List of empty FM frequencies which new broadcasters can use in Tanjungpinang, Bintan Island, Indonesia.

 

In Tanjungpinang, there are about 15 FM radio stations such as:

 

1. Radio Mercy FM 88.0MHz

2. RRI Tanjungpinang PRO-3 FM 88.6MHz

3. RRI Tanjungpinang PRO-2 FM 92.1MHz 

4. Radio O-Nine FM 93.0MHz

5. Radio Al-Batan FM 96.0MHz

6. Radio Bintan FM 96.5MHz

7. Green Radio FM 97.8MHz

8. RRI Tanjungpinang PRO-1 FM 98.3MHz

9. RRI Tanjungpinang PRO-4 FM 101.3MHz

10. Radio Iguana FM 102.6MHz

11. Radio BISS FM 103.2MHz

12. Radio Pandawa FM 103.9MHz

13. Radio Swara Pesona Bintan FM 105.3MHz

14. Radio Rajawali FM 106.9MHz

15. Radio Skansa FM 107.7MHz

 

Most of Tanjungpinang radio stations are having 200kHz frequency separation with Singapore (except RRI PRO-2 FM 92.1MHz which has 100kHz frequency spacing with Kiss 92FM), meanwhile frequency separation of radio stations between Tanjungpinang and Gunung Pulai is 100kHz.

 

Frequency separation

1. Tanjungpinang vs. Gunung Pulai: 100kHz

2. Tanjungpinang vs. Singapore: 200kHz

3. Tanjungpinang vs. Batam: 200kHz

 

By considering Singapore, Batam and Johor Bahru existing radio stations, also complying the minimum frequency separation, I list down the available vacant frequencies for Tanjungpinang transmission.

 

List of empty FM frequencies in Tanjungpinang, Indonesia

1. FM 89.5MHz 

2. FM 90.3MHz

3. FM 91.5MHz

4. FM 92.6MHz

5. FM 93.5MHz

6. FM 94.0MHz

7. FM 94.4MHz

8. FM 94.8MHz

9. FM 95.2MHz

10. FM 95.6MHz

11. FM 97.0MHz

12. FM 97.4MHz

13. FM 98.9MHz

14. FM 99.3MHz

15. FM 99.7MHz

16. FM 100.1MHz

17. FM 102.1MHz

18. FM 107.9MHz

 

Hence, there are about 18 vacant frequencies in Tanjungpinang.

 

Next, RF analysis of 18 vacant frequencies is rolled out here.

 

1. FM 89.5MHz

89.3MHz: Money FM Singapore

89.5MHz: Tanjungpinang

<200kHz, OK>

 

89.5MHz: Tanjungpinang

89.7MHz: Ria FM Singapore

<200kHz, OK>

2. FM 90.3MHz

90.1MHz: Hot FM Gunung Pulai

90.3MHz: Tanjungpinang

<200kHz, OK>

 

90.3MHz: Tanjungpinang

90.5MHz: Gold FM Singapore

<200kHz, OK> 

 

3. FM 91.5MHz

91.3MHz: One FM Singapore

91.5MHz: Tanjungpinang

<200kHz, OK>

 

91.5MHz: Tanjungpinang

91.7MHz: Serumpun Radio Batam

<200kHz, OK>

 

4. FM 92.6MHz

92.4MHz: Symphony FM Singapore

92.6MHz: Tanjungpinang

<200kHz, OK>

 

92.6MHz: Tanjungpinang

92.8MHz: Zayan FM Gunung Pulai

<200kHz, OK> 

 

5. FM 93.5MHz

93.3MHz: Yes 933 FM Singapore

93.5MHz: Tanjungpinang

<200kHz, OK>

 

93.5MHz: Tanjungpinang

93.8MHz: CNA 938FM Singapore

<300kHz, OK>

 

6. FM 94.0MHz

93.8MHz: CNA 938 FM Singapore

94.0MHz: Tanjungpinang

<200kHz, OK>

 

94.0MHz: Tanjungpinang

94.2MHz: Warna 942 FM Singapore

<200kHz, OK> 

 

7. FM 94.4MHz

94.2MHz: Warna 942 FM Singapore

94.4MHz: Tanjungpinang

<200kHz, OK>

 

94.4MHz: Tanjungpinang

94.6MHz: Lite FM Gunung Pulai

<200kHz, OK>

 

8. FM 94.8MHz

94.6MHz: Lite FM Gunung Pulai

94.8MHz: Tanjungpinang

<200kHz, OK>

 

94.8MHz: Tanjungpinang

95.0MHz: Ria FM Singapore

<200kHz, OK> 

 

9. FM 95.2MHz

95.0MHz: Class 95FM Singapore

95.2MHz: Tanjungpinang

<200kHz, OK>

 

95.2MHz: Tanjungpinang

95.4MHz: MY FM Gunung Pulai

<200kHz, OK>

 

