Sunday 26 September 2021

RTM Kedah FM coverage and tuning frequencies in Perak.

 

RTM Kedah FM can be tuned in Kedah, Penang, Perlis and part of Thailand, but it is also receivable in large part of Perak state, especially North Perak.

 

Penang receives Kedah FM on 97.5MHz from Gunung Jerai, but Kedah FM can be tuned in Perak with two frequencies FM 97.5MHz, FM 90.5MHz and FM 88.5MHz. Hence, I listed down the coverage areas by tuning frequencies.

 

1. FM 97.5MHz Gunung Jerai

* Taiping

* Batu Kurau

* Semanggol

* Changkat Jering

* Kamunting

* Parit Buntar

* Kuala Kurau

* Bagan Serai

* Tanjung Piandang

* Kuala Sepetang

* Matang

* Simpang

* Terong

 

2. FM 90.5MHz Bukit Palong

* Pengkalan Hulu

* Klian Intan

* Gerik

* Lawin (presumed) 

 

3. FM 88.5MHz Bukit Sungai Kechil

* Selama

* Lenggong (presumed)

* Lawin (presumed)

After English service, I finally receive Radio Romania International Arabic service on SW 11900kHz in Malaysia.

 

 
In recent weeks, I already managed to receive Radio Romania International signal in Malaysia, they're English language service on SW 11825kHz, 17760kHz & 11825kHz and Romanian Curierul Romanesc program on SW 15200kHz.

 

On 16th September 2021, I attempted receiving Radio Romania International Arabic language radio service, but no signal was detected, even I couldn't receive its Chinese radio service. Until 25th September 2021, approximately 2335 hours (UTC+8) or 1435 hours (UTC), I received Radio Romania International on SW 11900kHz successfully, it broadcasted in Arabic language, intend for Middle East region.

 

Transmitter site is same as what I received Radio Romania International shortwave frequencies, SW 11900kHz is from Galbeni-Bacau, Romania. 

 

Video was taken on 25th September 2021 at 2334 hours (UTC+8)/1534 hours (UTC). QTH location is in Balakong, Selangor, Malaysia.

 

SINPO code is 35333.

 

As 26th September 2021, I had received about 7 Radio Romania (International & Actualitati) shortwave frequencies in Malaysia.  

 

- SW 11825kHz

- SW 11900kHz (Arabic)

- SW 11950kHz (Actualitati in Romanian)

- SW 15200kHz (Curierul Romanesc)

- SW 15340kHz (Actualitati in Romanian)

- SW 17760kHz (English)

- SW 21550kHz (English)

 

All frequencies I received are transmitted from Galbeni-Bacau, except SW 21550kHz from Tiganesti (40km from Bucharest).

SW 11950kHz is my second shortwave frequency of Radio Romania Actualitati received in Malaysia after SW 15340kHz.

 

From 1300 hours to 1500 hours (UTC) daily, Radio Romania Actualitati broadcasts on SW 15340kHz and 11950kHz through Radio Romania International. 

 

In recent weeks, I successfully received Radio Romania Actualitati SW 15340kHz in Malaysia, meanwhile 11950kHz is always unsuccessful one because of China Radio International Malay and Indonesian broadcast services.

China Radio International operates on SW 11955kHz in Malay and Indonesian languages from 1230 hours to 1430 hours daily (UTC), this causes me unable to receive Radio Romania Actualitati SW 11950kHz from 1300 hours to 1430 hours (UTC). Hence, I have to wait until 1430 hours to receive Radio Romania Actualitati SW 11950kHz in Malaysia after China Radio International signed off.

 

After 1430 hours (UTC) or 2230 hours (UTC+8 Malaysia time), finally I can receive Radio Romania Actualitati SW 11950kHz successfully.

 

In fact, SW 11950kHz is my second shortwave frequency of Radio Romania Actualitati received in Malaysia after 15340kHz. Here is the footage:

 

In terms of receiving signal quality, 11950kHz is clearer than 15340kHz, despite both are beaming same direction to Europe at 285 DEG angle, and transmitted from Galbeni-Bacau, Romania at 300kW transmitter output power. Unfortunately, I could only listen to Radio Romania Actualitati on 11950kHz after 1430 hours (UTC) because of China Radio International SW 11955kHz. 

 

* Frequency: SW 11950kHz

* Power: 300kW

* Transmission site: Galbeni-Bacau, Romania

* Receiving site: Balakong, Selangor, Malaysia (20km from Kuala Lumpur)

* Distance: 8617km

* Receiving date/time: 25.09.2021 2238H (UTC+8)/1438H (UTC)

* SINPO: 45444 

 

By combining my videos of receiving Radio Romania International and Actualitati shortwave videos, majority are transmitted from Galbeni-Bacau, Romania, meanwhile there is only 1 frequency transmitted from Tiganesti, namely Radio Romania International SW 21550kHz.

BFBS Radio Brunei FM 101.7MHz received in Bintulu, Sarawak, Malaysia?

 

A month ago, I published an article about BFBS Radio Brunei FM 101.7MHz availability in Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia.

 

Recently, BFBS Radio Brunei FM 101.7MHz was also received in Bintulu, Sarawak, Malaysia. Thanks to Shafik 1995 DXers for publishing the video on YouTube.

