KUALA LUMPUR – Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin wants Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM), which has operated for over seven decades, to continue creating milestones in the national broadcasting and media production industry, and be bold in making changes so that its services remain relevant.
The prime minister said the channel should be prepared to change in line with current developments and technological advances, while creating more success stories to bring the Broadcasting Department to greater heights.
“The slogan ‘RTM – Teman Setia Anda’ (RTM – Your Faithful Companion) is indeed synonymous with the services that it provides to the people. However, RTM must also be bold in making changes, so that its services stay fresh and relevant,” he said in his speech, delivered virtually, in conjunction with the channel’s 75th anniversary and 60th anniversary of RTM Orchestra today.
The celebrations at Angkasapuri here were attended by Communications and Multimedia Minister Datuk Saifuddin Abdullah, Deputy Minister Datuk Zahidi Zainul Abidin and Secretary-General Datuk Seri Mohammad Mentek, as well as Broadcasting Department director-general Datuk Ruzain Idris.
Muhyiddin expressed hope that RTM will be bold in making the necessary changes amid the 4th Industrial Revolution, and use its expertise and experience to continuously improve, sustain and develop its offerings.
He said the project to upgrade the Angkasapuri complex into a “Media City” is in step with the rapid advancement in broadcasting technology and international standards.
It is also consistent with RTM’s transformation plan, which focuses on the development and optimal utilisation of its media platforms to effectively achieve the Broadcasting Department’s mission and vision, he said.
“I believe the plan will give great benefits not only to the organisation, but also the local creative industry.
“Among others, it will offer enhanced television content, radio presentation and new media, attracting audiences and increasing their loyalty.”
He said RTM also helps the authorities’ fight against Covid-19, serving as the government’s outlet disseminating accurate information on the coronavirus.
Broadcast on both radio and television, done in 24 languages and dialects, to refute fake news on the outbreak helps prevent the public from panicking, he said. – Bernama, April 1, 2021