Voice behind National Day air show, Major Dinnesh brings fighter jet manoeuvres alive

PUTRAJAYA, Aug 31 — Dataran Putrajaya witnessed the thunderous roar of fighter jets as the spirited voice of Major Dinnesh Nicolas Rene bridged the aerial display and the onlookers, infusing every manoeuvre with precision and passion. The role of an air show commentator, explains Dinnesh, a 34-year-old Royal Malaysian Air Force officer, extends beyond merely delivering lines into a microphone.

It necessitates deep understanding of the aircraft, pilots, formations, and each maneuver to be executed. Dinnesh, serving in the RMAF since 2015, began his career as a commentator at the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA) 2019, before continuing during the RMAF’s anniversary. "That's when my journey as an air show commentator with the RMAF commenced," he stated in an interview with Bernama.

For the 2026 National Day parade and march-past, Dinnesh joined forces with Major Neny Suhaida Ab Suki and Captain Muhammad Iqbal Nasrudin for the air commentary. He noted that while his experience as an air defence officer grants him insight into operational aspects to explain during air show commentary, the task demands extensive preparation.

Preparations commence with meetings and coordination with ground controllers and pilots to ensure accurate knowledge of the display. "We need to understand the aircraft's actions, the number of aircraft involved, the pilots, and each squadron's motto. Coordination with other security agencies is also crucial," he elaborated. The challenge of maintaining protocol is paramount during large-scale events like the National Day celebration, attended by the King and Prime Minister.

Commentators must adhere to what can and cannot be said while delivering information at the appropriate moment. Dinnesh emphasized that preserving the voice, the essence that conveys information and ignites excitement in the crowd amidst the aircraft's roar, poses the greatest challenge. Unlike a master of ceremonies, a commentator must project a powerful voice, making voice management a critical aspect of preparation.

He advises that commentators must first feel and embody the spirit they intend to convey, drawing upon their awe and excitement for air shows, even after years of close encounters with fighter jets.