10. FM 95.6MHz

95.4MHz: MY FM Gunung Pulai

95.6MHz: Tanjungpinang

<200kHz, OK>

 

95.6MHz: Tanjungpinang

95.8MHz: Capital 958 FM Singapore

<200kHz, OK>

 

11. FM 97.0MHz

96.8MHz: Oli 968FM Singapore

97.0MHz: Tanjungpinang

<200kHz, OK> 

97.0MHz: Tanjungpinang

97.2MHz: Love 972FM Singapore

<200kHz, OK>

12. FM 97.4MHz

97.2MHz: Love 972 FM Singapore

97.4MHz: Tanjungpinang

<200kHz, OK>

 

97.4MHz: Tanjungpinang

97.6MHz: Hitz FM Gunung Pulai

<200kHz, OK> 

 

13. FM 98.9MHz

98.7MHz: 987FM Singapore

98.9MHz: Tanjungpinang

<200kHz, OK>

 

98.9MHz: Tanjungpinang

99.1MHz: Mix FM Gunung Pulai

<200kHz, OK> 

14. FM 99.3MHz

99.1MHz: Mix FM Gunung Pulai

99.3MHz: Tanjungpinang

<200kHz, OK>

 

99.3MHz: Tanjungpinang

99.5MHz: Singapore (frequency is reserved by IMDA)

<200kHz, OK> 

 

15. FM 99.7MHz

99.5MHz: Singapore (frequency reserved by IMDA)

99.7MHz: Tanjungpinang

<200kHz, OK>

 

99.7MHz: Tanjungpinang

99.9MHz: 988 FM Gunung Pulai

<200kHz, OK> 

 

16. FM 100.1MHz

99.9MHz: 988 FM Gunung Pulai

100.1MHz: Tanjungpinang

<200kHz, OK>

 

100.1MHz: Tanjungpinang

100.3MHz: UFM 100.3 Singapore

<200kHz, OK>

 

17. FM 100.9MHz

100.7MHz: Batam FM

100.9MHz: Tanjungpinang

<200kHz, OK>

100.9MHz: Tanjungpinang

101.1MHz: Minnal FM Gunung Pulai

<200kHz, OK>

18. FM 102.1MHz

101.9MHz: Johor FM Gunung Pulai

102.1MHz: Tanjungpinang

102.1MHz: Tanjungpinang

102.3MHz: Hijrah FM Batam

<200kHz, OK>

FM 102.1MHz in Karimun Island vs. Tanjungpinang, which is more suitable?

FM 102.1MHz is currently a vacant frequency in Riau Islands province, Indonesia. This frequency is absolutely not suitable for Batam broadcast due to interference with Hijrah Radio FM 102.3MHz. However, there are two locations where FM 102.1MHz is likely suitable, so I nominate Karimun Island and Tanjungpinang (Bintan Island). 

Case 1: FM 102.1MHz Karimun Island, Indonesia

102.1MHz: Karimun

102.3MHz: Hijrah FM Batam

<200kHz, OK>

 

101.9MHz: Johor FM Gunung Pulai

102.1MHz: Karimun

<200kHz, NOT OK> 

 

Minimum frequency separation of Karimun Island

- Gunung Pulai: 300kHz

- Singapore: 400kHz

- Batam: 200kHz

Based on RF analysis of FM 102.1MHz Karimun Island, the frequency may be less suitable to be used because it can cause interference to RTM Johor FM 101.9MHz Gunung Pulai coverage in Pontian district, Johor, Malaysia, mainly Kukup and Tanjung Piai areas. In addition, RTM Johor FM has no alternative frequency in Southwest Johor if 101.9MHz is interfered by FM 102.1MHz from Karimun Island, rest of Johor FM frequencies such as FM 105.3MHz Gunung Ledang and FM 92.1MHz Bukit Tinggi are not covering the affected areas.

Case 2: FM 102.1MHz Tanjungpinang, Indonesia

102.1MHz: Tanjungpinang

102.3MHz: Hijrah FM Batam

<200kHz, OK>

 

101.9MHz: Johor FM Gunung Pulai

102.1MHz:Tanjungpinang

<200kHz, OK> 

 

Minimum frequency separation of Tanjungpinang

- Gunung Pulai: 100kHz

- Singapore: 200kHz

- Batam: 200kHz

 

According to RF analysis of FM 102.1MHz Tanjungpinang, in terms of frequency spectrum separation condition, FM 102.1MHz is more suitable for Tanjungpinang broadcast than Karimun. The transmission of FM 102.1MHz from Tanjungpinang does not reach Singapore, Batam and South Johor, so Hijrah FM 102.3MHz Batam is not interfered.

 

In conclusion, between FM 102.1MHz Karimun Island vs. FM 102.1MHz Tanjungpinang, the frequency occupation of FM 102.1MHz in Tanjungpinang is better than Karimun.