 

The entire footage was taken in Samalaju, Bintulu, Sarawak actually, radio receiver is Panasonic RQ-C18V with earphone antenna.

 

The signal of BFBS Radio Brunei FM 101.7MHz is weaker in Bintulu, compare with Miri actually. According to the footage, BFBS Radio Brunei FM 101.7MHz was received at higher elevation area and coastal area.

 

- Frequency: FM 101.7MHz

- Power: 1kW

- Transmitter site: Garrison-Seria, Brunei

- Receiving site: Samalaju, Bintulu, Sarawak, Malaysia

- Distance: 163km

Kurdish radio station, Radyo Denge Welat SW 11530kHz received in Malaysia without Turkish jamming on 25th September 2021 at 1529H (UTC)

 

A week ago, I attempted to receive Radyo Denge Welat SW 11530kHz from Moldova transmitter between 1130H to 1230H (UTC) in Malaysia, but the frequency was completely jammed by Turkish jammer, known as TRT Radio Recep Erdogan.

 

In 26th September 2021, approximately 1530 hours (UTC), I successfully received Radyo Denge Welat SW 11530kHz in my QTH location Balakong, Selangor state, Malaysia without Turkish jamming, but the frequency was actually transmitted from Issoudun, France.

 

The reception was quite loud and clear on SW 11530kHz. 

 

* Frequency: SW 11530kHz 

* Power: 250kW 

* Transmission site: Issoudun, France 

* Receiving site: Balakong, Selangor, Malaysia (20km from Kuala Lumpur) 

* Distance: 10508km 

* Receiving date/time: 16.09.2021 2329H (UTC+8)/1529H (UTC) 

* Language: Kurdish

 

Since I successfully received Radyo Denge Welat SW 11530kHz from Issoudun, France in Malaysia yesterday, it becomes 2nd furthest shortwave radio station that I heard in Malaysia after KNLS from Alaska, USA in terms of receiving distance. 


In addition, Radyo Denge Welat SW 11530kHz is my forth Europe transmitted radio station received in Malaysia after Radio Romania International, Deutsche Welle and TRT Radyo Recep Erdogan.


Friday 24 September 2021

RTM Kedah FM is available in Gerik, Perak via FM 90.5MHz Bukit Palong (Baling) transmitter.

 

 


As I know so far, RTM Kedah FM can be received in greater part of Northwest Perak areas such as Taiping, Pairt Buntar, Semanggol, Bagan Serai, Tanjung Piandang, Kuala Kurau, Kamunting and Batu Kurau via 97.5MHz from Gunung Jerai, meanwhile it is available in Selama and likely Lenggong via 88.5MHz from Bukit Sungai Kechil.

FM 90.5MHz Bukit Palong transmitter is available in Pengkalan Hulu and Klian Intan too, but Kedah FM also can be tuned clearly in Gerik, Perak via FM 90.5MHz from Bukit Palong which targets Baling.


On DX Radio Malaysia YouTube channel, there is a video of Kedah FM signal reception in Gerik on 90.5, 88.5 and 97.5MHz.

 

In Gerik, Kedah FM 90.5MHz Bukit Palong is the clearest tuning frequency, following by FM 88.5MHz Bukit Sungai Kechil (Selama) and FM 97.5MHz Gunung Jerai is the weakest frequency there.

== Kedah FM reception in Gerik, Perak on 3 frequencies from different transmitter sites==

QTH is in Gerik, Perak.

* 90.5MHz Bukit Palong 1kW (30km): CLEAR
* 88.5MHz Bukit Sungai Kechil 0.25kW (68km): OK
* 97.5MHz Gunung Jerai 5kW (87km): WEAK

Although Hot FM uses 90.5MHz for its Taiping frequency from Bukit Larut, but Kedah FM 90.5MHz from Bukit Palong has no co-channel interference with Hot FM 90.5MHz from Bukit Larut in Gerik because Bukit Larut transmission cannot reach there.

Kedah FM 90.5MHz Bukit Palong coverage areas in Perak are only Pengkalan Hulu, Klian Intan, Gerik and Lawin.

Thursday 23 September 2021

Is the kids or children oriented radio station relevant in the market?

 Radio stations are usually airing music, entertainment, business, news, religious, politics, social and talk contents. Most of listeners age are minimum 10 years old.


In certain countries, there was a kids/children oriented radio station, but broadcast operation is not long due to market concern.


Is a radio station for kids/children irrelevant?


In my opinion, yes, it is irrelevant of kids radio market, commercially a broadcaster cannot survive if operate a kids/children oriented radio station because kids radio market is extremely niche, compare to specialized format radio station market.


Kids oriented radio station defines as a radio station to target kids group by playing content and music related to kids (eg: children's songs).


I don't even think the children/kids group will listen to kids content on radio because kids prefer to watch their favorite content on TV or Video-On-Demand, rather than listening to radio. This is because radio delivers the audio only content, meanwhile television or Video-On-Demand kids content (cartoons, animation etc) delivers pictures and sound together which can impress the kids viewers.


If the kids listen to radio, surely they will prefer listening to hot contemporary radio station to enjoy latest music. Or adult contemporary/classic radio station when they follow their parents' listening suit.


