KUALA LUMPUR – From the sporting scene to the silver screen, Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Faizal Azumu makes a television cameo on Astro Ria’s Ratu Ten Pin 2: Shalin.
In a short clip from the series posted on Astro Awani’s Facebook page, Faizal plays “Pak Peja”, who is seen protecting the country’s bowling queen, Shalin Zulkifli, played by Jasmine Suraya.
The serial drama depicts Malaysia’s bowling scene and is heavily inspired by Shalin’s journey from her early days to joining the national bowling team.
Speaking to The Vibes, Faizal said Shalin had approached him to talk about the series that revolves around her story, which led to him giving the production team permission to use the facilities and equipment for shoots.
“I think it is good to help them however I can because they had to stop filming for two years due to Covid-19.
This also helps the movie industry to get back on their feet coming out from the pandemic,” he said.
He hopes that the public will watch the series and understand what Shalin and her family went through to be the best Tenpin bowler in the world.
“This is also evident of what many athletes have to go through to reach the pinnacle of their sport and deliver success for the country,” he added.
Meanwhile, Shalin said she is flattered and honoured to have the Youth and Sports Minister make an appearance in the series.
She also said Jasmine came to see her before the show’s shooting began.
“She came to see me before production started. We talked and got to know each other and she got to know my mannerisms,” said the 2001 World Tenpin Masters champion.
Being the technical consultant for the series, Shalin said her role is to provide the production team with the proper technicalities of bowling as well as the details of her life events.
“Although it is not 100% accurate, it is based and inspired by my journey as a bowler.
“The egg throwing scene actually did not happen, but it portrays the struggles and hardships I went through during my career. It is just an exaggerated scene.”
Seeing Jasmine play the younger Shalin, the four-time Asian Games gold medallist said, “It is flattering to see it happen, but at the same time it can be difficult to see someone pretend to be you. But Jasmine does a very good job.”
Shalin also said she feels thankful and blessed for the support she has received from the sporting fraternity for the series.
“I want to thank all the sporting organisations, councils, and institutions, especially Malaysian Tenpin Bowling Congress (MTBC).
“We were all excited that there is going to be a drama series about sports that shines light on the hardships and triumphs an athlete faces.
“We want people who watch it to be motivated and strive to make things better in their life, regardless of how bad things may seem,” she said.
Ratu Ten Pin 2: Shalin is on Astro Ria every Monday to Thursday at 11pm. – The Vibes, July 22, 2022.