Kiss92 from Singapore is much better than Mix FM from Malaysia? Yes, I acknowledge it.

 When you listen to most of Malaysia English radio stations (except BFM as talk radio), most of radio stations such as Hitz, Fly FM, Mix and Lite are repeating same songs over again everyday which make you tired of listening to the radio stations.

Traxx FM is the only English radio station in Malaysia playing variety music, but I may believe some of you don't like to hear the government minister announcement (sounds propaganda) on the radio. No choice because Traxx FM is RTM (Radio Televisyen Malaysia) which is a public broadcaster in Malaysia, so Traxx FM must run government service to the people as it plays important role of public radio stations. I'm very satisfied of Traxx FM music selection actually, especially the weekend shows, playing the songs from 1960's to 90s. 

 

Mix FM is English adult contemporary radio station owned by Astro Radio in Malaysia, its branding is something like Singapore Class 95FM, and Kiss 92FM. 

In Southern Johor and Singapore, there is competition between Mix FM, Kiss 92FM and Class 95FM in same radio segment. I discovered Kiss 92FM since July 2012 actually. Kiss 92FM is the most successful radio station among all within SPH Radio, its main competitor is Class 95FM.

 

In terms of playlist, Kiss 92FM plays most of pop songs from 1990s till now like Malaysia's Mix FM, but I acknowledge that Kiss 92FM is much better than Mix FM for overall playlist.

 

When I listened to Mix FM everywhere regardless radio or Astro DVR (satellite radio), Mix FM plays same songs over again everyday, its music range is absolutely not variety at all. It is a shame and I feel shit to hear such branding "More Music, More Variety", however it repeats same songs everyday, those songs that I heard on Mix FM in 2018/19 are still on radio. 

Singapore Kiss 92FM playlist is even more variety than Mix FM actually. In terms of programme content, Kiss 92FM is having less slapstick than Mix FM.

 

I'm in Kuala Lumpur area actually, it is impossible to listen on Kiss 92FM on radio by tuning frequency to FM 92.0MHz (too far from Singapore), but I listen to this radio station on tunein.com. The technology is getting advanced nowadays, I don't need to worry about inconvenience of listening to Kiss 92FM outdoor (such as in the car) when driving because I can connect my phone to car stereo via Bluetooth.

For FM radio tuning, Kiss 92FM is available in Southern Johor, and partly in Central/North Johor.

Kiss 92FM is available in 20 locations in Johor on the frequency FM 92.0MHz.

1. Johor Bahru

2. Kota Tinggi

3. Pontian

4. Kukup

5. Ayer Baloi

6. Skudai

7. Benut

8. Nusajaya

9. Kulai

10. Layang-Layang

11. Masai

12. Pengerang

13. Pasir Gudang

14. Rengit

15. Bandar Penawar

16. Ulu Tiram

17. Senai

18. Gelang Patah

19. Gugusan Taib Andak

20. Pekan Nanas

 

Note: Receiving signal in Central Johor areas Kluang, Simpang Renggam, Senggarang, Ayer Hitam, Batu Pahat, Sri Gading, Yong Peng and Parit Sulong is weak and having interference from RTM Johor FM 92.1MHz Bukit Tinggi transmitter (for Kluang district) and Lite FM 92.2MHz Gunung Ledang transmitter (for Batu Pahat district) could be happened unless using special receiving antenna and high sensitivity radio receiver to listen to Kiss 92FM.

If Mix FM is having same pattern by playing same songs over again and making listeners feel tired of listening to the station, it can loss its Johor listeners (especially the southern and partly central) potentially as they switch to Singapore English radio stations like Class 95FM and Kiss 92FM.

If you wants to hear more variety music adult contemporary English radio station, forget about Mix, go for Kiss 92FM.

(RF analysis) FM 102.1MHz Tanjungpinang, Indonesia (for future broadcast proposal use).

Here are the radio stations in Tanjungpinang, Bintan Island, Indonesia.

 

1. Radio Mercy FM 88.0MHz

2. RRI Tanjungpinang PRO-3 FM 88.6MHz

3. RRI Tanjungpinang PRO-2 FM 92.1MHz 

4. Radio O-Nine FM 93.0MHz

5. Radio Al-Batan FM 96.0MHz

6. Radio Bintan FM 96.5MHz

7. Green Radio FM 97.8MHz

8. RRI Tanjungpinang PRO-1 FM 98.3MHz

9. RRI Tanjungpinang PRO-4 FM 101.3MHz

10. Radio Iguana FM 102.6MHz

11. Radio BISS FM 103.2MHz

12. Radio Pandawa FM 103.9MHz

13. Radio Swara Pesona Bintan FM 105.3MHz

14. Radio Rajawali FM 106.9MHz

15. Radio Skansa FM 107.7MHz

 

FM 102.1MHz is the current empty frequency, it can become the future broadcast frequency proposal if Tanjungpinang radio broadcasters are interesting to run a radio station in the town. 

