(Update, Analysis and Commentary) Media Prima says ntv7 is still alive by claiming ntv7 has been transformed to education channel for a year under MOE and Media Prima 12 months term broadcast contract

 

 

Yesterday on 16.02.2021 (Tuesday), before a day of DidikTV KPM launches officially. There were many speculations about ntv7 was about closedown as Ministry of Education launches DidikTV KPM on CH107 (MYTV), and CH147 (Astro) which are ntv7 channel number.

 

The rumor news of ntv7 closedown was everywhere since last week. Until Tuesday night, Media Prima made clarification by denying such speculation, and said ntv7 is still alive. In addition, the company also said that there is no change in ownership of ntv7.

During that time, many people including artists and former ntv7 staffs shared their memories and moments of ntv7. Hence, ntv7 "farewell" was a trend on social media.

Ok, for today's update, ntv7 has been transformed as education channel as DidikTV KPM, but ntv7 logo montage still remains on the TV screen. Generally Media Prima already says ntv7 is still alive, but technically all of its current ntv7 program lineup had been ceased or transferred.

Certainly some of ntv7 staffs go to host DidikTV KPM instead.

According to Malaysian Reserve, ntv7 becomes DidikTV KPM for a year. In my opinion, Media Prima doesn't cease ntv7, but in fact DidikTV expands its broadcasting hours on ntv7. 

I believe Ministry of Education Malaysia (KPM) and Media Prima have tied up with a broadcast contract of airing DidikTV KPM on ntv7, the broadcast contract duration is 12 months (1 year). So, Media Prima has to make further decision when the broadcast contract is about the due.

Either....

1. If KPM renews the broadcast contract with Media Prima for using ntv7 platform to broadcast DidikTV KPM and make it permanently, ntv7 is already ceased operation technically.

or 

2. If KPM does not decide to continue the broadcast contract with Media Prima (can be under the reasons such as COVID-19 pandemic fully disappeared and all schools are reopened), ntv7 can set a return to broadcast with its original programs lineup.

When KPM launches DidikTV KPM on ntv7 platform as full fledged channel, KPM pays rental fees to Media Prima for using ntv7 platform to broadcast DidikTV KPM.

In addition, I referred to a theory of Astro Wah Lai Toi (now defunct Astro in-house Cantonese channel).

Astro Wah Lai Toi was ceased operation on 01.04.2020, and the channel itself was replaced by TVB Jade Southeast Asia feed. Hence, Astro Wah Lai Toi was merged into TVB Jade. On the TV screen, TVB Jade and Astro Wah Lai Toi logo montages were aired together, but Astro Wah Lai Toi logo was withdrawn after few months.

 

By using Astro Wah Lai Toi theory, I believe ntv7 logo is still appeared on DidikTV KPM channel screen for first few months, but ntv7 logo montage can be withdrawn later. If ntv7 logo montage is gone, technically this can mean Media Prima ceases ntv7 completely.

 

Just like Astro Wah Lai Toi completely ceased from satellite channel, but continue as Video On Demand feed.

The closedown speculation of ntv7 is already denied by Media Prima, but comeback or cease operation completely? It is unknown for 2022 and 2023.

ntv7 goes "farewell" on 16th February 2021 and rebranded completely as DidikTV KPM, but Media Prima denied of shutting down ntv7.

 

On 12nd February 2021, Malaysia Ministry of Education announced that a standalone education television channel, known as Didik TV KPM will be launched on terrestrial TV platform by 17.02.2021.

 

Didik TV KPM broadcasts everyday from 7am to 12am, so the broadcast duration is 17 hours.This Malaysia education TV station will be broadcasted on Astro CH147, MYTV digital terrestrial TV CH107, and ntv7 feed on UniFi TV.

 

We understand that school is not opened due to COVID-19 pandemic, so students have to learn from home via online class, but some of students suffer poor internet connectivity, hence they need education channel on terrestrial TV.

Not surprise if Malaysia government launches education TV channel because we were used to have TV Pendidikan in 1970s, 1980s and 1990s. Not a new initiative in Malaysia... In Thailand, there are Thai PBS ALTV on terrestrial platform, and DLTV on satellite platform by Thai Royal, even National Broadcasting of Thailand also has education network radio station, known as Sor Wor Sor (AM 1467kHz in Bangkok area). China CCTV also has education channel, known as CCTV-10 Science and Education.

Technically DidikTV KPM will broadcast on ntv7 channel numbering such as Astro CH147, and MYTV CH107. After reading press release statement from Ministry of Education Malaysia, this indicates ntv7 will be ceased broadcast on 16.02.2021 and the channel will be entirely rebranded as DidikTV KPM on 17.02.2021.

 

Currently DidikTV is a slot on ntv7, broadcast for 11 hours per day, but after 17.02.2021, DidikTV will become full fledged education channel.

 

Rest in peace, ntv7. Thanks for entertaining fellow Malaysians for 23 years (1998-2021).

 

I don't feel surprise and shocked over the disposal of ntv7 by Media Prima because I already expected such happen in 2019 after I read its performance. From 2018 to 2021, Media Prima already performed three times on ntv7 rebranding, but unsuccessful rebrand because ntv7 is not able to get much revenue from 2018 to 2021, instead relying on Wow Shop revenue.

First attempt: Rebrand as Modern Malaysians content (5th March 2018 to 29th December 2018)

Second attempt: Revert back to Chinese content (30th December 2018 to 31st October 2020)

Third attempt: Rebrand again to Malay content, but more to magazine and talk show (1st November 2020 to 16th February 2021).