Broadcaster can still survive and earn more revenue if they run teenagers' oriented radio station because teenagers' market is very wide. In Malaysia, we have teenagers to youth oriented radio stations which are very popular. (Example: Hitz FM, Era FM, goXUAN FM, Rakita)


In Romania, there was a radio station to target the kids, operated by Romanian Radio Broadcasting Company, known as Radio Romania Junior (formerly known as Kids Radio), an online only radio station by Radio Romania, however this radio station only survived for 4 years, then it was ceased transmission due to low listenership. Radio Romania Junior contents were merged into Radio Romania Cultural after stopping broadcast. Hence, Radio Romania Cultural has a program slot for kids. Merging kids radio content into exisiting adult oriented radio station can make it as family radio station which can generate larger listenership by combining two into single.





Based on Logopedia - Fandom, Radio Romania launched Kids Radio in 2008, then renamed to Radio Romania Junior in 2011, but it was ceased broadcast in 2012 (unknown date).



This proved that kids oriented radio market doesn't function due to commercial and listenership reasons.

Wednesday 22 September 2021

Radio Romania Antena Satelor longwave (LW) frequency 153kHz has more attention from DXers, compare with FM and medium wave (MW) frequencies

 

The Radio Romania Antena Satelor, a fifth radio station by Romanian Radio Broadcasting Company to focus on rural affairs and folk music currently broadcasts on LW, MW and FM frequency, as well as DAB+ in Bucharest.

 

Here are the tuning frequencies of Radio Romania Antena Satelor.

 

* LW 153kHz from Bod transmitter covers Romania and Moldova. (200kW)

* MW 531 kHz from Urziceni covers Bacău, Brăila, Călărași, Ialomița, Vrancea (14kW)

* MW 603 kHz from Herastrau covers Ilfov, Giurgiu, Prahova, Teleorman (400kW)
* MW 630 kHz from Voinesti covers Argeș, Dâmbovița, Dolj, Olt, Vâlcea (400kW)
* MW 1314 kHz from Vala Lui Tarian covers Dobrogea (50kW)
* MW 1314 kHz from Timisoara covers Banat (30kW)
* FM 89.0MHz Comanesti (1kW ERP)
* FM 103.2MHz Sulina (1kW ERP)
* FM 106.9MHz Zalau (0.05kW ERP)

 

Among all the frequencies listed above, Radio Romania Antena Satelor LW 153kHz gains the attention most from the DXers outside of Romania because LW 153kHz is the only radio station in Romania, and DXers outside Romania perform DXing of Radio Romania LW 153kHz to monitor the signal propagation. During the darkness, the sky wave signal can transmit to most of Europe region, even Asia continent sporadically. Hence, it gets more attention from the DXers to monitor Radio Romania Antena Satelor longwave transmitter propagation.


I watch most of Radio Romania Antena Satelor signal monitoring videos on YouTube, most of the videos are the receiving signal of LW 153kHz.


Less attention from DXers over Radio Romania Antena Satelor on FM and MW frequencies because its FM frequencies output power are very low, so it is hard to receive Antena Satelor on FM frequency in distant areas.


For MW frequencies, I don't really see any DXers monitored Radio Romania Antena Satelor on high power medium wave frequencies MW 603kHz and 630kHz because both frequencies were occupied by Radio Romania Actualitati and other European radio station. Hence, Antena Satelor MW frequencies are hard to be caught.


For FM frequencies, Antena Satelor has more attention than MW. Currently, I only see few DXers caught Radio Romania Antena Satelor via FM frequency through Sporadic E propagation, notably FM 89.0MHz and FM 103.2MHz.

Raaga is available in Kuantan, Pahang by tuning the frequency FM 99.3MHz from Gunung Ulu Kali.

 

The Malaysia's no.1 Tamil radio station, Raaga, operated by Astro Radio currently broadcasts in West Coast of Peninsular Malaysia, meanwhile it has no any tuning frequencies in East Coast Peninsular Malaysia (Kuantan, Kota Bharu and Kuala Terengganu) because of Gegar (East Coast Malay radio station) broadcasts there. 

 

Due to broadcast license condition, Astro is unable to expand coverage of Raaga in East Coast Malaysia, hence Raaga has no Kuantan frequency, but in fact Raaga's listeners are still able to tune to Raaga in part of Kuantan by tuning the frequency to FM 99.3MHz from Gunung Ulu Kali.

 

Raaga is available in part of Kuantan on FM 99.3MHz from Gunung Ulu Kali.

 

Although the reception of Raaga 99.3MHz is not clear as Bukit Pelindung radio station, but listeners can tune it in Kuantan.

 

Thanks to my friend from Kuantan for the footage.

 

* Frequency: FM 99.3MHz

* Power: 2kW

* Transmitter site: Gunung Ulu Kali, Pahang

* Receiving site: Taman Inderapura, Kuantan, Pahang

* Distance: 168km

 

It is perfect if Astro can expand Raaga FM coverage to Kuantan, but unfortunately this cannot be done due to license condition. The broadcast license can be terminated if a broadcaster breaches the condition, unless MCMC allows to do so.

