Dafi Ismail Sabri addresses nepotism allegation over "Malbatt: Misi Bakara" casting
6 Oct - Singer-turned-actor Dafi Ismail Sabri has dismissed the notion that his casting in the new movie, "Malbatt: Misi Bakara" was a form of nepotism due to his father.
The "Akademi Fantasia" alumnus, who is also son of Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob, was criticised by netizens earlier for his involvement in the movie, with many stating that his small physique wouldn't make it logical for him to be cast as a soldier if not for his father.
"Honestly, I was perplexed when I was cast as well, since it's different from my previous roles. People also said that the role of a soldier is not suitable for me because of my height, but just so you know, my character is more of a comedic relief," he said.
As to allegations that he got the job because of his father, Dafi said that he can't stop people from speculating.
"I didn't ask to be in this movie. The director Adrian Teh and I have known each other since we worked together on the movie "Ada Hantu". I actually received the offer before my father became the PM, and he only found out about it later," he said.
On the other hand, the movie is based on the true story behind the Black Hawk Down incident, which revolves around the 19 members from the Royal Malay Soldier Regiment (RAMD) Mechanics from the Malaysian Battalion (Malbatt) 1 and their dangerous mission in saving 70 US Rangers who were trapped in the Bakara Market in Mogadishu, Somalia, in 1993.
With a budget of RM20 million, it will be one of the most expensive movies ever made in Malaysia, starring Hairul Azreen, Zahiril Adzim, Bront Palarae, Shaheizy Sam, Nafiez Zaidi and Fauzi Nawawi.
(Photo Source: Dafi Ismail Sabri Instagram)
