By 2012, RTM,  the national broadcasting networks, is expecting to start digital broadcasting , moving from current traditional analog broadcast, which has been in service since RTM inception. The aging analog broadcast often resulting poor transmission especially to the rural areas, who than relied to Astro (paid view satellite television network) to get better coverage. The restructuring process slated to complete by 2015, which  might also marks the end of analog broadcast by 2015.

Upon completion, the planned digital broadcast will have 19 channels with 7 of them allocated to RTM. The rest of the channels will go to other media companies including Media Prima. At the moment, Media Prima has 4 channels under its umbrella, which means there are 8 more channels are open for other media players.

Contrary to public assumption that this is going to be fully RTM channels,  it is safe to say now that this is national digital broadcast project. Comprising various media companies, it will broadcasting various type of news, sports and entertainment tailored for multi-racial communities in country like Malaysia.

It needs special decoder (set-top-box) to receive the digital broadcast, which cost between RM200 – RN300. Those who can’t afford to purchase this decoder will get it for free or subsidized by government.  In 2-3 years, government is expecting television manufacturer to equip this decoder within the television sold on this country. Currently, there are 2,000 houses in Klang Valley involved on pilot program since 2006

On another interesting related development, this move is potentially creating 50,000 jobs related to the production house and other supporting industries. Not bad if this is going to real..

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