KUALA LUMPUR – Indonesian actress Raline Shah has been appointed a special staff member for the republic’s Communication and Digital Affairs Ministry in an effort to enhance global partnerships and promote digital education.
According to media reports yesterday, minister Meutya Hafid, formerly a media personality herself, noted that Raline’s extensive global network and wide range of connections will play a key role in strengthening the ministry’s global partnerships.
The 39-year-old actress, who appeared in the 2018 Malaysian action film Polis Evo 2, will also shoulder the responsibility of promoting digital education to encourage responsible internet use, especially among children and youths.
Noting that many parents have expressed concerns about their children’s use of the internet, Meutya was quoted as saying: “We want our children to be educated on using the internet wisely…a familiar figure (like Raline) might resonate better with our younger generation.”
The minister also stressed that Raline’s appointment is not “based solely” on her fame, but also considered the artist’s role as someone who can provide new perspectives and improve the ministry’s policies.
Meutya also said that viewpoints from various backgrounds, including art, are vital in ensuring the inclusivity of ministerial policies.
She added that Raline’s appointment reflects the ministry’s commitment to empowering women at its special staff level.
Besides Raline, five director-generals, a secretary-general, an inspector-general and several experts and other special staff members were also inaugurated on Monday.
Besides her acting career, Raline has also made a name for herself as a philanthropist, including by co-funding Rumah Harapan Indonesia – an organisation which provides housing for children undergoing medical treatments for serious health conditions. – January 14, 2025