 

For listeners who are looking for Raaga tuning frequency in Kuantan, but unable to search it on website, you may try tuning the frequency to FM 99.3MHz in Kuantan and listen to Raaga via radio. 

Tuesday 21 September 2021

BFM 89.9 is available in Kuantan, Pahang via radio, receiving signal is still clear as tuning in Melaka.

 

BY PHILIP YONG

philipyong0110@gmail.com

 

Believe it or not? BFM 89.9 can be received in Kuantan, Pahang via same frequency.

 

The Malaysia's first English language business radio station BFM 89.9 is based in Klang Valley, transmitted from Gunung Ulu Kali which can be tuned in Greater Klang Valley, South Perak, West Pahang and part of Negeri Sembilan/Melaka/Johor.

 

Thanks to my friend from Kuantan for the footage, so I can publish this here easily as I have the evidence.

 

In fact, BFM 89.9 is available in large part of Pahang. In Pahang state, the radio station is very clear in Bentong, Temerloh, Chenor, Maran, Bera, Kuala Lipis, Karak, Jengka, Kemayan, Teriang and Mentakab. However, BFM 89.9 can be tuned in Kuantan and part of Pekan too.

Based on the received footage from my friend in Kuantan, BFM 89.9 signal reception is still clear there. Video was taken in Taman Inderapura where is only 4-5km away from Kuantan town. After I watch the footage, BFM 89.9 signal in Kuantan is about the same as what I tuned in Melaka before.

 

According to my friend in Kuantan, BFM 89.9 is available in 70% of Kuantan area.

 

* Frequency: FM 89.9MHz

* Power: 2kW

* Transmitter site: Gunung Ulu Kali, Pahang

* Receiving site: Taman Inderapura, Kuantan, Pahang

* Distance: 168km

 

No interference from surrounding transmitter which assign the frequency nearby 89.9 is found in Kuantan, despite RTM Terengganu FM uses 90.0MHz in Felda Cerul transmitter site where located 50km from Kuantan.

 

Note: Terengganu FM 90.0MHz Felda Cerul transmitter goes faded in Jabor area in Terengganu. So, no overspill signal to Kuantan area is detected. 

 

Without launching Bukit Pelindung local transmitter, BFM 89.9 from Gunung Ulu Kali is still receivable in Kuantan, Pahang. This proofs how powerful of BFM 89.9 transmission system is.

Monday 20 September 2021

TRT Radyo Recep Erdogan SW 11530kHz from Emirler, Turkey received in Malaysia.

 

On 19th September 2021, approximately 2053 hours (UTC+8), I prepared to receive Radio France International (RFI) SW 9650kHz Vietnamese broadcast from Taiwan transmitter. Before RFI signing on, I attempted to receive Radyo Denge Welat SW 11530kHz from Moldova actually.

 

At SW 11530kHz, I heard something music which sounds like Arabic songs, then I checked the station list on short-wave.info. It showed two radio stations were on air during 2054H (UTC+8). So, I went to Radyo Denge Welat website online streaming player to listen to the content, in fact its content did not match with SW 11530kHz which I was receiving in Malaysia.

 

Next, I went to refer few DXers videos on YouTube of receiving TRT Radyo Recep Erdogan. It is exactly same as what I was listening yesterday.

 

In conclusion, SW 11530kHz which I received in Malaysia was TRT Radyo Recep Erdogan from Emirler, Turkey. 

 

The radio stations play Turkish military music actually. It is called as jammer by many DXers.

 

According to DXers, Turkey's government runs TRT Radyo Recept Erdogan as a radio jammer against Kurdistan's clandestine radio station Radio Denge Welat signal. I believe there is a conflict between Turkey and Kurdish, that is a cold war through radio. The Turkey-Kurdish conflict happens since 27th November 1978.

 

In terms of reception, TRT Radyo Recep Erdogan was receivable, but signal quality was moderate. Hence, I gave the SINPO code 35333.

 

 - Frequency: SW 11530kHz 

- Power: 500kW 

- Transmission site: Emirler, Turkey 

- Receiving site: Balakong, Selangor, Malaysia (20km from Kuala Lumpur City) 

- Distance: 7948km 

- Receiving date/time: 19.09.2021 2054H (UTC+8)/1254H (UTC) 

- Receiver: TECSUN PL-380 

- Language: Turkish

- SINPO: 35333

Sunday 19 September 2021

List of Radio Romania Actualitati shortwave (SW) tuning frequencies during summer season. (Romanian language)

 

Radio Romania Actualitati, the flagship radio station in Romania. In Romania, Actualitati (RRA) broadcasts nationwide on FM and MW frequencies, also DAB+ in Bucharest, but it has also shortwave frequency via Radio Romania International to target Romanian listeners who are staying out of Romania.

