Why does Kelantan FM has Besut frequency FM 107.1MHz from Bukit Bintang transmitter, despite Besut is not located in Kelantan?

 

Kelantan FM is RTM's state radio station for Kelantan state, but this radio station has a transmitter in Bukit Bintang, Terengganu on FM 107.1MHz.

 

Bukit Bintang transmitter is actually targeting Besut, Terengganu, it is also covers Setiu.

 

I was curious why does Kelantan FM have FM 107.1MHz in Bukit Bintang, despite Besut is located in Terengganu, not Kelantan.

 

While Terengganu FM has Bukit Bintang transmitter on FM 96.2MHz to cover Setiu and Besut, but Kelantan FM 107.1MHz can't be received in Setiu, Terengganu because Kelantan FM transmission in Bukit Bintang doesn't beam to Setiu as its directional antenna beams to north towards East Kelantan.

 

Kelantan FM has a transmitter in Bukit Bintang, Terengganu on 107.1MHz is actually to back up FM 97.3MHz Bukit Bakar coverage in Pasir Puteh district, Kelantan where it located nearby Terengganu border.

 

Although Pasir Puteh district can receive Kelantan FM 97.3MHz from Bukit Bakar, but 97.3MHz has adjacent channel interference from Traxx FM 97.0MHz from Bukit Bintang in certain areas such as Semerak, Cherang Ruku, Gong Kedak and Bukit Awang where located next to Terengganu border.

 

Although it is sufficient to have 300kHz frequency separation between Bukit Bakar and Bukit Bintang transmitters, but the problem is on the listeners' radio receivers due to quality condition. Some of radio receivers may have interference when receive radio stations which is 300kHz frequency separation away from local transmitter. My Panasonic RX-D48 is an example, I tuned to Melody FM 103.0MHz from Gunung Ulu Kali in Balakong, Selangor, but I could hear the interference of IKIM FM 102.7MHz from Gunung Telapak Burok.

 

Listeners in affected areas (Semerak, Cherang Ruku, Gong Kedak dan Bukit Awang) who tune to Kelantan FM on 97.3MHz from Bukit Bakar by using cheaper radio receivers which have poor filtering technology (non-DSP function) would hear the interference from Traxx FM 97.0MHz Bukit Bintang. As Kelantan FM has no alternative frequency in the affected locations, meanwhile 102.9MHz Wakaf Che Yeh signal is weak there, so RTM Kelantan FM launches Bukit Bintang on FM 107.1MHz to solve the interference between Kelantan FM 97.3MHz and Traxx FM 97.0MHz in Pasir Puteh district.

 

DSP = Digital Signal Processor

 

In conclusion, Kelantan FM 107.1MHz is for East Kelantan area (Pasir Puteh district).

List of Thailand FM radio stations available in Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia.

 

Kota Bharu, the state capital of Kelantan in Malaysia, it is located not far from Thailand border. Due to its strategic location, Kota Bharu can receive more Thailand radio stations than Malaysia's Chinese, English and Tamil radio stations. In addition, the numbers of Thailand radio stations in Kota Bharu are more than Alor Setar and Kangar.

 

Thailand radio stations in Kota Bharu are transmitted from Sungai Golok, Narathiwat, Tak Bai, Yala and Pattani. 

 

Here is the completed list of Thailand FM radio stations in Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia.

 

* 88.25MHz: Police Provincial 9 Radio Narathiwat (interference with Gegar FM 88.1MHz from Bukit Panau)

* 88.75MHz: KTB (Kon Tak Bai) Radio from Tak Bai

* 89.0MHz: Thailand Parliament Radio (Khao Pok Yo, Yala)

* 92.0MHz: Radio Thailand Yala (main Thai channel)

* 92.25MHz: PNU Radio Narathiwat

* 92.5MHz: Kor Wor Sor 6 Sungai Padi

* 94.25MHz: Radio Thailand Yala (2nd Thai channel)

* 94.75MHz: Voice of Navy Radio Narathiwat

* 95.0MHz: Radio Thailand Yala (Pattani Malay channel)

* 96.0MHz: MCOT Narathiwat

* 96.75MHz: Siang Phan Fa Radio Narathiwat (weak)

* 98.25MHz: Radio Thailand Narathiwat

* 99.1MHz: Amazing Radio Narathiwat

* 101.5MHz: Golok FM Sungai Golok

* 102.5MHz: MCOT Yala

* 104.0MHz: Aftar Radio Narathiwat (weak)

* 106.5MHz: Radio Thailand Sungai Golok

* 107.0MHz: SV Sound Radio Sungai Golok (relays KTB FM 88.75MHz Tak Bai)

* 107.25MHz: PSU Radio Pattani

* 107.5MHz: Army Radio Lochut (interference with Fly FM 107.4MHz)

* 107.75MHz: R-Radio Network Narathiwat (weak)

 

List of Thailand radio stations in Alor Setar, Kedah, Malaysia on FM frequencies (as 1st April 2022).