 

So, I start with radio paramater and then RF analysis.

 

==Proposed radio parameter (basic)==

- Frequency: FM 102.1MHz

- Power: 1kW

- Transmitter site: Tanjungpinang, Bintan Island, Indonesia

 

==RF analysis of FM 102.1MHz Tanjungpinang==

102.1MHz: Tanjungpinang, Indonesia

102.3MHz: Hijrah FM Batam

<200kHz, OK>

 

101.9MHz: Johor FM Gunung Pulai

102.1MHz: Tanjungpinang, Indonesia

<200kHz, OK> 

 

 

According to RF analysis, the frequency usage of FM 102.1MHz in Tanjungpinang, Indonesia will not affect Batam and Johor Bahru radio stations coverage as they're having 200kHz frequency separation. Therefore, FM 102.1MHz is suitable for Tanjungpinang broadcast transmission.

 

In terms of interference, FM 102.1MHz Tanjungpinang transmission is much safer than Karimun because Johor FM 101.9MHz Gunung Pulai transmission coverage is not affected by this radio station frequency. Moreover, Karimun Island radio transmission on FM 102.1MHz can interfere Johor FM 101.9MHz in Pontian area.

 

==Minimum frequency separation of Tanjungpinang FM radio transmission== 

- Batam: 200kHz

- Singapore: 200kHz

- Gunung Pulai: 100kHz

List of RTM state radio stations which operate only 1 frequency to cover the whole state.

RTM operates state radio stations nationwide, they have more frequencies in order to cover the whole states, ensure all areas within a state get coverage, but there are 3 RTM state radio stations just operate only a frequency to cover the whole state.

 

1. Perlis FM

 

Operates only FM 102.9MHz from RTM Padang Pauh transmission tower to cover Perlis only. No second transmitter is launched as alternative frequency.

2. Selangor FM

Currently Selangor FM operates on FM 100.9MHz from Gunung Ulu Kali to cover whole Selangor. Between September 2017 and May 2019, Selangor FM was used to have second frequency on FM 99.8MHz from Batu 18 Hulu Langat tower as gap filler transmission to cover blind spot areas of FM 100.9MHz in Hulu Langat, Selangor. For current status, FM 99.8MHz is now defunct.

3. Melaka FM

Only broadcast on FM 102.3MHz from Gunung Ledang to cover Melaka, no alternative frequency is established as FM 102.3MHz Gunung Ledang transmitter perfectly cover whole Melaka state.

As Selangor FM, Melaka FM and Perlis FM operate only 1 frequency to cover all areas in Selangor, Melaka and Perlis states respectively, here is the list of nearby frequencies where are prohibited from using for neighboring state transmission due to interference.

==Selangor FM 100.9MHz==

1. FM 101.1MHz Gunung Telapak Burok

- Interference in Bangi, Semenyih, Dengkil, Beranang, Balakong, and Kajang 

2. FM 100.9MHz Gunung Ledang (non-directional antenna transmission)

- Interference in Sungai Pelek and Tanjung Sepat

3. FM 100.9MHz Bukit Tampin (non-directional antenna transmission)

- Interference in Sungai Pelek and Tanjung Sepat

==Perlis FM 102.9MHz==

1. FM 103.1MHz Gunung Jerai (non-directional antenna transmission)

- Interference in Perlis

2. FM 103.0MHz Bukit Penara/Seberang Jaya/BM Hill

- Interference in South Perlis (Sanglang)

3. FM 102.9MHz Bukit Larut

- Interference in South and West Perlis

4. FM 103.1MHz Menara Alor Setar

- Interference in South Perlis

==Melaka FM 102.3MHz==

1. FM 102.1MHz Gunung Telapak Burok

- Interference in Lubuk Cina, Kuala Sungai Baru, Kuala Linggi, Masjid Tanah and Sungai Udang

2. FM 102.0MHz Bukit Tampin (except same radio station)

- Interference in Melaka

 

Inversely, here is also the list of allowed nearby frequencies which can be used.

==Selangor FM 100.9MHz==

1. FM 101.1MHz Bukit Gan (Seremban town)

2. FM 101.1MHz Bukit Tampin

3. FM 100.9MHz Gunung Ledang (directional antenna, but not to beam northwest direction)

4. FM 100.7MHz Bukit Istana (Jerantut)

==Perlis FM 102.9MHz==

1. FM 103.1MHz Gunung Jerai (directional antenna, but beam only south direction)

2. FM 103.1MHz Seberang Jaya 

==Melaka FM 102.3MHz==

1. FM 102.0MHz Gunung Telapak Burok (300kHz, OK)

2. FM 102.1MHz Bukit Tinggi (Mersing)

(Simulated RF analysis) FM 102.0MHz vs. FM 102.1MHz in Gunung Telapak Burok for Negeri Sembilan broadcast, which is more suitable?