 

Radio Romania International (external radio service by Radio Romania) Romanian broadcast is actually relaying Actualitati program. Here is the list of Radio Romania Actualitati shortwave (SW) frequencies:

 

* 6015kHz: 0400-0457H UTC (285DEG)

* 7265kHz: 1600-1657H UTC (142DEG)

* 7325kHz: 0357-0457H UTC (285DEG)

* 7420kHz: 0000-0157H UTC (310DEG)

* 9490kHz: 1200-1300H UTC (300DEG)

* 9500kHz: 1700-1957H UTC (285DEG)

* 9590kHz: 1600-1657H UTC (142DEG)

* 9730kHz: 0000-0157H UTC (310DEG)

* 11950kHz: 1300-1500H UTC (285DEG)

* 11975kHz: 1700-1957H UTC (285DEG)

* 15340kHz: 1300-1500H UTC (285DEG)

 

Transmitter site:

1. Galbeni-Bacau (for 6015kHz, 7325kHz, 7420kHz, 9500kHz, 9730kHz, 11950kHz, 11975kHz, 15340kHz)

2. Tiganesti (for 7265kHz, 9590kHz)

3. Saftica (for 9490kHz)

 

All frequencies listed above are operating at 300kW transmitter power, except 9490kHz Saftica transmitter which only operates at 100kW power. 

 

Targeting areas:

* North America (East Coast): 7420kHz, and 9730kHz

* Europe: 6015kHz, 7325kHz, 9500kHz, 11950kHz, 11975kHz, 15340kHz

* Eastern Europe: 9490kHz

* Israel and Middle East: 7265kHz, 9590kHz

 

Source: www.short-wave.info & Radio Romania International 


Among 11 Radio Romania Actualitati (RRA) shortwave frequencies, currently I could only receive SW 15340kHz in Malaysia (QTH: Balakong, Selangor; 20km from Kuala Lumpur), meanwhile my friend from Langkawi can receive (RRA) on SW 11950kHz and 11975kHz. Although I don't understand the Romanian language, but I listen to Radio Romania Actualitati is to monitor its shortwave signal and identify how good and powerful of RRA's shortwave transmitter propagation is.

 

Radio Romania Actualitati shortwave broadcast received in Malaysia.

 

MYS QTH1: Balakong, Selangor (20km from Kuala Lumpur)

 

 

MYS QTH2: Langkawi, Kedah

List of Radio Romania International and Actualitati shortwave frequencies which I received in Malaysia.

In August and September 2021, I manage to receive few shortwave frequencies of Radio Romania International and Actualitati in Malaysia.

 

QTH: Balakong, Selangor (20km from Kuala Lumpur)


==Radio Romania Actualitati==

* SW 15340kHz


==Radio Romania International==

* SW 11825kHz (English; targets India)

* SW 17760kHz (English;targets Australia)

* SW 21550kHz (English; targets Australia)

* SW 15200kHz (Curierul Romanesc)


In terms of radio reception quality of Radio Romania International (including Romanian's Actualitati), I make a ranking (from best to worst) by frequency.


1. SW 15200kHz

2. SW 17760kHz

3. SW 15340kHz

4. SW 11825kHz

5. SW 21550kHz


Transmitter site is from Galbeni-Bacau, except 21550kHz where transmitted from Tiganesti.

 

In addition, my friends from Langkawi Island of Malaysia and Indonesia (Sangatta, East Kalimantan) also received Radio Romania International and Actualitati.

 

Received frequencies of Radio Romania in Langkawi, Malaysia.

* SW 11975kHz (Actualitati)

* SW 11950kHz (Actualitati)

* SW 15200kHz (International: Curierul Romanesc)

* SW 17760kHz (International: English)

 

Received frequencies of Radio Romania in Sangatta, East Kalimantan, Indonesia

* SW 7370kHz (Actualitati)

* SW 15340kHz (Actualitati)

* SW 17760kHz (International: English) 

 

==Langkawi==

 


==Indonesia (Sangatta, East Kalimantan)==

Thursday 16 September 2021

China FM radio stations caught in Malaysia and Indonesia? It is E-skip propagation!

Believe it or not? ASEAN DXers receive China FM radio stations in Malaysia and Indonesia.


Here is the China FM radio stations frequencies received in ASEAN during E-skip.


- FM 91.4MHz in Langkawi, Malaysia

- FM 93.2MHz in Sangatta, East Kalimantan, Indonesia

- FM 102.2MHz in Sangatta, East Kalimantan, Indonesia

- FM 104.6MHz in Sangatta, East Kalimantan, Indonesia


==China radio E-skip in Malaysia (by Saiful Izham DXer)==


==China radio E-skip in Indonesia (by DXer Indonesia)==

 

 

There are also having Chinese radio stations in Malaysia and Indonesia, but none of local Chinese radio stations are using such frequencies above in the countries, except Melody FM 102.2MHz in Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia. In addition, the Chinese Mandarin language accent in Malaysia and Indonesia are far different from Mainland China.


I'm very sure that FM 102.2MHz Chinese language radio station received in Sangatta, Indonesia is not Melody FM from Sandakan, Sabah, Malaysia because Melody FM doesn't report China news, and Melody FM's Chinese Mandarin is Malaysia Chinese accent, rather than Mainland China accent.

Newly launched DW - Deutsche Welle Dari and Pashto languages shortwave broadcast SW 15230kHz and 15390kHz, received in Malaysia.

 

On 13th September 2021, Deutsche Welle launches shortwave radio broadcast in Dari and Pashto languages to target Afghanistan by providing credible and balance information to the people in the country.