 

Alor Setar is the capital city of Kedah state in Malaysia, it is located 50km from Thailand border. So, Alor Setar can receive more Thailand radio stations on FM radio.

 

Here are the list of Thailand radio stations which are available in Alor Setar, Kedah, Malaysia.

 

* Radio Thailand Songkhla FM 89.5MHz

* Radio Thailand Songkhla FM 90.5MHz (co-channel interference with Kedah FM 90.5MHz from Bukit Palong)

* Radio Thailand Yala FM 92.0MHz (clearest frequency)

* MCOT Satun FM 93.25MHz (interference with Minnal FM 93.3MHz from Bukit Palong)

* Ban Mai Radio FM 93.5MHz Hat Yai

* Radio Thailand Yala FM 94.25MHz

* Radio Thailand Yala FM 95.0MHz (interference with Radio Klasik FM 94.9MHz from Gunung Jerai)

* Radio Thailand Satun FM 95.5MHz (weak)

* MCOT Songkhla FM 96.5MHz (weak)

* MCOT Yala FM 102.5MHz (interference with Raaga FM 102.4MHz from Gunung Jerai)

* Thailand Parliament Radio FM 103.25MHz Songkhla

* VR Radio Danok FM 106.0MHz

* Thailand Air Force Radio FM 107.0MHz Songkhla (interference with Suria FM 106.9MHz Gunung Jerai)

* TP4 FM 107.75MHz Songkhla

 

94PFM We Love Satun, Radio Thailand Satun FM 99.5MHz & Radio Thailand Songkhla FM 102.25MHz were ceased transmission.

Radio Republik Indonesia RRI Batam PRO-1 FM 105.1MHz received in Bandar Seri Jempol, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia. Most difficult FM DX signal monitoring ever due to interference noise from Johor FM 105.3MHz Gunung Ledang transmitter.

 

The Indonesia public radio station based in Batam, known as Radio Republik Indonesia RRI Batam PRO-1 FM 105.1MHz, can be received in Batam, Singapore and Malaysia's Southern Johor.

 

My friend was used to receive RRI Batam PRO-1 FM 105.1MHz in Segamat where located in Northeast Johor, however I break the DX record of receiving RRI Batam PRO-1 FM 105.1MHz in Malaysia in terms of distance.

 

On 13th March 2022, alongside Jelebu, I also dropped by Bandar Seri Jempol before visiting Batu Kikir and Kuala Pilah. From Simpang Durian to Batu Kikir, I was monitoring Pahang FM 102.2MHz (Bukit Fraser), Melaka FM 102.3MHz (Gunung Ledang) and Johor FM 105.3MHz (Gunung Ledang) signal, then I randomly tuned my radio frequency dial to FM 105.1MHz in Serting Tengah, I heard very weak signal of RRI Batam PRO-1.

 

Initially I would like to stop at the road side in Serting Tengah to record the signal, but due to road safety, I didn't make it in order to take care of myself and other road users. In addition, RRI Batam PRO-1 FM 105.1MHz signal was extremely bad and quickly disappeared in Serting Tengah, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia.

 

Interference signal along the road between Serting Tengah and Air Hitam is heard on FM 105.1MHz. I couldn't record the video because RRI Batam PRO-1 propagation was very short.

Then, I drove to Bandar Seri Jempol, some signal was heard on FM 105.1MHz nearby the public park.

Hence, I received the signal of RRI Batam PRO-1 FM 105.1MHz at Taman Awam Bandar Seri Jempol (the public park) to substitute Serting Tengah.

Signal propagation didn't hold long when I tuned to RRI Batam PRO-1 FM 105.1MHz in Bandar Seri Jempol, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia.

Fortunately, I recorded RRI Batam PRO-1 FM 105.1MHz signal at the public park, but the radio station was airing Muslim's afternoon prayer (Azan Zuhur). 

 

Better than nothing!

Signal was very weak and difficult to be heard in Bandar Seri Jempol, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia because it was rapidly disappeared, caused I needed more time to hear the propagation like fishing. Besides that, adjacent channel interference from RTM Johor FM 105.3MHz Gunung Ledang transmitter was detected.

 

Bandar Seri Jempol is my very first Negeri Sembilan location to receive Radio Republik Indonesia RRI Batam PRO-1 FM 105.1MHz.