In terms of viewership rating performance, ntv7 is behind TV9 with 1%-3% audience share. Look at Media Prima TV network performance, TV3 and 8TV are having good performance, meanwhile ntv7 and TV9 performance are not good.

 

TV3 is Malaysia no.1 Malay TV channel, meanwhile 8TV is no.1 Chinese TV channel. In terms of performance ranking within Media Prima channels, here are the chart:

 

1. TV3 (30-50%)

2. 8TV (20-30%)

3. TV9 (2-3%)

4. ntv7 (1-2%)

 

On June 2020, ntv7 had ceased Chinese Mandarin news which was already aired for 21 years in ntv7's history because Media Prima merged ntv7 Chinese news into 8TV Chinese news. During that time, it also indicated Media Prima still faced difficult time to operate ntv7, although attempt to switch back to Chinese content to attract Chinese viewers, but those Chinese content are rerun of 8TV.

The rebranding of ntv7 to DidikTV KPM seems like Media Prima sold ntv7 to Ministry of Education due to loss making commercially and Media Prima does not decide to continue broadcasting ntv7. Sounds like speculation!

If it is not acquisition, Media Prima could directly switch off ntv7 and the feed will be carried by DidikTV KPM, same as Singapore Mediacorp OKTO (Arts Central + Kids Central) took over SPH Channel i frequency.

In my opinion, it is also good when Media Prima decides to dispose ntv7 as the TV channel is now a liability to the company since 2018. Besides that, people nowadays are less having demand to have more TV stations as they move to digital platform, so it is sufficient to Media Prima for focusing only TV3 and 8TV.

TV3 and 8TV are important channels to Media Prima as they're flagship. TV3 is Malay mass flagship channel, meanwhile 8TV is Chinese mass flagship channel.

 

ntv7 is likely be closed down on 16th February 2021 2359H (UTC+8) in conjunction of DidikTV KPM.

After disposal of ntv7, next will be TV9?? Still unknown yet. When DidikTV KPM takes over ntv7 channel multiplex, certain remaining programs on ntv7 will be affected or simply going to farewell such as Topik @ 7, Edisi Siasat, 7Edition.

(Update 16.02.2021) Media Prima denies of ceasing ntv7. (Source: NST)

(Update 17.02.201) NTV7 rebrands into DidikTV KPM for a year (Source: The Malaysian Reserve)

My commentary:

- It is likely a broadcast contract between KPM and Media Prima for 12 months. Further decision to continue Didik TV KPM or return ntv7 is unknown.

- When Media Prima says ntv7 is continuing operation, in my opinion, this means DidikTV KPM rent ntv7 platform. Hence, Ministry of Education pays rental fees to Media Prima for using ntv7 platform to broadcast DidikTV. 

My personal suggestion of RTM radio stations' frequencies and transmitter sites if RTM launches a tender procurement of gap filler FM transmitter (likely "Phase 4") in the future

 

On 13rd February 2021, it was World Radio Day. I also watched the RTM news (Berita Wilayah) reporting that RTM would launch gap filler transmitter for its radio station (likely Nasional FM and Sarawak FM) in rural areas of Bintulu and Limbang division, Sarawak after two transmitter sites were approved.

 

After I heard the news, I believe RTM will launch new tender procurement of adding gap filler FM transmitter in remote areas, hence this tender will be Phase 4.

 

RTM gap filler FM radio transmitter tender procurement is currently going until Phase 3 which was done in 2017 (Pahang FM 102.2MHz/Nasional FM 106.2MHz/Ai FM 97.1MHz/Radio Klasik FM 90.9MHz from Bukit Fraser is part of Phase 3 gap filler tender).

 

Phase 1 was done in 2013/14 with Bukit Sulai, Sedili, Bukit Ladang Teh etc, meanwhile Phase 2 was done in 2015/16 with Lawin, Dabong etc.

 

Technical information of Phase1, Phase2, and Phase3 won't be published as they're considered as confidential information. So, I just published frequencies and stations instead which are already launched.

 

The coverage expansion of selected RTM radio stations in rural areas within Limbang and Bintulu division will be listed under Phase 4 gap filler tender procurement. Same as previous tenders, Nasional FM is definitely given priority of launching gap filler transmitters because it is flagship RTM radio channel, following by state station (Sarawak FM), meanwhile Radio Klasik will be given second to third priority for having further gap filler transmitters. 

 

Don't expect Traxx FM, Ai FM and Minnal FM will have more gap filler transmitters because those areas have less or even zero non-Malays. Therefore, no point to launch them there. Asyik FM is not given much priority to have more gap filler transmitters as it focuses on Orang Asli community.

 

About "Phase 4" tender procurement of RTM gap filler transmitter, here is what I hope RTM will expand selected radio stations coverage. In addition, I hope RTM will add few more radio stations in existing transmitter sites under "Phase 4" tender of gap filler transmitter, alongside adding new stations in rural areas of Bintulu and Limbang.