 

Listeners can follow Deutsche Welle Dari and Pashto languages broadcast daily for 30 minutes on the frequencies 15230kHz and 15390kHz, from 14:00 UTC in Dari, and 14:30 UTC in Pashto.


According to Deutsche Welle, 15230kHz is transmitted from Nauen, Germany, meanwhile 15390kHz is transmitted from Al-Dhabbiya, United Arab Emirates. Hence, when this information is spread, it becomes DXers' attention, including me.


When I got the information about Deutsche Welle latest shortwave broadcast few days ago, I tried to receive Deutsche Welle (DW) radio broadcast in Malaysia on 15230kHz and 15390kHz. On yesterday at 13:55 UTC, I stayed in position in front of my radio receiver after I placed my TECSUN PL-380 outdoor, and waited for DW on-air.


Here are the videos of Deutsche Welle that I received in Malaysia yesterday.

 


Between SW 15320kHz and 15390kHz, the receiving signal quality of DW - Deutsche Welle on SW 15390kHz was clearer than 15230kHz in Malaysia (QTH: Balakong, Selangor), it is likely because of transmission distance of 15390kHz is shorter than 15230kHz from transmitter site to receiving site. 

 

On TECSUN PL-380 radio receiver, the field strength meter reading of 15390kHz is higher than 15230kHz, and the audio output of 15390kHz is loud and clear, compare to 15230kHz.

 

==Reception report==

1. SW 15390kHz

- Transmitter power: 250kW

- Transmitter site: Al-Dhabbiya, United Arab Emirates

- Receiving site: Balakong, Selangor, Malaysia 

- Distance: 5606km

- Receiving date: 15.09.2021 1400H UTC (2200H UTC+8)

- SINPO: 35444

 

2. SW 15230kHz

- Transmitter power: 250kW

- Transmitter site: Nauen, Germany

- Receiving site: Balakong, Selangor, Malaysia 

- Distance: 9662km

- Receiving date: 15.09.2021 1429H UTC (2229H UTC+8)

- SINPO: 24222

 

I'm very happy to receive Deutsche Welle shortwave broadcast because it is my very first time to receive this Germany public radio station in Malaysia which I never been done before. 

 

DW - Deutsche Welle is my second European radio station that I received in Malaysia after Radio Romania International. I don't include BBC World Service because the BBC frequency that I received in Malaysia is not from Europe, but Singapore transmitted. 

 

Compare between 15230kHz and 15390kHz signal quality, although both are mainly intended for Afghanistan, but 15390kHz is more ideal for ASEAN region (including Malaysia).


After performing signal monitoring for 1 hour, DW - Deutsche Welle Dari and Pashto broadcast can be heard in Malaysia and ASEAN region on SW 15390kHz from 1400 UTC to 1500 UTC.

Thursday 9 September 2021

Radio NUG evening broadcast is on SW 12000kHz (1330H UTC/2130 UTC+8). Signal is clearer than previous frequencies 17710kHz and 15300kHz in Malaysia,

 


Since 31st August 2021, the Myanmar Unity Government clandestine shortwave radio station Radio NUG transmits on the frequency SW 12000kHz for evening broadcast at 1330H (UTC) [2000H UTC+6.30 Myanmar time].


Previously Radio NUG was on SW 17710kHz, and 15300kHz for during evening broadcast, but test transmission.


In terms of receiving signal quality, Radio NUG SW 12000kHz that I receive in Malaysia on 31st August 2021 was much clearer than 15300kHz and 17710kHz. On my TECSUN PL-380 receiver, the field signal strength of SW 12000kHz is quite high, following by 15300kHz and weaker 17710kHz.

According to DXer, Radio NUG SW 12000kHz is presumably transmitted from Taiwan. Hence, I presume the frequency is from Paochung.


* Frequency: SW 12000kHz

* Power: 300kW (presumed)

* Transmission site: Paochung, Taiwan (台灣褒忠)

* Receiving site: Balakong, Selangor, Malaysia (20km from Kuala Lumpur)

* Distance: 3047km

* Receiving date: 31.08.2021 2132H (UTC+8)

* Language: Burmese

* SINPO: 55545


Sunday 5 September 2021

[Verified] SV Sound Radio FM 107MHz is a repeater in Sungai Golok, Thailand by simulcasting Kon Tak Bai Radio FM 88.75MHz. Compared content in Ketereh, Kelantan, Malaysia.

 

Firstly I would like to thank to my friend from Kelantan for the videos of two Thailand radio stations on the frequency FM 88.75MHz and FM 107.0MHz where he records in Ketereh, Kelantan, Malaysia today.

 

With the video, I can instantly verify the station content which I previously wrote on blog. 

 

It's verified that SV Sound Radio FM 107.0MHz is a repeater of Kon Tak Bai Radio FM 88.75MHz in Sungai Golok, Thailand by simulcasting Kon Tak Bai Radio FM 88.75MHz entire station. 

 

Here is the video clip of FM 88.75MHz and FM 107.0MHz received in Ketereh, Kelantan, Malaysia (23km from Kota Bharu) by my friend.

 

According to the footage, Kon Tak Bai Radio FM 88.75MHz and SV Sound Radio FM 107.0MHz are simulcasting same content each other. From the video, I already verify that SV Sound Radio FM 107.0MHz relays Kon Tak Bai Radio FM 88.75MHz, but both radio stations have different targeting locations, despite they're based in Narathiwat province.

