Radio stars reflect the changing landscape and the decades of entertaining a nation.
In Brunei Darussalam, the notion that video killed radio is decisively false. Here in the Sultanate and most parts of the world rather, radio personalities haven’t merely entertained; they’ve evolved, remaining steadfast against the march of time.
Whether providing company during daily commutes or offering solace in moments of quiet, their voices resonate, brightening even the quietest of days with the gentle hum of the broadcast.
From the trailblazers of the bustling ‘70s, when radio served as the lifeblood of communities, to the present-day pioneers navigating the digital frontier, the radio star hasn’t just survived; it has thrived, etching their place in the hearts of listeners across generations.
BLAST FROM THE PAST
Helen Thu recalled the moment her broadcasting journey began – with an advertisement for a part-time announcer in the newsletter Suara Brunei, back in the early ‘70s. What we know now as deejays, were referred to as “radio presenters” at the time, according to Thu.
She later became a permanent member of the Malay Radio service at Radio Television Brunei (RTB) and her new role involved collaborating with fellow radio presenters to record content for their weekly programmes.
Reflecting the technological limitations of that era, radio presenters often had to venture out with cumbersome recording equipment. Editing, in particular, was a daunting task.
Thu shared that this was especially challenging because radio stations relied on a-quarter-inch tapes at the time. Instances where someone accidentally cut the wrong part of the tape could turn into a real nightmare.
“Even for a brief three-minute interview, we had to go out and record it since the phone-in facility wasn’t available back then.
“However, despite the challenges, it was an enjoyable experience. Besides entertaining the listeners with songs played from vinyl records, it also provided the opportunity to meet a wide range of people,” she told the Bulletin in an interview.
Then in 1996, RTB introduced a new radio network tailored for youth and students. Thu’s colleague, Haji Manap Adam, spearheaded this initiative, and she served as his assistant.
Despite the added challenges that came with the new network, they successfully engaged younger audiences through innovative programmes and roadshows with one notable achievement being the Pelangi Awards.
Fast forward to today, RTB boasts five distinct radio networks, each tailored to specific concepts and target audiences.
Thu reflected on how the current line-up stands in stark contrast to her early days in radio when there were only the Malay, English, and Mandarin services. Back then, broadcasting hours were limited, a far cry from the present where all networks broadcast round the clock, 24/7.
“I believe being a radio announcer, or what is now popularly known as a deejay (DJ), is much easier today. We transitioned from vinyl records to compact discs and now, in this digital era, everything from songs to programs is stored in computers.
“There are no more nightmares when it comes to editing. That’s a vast difference from my days as an announcer in the early ‘70s.”
ADAPTING TO THE DIGITAL AGE
Under his DJ alias Nur Alif was one of the radio presenters fortunate enough to be interviewed by Helen Thu as part of the inaugural team for Pelangi FM, one of RTB’s radio networks, joining iconic broadcast figures like Harun Al Rashid Moslem, Reduan Hashim, Noryati Timbang, and Dayangku Rostinah.
“In 1995, I began my radio career as a presenter for Pelangi FM, which was the third radio network (in Brunei Darussalam to be established) after Nasional and Pilihan FM.
“It was indeed a privilege to connect with audiences through the airwaves.”
Taking his initial plunge into the world of radio, he joined the Pelangi network and found the experience thrilling, quickly developing a deep love for the medium.
He adopted the presenter name DJ Nur Alif, embracing the concept of the ‘voice without a face’ and under this persona, he hosted a variety of Malay-language shows such as Fikir fikir, Saya suka, Puisi segment, Lagu untuk mu, and more, both in recorded and live phone-in formats.
After approximately four years at RTB, in 1999, he seized the opportunity to broaden his horizons and ventured into the realm of commercial radio, joining the then newly established Kristal FM, launched under Datastream Technology (DST).
“During my time at Kristal FM, I produced and hosted a number of shows, including Kristal mistik, Macam-macam with Boboi, Relaksi halwa, Teladan sepanjang zaman, Kaca-kaca kristal, Varia Kristal, Ceria Pagi Kristal and many others.”
From the era of traditional broadcasting, starting with turn-table records and tapes, then transitioning to mini discs and CDs, and finally embracing digital platforms, DJ Nur Alif kept adapting to ensure the shows remained relevant and accessible.
“The longevity of a presenter (DJ) depends on their ability to adapt dynamically to current trends, engaging audiences through creativity and innovation. In the digital age, various opportunities and challenges emerge.
“Embracing social media, podcasting, and online streaming has become indispensable for staying connected with audiences in today’s fast-paced world.”
After almost two decades however, he hung up his headphones in 2014 and became a lecturer for the Faculty of Multimedia and Broadcasting at Kolej International Graduate Studies (KIGS).
“I am truly grateful for the opportunity to be a part of this dynamic and ever-evolving industry.
“I now share my knowledge with students and established a mini radio station at the college, allowing students to delve deeper into the world of radio and expand their knowledge in this field.”
EMBRACING OPPORTUNITIES
For DJ Daffy, his journey into becoming a DJ was unexpected, after an old school mate from his secondary school, asked him to audition in early 1999.
“This marks my 24th year as a radio announcer, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything. Alhamdulillah, I love my job. There’s nothing quite like the joy of putting a smile on our listeners’ faces and playing their favourite tunes,” said DJ Daffy.
Throughout his extensive career, DJ Daffy has racked up a number of cherished achievement which include winning Best Personality Male DJ in 2003 and Best Male DJ in 2008.
He was also among the top five nominees for the Youth Award and has served on the jury panel and was the lead coordinator for the popular Indonesian reality TV programme Dangdut Academy Asia produced by Indosiar.
He is the creator of Anugerah Pelangi.
Reflecting on what makes a good DJ, Daffy emphasises that it’s not just about the DJ; it’s about bringing joy to the people around them and the listeners.
Apart from his DJ work, Daffy stays active and productive. He has ventured into professional emceeing for local events and manages his businesses. – Lyna Mohamad
