this is set to be one of the most exciting concerts to date. Welcoming 2026 with J-pop The six-day event will end with a big J-pop finale.

Thasha talks about her journey of transitioning from corporate to entertainment. January, as the filming for the first half has been completed. Beyond her roles, Thasha is vocal about improving working conditions for local artistes, noting that inconsistent shooting schedules make it difficult for actors to continue their acting journey sustainably. “A good payment structure is crucial. Sometimes we shoot one month and then have a dry month,” she said. She added that amid competition from streaming platforms, cinema owners should consider lowering ticket prices, especially for B40 families, to encourage more Malaysians to return to theatres. Thasha noted that many Malaysian Tamil talents move to the Indian industry due to limited opportunities and in pursuit of financial stability. She encouraged agencies such as the National Film Development Corp Malaysia (Finas) to play a more active part. “If Finas can come forward to provide funding or co-produce films, it will give more hope to directors and aspiring actors,” she said. The actress has also faced cyberbullying, especially on platforms like TikTok where she livestreams regularly. While regulations have improved, she believes education begins at home. “People who want to bully will do what they want. It begins with family. Children must be taught how to speak kindly and respect others,” she said. Over time, she has learnt to manage negativity with a balance of firmness and restraint, responding only when necessary. Thasha, an accounting graduate from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, was raised by a single mother after losing her father at age 12. She credits her mother for instilling independence, resilience and financial discipline. She continues to focus on television roles while keeping an eye on future opportunities in film. “I don’t mind playing supporting roles, as long as the character is important. If it’s good, I’m happy to play it,” she said.

Thasha posing during an interview with Bernama recently. – PICS FROM BERNAMA

Indonesian romantic crooner Andmesh Kamaleng set to perform in Malaysia come February INDONESIA’S golden-voiced singer Andmesh Kamaleng is set to heat up the local stage with his concert ‘Andmesh Love Story: Suara Dari Ketulusan Hati’, scheduled to take place at Mega Star Arena on Feb 14 next year. Indonesia 2017, Andmesh has grown into one of the most influential vocalists in the Indonesian music industry.

His songs have not only accumulated millions of streams but also frequently gone viral in Brunei, Singapore, Malaysia and several other Asian countries. Among the tracks that cemented Andmesh’s reputation is Cinta Luar Biasa , which has surpassed hundreds of millions of views on YouTube and become one of the region’s most iconic love songs. Hanya Rindu, an emotional piece that earned the Best Pop Solo Performance award in Indonesia, also received strong support from listeners. Other singles such as Kumau Dia , Anugerah Terindah, Nyaman and Jangan Rubah Takdirku continue to showcase his vocal consistency and his ability to produce music that resonates deeply with listeners. Concert tickets are priced between RM238 and RM1,088. – Bernama

Andmesh said Malaysia has always held a special place in his career because of the strong support he receives from fans in the country. “Malaysia will always have a special place in my heart. The energy from the audience here is irreplaceable. This concert is very personal because it reflects my musical journey from the beginning. I want my fans to feel every story behind my songs,” he said recently in a statement. Organised by DTC Entertainment Sdn Bhd, the concert is expected to be one of next year’s most prestigious shows, given Andmesh’s rising popularity after winning numerous awards in Indonesia, as well as the continued success of his songs, which frequently dominate regional charts. Since emerging as the champion of Rising Star

The concert will take place at Mega Star Arena, on Feb 14, 2026. – PIC FROM TICKET2U