Malaysians do not pay high respect towards Malaysian musicians and those involved in the industry, said Datuk Sheila Majid.
The legendary singer also expressed her concern that should this continue, it will one day shorten the lifespan of the Malaysian music scene.
In conjunction with the 30th anniversary of her involvement in the the local and international music industry, Sheila shared a rather ‘sad’ story of the current situation faced by the music industry.
“The public needs to know how important it is to extend an artiste’s longevity in the industry. We cannot say we like a certain artist but still download their works for free and request for a free show.
“How can the artiste continue with his or her career? Isn’t that their livelihood?” expressed Sheila when contacted by Astro AWANI.
According to her, the public's continuous hope for artistes to produce great works but in return refuse to pay the price they will cause these artistes to lose their investment returns.
She added, just liking an artiste does not generate income.
“The music in Malaysia do not get the respect it deserves. One day, the music industry in Malaysia will die,” she said.
MORE THAN ENTERTAINMENT
Sheila also urged the people to reflect on this question:
'What are the things people do in their every day life – from when they they wake up and getting ready to start the day. Is it not switching on the radio and television?'
"In many aspects of life, we expect music and its effects. Then imagine life without sound and melodies, everything will be boring," said Sheila.
According to her, music is more than just entertainment as it touches the senses, build character and teach people to better understand the human emotions.
"That's what we lack. In this country, when we talk about entertainment, people only think about slapstick comedy. Music is increasingly ignored and it is even no longer taught at schools.
"We need the support of the government and the public to revive the industry. The entertainment world is not just about slapstick and gossip,” Sheila said.
Sheila admits to feeling jealous with the success experienced by the music industry in neighbouring countries, particularly in Indonesia, and the strong influence of the K-Pop movement which gets the strong support of the Korean government.
"You think the K-Pop is new? It has already been planned a long time. The Korean government spent billions of dollars to upgrade their arts industry, including education on the arts and music among school children.
“They also ask their musicians to take on English courses. Look at their first product which is singer Rain,” said Sheila.
STAYING POWER
When asked to share her her ways of staying relevant in the local music industry, Sheila said it requires patience and determination.
“I have no special recipe for staying this long. You have to love what you’re doing. More than that, the true fans are the motivating factor because they are the ones who will support your work,” said Sheila.
According to her, in times when there is a local of sponsors to support local talents, musicians like herself are only armed with a strong determination and passion in the field.
“That’s what makes an artiste to continue in the industry. They continue to exist because of their interest, commitment and discipline.
“This is definitely not a glamorous life. If you’re hoping for that, you will be disappointed,” Sheila said.
Astro Awani
Sun Jun 21 2015
SHEILA: Music is more than just a place for entertainment as it touches the senses, build character and teach people to better understand the human emotions.
Iran's supreme leader says Hamas leader's death will not halt 'Axis of Resistance'
The "Axis of Resistance", built up with years of Iranian support, includes Hamas, the Lebanese Hezbollah group, the Houthi movement in Yemen, and various Shi'ite groups in Iraq and Syria.
Putin says Russia willing to seek compromises between Iran and Israel
Russia is ready to help seek compromises between arch-foes Israel and Iran, President Vladimir Putin said on Friday, saying these would be difficult but possible.
What proposals will Russia push at the BRICS summit?
The proposal is also to establish a BRICS reinsurance company to allow uninterrupted shipment of goods and key commodities between members.
Indonesia's free meals plan in the spotlight as Prabowo readies for office
Prabowo calls the programme one of the main drivers of economic growth, eventually set to add an estimated 2.5 million jobs.
Astro AWANI's revamped English news website, AWANI International, launches on Oct 21
Astro AWANI's revamped English platform delivers in-depth global news and expert analysis to keep you informed on key developments.
Israeli strikes kill 33 people in Jabalia refugee camp in Gaza, medics say
Residents of Jabalia said Israeli tanks had reached the heart of the camp after pushing through suburbs and residential districts.
Liam Payne's ex-partner calls for media restraint after 'painful' death
Cheryl Tweedy used her statement to urge the media to remember they had a seven-year-old son, Bear, who could read the reports.
Analysts: Indonesia's strong MoF leadership team to boost investor confidence
Sri Mulyani Indrawati as head of Indonesia's Ministry of Finance is expected to instil confidence among investors.
Biden offers both a carrot and a stick to Israel as his term nears an end
Israel has frequently resisted US advice and has caused political difficulties for the Biden administration.
Putin says BRICS will generate most of global economic growth
Russian President Vladimir Putin will host a summit of the group in the city of Kazan on Oct. 22-24.
ISIS Malaysia's perspective of Budget 2025
An excellent rakyat-centric budget under the overarching principle of a caring and humane economy.
Budget 2025: Record increase in STR, SARA aid initiatives
The government will provide a significant boost to the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) and Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) initiatives next year.
Budget 2025: EPF contributions to be made mandatory for foreign workers – PM Anwar
The government plans to make it compulsory for all non-citizen workers to contribute to the Employees Provident Fund (EPF).
What policies to expect from Indonesia's new President Prabowo
Prabowo will be open to foreign investment, his aide has said, such as by offering investors management of airports and sea ports.
Budget 2025: Govt allocates RM470 mil to empower women's participation in PMKS
The Women's Leadership Apprenticeship Program will be intensified as an effort to produce more female corporate personalities.
Israel sends more troops into north Gaza, deepens raid
Residents of Jabalia in northern Gaza said Israeli tanks had reached the heart of the camp, using heavy air and ground fire.
Indonesia ramps up security ahead of Prabowo's inauguration
Prabowo Subianto will be sworn in as Indonesia's president on Sunday with Vice President-elect, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, also taking office.
Immediate allocation of RM150 mil for local authorities, DID to tackle flash floods
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said this allocation is intended to address the recent flash floods that hit the capital and several major towns.
Budget 2025: Sabah, Sarawak to continue receiving among highest allocations - PM
Sabah and Sarawak continues to be prioritised under Budget 2025, with allocations of RM6.7 billion and RM5.9 billion respectively.
NFOF will be operational in November 2024 with funding of RM1 bil
PM Anwar Ibrahim said NFOF will support venture capital fund managers to invest in startup companies with RM300 million set aside for 2025.