For current situation, FM 102.0MHz and FM 102.1MHz are the vacant frequencies in Negeri Sembilan (Seremban), either one of them can be likely occupied in Gunung Telapak Burok tower, but interference to existing radio stations must be considered.

In the past, I listed FM 102.1MHz as empty frequency in Negeri Sembilan since 2009, then later FM 102.0MHz was added as new vacant frequency.

Here I will make radio frequency (RF) analysis between FM 102.0MHz and FM 102.1MHz Gunung Telapak Burok transmission. 

Start with FM 102.1MHz first as I listed this frequency many years ago.

==FM 102.1MHz Gunung Telapak Burok RF analysis==

101.8MHz: MY FM Gunung Ulu Kali

102.1MHz: Gunung Telapak Burok

<300kHz, OK> 

102.1MHz: Gunung Telapak Burok

102.3MHz: Melaka FM Gunung Ledang

<200kHz, NOT OK>

102.1MHz: Gunung Telapak Burok

102.2MHz: Pahang FM Bukit Fraser

<100kHz, NOT OK>

 

101.9MHz: Johor FM Gunung Pulai

102.1MHz: Gunung Telapak Burok

 

FM 102.1MHz is less suitable to be used in Gunung Telapak Burok because it can cause adjacent channel interference to Melaka FM 102.3MHz Gunung Ledang coverage in Northwest Melaka such as Lubuk Cina, Kuala Sungai Baru, Tanjung Bidara, Masjid Tanah and Kuala Linggi. In addition, RTM Melaka FM has only 1 frequency on FM 102.3MHz from Gunung Ledang to cover whole Malacca state, it has no alternative frequency actually. So, FM 102.1MHz is not recommended for Gunung Telapak Burok transmission, it needs to have further frequency separation from Melaka FM 102.3MHz with 300kHz.

Besides that, FM 102.1MHz Gunung Telapak Burok transmission could cause interference with RTM Pahang FM 102.1MHz Bukit Fraser coverage in Pahang where interference between both stations happen in Bera, Temerloh, Mentakab, Karak, Chenor, Teriang, and some Bentong areas. Minimum frequency separation between Gunung Telapak Burok and Bukit Fraser must be at least 200kHz.

Next, analyze FM 102.0MHz Gunung Telapak Burok.

 

==FM 102.0MHz Gunung Telapak Burok RF analysis==

101.8MHz: MY FM Gunung Ulu Kali

102.0MHz: Gunung Telapak Burok

<200kHz, OK>

102.0MHz: Gunung Telapak Burok

102.3MHz: Melaka FM Gunung Ledang

<300kHz, OK>

101.9MHz: Johor FM Gunung Pulai

102.0MHz: Gunung Telapak Burok

<100kHz, OK>

102.0MHz: Gunung Telapak Burok

102.2MHz: Pahang FM Bukit Fraser

<200kHz, OK>

For RF analysis of FM 102.0MHz Gunung Telapak Burok transmission, MY FM 101.8MHz Gunung Ulu Kali may have interference in South Selangor, but it will not affected much because MY FM's listeners tune to FM 100.6MHz from Gunung Telapak Burok in South Selangor. 

RTM Melaka FM 102.3MHz Gunung Ledang coverage in Northwest Melaka is not affected by FM 102.0MHz Gunung Telapak Burok transmission, better than FM 102.1MHz.

RTM Johor FM 101.9MHz Gunung Pulai coverage in North Johor such as Muar, Tangkak and Segamat will be interfered by FM 102.0MHz Gunung Telapak Burok, but these areas are not FM 101.9MHz broadcast coverage. Listeners already tune to Johor FM loudly and clearly on FM 105.3MHz from Gunung Ledang in North Johor. Based on the minimum frequency separation between Gunung Pulai and Gunung Telapak Burok at 100kHz, actually FM 102.0MHz Gunung Telapak Burok transmission complies with the rules because it meets 100kHz frequency separation with Johor FM 101.9MHz from Gunung Pulai.

About radio station to use FM 102.0MHz in Gunung Telapak Burok to cover Negeri Sembilan (except Tampin), I will propose this for BFM Radio actually as Negeri Sembilan is likely a potential market to BFM Radio after Penang and Johor Bahru, then BFM will be received even clearer than 89.9MHz in Negeri Sembilan. In terms of investment, the SMEs and investors will invest more in Seremban and Port Dickson districts where are classified as Vision Valley 2.0, then slowly stimulate the economy of other Negeri Sembilan districts such as Jelebu, Kuala Pilah, Rembau and Jempol in the future.

If ECRL doesn't change the proposal, but maintain Negeri Sembilan route, Jelebu economy activities will be developed as Seremban.