 

Compare to the receiving Indonesia radio stations in Teluk Intan, Sitiawan and Bagan Datuk which I did during Chinese New Year holidays in 2022, RRI Batam PRO-1 FM 105.1MHz reception in Bandar Seri Jempol is the most difficult FM DX ever in the history.

 

- Frequency: FM 105.1MHz

- Power: 5kW

- Transmission site: Sekupang, Batam City, Riau Islands, Indonesia

- Receiving site: Bandar Seri Jempol, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia

- Distance: 261km

- Receiving date/time: 13.03.2022 1314H (UTC+8)

Indonesia FM radio stations from Pekanbaru City received in Pantai, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia

On 13th March 2022, I rolled out FM DXing activities again by revisiting several locations in Negeri Sembilan state, Malaysia.

Jelebu is my core location of FM DXing for March 2022, meanwhile Jempol and Kuala Pilah are my side trip.

From Balakong to Jelebu, I will usually pass through Mantin because I go through Lenggeng when driving to Kuala Klawang which is nearer than going via Seremban. After Lenggeng, I pass by Pantai.

 

Before Jeram Toi, when I drove uphill from Pantai to Kuala Klawang, I randomly tuned to any radio stations by pressing the dial to MY FM 101.8MHz from Gunung Ulu Kali. In between Pantai and Jeram Toi, I heard the co-channel interference on FM 101.8MHz suddenly.

 

MY FM and an unknown radio station which broadcast in either Malay or Indonesian, are clashing each other on the frequency FM 101.8MHz.

To identify the radio station, I decided to stop my car at a side and recorded the videos.

FM 101.8MHz was Smart FM from Pekanbaru, Indonesia. Alongside Smart FM Pekanbaru, I also caught Radio Republik Indonesia RRI PRO-1 on FM 99.1MHz too.

Transmission distance from Pekanbaru, Riau Province, Indonesia to Pantai, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia is about 265km.

RRI Pekanbaru PRO-1 FM 99.1MHz signal was quite clear at the uphill road in Pantai, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia, meanwhile Smart FM 101.8MHz signal was bad due to interference with MY FM 101.8MHz from Gunung Ulu Kali.

Apart of Smart FM 101.8MHz and RRI Pekanbaru PRO-1 FM 99.1MHz, I also caught FM 100.5MHz from Pekanbaru when MY FM 100.6MHz Gunung Telapak Burok signal was weak, but I couldn't record it under consideration of traffic safety, and the signal was quickly disappeared.

The signal of FM 99.1MHz and FM 101.8MHz from Pekanbaru, Indonesia were quickly faded and disappeared once entering Jeram Toi and Jelebu district.

Why doesn't Rakita FM 107.9MHz (formerly known as iM4U FM) locate its transmitter site in Gunung Ulu Kali to reach greater Klang Valley, instead of Bukit Sungai Besi?

 

The Kuala Lumpur based young oriented Malay language radio station Rakita broadcasts on FM 107.9MHz, transmitted from Bukit Sungai Besi.

 

Launched in January 2019, previously it was known as iM4U FM from March 2013 to June 2018.  

 

Rakita FM 107.9MHz transmitter location is in Bukit Sungai Besi, it covers Klang Valley and small part of Negeri Sembilan (Nilai and Mantin), but it can't reach its coverage to Rawang, Hulu Selangor, and Sabak Bernam in Selangor like other radio stations such as BFM 89.9, GoXUAN 88.9 and others.

 

Back to 2015, during iM4U FM era, I was used to suggest to shift its transmission site to Gunung Ulu Kali in order to reach more areas than existing Bukit Sungai Besi. Until today, Rakita FM 107.9MHz is still transmitted from Bukit Sungai Besi, instead of Gunung Ulu Kali.

 

To transfer transmitter site, it is also costly and more difficult to do so. Transferring existing transmitter system and antenna system from Bukit Sungai Besi to Gunung Ulu Kali can't guarantee the entire system can be used in new site (Gunung Ulu Kali) because the parameter and signal propagation would be much different. Besides that, radio broadcaster may have to spend more money to replace the equipment of the system when it shifts to new site.

 

Unavailable space in Gunung Ulu Kali tower to fit Rakita FM 107.9MHz transmitter system and cost factors maybe the part of reason, but I realize there are other technical reasons too.

 

==Reason 1==

* Minnal FM broadcasts on FM 107.9MHz from Bukit Larut to cover Taiping, Kuala Kangsar and Northwest Perak, it also backs up areas in Manjung district such as Sitiawan, Ayer Tawar, Pantai Remis, Sri Manjung, Pangkor and Lumut where Minnal FM's Ipoh frequency FM 98.9MHz from Gunung Kledang suffers adjacent channel interference (ACI) with 988 FM 98.8MHz from Gunung Ulu Kali. 

