Beauty brand censors actress in Ramadan ads after scandal

SHAH ALAM – A prominent Korean beauty and health brand in Malaysia has taken a clear stance against controversy, censoring a female artist's face in their Ramadan video advertisements.

The move comes after the actress Ruhainies was embroiled in a scandal involving a married celebrity, Aliff Aziz.

Kitsui Malaysia, through their official social media accounts on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, blurred Ruhainies' image in the ads featuring her alongside singer Wany Hasrita and actor Hisyam Hamid.

Kitsui Malaysia issued a statement acknowledging the "inconvenience and misunderstandings" caused by the ad campaign.

While expressing hope that the controversy wouldn't affect the ad's airing, the statement highlighted the brand's neutrality.

“During this blessed month of Ramadan, Kitsui humbly apologises over any inconvenience and misunderstandings caused, particularly concerning our posts involving a well-known local artist.

“Regarding the allegations of the arrest for khalwat (close proximity) faced by one of its actors, Kitsui hopes it will not affect the airing of the advertisement as the recording was completed in December 2023,” the statement reads.

It further said the recording was filmed months before the controversy emerged with the involvement of a production crew consisting of 100 individuals who contributed to the success of this ad.

Despite featuring the actress Ruhainies in one of its Ramadan commercials, Kitsui stressed neutrality, stating that they were not taking sides and did not endorse any negative behavior or controversies.

"Kitsui also takes the opportunity during this sacred month to donate a portion of our earnings to support those in need, particularly orphanages," the statement added.

The modified video clip, which at the time of writing had received thousands of views, generated a lot of support in the comments section for the company's choice to pixelate the artist.

Ruhainies' residence was reportedly raided by the Federal Territories Islamic Religious Department (Jawi) and the police, amid suspicions of her being alone at home with Aliff.

Aliff and Ruhainies, who are both actors, promised to reveal more details after their detention.

Following that, they made official statements regarding the circumstances.

According to Ruhainies' account of what happened, Aliff was asked to supper with her siblings and friends, highlighting their platonic friendship. The arrival of law enforcement authorities, however, escalated the situation, increasing worries about safety and prompting further investigations.

Despite acknowledging the ensuing perception and possible defamation, Aliff claimed on Instagram that the arrest report from law enforcement officials was exaggerated and speculative.

Bella, whose real name is Dayang Nabellah Awang Astillah, filed for divorce from Aliff on Monday at the Federal Territory Syariah Court.