Traxx FM Bukit Bakar transmitter frequency is changed from 98.5MHz to 98.7MHz?

 

Few days ago, I received a message from Kelantan DXer and I was informed that Traxx FM Central Kelantan (Machang) frequency from Bukit Bakar transmitter was changed from 98.5MHz to 98.7MHz suddenly.

 

Seriously I have no idea that why did RTM change Traxx FM Bukit Bakar frequency to 98.7MHz.

 

With such frequency change, I also concern about interference to Nasional FM 98.8MHz Bukit Bintang coverage in Besut, Terengganu.

 

Few questions of Traxx FM frequency change of Bukit Bakar transmitter: 

 

1. Is it an accidentally change by Telekom guy? Despite license frequency is FM 98.5MHz.

2. Why did RTM Traxx FM change Bukit Bakar frequency to 98.7MHz suddenly?

3. Does the frequency change because of interference to Melody FM 98.5MHz Gunung Kledang coverage in Central Perak? (In fact, Bukit Bakar transmission can't reach Perak)

4.  Does the frequency change because of interference to Radio Thailand Narathiwat FM 98.25MHz?

 

FM 98.7MHz Bukit Bakar is same frequency as Gunung Jerai, so people who travel from Kedah to Kelantan don't need to change frequency like Hitz FM 92.8MHz? 

 

After I received the news, I already predict Traxx FM Bukit Bakar transmission on 98.7MHz will give the impact badly to Nasional FM 98.8MHz coverage.

 

In term of history, Traxx FM (Radio 4) FM 98.5MHz Bukit Bakar is in service since 1985, it has been 36 years in transmission actually, but I don't understand the sudden frequency change to 98.7MHz.

 

I will send the footage to RTM engineer department for further investigation.

 

Hereby I will share the videos of frequency change, and the interference impact to Nasional FM 98.8MHz in Bachok, Kelantan where I received the videos from Kelantan DXers.

After Minnal FM 101.1MHz, Mix FM 99.1MHz is second Gunung Pulai transmitted radio station spotted in Tanjung Sepat, Selangor, Malaysia

 

On March 2021, I went to Morib mainly and Tanjung Sepat was my side trip. Previously I caught Minnal FM 101.1MHz signal from Gunung Pulai there, now I receive Mix FM 99.1MHz as second Gunung Pulai transmitted radio station in Tanjung Sepat, Selangor today.

 

Received between 12pm to 1pm at newly built Lover's Bridge. Reception signal in MONO, but it has adjacent channel interference from Raaga FM 99.3MHz Gunung Ulu Kali transmitter when receive at improper direction.

==Mix FM 99.1MHz DX report==

- Power: 2kW

- Transmitter site: Gunung Pulai, Johor

- Receiver location: Lover's Bridge, Tanjung Sepat, Selangor

- Distance: 250km

988 FM 99.8MHz Gunung Kledang, Minnal FM 101.1MHz Gunung Pulai and RRI Bengkalis PRO-1 FM 90.6MHz spotted in Bagan Lalang, Selangor, Malaysia.

Today is 1st May 2021, and it is Labour's Day. Initially I plan to travel outside Selangor, but I cannot do it because of CMCO where interstate is not allowed. Hence, I decide to travel Sungai Pelek and Tanjung Sepat.

Bagan Lalang is listed.

Previously I traveled to Sungai Pelek on December 2018, and I received RTM Melaka FM 102.3MHz from Gunung Ledang clearly in Bagan Lalang where marked as my furthest FM signal monitoring there. 

Now, the record is renewed again. I receive three distant radio stations signal in Bagan Lalang today such as:

- 988 FM 99.8MHz (Gunung Kledang)

- Minnal FM 101.1MHz (Gunung Pulai)

- Radio Republik Indonesia RRI Bengkalis PRO-1 FM 90.6MHz

Minnal FM 101.1MHz Gunung Pulai is already expected because I was used to receive its signal in Tanjung Sepat on March 2021, meanwhile 988 FM 99.8MHz Gunung Kledang and RRI Bengkalis PRO-1 FM 90.6MHz are unexpectedly receivable in Bagan Lalang, Selangor today.

In Bagan Lalang, Minnal FM 101.1MHz is the only available Gunung Pulai transmitted radio station there. No signal when I try to tune IKIM FM 106.2MHz, Mix FM 99.1MHz, and 988 FM 99.9MHz.

For 988 FM 99.8MHz Gunung Kledang, I can't believe that I receive it in Bagan Lalang because the frequency is adjacently occupied by THR Raaga FM 99.7MHz from Gunung Ledang usually, but it is suddenly receivable there. 988 FM 99.8MHz from Gunung Kledang (Ipoh) reception in Bagan Lalang is classified as tropospheric propagation. Note that 988 FM 99.8MHz is adjacently interfered by THR Raaga FM 99.7MHz from Gunung Ledang, Johor.

