JAKARTA, Oct 7: The historical drama ‘Rajah’, also known as ‘The Edge of the World,’ is set to make its Indonesian debut on October 9, 2024.
The film, which premiered in Malaysia in 2023, narrates the rise of British explorer Sir James Brooke, who became the first White Rajah of Sarawak in the 19th century, a story that resonates deeply with many Indonesians by reflecting the country’s own colonial experiences.
During the Jakarta premiere, a central theme emerged: the connection between Sarawak’s colonial past and that of Indonesia.
Bront Palarae, a prominent Malaysian actor, portrays Pengiran Indera Mahkota, a Bruneian noble who opposed Brooke’s rule and played a pivotal role in the era’s power struggles.
Reflecting on his character, Bront remarked, Pengiran Indera Mahkota as not just a villain, he was a man defending his people and land from foreign influence.
“His resistance to Brooke stemmed from a desire to preserve his culture, making him a more complex figure than merely an antagonist.
“As an actor, I wanted to ensure that his motivations were understood. He wasn’t just fighting for power; he was trying to protect his heritage. I believe audiences will appreciate that nuance,” he shared in an exclusive interview with TVS during the ‘Rajah’ Gala Premiere in Jakarta, Indonesia recently.
Meanwhile, Josie Ho, a versatile Hong Kong actress, plays Madame Lim, a fictional character who later becomes Brooke’s wife, a role that holds personal significance for her.
“Madame Lim represents a blend of cultures, symbolizing the merging of local traditions with Western influence during that period. Coming from a region with its own colonial history, stepping into Madame Lim’s shoes was an emotional experience. It provided a chance to showcase a strong, local woman’s perspective within this historical narrative,” Ho said.
Indonesian actress Atiqah Hasiholan portrays Princess Fatima, a pivotal ally of Sir James Brooke, bringing both grace and strength to the role as she navigates a male-dominated world with intelligence and resilience.
“This story is crucial, not just for Malaysia but for Indonesia too, as it highlights our shared history in Southeast Asia.
“Playing Princess Fatima gave me the opportunity to represent the fierce, courageous women who are often overlooked in historical narratives,” Atiqah shared.
Meanwhile, another prominent Indonesian actor, Samo Rafael takes on the role of Prince Badruddin, Brooke’s loyal yet conflicted ally, delving into the complexities of his character.
“Badruddin is torn between his loyalty to his people and his support for Brooke, striving to uphold honor while recognizing the inevitable changes of history.
“Rajah not only revisits our shared history but also examines the intricate challenges of leadership and governance, which remain relevant to both Sarawak and Indonesia. I hope it encourages viewers to reflect on their own histories.
“Badruddin’s decisions carry profound consequences, and I worked to capture that weight of responsibility, hoping Indonesian audiences resonate with his internal struggle,” he explained.
Directed by Michael Haussman, ‘Rajah’ delves into Sarawak’s history, examining power, leadership, and the region’s intricate relationships with its local communities.
Filmed in Sarawak, the movie captures the stunning beauty of Borneo, a landscape Indonesia shares through its Kalimantan region. – TVS
