KUALA LUMPUR, Bank Rakyat’s latest Hari Raya Aidilfitri TV commercial marks popular actor Datuk Aaron Aziz’s directorial debut with the short film “Tulus Ikhlas.”
Aaron, whose real name is Aaron Mustapha Aziz, 48, also stars in the film alongside actress and model Sharifah Husna Syed Mustaffa, as well as two child actors, Aaron Yusof Raj and Adreana Jameela Raj.
The Sayu Yang Syukur film director expressed his interest in directing the short film due to the strength of its script in conveying the message of family, which is close to his heart.
“They approached me to act and after going through the storyline, I found it revolves around family, relationship, emotions – all familiar territory for me.
“My children and family really fueled my passion for this film, especially since it’s all about family bonds,” he told reporters after the launch of the TV commercial here today.
The over seven-minute film “Tulus Ikhlas,” produced by Razor’s Edge Pictures Sdn Bhd, depicts the story of Rayyan, a 10-year-old boy,
who empathises with orphaned children who lack shelter and are less fortunate than himself and his younger sister.
Although Aaron has directed films previously, he acknowledged that directing commercials poses challenges due to the need for quick completion within a short timeframe.
“This commercial was completed in just two days, with scenes shot at multiple locations involving crew members and actors, including orphaned children and Bank Rakyat staff.
“I’m grateful for the support from everyone involved, especially the production crew,” he said, expressing openness to directing another commercial if presented with a compelling script.
Meanwhile, Bank Rakyat’s chief marketing and communications officer, Nizam Sani, said it has become a tradition for Bank Rakyat to feature directors new to commercials, like Mamat Khalid and Sabri Yunus, to bring fresh, relevant narratives.
“This time, we give Aaron the opportunity to showcase his talent and I hope the audience will take inspiration from the message of ‘g
iving sincerely’ through the short film,” he said.
Tulus Ikhlas can be viewed through all Bank Rakyat’s official social media platforms and YouTube channel starting today.
Source: BERNAMA News Agency