KUALA LUMPUR, El Sky News – The ongoing debate over inadequate performance fees for local artists has resurfaced, this time involving rising singer Hariz Fayahet.
In a candid revelation, Hariz shared the bitter experience of accepting a paltry RM200 fee for a show, simply to cover his daily expenses and financial commitments.
‘Coffee Money’ Won’t Even Cover Toll
Hariz explained that the entertainment industry’s payment landscape has shifted drastically, particularly following the end of the Movement Control Order (MCO).
“There was one occasion when I had to accept the lowest payment I’ve ever received, only RM200. It wasn’t fair, but at the time I had bills to pay, so I just swallowed it,” he said.
He added that earlier in his career, he didn’t mind performing for just petrol money. However, after performance fees started to drop sharply post-MCO, the situation became stressful.
Organisers Taking Advantage
Hariz also disclosed that some organisers attempt to exploit artists’ goodwill and financial needs.
“Personally, I’m fine with reasonable negotiation. But when the payment is already low, sometimes they still ask for extra songs or additional work,” he lamented.
Exposure Doesn’t Pay the Bills
Addressing the common excuse of ‘exposure’ as compensation, Hariz emphasised the financial reality faced by performers.
“For them, exposure is considered enough reward for a low fee. But they need to understand that we have costs to cover. Exposure doesn’t pay the electricity or water bills,” he stressed.
The issue of unfair artist compensation continues to spark concern in the entertainment industry, with many calling for the establishment of minimum payment standards to protect local talent from exploitation.