 

If Rakita FM 107.9MHz transmits from Gunung Ulu Kali, it can cause interference to Minnal FM 107.9MHz Bukit Larut coverage in backup areas of 98.9MHz Gunung Kledang as I mentioned above.

 

==Reason 2==

* The frequency FM 107.9MHz is located at the bordering band next to airband (VHF 108-137MHz). In certain countries, usage of this frequency could cause interference to the airband frequeny if there is no regulation.

* Gunung Ulu Kali transmission actually can overspill to Indonesia territory, mainly east coast of Riau province such as Kota Dumai, Pulau Rupat and the regency of Rokan Hilir, the signal reception of Gunung Ulu Kali radio stations are very clear there (except Pahang FM 107.5MHz, Asyik FM 102.5MHz).

 

In Riau province, there are two airports in Dumai and Pekanbaru. By going through the research, Rakita FM 107.9MHz from Gunung Ulu Kali can cause interference to Dumai Airport airband operation. 

Indonesia broadcast regulator KOMINFO doesn't allow radio broadcasters to transmit higher power more than 100W, even higher antenna height from FM 107.6MHz to FM 108.0MHz because the transmission on these frequencies can cause interference to airband operation. 

 

Usage of FM 107.9MHz by Rakita in Gunung Ulu Kali can cause interference to Indonesia airband frequency (especially Dumai Airport air traffic control). Interference between FM broadcast and airband can led flight incidents (the passengers', pilots and cabin crews may be injured or death) due to aircraft navigation is interrupted badly. 

 

In conclusion, it is safer to use 107.9MHz in Bukit Sungai Besi than Gunung Ulu Kali because Bukit Sungai Besi radio transmission doesn't overspill to Indonesia territory like Gunung Ulu Kali, Gunung Telapak Burok, Gunung Ledang and Gunung Pulai.

List of Indonesia DVB-T2 digital terrestrial teleivision channels in Tawau, Sabah, Malaysia

CH28 (UHF 530MHz)

* Trans7 Nunukan

* Trans TV Nunukan

* CNBC Indonesia Kalimantan Utara

* CNN Indonesia Kalimantan Utara

* Kompas TV

 

CH34 (UHF 578MHz)

* TVRI Nasional

* TVRI Kalimantan Utara

* TVRI World

* TVRI Sport

 

CH38 (UHF 610MHz)

* tvOne Nunukan

* antv Nunukan

 

CH42 (UHF 642MHz)

* Metro TV Kalimantan Utara

* Magna Channel Kalimantan Utara

* BNTV Kalimantan Utara (Business News TV)

 

Transmission site: Nunukan, North Kalimantan province, Indonesia

TVRI (Televisi Republik Indonesia) akan membangunkan stasiun pemancar di Rokan Hilir. Akankah RRI (Radio Republik Indonesia) Pekanbaru PRO-1 meluncurkan repeater di stasiun pemancar TVRI Rokan Hilir setelah menara dibangunkan?

Pada Oktober 2021, Kominfo akan membangun tower transmisi TVRI di Rokan Hilir (Rohil) untuk siaran digital televisi DVB-T2.

Pembangunan tower transmisi TVRI di Rokan Hilir ditargetkan selesai pada November 2022, saya berpikir bahwa TVRI akan memulai operasi pemancar di Rokan Hilir pada Desember 2022 atau awal tahun 2023.

Di Rokan Hilir, ada saja satu stasiun radio tempatan, iaitu Radio Diva Nusantara FM 100.3MHz, sementara itu frekuensi radio di Rohil adalah dari negara Malaysia (pemancar Gunung Ulu Kali & Gunung Telapak Burok).

Sedangkan Radio Republik Indonesia (RRI) Pekanbaru PRO-1 mempunyai repeater di Rokan Hulu (Rohul) pada frekuensi FM 92.6MHz, tetapi RRI Pekanbaru PRO-1 tidak ada cakupan siaran di Rokan Hilir (Rohil).

Setelah Kominfo sudah membangunkan stasiun pemancar TVRI di Rokan Hilir, RRI Pekanbaru PRO-1 bisa menjangkau cakupan siarannya ke Rokan Hilir dengan meluncurkan repeater di tower TVRI Rokan Hilir.

Di provinsi Riau, Radio Republik Indonesia ada dua cabang stasiun radio, yaitu RRI Pekanbaru (radio ibukota kepada provinsi Riau), dan RRI Bengkalis (radio untuk Kabupaten Bengkalis). 

