using serial monitor to read data

I am working on a project where I am the characters f,b,l,r,s using matlab via serial port to an RF transmitter. On the other side, the receiver is attached to an Arduino. The matlab code is sending numbers and the Arduino program is meant to receive these numbers and use them to control two motors. However, for some reason, the Arduino program is not receiving the number right and hence the motor is not functioning as required. how do i solve this? please someone help me....