 

Here is my suggested RTM radio stations to be added under "Phase 4" tender procurement of gap filler FM transmitter in existing transmission sites. (with suggested frequencies, but frequencies are subject to MCMC decision):

 

1. Perak FM 104.1MHz in Bukit Palong, Kedah for Pengkalan Hulu, Perak.

2. Pahang FM 100.9MHz in Gunung Ledang, Johor for Keratong, Selancar and Muadzam Shah, Pahang (to reach better reception and replace Bukit Sembilan FM 88.0MHz)

3. Asyik FM 107.7MHz Changkat Rembian for Tapah, Perak

4. Radio Klasik FM 95.8MHz in Bukit Ladang Teh for Lenggong, Perak

5. Radio Klasik FM 99.5MHz in Lawin, Perak.

6. Perak FM 100.7MHz Ulu Slim, Perak

7. Radio Klasik FM 93.7MHz Gulau, Kedah

8. Pahang FM 100.8MHz Ulu Tembeling, Pahang

9. Johor FM 97.0MHz Sedili, Johor 

10. Perak FM 92.5MHz Felda Terolak Timur

11. Terengganu FM 102.6MHz Hulu Keruak.

12. Radio Klasik FM 100.7MHz Bukit Botak for Damak, Pahang

13. Perak FM 97.3MHz Sungai Siput (U), Perak

14. Nasional FM 107.1MHz Changkat Rembian for Tapah, Perak 

15. Asyik FM 107.5MHz Sungai Siput (U), Perak

16. Asyik FM 93.8MHz Memplam Sari for Gerik, Perak. 

These radio stations above are my personal suggestion if RTM launches new tender of launching gap filler transmitters (Phase 4). Although I'm former junior broadcast engineer and left broadcast industry in May 2020, but I write this is just for hobby. However, it also depends on RTM's budget because the tender amount is very high when RTM wants to get more gap filler transmitters, also subject to MCMC decision and approval.

Astro can launch selected channels on MYTV digital terrestrial TV platform

 Astro, the Malaysia satellite TV broadcaster, also pay TV provider in the country.

Last year, Astro launched Go Shop on MYTV digital terrestrial platform.

In my opinion, Astro can make DVB-T2 UHF frequency application to MCMC as MYTV third MUX frequency in order to launch selected Astro channels on terrestrial TV platform.

My suggestion for Astro channels on MYTV platform are basic ones, not pay premium channels like Discovery, AXN, HBO, but I suggest these Astro channels should be on MYTV by following below:

1. Astro Awani

2. Astro Vaanavil

3. Astro AEC

4. Astro Prima

5. Astro Oasis

6. Astro Xiao Tai Yang

With such suggestion, there is advantages and disadvantages.

==Advantages==

1. Astro can compete with Media Prima TV channels on terrestrial platform like Astro Radio competes with Ripple (Media Prima Radio Networks) on FM band.

2. For people who does not subscribe Astro or own NJOI, they can watch selected Astro channels on MYTV platform.

3. Astro can reach more viewers by launching on terrestrial platform.

==Disadvantages==

1. Astro needs to pay more transmission fees to MYTV 

2. As Astro gains revenue by subscription fees on its channels mostly, when Astro launches certain channels (listed above) on MYTV terrestrial platform, Astro needs more advertisers to gain revenue. Hence, suggested Astro AEC, Astro Vaanavil, Astro Awani, Astro Oasis and Astro Prima will have more advertisement which can affect viewers' enjoyment of the channels.

3. As people nowadays watch via OTT/VOD platform, it may not be suitable that Astro launches selected channels on terrestrial platform which is conventional.

已經陪伴我們23年的ntv7即將全面停播. 從2021年2月17日起, ntv7正式被教育電視台DidikTV KPM取代.

 

2021年1月12日, 也是華人同胞正在慶祝農曆新年的佳節, 我也在過新年, 同時也玩臉書並跟朋友交流並看新聞和有趣的內容. 或許大家沒有特別留意這則新聞, 馬來西亞教育部在2021年2月17日推出一家獨立的教育電視台, 其實這不是甚麼新鮮的事情因為馬來西亞在1970-2000年代都有TVPendidikan.

 

這家教育電視台的名字稱為"DidikTV KPM", 播出時間是每天從早上7時至半夜12時, 廣播為17個小時, 並通過數碼地面電視myFreeview CH107, 衛星電視Astro CH147和UniFi TV廣播. 

 

DidikTV KPM主要鎖定全馬的學生. 由於因為新冠病毒(舊名為"武漢肺炎")疫情蔓延, 導致學校無法運作, 所以學生必須通過電視/網絡班在家上課, 但不是所有的學生有能力擁有互聯網和衛星電視, 所以馬來西亞教育部決定推出DidikTV KPM.

技術上, 如果大家注意教育部的馬來語文告, DidikTV KPM會在MYTV (myFreeview) 頻道107, Astro頻道147廣播, 這意味著首要媒體(Media Prima) 旗下的ntv7會停播.

 

對ntv7的忠實觀眾而言, 他們會對ntv7的停播消息感到非常不捨, 但ntv7的內容在華語新聞停播後沒有甚麼東西看. 

ntv7從2018年3月後的表現都是每況愈下. 首要媒體Media Prima從2018至2021年之間嘗試為ntv7進行三次性的內容改革, 但內容改革無法達到預期好的表現, 反而越來越惡化.

2018年3月5日就是第一次改革就是變成"現代馬來西亞電視台", 最終在2018年12月29日失敗收場.

第二次的改革就在2018年12月30日, 就因為ntv7推出中文版購物節目CJ Wow Shop, ntv7恢復中文節目, 但實際上ntv7的中文節目都是重播八度空間的內容, 和ntv7過去自製的中文電視劇. 表現平平罷了, 因為華語新聞在2020年6月停播, 所以ntv7所有的中文節目在2020年10月31日全面停播, 這也包括韓劇.

 

第三次的改革就在2020年11月1日, ntv7轉型為雜誌性和時事節目, 但這還是無法挽回ntv7收視率, 反而這家電視台繼續虧損. 至到2020年12月, 教育部和首要媒體合作推出DidikTV, 這家電視台的運作比預期稍微好一些因為學生收看DidikTV並為SPM考試準備, 但以商業角度來看, ntv7還是得不到廣告收入. 最終ntv7在2月16日停播.