RRI Pekanbaru PRO-1 & RRI Bengkalis PRO-1 memiliki konten yang berbeda.

RRI Pekanbaru PRO-1 lebih kepada daratan, sementara itu RRI Bengkalis PRO-1 lebih kepada kepulauan. Menurut pendapat saya, RRI Pekanbaru PRO-1 lebih cocok daripada RRI Bengkalis PRO-1 untuk menjangkau cakupan di Kabupaten Rokan Hilir.

 

Setidaknya penduduk di Kabupaten Rokan Hilir boleh menerima informasi dari pemerintah dengan mendengar siaran RRI Pekanbaru PRO-1 melalui radio FM.

==Proposal saya tentang parameter frekuensi radio untuk RRI Pekanbaru PRO-1 di Rokan Hilir==

* Frekuensi: FM 107.5MHz

* Daya pemancar: 1kW

* Lokasi transmisi: TVRI Rokan Hilir (target tanggal penyelesaian: November 2022) 

* Antenna: 4 bay array dipole (8 dBd antenna gain)

* Tinggi antenna: 85m (rekomendasi)

==Analisis interferensi frekuensi RRI Pekanbaru PRO-1 repeater Rokan Hilir==

107.2MHz: Radio Star FM Kota Dumai

107.5MHz: RRI Pekanbaru PRO-1 Rokan Hilir

<300kHz, OK>

107.3MHz: Melody FM Gunung Ledang (Malaysia)

107.5MHz: RRI Pekanbaru PRO-1 Rokan Hilir

<200kHz, OK>

107.5MHz: RRI Pekanbaru PRO-1 Rokan Hilir

107.5MHz: Pahang FM Gunung Ulu Kali (Malaysia; Pahang Barat sahaja)

<0kHz, OK>

107.5MHz: RRI Pekanbaru PRO-1 Rokan Hilir

107.7MHz: Negeri FM Gunung Ledang (Malaysia)

<200kHz, OK>

Peta jangkauan siaran RRI Pekanbaru PRO-1 FM 107.5MHz repeater Rokan Hilir

 

Pemancar RRI Pekanbaru PRO-1 FM 107.5MHz dari tower TVRI Rokan Hilir cukup meliputi seluruh Kabupaten Rokan Hilir dengan daya pemancar 1kW. 

 

Dari Bagansiapiapi ke sebahagian Kota Dumai. 

 

Penggunaan frekuensi FM 107.5MHz oleh RRI Pekanbaru PRO-1 di Kabupaten Rokan Hilir yang saya rekomendasikan tidak akan membawa interferensi kepada siaran Pahang FM 107.5MHz di kawasan sekitar Selangor, Malaysia karena Pahang FM 107.5MHz hanya untuk Pahang Barat. Selain itu, sinyal Pahang FM 107.5MHz tidak menjangkau ke Rokan Hilir dan Kota Dumai seperti Selangor FM 100.9MHz yang mana YouTuber Noprio Sandi menerima Selangor FM di Rokan Hilir pada tahun 2020. Karenanya, Pahang FM 107.5MHz mungkin tidak ada sinyal di Rokan Hilir, atau sinyal yang lemah.

Saya akan menyusulkan pemancar repeater RRI Pekanbaru PRO-1 Rokan Hilir kepada Komisi Penyiaran Indonesia Daerah Riau (KPID Riau) dengan rekomendasi parameter frekuensi dan peta jangkauan pemancar.

(IBM: Indonesia Broadcast Matters) Radio Republik Indonesia could launch RRI Pekanbaru PRO-1 repeater in Rokan Hilir regency once TVRI operates DVB-T2 transmission there in 2023. (Some proposal inside)

On previous post, I have talked about TVRI (Televisi Republik Indonesia) will reach coverage in Rokan Hilir regency, Riau Province by building repeater tower this year.

Back to 2021, I had reported about the availability Malaysia radio stations in Rokan Hilir, Riau Province, Indonesia. From 87.5MHz to 108MHz, the frequency band is covered by Malaysia radio stations majority, meanwhile only 1 Indonesia radio station is available there.

Radio Diva Nusantara FM 100.3MHz is the only local radio station in Rokan Hilir regency, transmitted from Bagansiapiapi.

TVRI will launch a DVB-T2 repeater in Rokan Hilir by Q4 2022 or early 2023. Hence, Radio Republik Indonesia can also launch RRI Pekanbaru PRO-1 repeater there after TVRI.

Rokan Hulu and Dumai get covered by RRI Pekanbaru PRO-1 with local repeaters, meanwhile Rokan Hilir (including Bagansiapiapi) has no coverage from RRI stations.

