KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 20 -- Singer-actress Amy Mastura, once a household name, is now more discerning about the projects she takes on, whether on stage, television or the big screen.

Having been in the entertainment industry for over three decades, Amy, 55, whose full name is Amy Mastura Suhaimi, said she is now more selective with offers and prioritises her family, which explains why she is no longer as visible as she once was.

Her latest appearance was in 'Teater Cik Ros', a theatre production dedicated to the late Dr Rosminah Mohd Tahir, who was an iconic figure in performing arts. ('Teater Cik Ros' is currently being staged at Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka here from Sept 19-21. It is directed by Rosminah's younger brother Hamzah Tahir.)

In a recent interview with Bernama, Amy, who is known for her youthful looks and cheerful personality, said while she has not closed the door on future projects, her decision to accept any offer would largely be influenced by time factors and her own personal circumstances.

"If the (acting) offer is suitable, I will consider it. Otherwise, I am content focusing on my life as a full-time housewife. This is my choice for now, though I won't say I am quitting the industry altogether.

"I think if I had been a government servant, I would already be retired at this age. So it is better to shift my focus toward preparing for the hereafter," said the winner of the Best Actress award at the 14th Malaysian Film Festival.

When asked about her singing career, Amy said her interest in music has waned and that she has no plans to record new songs.

"I have no plans to release new singles. If fans can still listen to my songs on Spotify, that is enough for me. I'm not sulking... it's just that at this stage of life, I think it's better to slow down. That doesn't mean I'm retiring... I'm still here in between," she said.

Asked if she would consider joining the reality show 'Gegar Vaganza', Amy said she avoids competitions as they leave her feeling emotionally unsettled.

"Every year they invite me to join 'Gegar Vaganza', but I never accept because I don't like competitions. I joined 'Asia Bagus' in 1993... once is enough for me, and I regretted it for life.

"Competitions cause a different kind of emotional stress that I don't like. Honestly, I'm not as great as other artistes who take part in those contests, so why should I join when I already know my own limits?" she said. -- Bernama