Next, RRI Bengkalis PRO-1 FM 90.6MHz, I need to tune adjacently on my TECSUN PL-380 radio receiver by adjusting the frequency to FM 90.65MHz or FM 90.66MHz because interference by Minnal FM 90.5MHz Gunung Telapak Burok, but the signal is not consistently available.

 

Meanwhile, I attempt to receive RRI Batam PRO-1 FM 105.1MHz there, but I fail to do so because FM 105.1MHz is nothing in Bagan Lalang.

 

 ==FM DX report in Bagan Lalang, Selangor, Malaysia==

 

1. Minnal FM 101.1MHz

- Power: 5kW

- Transmitter site: Gunung Pulai, Johor

- Distance: 234km

 

2. 988 FM 99.8MHz

- Power: 2kW

- Transmitter site: Gunung Kledang, Perak

- Distance: 234km

 

3. Radio Republik Indonesia RRI Bengkalis PRO-1 FM 90.6MHz

- Power: 5kW

- Distance: 134km

(RF analysis) FM 100.9MHz Gunung Ledang can interfere Selangor FM 100.9MHz Gunung Ulu Kali coverage in Tanjung Sepat and Sungai Pelek if covers Melaka.

5 years ago, I listed FM 100.9MHz as proposed frequency for Gunung Ledang transmission for Melaka and North Johor. In 2016, I suggested this frequency for Kool FM as Melaka frequency as FM 100.9MHz was vacated in North Johor, meanwhile it was weak signal of RTM Selangor FM from Gunung Ulu Kali.

Look at the spectrum condition, FM 100.9MHz apparently can be used in Gunung Ledang for North Johor and Melaka, but technically it can cause co-channel interference with Selangor FM in critical locations.

Use my old personal proposal. Kool FM 100.9MHz Gunung Ledang for Melaka and North Johor, I know if the expansion is successful will benefit its listeners in Melaka and North Johor, even part of Negeri Sembilan and Pahang, but because Selangor FM 100.9MHz can be listened in costal areas of Northwest Melaka, Kool FM 100.9MHz Gunung Ledang could face serious co-channel interference from Selangor FM badly, mainly in Kuala Sungai Baru, Masjid Tanah, Sungai Udang, Tanjung Bidara, Lubok Cina and part of Melaka city like what happen to Minnal FM 103.3MHz Gunung Ledang which suffers interference from Era FM 103.3MHz Gunung Ulu Kali in part of Melaka.

That's not the biggest point, but the main point is Kool FM 100.9MHz Gunung Ledang can interfere Selangor FM 100.9MHz Gunung Ulu Kali coverage in Tanjung Sepat and Sungai Pelek where are towns in Selangor state. So, Selangor FM's listeners can hear co-channel interference from FM 100.9MHz Gunung Ledang (Kool FM: personal old proposal) badly in Tanjung Sepat, and Sungai Pelek. 

This is because Era FM 103.3MHz Gunung Ulu Kali suffers co-channel interference from Minnal FM 103.3MHz Gunung Ledang in Tanjung Sepat and Sungai Pelek (including Bagan Lalang) badly, but this does not affect Era FM listeners because Era can be tuned on FM 103.6MHz from Gunung Telapak Burok there. 

Era FM has alternative frequency, but Selangor FM has no alternative frequency as it covers the whole Selangor state with only a frequency FM 100.9MHz.

Unless Selangor FM launches alternative frequency to backup Tanjung Sepat and Sungai Pelek (maybe FM 92.0MHz or 102.1MHz) from Sepang, so interference from Kool FM 100.9MHz Gunung Ledang in Tanjung Sepat and Sungai Pelek is not a matter, but it is not worth to do so because RTM Selangor FM needs to pay more transmission fees because of alternative transmitter.

For everyone's information, as there is no terrains between Gunung Ledang and Southwest Selangor, so Gunung Ledang transmitted radio stations can be tuned clearly there, except those Gunung Ledang radio stations cover only North Johor and other non-Melaka region (example: Johor FM 105.3MHz and Asyik FM 95.6MHz).

Following by Era FM 103.3MHz (Gunung Ulu Kali) is having co-channel interference from Minnal FM 103.3MHz (Gunung Ledang) in Tanjung Sepat and Sungai Pelek that I detected few weeks ago, now I realize my old proposal of FM 100.9MHz Gunung Ledang transmission is not safe to be used.

It is quite dangerous if a radio station uses FM 100.9MHz in Gunung Ledang to cover Melaka and North Johor because it can interfere Selangor FM Gunung Ulu Kali coverage in Southwest Selangor (Tanjung Sepat and Sungai Pelek).

Another case, Johor FM is using 105.3MHz in Gunung Ledang which is same frequency as Suria FM from Gunung Ulu Kali, but the transmission never cause interference to Suria FM in Southwest Selangor because Johor FM beams only North Johor areas.