Here is my suggestion of RRI Pekanbaru PRO-1 repeater for Rokan Hilir (ROHIL) in terms of parameter:

- Frequency: FM 107.5MHz

- Transmitter power: 1kW

- Transmitter site: TVRI Rokan Hilir

- Coordinates: 1°52'27.0"N 100°57'31.0"E

By watching Noprio Sandi's video of receiving Malaysia radio station in Rokan Hilir, while Selangor FM 100.9MHz from Gunung Ulu Kali is very clear there, but Pahang FM 107.5MHz from Gunung Ulu Kali is likely not receivable there due to antenna beaming is only for Pahang, Malaysia. So, I suggest FM 107.5MHz for Rokan Hilir transmission.

107.2MHz: Radio Star FM Kota Dumai

107.5MHz: RRI Pekanbaru PRO-1 Rokan Hilir

<300kHz, OK>

107.3MHz: Melody FM Gunung Ledang

107.5MHz: RRI Pekanbaru PRO-1 Rokan Hilir

<200kHz, OK>

107.5MHz: Pahang FM Gunung Ulu Kali

107.5MHz: RRI Pekanbaru PRO-1 Rokan Hilir

<0kHz, OK>

107.5MHz: RRI Pekanbaru PRO-1 Rokan Hilir

107.7MHz: Negeri FM Gunung Ledang

<200kHz, OK>

Here is the expected coverage of RRI Pekanbaru PRO-1 FM 107.5MHz Rokan Hilir repeater (antenna height: 85m).

RRI Pekanbaru PRO-1 FM 107.5MHz from TVRI Rokan Hilir with 1kW power is expected to cover the whole Rokan Hilir regency, from Bagansiapiapi to part of Dumai City.

 

The usage of frequency FM 107.5MHz by RRI Pekanbaru PRO-1 in Rokan Hilir which I recommend will not cause co-channel interference to RTM Pahang FM 107.5MHz Gunung Ulu Kali coverage in Malaysia (especially Selangor coastal areas) because Pahang FM 107.5MHz covers only West Pahang by beaming to east direction only.

(Indonesia Broadcast Matters- IBM) KOMINFO is going to launch TVRI repeater in Bagansiapiapi, Rokan Hilir regency, Riau province for DVB-T2 transmission in Q4 2022, will RRI Pekanbaru PRO-1 launch its repeater there too?

Last year, I had watched an Indonesian receiving Malaysia FM radio stations in Rokan Hilir, Riau Province, Indonesia. In the regency, there has more Malaysia FM/TV stations, transmitted from Gunung Ulu Kali, meanwhile Indonesia local stations are very less.

For FM radio, there is only 1 local radio station broadcasting in Rokan Hilir, namely Radio Diva Nusantara on FM 100.3MHz, but the Indonesia public broadcaster Radio Republik Indonesia (RRI) and Televisi Republik Indonesia (TVRI) have no terrestrial coverage in Rokan Hilir. 

This cause Rokan Hilir people accessing Malaysia TV/radio channels than Indonesia local ones. Hence, the Indonesia government is worrying the people nearby bordering region will lose the nationalism identity by accessing neighboring countries TV and radio stations.

 

I read one news article about television in Rokan Hilir. In October 2021, the information ministry of Indonesia, KOMINFO is going to build TVRI repeater in Rokan Hilir for DVB-T2 transmission. The construction of TVRI repeater tower is going to be started in early 2022, and expected to be completed before November 2022. (Source: Riau Potenza)

 

 

When TVRI repeater tower in Rokan Hilir is completed, people in this regency can watch TVRI channels via DVB-T2 transmission by using UHF antenna, instead of purchasing expensive satellite parabola dish. About TVRI Rokan Hilir tower, I don't think other Indonesia television broadcasters like Indosiar, RCTI, anTV, MNC TV, Trans TV etc have the interest to expand their coverage to Rokan Hilir due to commerical reasons, even they are not available in Bengkalis, Dumai, Kepulauan Meranti and Rokan Hulu within Riau Province. These private broadcasters are mainly focusing in the cities and urban towns where generate more commercial revenue than rural and remote areas.

After TVRI launches DVB-T2 repeater in Rokan Hilir, I believe Radio Republik Indonesia (RRI) will also launch its radio station in Rokan Hilir, mostly PRO-1 channel, either relay from RRI Bengkalis or RRI Pekanbaru.

In my opinion, RRI Pekanbaru PRO-1 is more to mainland, meanwhile RRI Bengkalis PRO-1 is more to island, then Rokan Hilir is located in mainland of Riau province, hence I believe Radio Republik Indonesia will launch RRI Pekanbaru PRO-1 repeater in Rokan Hilir as RRI Pekanbaru PRO-1 also has a repeater for Rokan Hulu by locating transmitter tower in Pasir Pengaraian.