 

Kon Tak Bai Radio FM 88.75MHz and SV Sound Radio FM 107.0MHz are operated by SV Sound Media Limited Partnership, however both are having different targeting broadcast coverage.

 

Kon Tak Bai Radio FM 88.75MHz is for Tak Bai district, meanwhile SV Sound Radio FM 107.0MHz is for Sungai Golok area by relaying Kon Tak Bai Radio.

 

If you listen to Kon Tak Bai Radio FM 88.75MHz, you would hear its ident occassionally "Here is Kon Tak Bai Radio FM 88.75MHz and SV Sound Radio Sungai Golok FM 107.0MHz". So, it is verified.

 

In terms of receiving signal quality, Kon Tak Bai Radio FM 88.75MHz is clearer than Sungai Golok repeater SV Sound Radio FM 107.0MHz in Ketereh, Kelantan, Malaysia. Both radio stations are operating at low power transmission as much 500W.

 

Both radio stations can be tuned in Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia actually, but Kon Tak Bai Radio FM 88.75MHz is interfered by Buletin FM 88.6MHz from Peringat, listeners can switch to SV Sound Radio FM 107.0MHz to continue listening to the Thai broadcast. 

 

==Reception report of SV Sound Media Limited Partnership radio stations in Ketereh, Kelantan==

 

1. Kon Tak Bai Radio

* Frequency: FM 88.75MHz

* Power: 0.5kW

* Transmission site: Tak Bai, Narathiwat Province, Thailand

* Distance: 40km

* Signal strength: Average to good

 

2. SV Sound Radio (simulcast of Kon Tak Bai Radio)

* Frequency: FM 107.0MHz

* Power: 0.5kW

* Transmission site: Sungai Golok, Thailand

* Distance: 33km (presumed)

* Signal strength: Weak

Saturday 4 September 2021

RTM Kelantan FM 97.3MHz dari Bukit Bakar diterima di Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang?

 


Pada hari ini, saya menonton sebuah video audio clip yang diterbitkan oleh Senn Lens dimana video tersebut mengejutkan saya.
 
Jika anda ada mengikuti Senn Lens di YouTube, dia menerima isyarat Kelantan FM pada frekuensi FM 97.3MHz dari Bukit Bakar (Machang, Kelantan) di Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang dengan menggunakan applikasi penerima radio Poco X3 Pro.
 
Di sini adalah video (audio sahaja) isyarat siaran RTM Kelantan FM 97.3MHz dari Bukit Bakar diterima di Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang dan dimuat naik oleh Senn Lens pada sehari sebelum hari ini.

 

Selain daripada Kelantan FM, frekuensi FM 97.3MHz juga digunakan oleh Perak FM di tempat pemancar Changkat Rembian yang meliputi Tapah, Bidor, Chenderiang dan Temoh. Saya mula berasa ragu-ragu mengenai penerimaan siaran FM 97.3MHz yang lemah di Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang, sama ada stesen tersebut ialah Kelantan FM atau Perak FM, akibat kedua-dua stesen radio bersiaran dalam bahasa Melayu. Oleh itu, saya membuat penilaian dan pertimbangan, berdasarkan pada data paramater sistem pemancaran Kelantan FM dan Perak FM.

 

==Kelantan FM 97.3MHz==

* Kuasa pemancar: 2kW

* Tempat pemancar: Bukit Bakar, Kelantan

* Ketinggian aras paras laut: 580 meter

* Ketinggian antena: 76 meter

* Kuasa terpancar yang berkesan (ERP): 4kW

* Jarak jauh ke Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang: 225km

 

==Perak FM 97.3MHz==

* Kuasa pemancar: 0.5kW

* Tempat pemancar: Changkat Rembian, Tapah

* Ketinggian aras paras laut: 186 meter

* Ketinggian antena: 45 meter

* Kuasa terpancar yang berkesan (ERP): 1.5kW

* Jarak jauh ke Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang: 165km

 

Berbanding dengan data pemancaran kedua-dua stesen radio antara Kelantan FM dan Perak FM,

 

1. Ketinggian tempat pemancar dan antena Kelantan FM 97.3MHz di Bukit Bakar lebih tinggi daripada Perak FM 97.3MHz di Changkat Rembian.

 

2. Kuasa pemancar Kelantan FM 97.3MHz di Bukit Bakar melebihi Perak FM 97.3MHz di Changkat Rembian. Dengan pengiraan "perolehan antena" (antenna gain), kuasa terpancar yang berkesan (ERP: Effective Radiated Power) Kelantan FM 97.3MHz lebih tinggi daripada Perak FM 97.3MHz.

 

Pada sudut pemancaran isyarat, RTM Perak FM 97.3MHz beroperasi pada kuasa pemancar rendah sebanyak 0.5kW, pemancaran Perak FM 97.3MHz tidak lebih memancar ke arah barat. Antara Bayan Lepas dan Changkat Rembian, terdapat sebuah gunung tinggi terletak di Gunung Bubu dimana ia menghalang pemancar Changkat Rembian dari memancar ke arah barat laut. Gunung Bubu terletak di antara Ipoh dan Taiping.