 

對我而言, ntv7停播的事情是不驚訝的, 我在2019年預測ntv7和TV9會停播, 最終ntv7停播在我的預測兩年後結果發生.

 

除了DidikTV @ NTV7, 目前的ntv7大部分的時間都放在Wow Shop購物節目, 不像2019年有中文WowShop, 但如今ntv7所播放的WowShop全部都是馬來語, 而且TV9也播放WowShop. 另外ntv7的雜誌節目都是重播TV3的內容, 所以沒有新鮮感.

 

首要媒體放棄ntv7 (未來放棄TV9)在該公司的立場或許是一件好事, 因為傳統電視台並不容易做. 如果他們繼續保住ntv7, 但無法吸引觀眾收看, 他們還是繼續付ntv7的傳輸費用和工資.

 

首要媒體電視網主要旗下TV3, ntv7, 八度空間, 和TV9. 

TV3和八度空間是他們的旗艦電視台, 但ntv7和TV9如今是Media Prima的"負資產".

 

ntv7停播後, 該頻道全面被教育部旗下的DidikTV KPM取代. 

 

DidikTV KPM的所有者肯定是馬來西亞教育部, 但首要媒體是否繼續擁有DidikTV KPM的股份呢? 因為Media Prima是私營媒體, 傳統上如果馬來西亞教育部推出教育電視都是會通過國營媒體RTM. 如果DidikTV KPM的所有者沒有涉及到Media Prima, 這意味著Media Prima脫售ntv7給馬來西亞政府? 大家都不知道.

 

謝謝ntv7為大家娛樂了22年. ntv7也是我童年的回憶, 以前小時候的我看這家電視台就是因為動畫片, 過後就是汽車雜誌節目, 日本電視劇, 新加坡中文電視劇, ntv7自製中文電視劇/節目, 和ntv7的賀歲電視電影. 以前, ntv7還舉辦戶外活動"園遊會"來跟大家互動, 我曾經出席過. 除此之外, ntv7還跟one FM和八度空間推出賀歲專輯<闔家團圓一起發>, 這些都是我的回憶.

 

還有以前搞笑的ntv7 10周年短片(醫院篇 + 太極篇)~~~ 

這是我以前喜歡追看的ntv7節目:

- 馬來西亞明星偶像(2007年)

- 情牽南苑 (2008年)

- 你好, Mr蕭 (2009年)

- 媒人幫 (2011年)

- Top Gear (英國BBC製作的汽車雜誌節目)

- Vroom Vroom (汽車雜誌節目) 

- 美麗人生 Beautiful Life (日本2000年電視劇)

- 甜蜜的季節 Sweet Season (日本1998年電視劇)

- Maria Mercedes (墨西哥的西班牙語電視劇)

- Istana Takeshi (馬來西亞式的日本遊戲節目)

- Spanar Jaya (ntv7自製的馬來喜劇)

- 追蹤檔案/Edisi Siasat

- e7

- 原點 (2006年NTV7自製中文電視劇)

- 十三鞭 (新傳媒電視劇)

- 十分紅演唱會 

- American Funniest Videos

- Just For Laughs Gags

動漫則有:

- 七龍珠

- 數碼暴龍

- 神奇寶貝 Pokemon

- Mr Bean Animated Series

- 假面超人 Kamen Rider (555 & 龍騎 Ryuki)

- 街頭霸王5 (Street Fighter V)

- 小叮噹

- 蠟筆小新

My favorite Thailand radio station TP4 FM 103MHz Trang spotted in Georgetown, Penang again!

 

My friend received my favorite Thai radio station TP4 FM 103MHz from Trang, Thailand again in Georgetown, Penang, Malaysia again.

 

The footage was captured at Prangin Mall roof top, receiving signal is slightly better than previous footage.

 

No interference from Perlis FM 102.9MHz Padang Pauh transmitter was found when received TP4 FM 103MHz from Trang, Thailand in Georgetown, Penang, Malaysia because Perlis FM 102.9MHz is not receivable there.

TP4 FM 103MHz Trang is my favorite Thailand radio station. Although I'm staying in Kuala Lumpur area, but I listen to it via online streaming platform.

==TP4 FM 103MHz Trang DX report (12.02.2021)==

- Frequency: FM 103.0MHz

- Transmitter power: 5kW (ERP 7kW)

- Transmission site: Na Tham Nuea, Mueang Trang district, Trang province, Thailand

- Receiving site: Prangin Mall roof top, Georgetown, Penang, Malaysia

- Distance: 258km

What is the future of 7Edition (ntv7 English news) after ntv7 becomes DidikTV KPM?

 ntv7 will be closed down on 17.02.2021 and rebranded as DidikTV KPM, operated by Ministry of Education. Hence, certain ntv7 programs will be affected, especially latest programs such as Topik @ 7, Edisi Siasat and 7Edition.

What I concern is about the future of 7Edition because it is only English news under Media Prima TV channels.

 

It is ok if Edisi7 (ntv7 Malay news) is ceased because Bulletin Utama already exists under MPB networks. 

When ntv7 becomes DidikTV KPM, I believe 7Edition will be badly affected, but Media Prima still can remain its English news by transferring to TV9.

TV9 has Malay news, known as Berita TV9. In my opinion, because it looks duplicate to Bulletin Utama as TV9 and TV3 are under one roof, so Berita TV9 should be discontinued. If Berita TV9 is remained at 8pm slot, I suggest Media Prima rebrand 7Edition to NineEdition (TV9 English news), and put the slot at either 7pm or 9pm.

