The Day The Music Died
By Izam S. Ya'akub

Bandar Seri Begawan - Two weeks have passed since the services of two of London's most popular radio stations, Capital FM and Capital Gold, had stopped broadcasting in Brunei Darussalam and many are wondering why their music died.

Although questions have been raised regarding the issue, there is more to the situation than meets the eye.

The end of their broadcasts to Brunei Darussalam marks the beginning of a new chapter in Brunei's little world of radio, members of the public said.

Daud, who spoke to the Weekend at The Mall, Gadong believes there is none or little need for the nation to receive a service which is broadcast and catered for Londoners.

If they miss it so much, they can always listen to the streaming from the Internet, he said.

"They were great, especially for those who used to study in London, and for those who study there" said one fan 94he London radio stations.

The hourly news updates not only let him gave an idea of what was happening in and around London but were handy to catch up on breaking global news stories.

During the London bombings earlier this year, she and her family had found out about the news through the radio and not the TV as they were not at home at the time, Mimi said.

Current radio stations on the air are Royal Television Brunei's Harmoni, Nur Islam, Pelangi, and Pilihan, along with Kristal FM, the country's only commercial radio - station. There is no shortage of alternatives to which listeners can tune into.

What remains to be `heard' from the listener's point of view is whether or not the void left by Capital FM and Capital Gold can be filled by these radio stations.

A prominent local radio DJ who wishes not be named has faith that the growing fan base of listeners in the country will continue to grow rapidly.

The void serves to be a perfect opportunity for these stations to step up to the plate.

"In the long run the quality of the local radio here will improve. Since the introduction of the two radio stations, the industry has learnt a lot but it's time to show what we're capable of doing," he said.

The potential growth of the radio industry may also be a time where the local music scene can ride on and hopefully jump into the spotlight.

With a focus based on the community and culture here in Brunei Darussalam, they may be given an audience, which could see the local acts reaching the heights of other regional artistes and groups.

Local radio may not be able to replace Capital FM or Capital Gold, but there is no reason that the future of the radio industry will not hold success or reap rewards, given time. For now, Brunei has lost that `global sound' that gives a city that cosmopolitan feel. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

Click Here To Have Your Say On This Story

Brudirect.com News

Brunei's Fastest Growing Website with