Veteran actress and theatre activist Datuk Fauziah Nawi.
PUTRAJAYA: Amid the ubiquitous production of content made for television and the silver screen across various genres, radio drama may seem to be losing its lustre – but this hides the fact that more people tune in to the airways than stare at small or big screens.
Despite its unique charm – which relies solely on emotive voices to convey stories – radio drama is not the same as television, which may make the medium "dull and fading" to some.
While some may attribute this decline to the absence of popular local actors in radio dramas, actress and theatre activist Datuk Fauziah Nawi strongly disagrees. She explains that radio dramas typically showcase experienced and talented actors.
Fauziah, who is affectionately known as 'Ibu', points out that today's radio dramas often feature well-known actors including Datuk Rahim Razali, Datuk Jalaluddin Hassan, Datuk Rosyam Nor, Khir Rahman, Vanidah Imran, Nabila Huda and Darling Ngasri.
"People question whether radio dramas are still relevant, especially considering they served as entertainment for both the Malay community and people of various ethnicities in the 1970s, addressing social issues in a relaxed yet impactful manner," she said.
"I say yes, radio drama is absolutely still relevant, and I am determined to defend this heritage.
"It frustrates me to see people wanting it to fade away due to technology.
"I am often asked, 'Is radio drama not as lively as it used to be?' This question itself proves that radio drama still has its fans," said the 71-year-old.
The veteran actress, who has over 50 years of experience, said it is unfair to deem radio drama irrelevant or unprofitable.
In today's context, where many still listen to the radio, Fauziah – who is also a former radio announcer, director and one of Malaysia's all-time best actors – believes radio's reach can reignite the popularity of radio drama.
For instance, RTM radio broadcasts through social media set a new record earlier this year, reaching 34 million listeners in January 2024, a substantial increase from 14 million in December 2023.
According to the award-winning actress, people today spend more time listening to the radio than with watching television or at the movie theatre.
"Whether stuck in traffic or on public transport, radio is the preferred choice – and now it's accessible through social media and mobile apps.
"Unlike the past, when you needed a radio. This is a prime opportunity to revitalise the radio drama phenomenon. Unfortunately, broadcast companies seem uninterested, despite its vast potential," she noted.
The Ipoh-born actress said that radio dramas typically are only broadcast on special occasions such as National Month, Malaysia Day, in memory of prominent figures, or Language Month, primarily kept alive by RTM radio alone.
Known for her deeply emotional roles, Fauziah said she hopes that radio drama broadcasts can be increased to at least twice a week. She also encouraged newcomers to recognise the value of radio drama, as it can serve as a gateway to earning opportunities.
"The ability of radio drama to convey emotion through voice alone makes our talents highly sought after by advertising companies," she said, adding that when some of their commercials air on television, their voices are used but actors play the physical roles.
"Even so, the money is still good as it's based on duration. That's why some actors like Datuk M. Nasir's wife, Datin Marlia Musa – although not active on television – are still sought after for voice talent. This is why radio drama opens doors to opportunities," she said.
Encouraging newcomers to seek out and seize opportunities in radio drama, Fauziah, who won the Best Supporting Actress Award for "Sayang Salmah" at the 12th Malaysia Film Festival, emphasised that radio drama is a valuable platform for honing their interpretative and expressive acting skills.
"I don't do this for awards – I love the art. After more than 50 years in radio drama, I was finally honoured as Best Radio Drama Actor at the Seri Angkasa Awards 2024 last Saturday," she said.
Expressing her gratitude for the recognition, which she won for her role in "Lima Beradik" aired on Terengganu FM, Fauziah also voiced hopes that relevant authorities such as the Communications Ministry would consider reinvigorating radio drama as part of preserving this precious heritage. – Bernama
