In an unusual but fascinating business venture, a man in Malaysia has launched a “villain-for-hire” service, offering to play the antagonist so others can step in as the hero in front of their partners. Shazali Sulaiman, 28, from Ipoh, has gained viral attention after promoting his service on social media, claiming that for a small fee, he can help clients boost their masculinity and impress their significant others by “taking them down” in staged confrontations.
According to a report by South China Morning Post, Sulaiman’s offer read: “Are you tired of your partner thinking you are weak? For a reasonable fee, I can help you prove them wrong.”
Clients only need to provide a time and place, and Sulaiman will show up to “harass” their partner, giving the client the chance to “save the day.” Sulaiman, who is often told he resembles a gangster, even posted a photo of himself with messy hair and an unlit cigarette to enhance his tough-guy image. He was inspired to turn the idea into a business after people frequently commented that he looked like a gang member, SCMP reported.
The “villain-for-hire” service costs 100 ringgit (approximately 1,800 INR) on weekdays and 150 ringgit (around 2,800 INR) on weekends, with additional charges for clients outside the city. Sulaiman, who has already helped friends and family, offers his service to both men and women.
Sulaiman shared an example of a man who hired him at a shopping centre. When the boyfriend went to the bathroom, Sulaiman pretended to harass his girlfriend. Upon his return, the boyfriend confronted Sulaiman, playing the hero.
While some netizens have expressed concerns that the service could lead to legal issues, particularly regarding sexual harassment charges, Sulaiman insists that everything is staged and harmless, likening it to WWE-style scripted performances. In Malaysia, sexual harassment and indecent public behaviour are illegal and can lead to fines or imprisonment.