KUALA LUMPUR, May 28 — Some names in the Malaysian showbiz scene have remained influential for years, and Scha Alyahya deserves to be part of that conversation.

Scha, whose real name is Sharifah Nor Azean, has appeared in a wide range of films in the 2000s, including classics such as Histeria (2008), Papadom (2009) and Evolusi KL Drift 2 (2010).

The same can be said for television, with appearances in telemovies such as Prebet Jamilah, as well as series like Awan Dania.

She continues to showcase her talent on screen today through recent works, including 2022’s Air Force The Movie: Selagi Bernyawa, in which she portrayed Captain Nur Liyana, and Telaga Suriram (2025) as Inspector Kamilia.

Nadiah Hamzah’s Kata Hati is her latest project, where she takes on the role of Maya.

Reflecting on her journey in the industry, Scha told Malay Mail about the differences between the Malaysian entertainment scene of the 2000s and today.

What stood out to her was the shift, with local stars now more open and confident in expressing their ideas compared to when she first entered the industry.

“Today, actors are more open and confident when it comes to suggesting ideas, which was very different from before.

“When I was still new in the industry, I was really scared, so I would simply follow what the director wanted.

“But now, I can see and sense that we can suggest ideas and speak up if there are things we don’t feel comfortable doing.

“That is one of the biggest differences I feel today.”

Regarding the quality of local projects, Scha agreed that storytelling and cinematography have improved tremendously.

“We are way more advanced.

“Cinematography and storytelling — for now, I would say we are at our peak.

“I’m sure in the future we can do even more.

“I can sense that we are actually getting much better.”

She cited local action films and Kata Hati as examples, saying the project made her realise that Malaysian filmmakers are capable of producing unique and refreshing works, particularly Kata Hati with its blend of romantic comedy and action elements.

Kata Hati will be released in cinemas nationwide on June 4.

“The takeaway I want audiences to get from this movie is the sense of sisterhood, where you can see the struggles between the sisters.

“Older sisters can sometimes become like mothers, and that is an emotional aspect people do not really talk about.

“It’s all about life — don’t take your family for granted,” she added.

The Dewi Remaja winner is showing no signs of slowing down.

When asked how much longer she plans to continue acting, Scha said she is taking things as they come.

She hopes to take on even more roles going forward, adding that more projects allow her to refine her craft.

Scha is also involved in the upcoming film 5 Bomoh, directed by Syed Fariz, and is part of the iQIYI Griya series currently streaming.