The frequency FM 100.9MHz Gunung Ledang is safe to be used if the radio station does not cover Melaka like Johor FM. If Pahang FM launches Gunung Ledang transmitter to cover Muadzam Shah on FM 100.9MHz by using directional antenna to cover South Pahang only, it is fine because it will not cause interference to Selangor FM coverage in Southwest Selangor.

 

Asyik FM currently broadcasts on FM 95.6MHz in Gunung Ledang for North Johor only, excluding Melaka and Negeri Sembilan, because it is interfering with RTM Negeri FM 95.7MHz Bukit Tampin, actually if RTM Asyik FM Gunung Ledang frequency changes to 100.9MHz without changing its antenna system, it will not interfere Selangor FM 100.9MHz Gunung Ulu Kali coverage.

In conclusion, FM 100.9MHz Gunung Ledang transmission depends on radio broadcaster antenna direction configuration.

==RF interference analysis if FM 100.9MHz Gunung Ledang transmission is occupied to cover Melaka and North Johor==

1. For FM 100.9MHz Gunung Ledang (example: Kool FM)

- Affected listening areas: Tanjung Bidara, Sungai Udang, Kem Terendak, Kuala Sungai Baru, Masjid Tanah, Lubuk China, Tanjung Kling and some Melaka city. (Melaka state)

2. For Selangor FM 100.9MHz Gunung Ulu Kali

- Affected listening areas: Tanjung Sepat, Bagan Lalang, and Sungai Pelek. (Selangor state)

- Alternative frequency: NO

3. Common interference areas: Port Dickson, Rembau, Rantau, Linggi, Pedas, Lukut, Pasir Panjang, Si Rusa, Kuala Klawang, Bera, Kemayan, Teriang, Manchis.

==RF interference analysis between Minnal FM 103.3MHz Gunung Ledang and Era FM 103.3MHz Gunung Ulu Kali==

1. For Minnal FM 103.3MHz Gunung Ledang

- Affected listening areas: Tanjung Bidara, Sungai Udang, Kem Terendak, Kuala Sungai Baru, Masjid Tanah, Lubuk China, Tanjung Kling and some Melaka city. (Melaka state)

- Alternative frequency: FM 90.5MHz Gunung Telapak Burok

2. For Era FM 103.3MHz Gunung Ulu Kali

- Affected listening areas: Tanjung Sepat, Bagan Lalang, and Sungai Pelek. (Selangor state)

- Alternative frequency: FM 103.6MHz Gunung Telapak Burok

3. Common interference areas: Port Dickson, Rembau, Rantau, Linggi, Pedas, Lukut, Pasir Panjang, Si Rusa, Kuala Klawang, Bera, Kemayan, Teriang, Manchis.

Langkawi FM 104.8MHz begins to relay Nasional FM during non-broadcast hours from 7pm to 7am.

 

According to Langkawi DXer, the RTM local radio station Langkawi FM 104.8MHz (87.5MHz in Kuah) begins to relay Nasional FM during non-broadcast hours from 7pm to 7am.

From 29.04.2021, Langkawi FM stopped relaying Kedah FM from 7pm to 7am.

In my opinion, this can reduce duplication of Kedah FM broadcast on Langkawi FM because Kedah FM already has Langkawi frequency on 105.7MHz.

In fact, I sent suggestion to RTM Langkawi by proposing Langkawi FM to relay either Nasional FM or Radio Klasik in 2018 and 2019 after I came back from Langkawi in July 2018, but I put Radio Klasik on first priority because Langkawi is tourism destination, so people need something music and entertainment based RTM radio station.

What I proposed to RTM in 2018 and 2019 regarding this matter, it really happens, but now RTM put Nasional FM simulcast relay programme on Langkawi FM 104.8MHz from 7pm to 7am.   

This indicates that Nasional FM is available in Langkawi on the frequency 104.8MHz and Langkawi can receive this radio station clearer than distant transmitters from Gunung Jerai 100.5MHz and Bukit Palong 89.7MHz, however this is only available for 12 hours.

Before I issued the proposal, Langkawi FM relayed Kedah FM during non-broadcasting hours. To me, it is quite boring because RTM radio stations in Langkawi broadcasted double content on 104.8 and 105.7 from 7pm to 7am, so listeners have less choice of tuning radio stations.

Here is the broadcasting hours of FM 104.8MHz in Langkawi Island.

* 0700-1900 hours: Langkawi FM

* 1900-0700 hours: Nasional FM

Aside FM 104.8MHz is main transmitter for Langkawi Island from Gunung Raya, its low power transmitter FM 87.5MHz from RTM Kuah (Langkawi FM studio) can be shutdown and transferred its antenna and transmitter system to Gunung Raya as Traxx FM to cater international tourist.