 

With such suggestion, ntv7 7Edition news anchors can continue airing on TV9 instead.

 

Not only transferring 7Edition to TV9 as "NineEdition", Media Prima should rebrand properly of TV9 because most of the content on TV9 are heavily expired as they're rerun of TV3 and old TV9 programs.

May predict that Korean game show Running Man, and Malay crime topic program Edisi Siasat will be transferred to TV9.

Pahang FM 88.0MHz Bukit Sembilan diganggu oleh One FM 88.1MHz di Muadzam Shah, Pahang. Pemancar 88.0MHz boleh dimansuhkan dan diganti oleh pemancar Gunung Ledang FM 100.9MHz!

 

 

Berdasarkan pada video di atas adalah rakaman penerimaan isyarat RTM Pahang FM di Muadzam Shah, Pahang.

 

Pahang FM mempunyai frekuensi Muadzam Shah yang dipancarkan dari Bukit Sembilan pada FM 88.0MHz, kuasa pemancar cuma 0.1kW. Dalam rakaman video atas, Pahang FM 88.0MHz tidak jelas di Muadzam Shah atas akibat gangguan oleh One FM 88.1MHz yang dipancar dari Gunung Ledang, tetapi Pahang FM masih boleh diterima di Muadzam Shah pada 107.5MHz dari Gunung Ulu Kali, cuma penerimaan kurang jelas seperti Radio Klasik FM 93.6MHz, Ai FM 100.4MHz, Traxx FM 97.4MHz, Minnal FM 103.3MHz, Melaka FM 102.3MHz, Negeri FM 107.7MHz dan Johor FM 105.3MHz.

 

Bukit Sembilan adalah tempat pemancar yang sesuai untuk meliputi Keratong, Muadzam Shah dan Pahang Selatan, cuma penerimaan Pahang FM 88.0MHz Bukit Sembilan kurang jelas ialah masalah frekuensi dan ia tidak berkaitan dengan tempat pemancaran.

 

Jika RTM memilih untuk menambah kuasa pemancar Pahang FM 88.0MHz Bukit Sembilan, gangguan oleh One FM 88.1MHz dari Gunung Ledang masih berlaku di Muadzam Shah, juga pemancaran FM 88.0MHz tidak akan memancar ke kawasan Keratong kerana One FM 88.1MHz Gunung Ledang sangat jelas di Keratong.

 

Pada pandangan saya, bagi meliputi lebih luas dengan memancar sampai Keratong, Selancar dan Bera Selatan, pemancar Gunung Ledang lebih sesuai dan strategik untuk Pahang FM di kawasan Muadzam Shah, Keratong, Selancar dan Bera Selatan. Oleh itu, sebelum ini saya pernah sebutkan, RTM perlu melancar Pahang FM di Gunung Ledang (100.9MHz) dan menggantikan pemancar Bukit Sembilan.

 

Sekiranya Pahang FM melancarkan pemancar di Gunung Ledang dan penerimaan di Muadzam Shah adalah jelas, pemancar Bukit Sembilan FM 88.0MHz boleh dimansuhkan, sepertimana Negeri FM menamatkan pemancaran Gemencheh FM 96.3MHz selepas Gunung Ledang FM 107.7MHz dilancarkan.  

China National Radio CNR-1 (The Voice of China) is available in Malaysia via shortwave frequency SW 13610kHz

 

China National Radio CNR-1 (The Voice of China) is a China flagship radio station in the country, owned by China government. It is the oldest China radio station, established in 1940.

 

CNR-1 can be received in Malaysia by tuning to shortwave frequencies. To listen to CNR-1 in Malaysia via radio, you must need a shortwave radio.

 

The clearest tuning frequency for China National Radio CNR-1 in Malaysia is SW 13610kHz, transmitted from Nanning area, China. 

 

For the broadcast hours, unlike FM broadcast, CNR-1 shortwave frequencies don't broadcast 24 hours. The clearest frequency SW 13610kHZ only broadcasts for 14 hours only from 7am to 9pm (UTC+8).

 

This radio station is not only available in Malaysia on SW 13610kHz, it is likely receivable in Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, Singapore, Brunei and part of Indonesia for ASEAN region. 

 

==Availability of CNR-1 in Malaysia==

- Frequency: SW 13610kHz

- Broadcast hours: 0700-2100 hours (UTC+8)

- Broadcast duration: 14 hours

Review of Thailand 4th Army Radio Station TP4 FM Trang 103MHz

 

Since 2014, I began to discover about Thailand FM radio stations, regardless station content or frequency transmission, I mainly researched about the Thailand radio stations from southern region such as Satun, Trang, Yala, Songkhla, and Narathiwat.

 

Radio Thailand is government radio station in Thailand, it is not really my priority favorite radio because it is mainly talk radio for government to people, as part of government service.

 

My friend did FM DX in Langkawi, and I asked him whether RTM Perlis FM 102.9MHz could be received there or not. I was told that Perlis FM 102.9MHz is not receivable in Langkawi, but interference from FM 103MHz Trang.

 

From that moment, I began to discover 4th Army Radio Station FM 103MHz Trang because it is receivable in Langkawi.

 

FM 103MHz Trang is operated by Royal Thai Army. I started to listen to this radio since 2020, but partly in 2017/18. This Trang army radio FM 103MHz plays Thai music which is relaxing enough because the playlists are mostly Thai country music, also known as Lukthung.

 

Its non-stop music programs are the key to attract me to listen to FM 103MHz Trang most of the time. 

