#SHOWBIZ: Blind actor Iqbal Mazlan directs new film despite industry stigma and rejection

KUALA LUMPUR: Iqbal Mazlan, a 37-year-old actor and director, has been struggling to rebuild his career in the creative industry following the loss of his sight over three years ago. Previously a talent show winner and a veteran in TV dramas, telemovies, and theatre productions, Iqbal's world suddenly went dark after contracting Frosted branch angiitis, a condition linked to a Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection.

The revelation of his disability led to production companies distancing themselves and outright rejection of his services as a director, presenter, and voiceover artiste. Despite these challenges, he managed to secure a role directing the film "Jay (Buka Langkah)" in 2024. Iqbal believes his vision loss does not hinder his ability to create compelling visuals, as he relies on a clear mental image of scenes to guide his camera crew.

His success on this project, according to the film's producer and co-director Aida Othman, is based solely on his talent. However, the creative sector remains largely unforgiving to visually impaired individuals. Out of 716 placements in the arts, entertainment, and recreation sector between 2020 and 2026, only five visually impaired people were placed, representing a mere 0.7% - a statistic that doesn't disclose the reasons behind such low placement rates.

Lui Chee Chau, a 46-year-old musician and music arranger, faces a similar predicament. Despite having formal qualifications and over a decade of industry experience, he has been unable to secure full-time work since 2016 after his sight loss became known to potential employers.