I'm not sure what will be output power of TVRI DVB-T2 broadcast in Rokan Hilir. If it operates at medium or high power, it may be possible for Malaysia people who are staying in coastal areas of Klang (eg: Pulau Indah, Pulau Carey & Pulau Ketam) and Kuala Langat (eg: Morib, Banting) to access TVRI channels by using UHF antenna.

I will update any information of TVRI Rokan Hilir DVB-T2 repeater frequency by end of 2022 or next year once the tower is operated officially.

Kelantan FM 97.3MHz dari Bukit Bakar diterima di Pulau Langkawi, Kedah?

 

Pada bulan November 2021, saya menerima siaran Kelantan FM 97.3MHz dari Bukit Bakar di beberapa kawasan negeri Pahang seperti Benta, Tanah Tinggi Cameron dan Merapoh.

 

Lokasi yang paling jauh saya terima Kelantan FM 97.3MHz ialah Benta dengan jarak 190 kilometer.

 

Dua minggu lepas, seorang peminat radio Sarawut DXers menerima isyarat stesen radio ini di Pulau Langkawi, Kedah yang lebih jauh daripada lokasi saya yang menerima Kelantan FM 97.3MHz.

 

Kelantan FM 97.3MHz diterima di atas puncak Gunung Raya, tetapi isyarat ialah pemancaran troposfera.

 

Tiada gangguan isyarat dari Sinar FM 97.1MHz dan Kedah FM 97.5MHz yang dipancar dari Gunung Jerai yang meliputi Kedah dan Pulau Pinang dikesan.

 

- Frekuensi: FM 97.3MHz

- Kuasa pemancar: 2kW

- Tempat pemancar: Bukit Bakar, Machang, Kelantan

- Tempat penerima: Puncak Gunung Raya, Pulau Langkawi, Kedah

- Jarak: 282km

RTM Perak FM 95.6MHz (Gunung Kledang) & Kedah FM 90.5MHz (Bukit Palong) diterima di Bintulu, Sarawak melalui pemancaran Sporadik-E

Pada 2hb Februari 2022, Perak FM 95.6MHz dari Gunung Kledang dan Kedah FM 90.5MHz dari Bukit Palong diterima di Bintulu, Sarawak.

 

Rakaman video dibuat olek Shafik 1995 DXers.

Distance: 1343km

 

 

Penerimaan siaran Perak FM 95.6MHz dari Gunung Kledang lebih jelas daripada Kedah FM 90.5MHz dari Bukit Palong di Bintulu, Sarawak. 

 

Kedua-dua stesen radio diterima melalui pemancaran Sporadik-E dimana.

 

Tiada gangguan frekuensi dengan stesen radio tempatan dikesan di Bintulu, Sarawak.

 

==Kedah FM==

- Frekuensi: FM 90.5MHz

- Kuasa pemancar: 1kW

- Tempat pemancar: Bukit Palong, Baling, Kedah

- Tempat penerima: Bintulu, Sarawak

- Jarak:  1371km 

 

==Perak FM== 

- Frekuensi: FM 95.6MHz

- Kuasa pemancar: 2kW

- Tempat pemancar: Gunung Kledang, Ipoh, Perak.

- Tempat penerima: Bintulu, Sarawak

- Jarak:  1343km

 

Perak FM 95.6MHz sangat jelas di Bintulu, Sarawak dengan isyarat STEREO, manakala Kedah FM 90.5MHz adalah isyarat MONO.

Biasanya, pemancaran radio FM boleh diterima sehingga 120km, bergantung kepada tempat pemancarnya, tetapi ia boleh memancar lebih 300km, juga 2000km dengan pancaran troposfera atau Sporadik-E (bergantung kepada cuaca dan musim).

The furthest location where I listened to my favorite radio station Traxx FM by transmitter site.

 

Traxx FM is my most favorite English music radio station so far (never compare with BFM 89.9 which is talk radio station). As I'm its listener, I also perform DXing of this radio station in distant locations.

 

Here are the furthest locations where I tuned to Traxx FM by transmitter sites (above 120km).

