Former actress transitions into directing while balancing her love for acting

After 17 years in front of the camera, local actress Ya Hui has stepped into a new role behind the scenes, taking on the position of creative director at production house Pointlineplane.

Announcing the career shift in an Instagram Reel on March 3, the 37-year-old shared: “On stage, I express emotions through performance; behind the scenes, I tell stories through the lens. Acting and directing allow me to explore life in completely different ways.”

In a recent interview, Ya Hui revealed that her move into directing stemmed from discussions with her producer friend and business partner, Joey Thew, about event organising. “We started with conversations about hosting countdown shows, but somehow, the discussion shifted towards the idea of me joining the production house. Our visions aligned, and everything just clicked,” she explained.

Six months ago, she joined Joey and cinematographer Lee Feng Nian—who founded Pointlineplane in 2018—as the company’s creative director. In this role, she oversees project execution, ensures talent performances meet expectations, and liaises with clients. “Right now, we’re learning and handling every aspect of production. That’s the only way to stay ahead,” she said.

Recalling her time as a Mediacorp actress, Ya Hui noted that the experience prepared her well for a leadership position. “I was always trained to handle my own wardrobe and personal matters. Even now as a director, I’m not someone who needs to be pampered. Carrying heavy props, sweating—it’s all part of the job,” she added.

A New Perspective on Directing
Ya Hui has already directed several projects, including an ad campaign for UOB and a photoshoot for Icon Singapore, where she found herself directing a magazine editor—an unusual role reversal.

“I never imagined myself telling an editor how to pose on a private jet! Usually, it’s the other way around, with editors directing artistes during photoshoots,” she remarked.

Beyond commercial work, Ya Hui aspires to direct films showcasing Singapore’s creative industry on a global stage and even win international awards. “This opportunity allows me to pursue that dream. I’d also love to direct government campaigns, but as a startup, we still need to establish a track record,” she said.

Facing multiple rejections in the last six months has been a learning experience. “As an actress, you don’t deal with rejection in the same way. But as a director, when your ideas are not selected, you have to control your emotions and move on,” she admitted.

Currently, she is working on the script for her debut short film, which will explore mental health. “People assumed I was thriving immediately after leaving Mediacorp, but transitions are never easy. I want to tell a story that reflects those struggles but ultimately leaves audiences feeling inspired,” she explained.

Balancing Acting and Directing
Despite her new role, Ya Hui remains passionate about acting. “Acting will always be my first love—it’s irreplaceable,” she said, joking that she would immediately leave directing for the right role.

Now that she has experienced directing, she believes it will influence her acting career. “I have a deeper appreciation for what directors go through—keeping everything on schedule, managing props, guiding actors. It’s given me a whole new perspective on film production.”

Her acting background also influences how she treats talent on set. “Having been on the other side, I always ensure that actors are respected. I know what it’s like to be in their shoes.”

Reflecting on her journey, she believes communication is the key to success in both acting and directing. “Understanding different roles in a production helps bridge gaps and create better working relationships,” she said.

With her dual roles in front of and behind the camera, Ya Hui is ready to explore new creative possibilities while staying true to her artistic roots.