A Malaysian news anchor has spoken out against online trolls, urging them to respect women following insensitive remarks directed at local actress Bella Astillah, who recently announced her engagement to the Member of Parliament (MP) for Muar, Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman.
In her Facebook post, Rasyidah Johan called for greater empathy toward women after social media users labelled Bella as a “second-hand car.” For context, Bella filed for divorce from Singaporean actor Aliff Aziz after he was caught for khalwat (close proximity) with another Malaysian actress, Ruhainies. Aliff himself later admitted to being unfaithful on 11 separate occasions.
“Bella endured a past, which, to many, is unimaginably tough”
While Bella and Syed are now engaged, many Malaysians have unfortunately expressed disapproval of their relationship. In response to the wave of hatred and insults, Rasyidah highlighted the trauma Bella has overcome.
“She suffered repeated betrayal. Her former husband was unfaithful multiple times, with individuals including her colleagues, close friends, and even relatives,” Rasyidah noted.
“She tried to salvage the relationship and faced public criticism, yet in the end, loyalty was never returned.”
Rising from the ashes
Despite her struggles, Bella chose to rebuild her life and work hard to move beyond her past. According to Rasyidah, Syed Saddiq represents the “rainbow after the storm,” noting that he has not only accepted Bella’s children but has also done his best to protect her from further scrutiny.
“Women are not objects”
Unfortunately, netizens have also targeted Syed, mockingly claiming he received a “buy one, get two free” deal, a derogatory reference to Bella’s children.
“Comments that reduce a woman to labels or mock her for her past reflect a deep-rooted lack of respect and empathy,” Rasyidah stated.
“When people joke about a woman’s history, her body, or her role as a mother, it raises an important question: Do we truly value women for who they are?”
Rasyidah with syed saddiq.
Rasyidah hit back at the trolls, reminding the public that every woman has her own identity and is not an object, an accessory, or defined by her history.
She concluded with a poignant reminder for social media users:
“If a comment would embarrass your own family, perhaps it is better left unsaid.”
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Also read: Syed Saddiq Had Never Said “I Love You” to Anyone Before Bella Astillah, Says His Brother