 

1. Gunung Ledang FM 97.4MHz

- Receiving location: Padang Tengku, Pahang (220km)

 

2. Gunung Telapak Burok FM 88.7MHz

- Receiving location: Sitiawan, Perak (212km)

 

3. Gunung Pulai FM 102.9MHz

- Receiving location: Lurah Bilut, Pahang (291km)

 

4. Gunung Kledang FM 90.1MHz

- Receiving location: Morib, Selangor (210km)

 

5. Gunung Ulu Kali FM 100.1MHz

- Receiving location: Gemas, Negeri Sembilan (131km) 

 

6. Gunung Brinchang FM 101.1MHz

- Receiving location: Kuala Selangor, Selangor (131km)

(Sporadic E propagation DX): Peninsular Malaysia radio station received in Bintulu, Sarawak.

In 2nd February 2022, between 1700-1900 hours, Sporadic E propagation happened in Bintulu, Sarawak. 

A DXer named Shafik 1995 DXers received many Peninsular Malaysia transmitted radio stations in Bintulu, Sarawak via Sporadic E propagation where receiving distance is between 1200-1500km from transmitter site to receiver site.

Here are the radio stations from Peninsular Malaysia where he received in Bintulu, Sarawak.

1. Radio Klasik FM 88.7MHz Bukit Palong (Baling, Kedah) 

Distance: 1371km

 

2. Fly FM 89.9MHz Bukit Penara (Penang)

Distance: 1443km

 

3. Kedah FM 90.5MHz Bukit Palong (Baling, Kedah)

Distance: 1371km

 

4. Hot FM 90.5MHz Bukit Larut (Taiping, Perak)

Distance: 1373km

5. Perak FM 95.6MHz Gunung Kledang (Ipoh and Central Perak)

Distance: 1343km

6. Suria FM 96.0MHz Gunung Kledang (Ipoh and Central Perak)

Distance: 1343km

7. Nasional FM 96.5MHz Bukit Bakar (Machang, Kelantan)

Distance: 1225km

8. Minnal FM 98.9MHz Gunung Kledang (Ipoh and Central Perak)

Distance: 1343km

9. Lite FM 101.5MHz Gunung Kledang (Ipoh and Central Perak)

Distance: 1343km

10. IKIM FM 102.7MHz Gunung Kledang (Ipoh and Central Perak)

Distance: 1343km

 

11. IKIM FM 89.8MHz Bukit Panau (Kota Bharu)

Distance: 1244km

 

Among all 11 Sporadic E radio stations, Perak FM 95.6MHz from Gunung Kledang was the clearest in Bintulu, Sarawak with STEREO signal, meanwhile rest of radio stations signal were in MONO.

Hot FM 90.5MHz Bukit Larut transmission is very impressive because it can overspill to Bintulu, despite it operates low power transmission as much as 250W only.

Fly FM 89.9MHz Bukit Penara is the furthest Spoardic E radio station in Bintulu, Sarawak among all.

Fly FM is available in Bintulu, Sarawak on 89.9MHz, despite it has no frequencies in Sabah and Sarawak?

 

Fly FM is a Malaysia English radio station by Media Prima Audio, it is the only Media Prima Audio radio station which is unavailable in Sabah and Sarawak in terms of frequency coverage.

 

Surprisingly on 2nd February 2022, someone received Fly FM in Bintulu, Sarawak on FM 89.9MHz from Bukit Penara, Penang.

 

According to the footage, Fly FM 89.9MHz from Bukit Penara, Penang is just a Sporadic E propagation in Bintulu, Sarawak. 

 

- Frequency: FM 89.9MHz

- Power: 2kW

- Transmission site: Bukit Penara, Penang

- Receiving site: Bintulu, Sarawak

- Distance: 1443km

- Receiver: TECSUN PL-310ET

 

Neglect about the propagation, Fly FM can actually expand its coverage in Kota Kinabalu and Kuching in order to compete with Mix and Hitz.

Kelantan FM 97.3MHz from Bukit Bakar received in Langkawi, Kedah

 

Back to November 2021, I received RTM Kelantan FM on 97.3MHz from Bukit Bakar in certain areas of Pahang state such as Cameron Highlands, Benta, and Merapoh. 

 

The furthest location where I received Kelantan FM 97.3MHz was in Benta with 190km distance.

 

Two weeks ago during Chinese New Year eve, a DXer named Sarawut DXers captured this radio station in Langkawi, Kedah where it is further than mine.

 

The actual receiving location is at Gunung Raya top peak in Langkawi Island, Kedah, but the signal is under tropospheric propagation.

 

No interference from any adjacent stations was detected so far, despite there are Sinar FM 97.1MHz and Kedah FM 97.5MHz operating in Gunung Jerai for Mainland Kedah (97km from Langkawi).

 

- Frequency: FM 97.3MHz

- Power: 2kW 

- Transmission site: Bukit Bakar, Machang, Kelantan

- Receiving site: Gunung Raya top peak, Langkawi Island, Kedah

- Distance: 282km