Young People Entering the Industry Must Read Extensively – Rahim Razali

“This is a serious matter, not something to be taken lightly.”

That was the firm message from veteran artist Datuk Rahim Razali, who has observed that the arts industry is now filled with new faces, particularly in acting.

Acknowledging that he frequently receives messages from aspiring newcomers who wish to meet him and learn from his experience, Rahim, 87, said he has had to decline such requests due to health reasons.

During a recent meeting with the distinguished figure, who was named the 2026 Tokoh Seri Angkasa, Rahim advised today’s young generation to be honest with themselves and genuinely passionate about whichever field they pursue, while continuously expanding their knowledge through extensive reading.

“It is good to see so many young people entering the acting industry and making films. My advice is to be honest with yourselves and have a genuine interest in whatever field you pursue. Do not take it lightly; instead, you must be serious.

“This means you need to read extensively to gain knowledge as well as experience. This is important in helping us become more familiar with the intricacies of storytelling and character development.

“We have to learn all these things ourselves. There is no school that teaches everything. We must develop our own interest and learn independently,” he told Utusan Malaysia recently.

With just three years remaining before he reaches the age of 90, Rahim admitted that he still receives acting offers, although his physical strength is no longer what it used to be.

He said he can no longer endure long hours on film sets.

“I can manage filming for a day or two. But if it goes beyond that, I no longer have the strength. I am already getting old. In another three years, I will turn 90, God willing, if God grants me a longer life. Otherwise, that is how it is.

“I have to be honest with myself. If I am unable to do something, I will be honest with them. I cannot accept the offer.

“As for memorising scripts, Alhamdulillah, I can still do it, but my ability has declined compared with when I was younger. Back then, even 10 pages were not a problem. Now, even five lines are difficult,” he shared.

Rahim’s recognition as the 2026 Tokoh Seri Angkasa entitled him to receive RM10,000 in cash, a Proton e.MAS electric vehicle worth RM150,000, an additional RM8,000 in cash sponsored by CIMB, a holiday package and a trophy.

“This came as a surprise. I did not know I would receive a car, even though I am no longer allowed to drive. I am happy. Let my children drive it. Perhaps it will be convenient because it is an electric car.

“I am deeply touched. This is the one award that I hold in the highest regard and respect, particularly in the broadcasting industry. It means a great deal to me.

“There are not many awards in the broadcasting industry. Therefore, when it was announced that I would receive this award today, I was extremely thankful and grateful that the Tokoh Seri Angkasa Award was presented to me,” he said.

Rahim Razali began his career in the arts as a sports commentator with Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM) in the late 1950s.

His distinctive golden voice, dynamic delivery and charisma made his football commentaries during the 1970s and 1980s iconic and difficult to rival.

He later expanded his career into television and film acting, beginning with productions such as Dayang Suhana (1978), before demonstrating his exceptional abilities as a director, screenwriter and producer.

His acclaimed works, including Abang (1981), Matinya Seorang Patriot (1984) and Tsu Feh Sofiah (1986), not only received critical acclaim but also swept several major awards at the Malaysian Film Festival (FFM), including Best Actor, Best Director and Best Screenplay.

Despite being 87 years old, Rahim remains active in the film industry, having appeared in a series of box-office hits such as Puteri Gunung Ledang, Munafik, Munafik 2 and Mat Kilau.

Utusan