 

TP4 FM 103MHz Trang plays music mostly daily from 6am to 7am, 9am to 11am, 12pm to 12.30pm, 1pm to 2pm, 3pm to 4pm (weekdays only), 5pm to 7.30pm (weekdays only), 3pm to 7.30pm (weekend).

 

Evening program like Lukthung Sa On from 8.30pm to 10pm is also playing music, but sometimes it airs interview or talk show.

 

I have been listening to this radio station for almost a year. The playlist is very good and variety, although it is fully Thai, unlike most of Malaysia radio stations play same songs over again.  

 

TP4 FM 103MHz Trang also certainly relay broadcast from Bangkok LIKE FM 103MHz. In 2020, it airs from 7.30am to 8am, then 7pm to 7.30pm. Since there is change of program schedule on February 2021, Bangkok Like FM 103MHz relay is moved to night slot, from 10pm to 11pm. Actually Bangkok Like FM 103MHz somehow plays same songs over again everyday in certain hours, especially evening hours from 7pm to 7.30pm.

 

Note: All indicated time is based on Thailand time zone (UTC+7). For Malaysia, the time zone is UTC+8, one hour earlier than Thailand. 

 

TP4 FM 103MHz Trang is a radio station to relax my mind and get me away from any form of stresses. Its Lukthung music is nice and relaxing.

 

For your information, TP4 FM 103MHz Trang can be listened via radio in Trang province, Southern Krabi, Thungsong area of Nakhon Si Thammarat province, and Satun. However, it can be received partly in Malaysia such as Langkawi and selected northern coast of Penang Island.

 

To listen TP4 FM 103MHz Trang via online, here are two URL streaming address.

 

- https://radio.thaiza.net:9810

- https://apps4.mcot.net/stream107.aac

(Tropo FM DX 2018) Unknown Thailand radio station FM 96.0MHz detected in Sungai Sumun, Perak, Malaysia.

 

 

Sungai Sumun is a small town, located in Bagan Datuk district, Perak. It is 30km away from Teluk Intan, 129km from Ipoh, 19km from Bagan Datuk and 160km from Kuala Lumpur.

 

About the radio coverage in this small town, Sungai Sumun is covered by Gunung Ulu Kali and Gunung Kledang FM transmission, however I received something unusual radio signal there on FM 96.0MHz.

 

FM 96.0MHz is usually Suria FM Ipoh frequency from Gunung Kledang in Teluk Intan, Bagan Datuk, Selekoh, Sungai Sumun and Hutan Melintang, but when I drove from Sabak Bernam to Bagan Datuk, I caught unknown Thailand radio station which played oldies on FM 96.0MHz in Sungai Sumun, Perak, Malaysia.

 

For the radio station, I could not fully identify what Thailand radio station on FM 96.0MHz was spotted in Sungai Sumun, Perak on the spot because I was driving. Hence, now I suspected two radio stations because they're Southern Thailand based. 

 

1. MCOT Narathiwat

2. Unity Radio Krabi

 

Now analyze MCOT Narathiwat FM 96.0MHz reception possibility in Sungai Sumun, Perak, Malaysia. 

 

MCOT Narathiwat height above sea level is 9m, meanwhile its antenna height is 120m. Transmitter power is 1kW, effective radiated power is 4kW. In terms of tropospheric transmission to Sungai Sumun, Perak, I think the possibility is low because there are many terrains between Narathiwat and Sungai Sumun. Distance is 301km.

 

Next, Unity Radio FM 96.0MHz Krabi. The reception possibility in Sungai Sumun, Perak, Malaysia was slightly higher than MCOT Narathiwat because there is no much terrain between Krabi and Sungai Sumun. Between both locations, actually it is the sea. Unity Radio TX site is located at Rodboon Road, Amphoe Mueang district, Krabi province, Thailand.

 

The distance between Unity Radio Krabi FM 96.0MHz TX site to Sungai Sumun, Perak, Malaysia is 511km.

 

Due to geographical condition, I suspected FM 96.0MHz that I received in Sungai Sumun, Perak, Malaysia was Unity Radio Krabi FM 96.0MHz. Actually this is tropospheric interference to Suria FM 96.0MHz Gunung Kledang local radio station coverage by Unity Radio Krabi FM 96.0MHz. 

 

Footage was taken on 15.06.2018 1846H (UTC+8) 

 

==DX information==

Suspected radio station 1: MCOT Narathiwat

- Power: 1kW

- Transmission site: Mueang district, Narathiwat, Thailand

- Distance: 301km

- Tropospheric reception possibility in Sungai Sumun: Low 

 

Suspected radio station 2: Unity Radio Krabi

- Power: unknown

- Transmission site: Rodboon Road, Mueang district, Krabi, Thailand

- Distance: 511km

- Tropospheric reception possibility in Sungai Sumun: Medium

(Sporadic E DX 2018) Cambodia FM radio station spotted in Malaysia?

Back to 15th June 2018 during Hari Raya Aidilfitri festival, when I drove from Sabak Bernam to Bagan Datuk in the evening, I attempted to receive Radio Thailand Yala FM 95.0MHz in Sabak Bernam.

Surprisingly, I caught an unknown language radio station on FM 95.0MHz, it is definitely not Thai language, but likely Khmer language that I don't understand totally.

Hence, FM 95.0MHz that I caught in Sabak Bernam was Radio Bayon from Phnom Penh, Cambodia. According to Asiawaves.net, FM 95.0MHz operates with 24kW power transmitter. The signal that transmit from Cambodia to Malaysia was considered as Sporadic E propagation.

