What drew Fauziah Latiff most to the project was its theme of women’s strength and intelligence, set against a rich backdrop of pre-16th-century history and fiction. Photo: Bernama
Legendary singer-actress Fauziah Latiff may not appear often on screen these days, but it is not due to a lack of offers.
At 54, the icon admits she is highly selective about her acting roles, choosing only projects that add meaning to her artistic journey, while prioritising her music career and family commitments.
"I usually take on just one script a year. When it comes to acting, I look at the storytelling first. Any project we commit to is a responsibility, so we must give our best. There are always offers beyond singing, but I’ve simply become more selective,” she said.
Fauziah was speaking at the premiere of Srikandi, a telefilm produced by the Department of Broadcasting Malaysia through Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM) in collaboration with Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka recently.
Directed by Wan Mohd Afzam Wan Daud, Srikandi sees Fauziah stepping into the demanding role of a sultanah in a historical tale inspired by the classic Syair Siti Zubaidah Perang China.
Best known for timeless hits like Teratai Layu Di Tasik Madu and Gubahan Rindu Puisi Syahdu, Fauziah revealed that while her screen time in Srikandi may not be long, the weight of her character demanded intense preparation. She attended intensive language classes, learned the basics of silat, and studied her role closely.
"As a sultanah, the performance had to be carefully measured-not overdone, not too strong, not too harsh, but controlled. I gave it my best, and I hope it comes through,” she said.
Fauziah stars alongside a powerhouse cast including Farali Khan, Catriona Ross, Khatijah Tan, and Datuk Fauziah Nawi.
What drew her most to the project was its theme of women’s strength and intelligence, set against a rich backdrop of pre-16th-century history and fiction.
"We had about a week of classes to refine our grammar and speech. This role also required me to rely heavily on facial expressions, body language, and subtle gestures-so I really had to ‘drop the face',” she said with a smile.
Beyond Srikandi, Fauziah also revealed she will appear in an upcoming film centred on environmental awareness, a theme close to her heart as an avid scuba diver.
Srikandi, RTM’s first large-scale drama produced in cinematic format, will premiere on Sept 15 at 9pm on TV1 and RTMKlik, with plans to be submitted to international film festivals. – Bernama