 

Selain itu, di Taiping, Perak FM 97.3MHz dari Changkat Rembian mempunyai sedikit isyarat yang lebih lemah daripada RTM Radio Klasik FM 98.3MHz Gunung Ulu Kali.

 

Manakala Kelantan FM 97.3MHz beroperasi pada kuasa pemancar sebanyak 2kW di Bukit Bakar, dan nilai ERP (kuasa terpancar yang berkesan) melebihi Perak FM 97.3MHz di Changkat Rembian, oleh itu kemungkinan Kelantan FM 97.3MHz dari Bukit Bakar diterima di Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang adalah tinggi. 

 

Dari penyiasatan atas berikut, juga perbandingan data pemancaran, frekuensi FM 97.3MHz yang diterima di Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang ialah RTM Kelantan FM dari Bukit Bakar.

 

* Stesen radio: Kelantan FM

* Frekuensi: 97.3MHz

* Kuasa pemancar: 2kW

* Lokasi pemancaran: Bukit Bakar, Kelantan

* Lokasi penerimaan: Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang

* Jarak jauh: 225km

 

Walaupun Kelantan FM 97.3MHz dari Bukit Bakar mempunyai sedikit isyarat di Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang, saya mempercayai bahawa ia akan mempunyai gangguan isyarat daripada dua buah stesen radio yang dipancar dari Gunung Jerai iaitu Sinar FM 97.1MHz dan Kedah FM 97.5MHz kerana 97.3 "dikepit" oleh 97.1 dan 97.5 di Kedah, Perlis, Pulau Pinang dan Perak Utara.

RTM Kelantan FM can be received through radio on the frequency 97.3MHz from Bukit Bakar in Bayan Lepas, Penang?

 

I watch someone, named Senn Lens published his radio signal monitoring audio clip on YouTube which greatly surprises me today.

 

He received RTM Kelantan FM via radio on frequency FM 97.3MHz in Bayan Lepas, Penang by using Poco X3 Pro radio receiver yesterday.

 

Here is the video clip (audio only) of Kelantan FM 97.3MHz from Bukit Bakar in Bayan Lepas, Penang.

 

Apart of Kelantan FM, actually FM 97.3MHz is also used by RTM Perak FM 97.3MHz in Changkat Rembian for Tapah, Bidor, Temoh and Chenderiang. This makes me more doubtful of FM 97.3MHz reception in Bayan Lepas, Penang. Hence, I need to make a comparison between both radio stations based on transmitter system parameter data.

 

==Kelantan FM 97.3MHz==

* Transmitter power: 2kW

* Transmitter site: Bukit Bakar, Machang, Kelantan

* Height above sea level: 580m

* Antenna height: 76m

* ERP: 4kW 

* Distance to Bayan Lepas, Penang: 225km

 

==Perak FM 97.3MHz==

* Transmitter power: 0.5kW

* Transmitter site: Changkat Rembian, Tapah, Perak

* Height above sea level: 186m

* Antenna height: 45m

* ERP: 1.5kW 

* Distance to Bayan Lepas, Penang: 165km 

 

Compare with both transmission data between Kelantan FM and Perak FM,

 

1. The transmitter site and antenna height of Kelantan FM 97.3MHz Bukit Bakar are much higher than Perak FM 97.3MHz Changkat Rembian

 

2. The transmitter power of Kelantan FM 97.3MHz from Bukit Bakar is more than Perak FM 97.3MHz from Changkat Rembian. With calculation of antenna gain, the effective radiated power (ERP) of Kelantan FM 97.3MHz is also more than Perak FM 97.3MHz.

 

In terms of signal propagation, RTM Perak FM 97.3MHz operates at low power transmission, the reception of the radio station doesn't beam very much to west direction. Between Bayan Lepas and Changkat Rembian, there is a high terrain in Gunung Bubu where Changkat Rembian signal is blocked by the mountain between Taiping and Ipoh from transmitting to the northwest side. Even in Taiping, Perak FM 97.3MHz is only having very little signal (much lesser than Gunung Ulu Kali).

 

Meanwhile Kelantan FM 97.3MHz operates at 2kW transmission power in Bukit Bakar, and ERP value is higher than Perak FM 97.3MHz, so the possibility of Kelantan FM 97.3MHz signal overspill to Bayan Lepas, Penang is very high.

 

From the investigation above, based on transmission data comparison, the frequency FM 97.3MHz which caught in Bayan Lepas, Penang is Kelantan FM from Bukit Bakar.

 

==DX report of Kelantan FM in Penang==

* Frequency: FM 97.3MHz

* Power: 2kW

* Transmission site: Bukit Bakar, Kelantan

* Receiving location: Bayan Lepas, Penang

* Distance: 225km

 

Although Kelantan FM 97.3MHz from Bukit Bakar is having very little signal in Bayan Lepas, Penang, I believe it will have adjacent channel interference from two local transmitters such as Sinar FM 97.1MHz and Kedah FM 97.5MHz from Gunung Jerai because 97.3MHz is "sandwiched" by 97.1 and 97.5 in Kedah, Perlis, Penang and North Perak.