==Sporadic E DX report==

* Station name: Bayon Radio

* Frequency: FM 95.0MHz

* Transmission power: 24kW

* Transmission site: Phnom Penh, Cambodia

* Receiving site: Sabak Bernam, Selangor, Malaysia

* Distance: 969km

* Receiving date/time: 15.06.2018 1816H (UTC+8)

During Sporadic E propagation, Bayon Radio FM 95.0MHz had no interference from local stations in Sabak Bernam, Malaysia.

Malaysia Media Prima one FM is available in part of Batam, Indonesia on FM 88.1MHz from Gunung Ledang

While many people complained that Media Prima One FM is not receivable in Singapore, regardless tuning on the frequency FM 88.1MHz from Gunung Ledang and low power Johor Bahru repeater FM 105.3MHz from Taman Sentosa JB, surprisingly Batam can receive Media Prima One FM (Chinese radio station from Malaysia) on 88.1MHz.

There is a Batam based YouTuber, known as Farrel Vicky, recorded few footage of receiving One FM 88.1MHz in Batam, Indonesia. 

According to the footage, One FM 88.1MHz from Gunung Ledang has no interference from Singapore 88.3 Jia FM in Batam. I believe his radio receiver has good quality filtering devices, so that's why 88.1 has no adjacent channel interference from Singapore Jia FM 88.3MHz.

 

==DX Information of receiving Media Prima One FM in Batam==

* Frequency: FM 88.1MHz

* Power: 2kW

* Transmission site: Gunung Ledang, Johor, Malaysia

* Receiving site: Batam, Indonesia

* Distance: 212km

While One FM can be tuned in certain areas of Batam, Indonesia via 88.1MHz from Gunung Ledang, but it does not mean Singapore can receive the station. In Singapore, there are more high rise buildings than Batam. In addition, Singapore already has local station Jia FM 88.3MHz, so One FM 88.1MHz Gunung Ledang is not receivable in Singapore and having interference from local radio station. Meanwhile FM 105.3MHz Johor Bahru transmitter from Taman Sentosa is not receivable too in Singapore because 105.3 is operating at super lower power transmitter and transmission antenna does not beam to Singapore direction. I believe One FM JB frequency 105.3MHz is directional panel antenna, likely transmit to northeast direction (Kota Tinggi can receive it, but not clear). 

When I was in Singapore, FM 105.3MHz is adjacent interference signal from Radio Republik Indonesia RRI Batam PRO-1 FM 105.1MHz and PRO-2 FM 105.5MHz badly, somehow FM 105.3MHz is a weak signal of Radio Canggai Putri from Karimun, Indonesia, caught in Tuas and Marina Bay, Singapore.

Thailand digital terrestrial television frequencies in Malaysia (Kedah, Perlis, Perak, Penang and Kelantan) after frequencies migrated from 700MHz

From September 2020, NBTC reallocates Thailand DVB-T2 frequencies from 700MHz to 500MHz/600MHz because UHF 700MHz will be reserved for 5G mobile network transmission in the country. Malaysia did the same thing too, but early 2020.

 

1. Satun 
==Frequencies==
* MUX1 (PRD Channel): UHF CH34 (578MHz)**
* MUX2 (Royal Thai Army): UHF CH42 (642MHz)
* MUX3 (MCOT): UHF CH46 (674MHz)**
* MUX4 (Thai PBS): UHF CH38 (610MHz)
* MUX5 (Royal Thai Army): UHF CH26 (514MHz)

- ERP: 30kW
- Transmission site: Tambon Khuan Khan, Satun, Thailand

** New frequencies since September 2020 

==Coverage==
- Langkawi
- Perlis: Sanglang, Simpang Ampat, Kuala Perlis
- Kedah coastal areas (Ayer Hitam, Kuala Kedah)
- Part of Penang Island (Georgetown, Tanjung Bungah, Batu Feringghi, Teluk Bahang)
- Part of Perak coastal area: Tanjung Piandang, Kuala Kurau (required 37e antenna and higher antenna installation)

 2. Songkhla
==Frequencies==
* MUX1 (PRD Channel): UHF CH34(578MHz)**
* MUX2 (Royal Thai Army): UHF CH42 (642MHz)
* MUX3 (MCOT): UHF CH46 (674MHz)**
* MUX4 (Thai PBS): UHF CH38 (610MHz)
* MUX5 (Royal Thai Army): UHF CH26 (514MHz)

- ERP: 30kW
- Transmission site: Khao Kho Hong, Hatyai, Songkhla province, Thailand 

** New frequencies

==Coverage==
- Kedah: Jitra, Alor Setar, Bukit Kayu Hitam, Changlun, Sintok, Kodiang, Pokok Sena, Pendang
- Perlis: Arau, Kangar, Padang Besar
- Part of Langkawi

3. Yala/Narathiwat/Sungai Padi (remain same)
==Frequencies==
* MUX1 (PRD Channel): UHF CH32 (562MHz)
* MUX2 (Royal Thai Army): UHF CH48 (690MHz)
* MUX3 (MCOT): UHF CH36 (594MHz)
* MUX4 (Thai PBS): UHF CH44 (658MHz)
* MUX5 (Royal Thai Army): UHF CH28 (530MHz)

- ERP: 30kW (Yala), 1kW (Narathiwat and Sungai Padi)
- Transmission site: Khao Pokyo, Bannang Sata district, Yala, Thailand 

==Coverage==
- Kedah: Sik, Gulau, Gurun Timur (Yala transmitted)
- Kelantan: Tumpat, Kota Bharu, Pasir Mas, Bachok, Ketereh, Kubang Kerian, Wakaf Baharu, Pengkalan Chepa, Machang, Lojing
- Terengganu: Kuala Besut, Pulau Perhentian, Pulau Redang (Yala transmitted)

