Commenting on popular Tamil movie star-turned-politician C Joseph Vijay, who was recently sworn in as Tamil Nadu’s chief minister, the former federal minister said there were many artistes, influencers, and big names who had joined politics.

However, despite their popularity, none had replicated Vijay’s success, he said.

Tengku Zafrul said that Vijay, a veteran in the cinema industry, formed his party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, in 2024. It won over 100 seats at last month’s polls.

Tengku Zafrul said Vijay’s achievements could not be attributed solely to his popularity.

“Popularity on social media does not mean one can win votes.

“Malaysia has artistes who have become politicians, but these artistes have yet to become a movement. So who will be Malaysia’s Vijay?” he said in a video uploaded on Instagram.