4. Betong (remain same)
==Frequencies==
* MUX1 (PRD Channel): UHF CH32 (562MHz)
* MUX2 (Royal Thai Army): UHF CH48 (690MHz)
* MUX3 (MCOT): UHF CH36 (594MHz)
* MUX4 (Thai PBS): UHF CH44 (658MHz)
* MUX5 (Royal Thai Army): UHF CH28 (530MHz)

- ERP: 1kW

==Coverage==
- Kedah: Baling
- Perak: Pengkalan Hulu, Kelian Intan, Gerik

Brunei FM radio stations can be listened in part of Sarawak and Sabah. Caught in Lawas, Sarawak and Sipitang, Sabah.

It is interesting to receive neighboring radio stations in bordering region. Brunei is located between Sarawak and Sabah of East Malaysia.

As I know, Limbang and Miri of Sarawak can receive radio stations from Brunei clearly. Back to November 2019, I was used to receive Burnei radio stations in Sabah and Sarawak, the locations are:

* Sabah: Sipitang

* Sarawak: Lawas

Here is the footage of Brunei radio stations receive in Sipitang and Lawas.

 

According to the videos, Kristal FM 90.7MHz and Radio Al-Quran FM 89.1MHz signal are stronger than Radio Televisyen Brunei (RTB) radio stations in Sipitang and Lawas.

RTB radio stations signal have statics there.

==List of Brunei FM radio stations that I received in Sipitang and Lawas==

* 89.1MHz: Radio Al-Quran (very clear)

* 90.7MHz: Kristal FM (very clear)

* 91.4MHz: RTB Pelangi FM (ok)

* 92.3MHz: RTB Nasional FM (static)

* 93.3MHz: RTB Nur Islam FM (static)

* 94.1MHz: RTB Harmoni FM (static)

* 95.9MHz: RTB Pilihan FM (static)

Emergency annoucement: My YouTube channel Philip Yong DXer Malaysia is suspended, please visit my alternative channel.

On 20.11.2020 at 1824 hours in the evening, I suddenly received a notification email from YouTube that my channel Philip Yong DXer Malaysia was suspended for violating community guidelines under "spam, scam and commercially deceptive content".

I felt pissed off and unhappy of the decision, even I had filed an appeal. It is very pain to lost my YouTube channel Philip DXer Malaysia which establish more than 5 years and having 3400 videos, plus almost 4000 subscribers. Hence, I would make a decision to overcome this issue other than make appeal again.

Suspension period is subjective, it is unknown how long it will be lasted, despite it sounds safer than termination. Termination of YouTube account is to completely remove the entire channels. I don't put full expectation that my YouTube channel Philip Yong DXer Malaysia will be restored, but it is perfect if it is come back one day.

In fact, I'm a DXer from Malaysia, publish far radio propagation footage on YouTube to target DXers around the world. May be I have too much of footage to publish, the spam detectors may realize my videos. Besides that, I was used to submit twice of monentization application, but rejected for reused content. Then, I tried to readjust my brand description and little content, so I did try my final luck to reapply monentization. Less than 24 hours, I was suspended. Hmmm... I was just trying my luck to have side income via DX on YouTube.

I noticed that the monetization application has only 3 times (including two times of appeal), but it is unfair to me if my channel was suspended under this reason (including spam content). If YouTube rejects my monetization application, YouTube shall ban my monetization features, rather than suspend my whole channel.

My old channel suspension may be likely because my channel content does not meet the monetization policy.

Rest in peace, Philip Yong DXer Malaysia. I would like to thank to all subscribers and viewers for supporting my channel, but alternatively, you can visit me at alternative YouTube channel, namely Philip DXer 0110.

About Philip DXer 0110, I will republish certain best FM DX footage from 2015-2020 which I made on Philip Yong DXer Malaysia and share on my alternative channel. For the footage, I will make them in a group video, rather than individual uploads to reduce duplications which can be considered as spam. Example: radio stations DX in Penang. (rather than individual radio DX in Penang).

Unlike my previous channel which was used to become non-formatted content (means variety which consists DXing, music, entertainment and parodies), but this newly launched alternative YouTube channel Philip DXer 0110 will fully concentrate on identification of FM/MW/SW/LW/TV far distant propagation.

Please do support and don't forget to subscribe my alternative YouTube channel at Philip DXer 0110.

List of NDB (Non Directional Beacon) frequencies (on LW band) in Malaysia

Here is the frequencies list of NDB radio in Malaysia on LW band:

* 203kHz Sibu, Sarawak (NIS)

* 205kHz Kuala Lumpur (CE)

* 209kHz Miri, Sarawak (MYY)

* 240kHz Kota Bharu, Kelantan (KB)

* 255kHz Kayell (KL)

* 270kHz Parit Buntar, Perak (PR)

* 276kHz Batu Pahat, Johor (BP)

* 278kHz Tawau, Sabah (TWU)

* 282kHz Pekan, Pahang (PK)

* 286kHz Kong Kong/Senai, Johor (KK)

* 298kHz Malacca (AM)

About my LW DX experience in Malaysia, I was used to receive LW 255kHz NDB signal, transmitted from Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah International Airport (Subang Jaya, Selangor) in 2005 and 2006 on a Clarion car receiver with LW radio band.

Clarion car receiver LW band is 3kHz per channel.

Receiving location: Kuala Lumpur.

As today, I may predict NDB transmission in Malaysia is INACTIVE.