988 FM 96.1MHz reception in Ketereh, Kelantan

988 FM 96.1MHz can be accessed in Ketereh Kelantan, but weak signal

988 FM can be received in Kelantan?

988 FM fka RFM 98.8 and Redi FM 98.8 is Malaysia oldest Chinese commercial radio station, from cable radio to FM terrestrial radio, operated by Star Radio Group. Until today, 988 FM broadcasts only Peninsular Malaysia except Kelantan and Terengganu.

988 FM did not expand coverage in Kelantan and Terengganu as there are very less Chinese demographics, compare to other states. At the same time, Kelantan and Terengganu have no commercial value for 988. For east coast region, 988 FM is only available in Kuantan on FM 90.4MHz from Bukit Pelindung. 

988 FM can be accessed in Southern Terengganu (Kemaman, Jabor, Cherul, Cheneh, Kijal and Chukai) on FM 90.4MHz from Kuantan. 988 FM 90.4MHz can be only received up to Kijal Terengganu, signal goes weak when reach Kerteh.

Listen to 988 FM via online or mobile app is not surprise, but it is very freak when Kelantan can receive 988 through a radio receiver.

Surprisingly, 988 FM can be received in part of Kelantan from a very far away transmitter site where more than 180km distance. In Kelantan, 988 FM is classified as distant radio station. 988 FM 96.1MHz from Gunung Jerai mainly covers Kedah, Perlis, Penang and some Langkawi areas, even it can be accessed in some Thailand areas such as Betong, Sadao, Danok and Satun. Perhaps its transmitter power is 10kW from Gunung Jerai, it can transmit to some Kelantan areas actually.

988 FM 96.1MHz from Gunung Jerai can be accessed in part of Kelantan, such as Kota Bharu, Kubang Kerian, Pasir Mas, Pengkalan Chepa and Wakaf Baharu. In Kelantan, Chinese people population is only 3%, I believe they are staying in north Kelantan areas including Kota Bharu. Technically, 988 FM can gain some Chinese listeners in Kelantan via 96.1MHz.

== RF analysis==

96.0MHz: MCOT Narathiwat

96.1MHz: 988 FM Gunung Jerai

<100kHz, OK>

96.1MHz: 988 FM Gunung Jerai

96.2MHz: Terengganu FM Bukit Bintang

<100kHz, OK>

Based on RF analysis above, there are no problem on spectrum allocation.

988 FM 96.1MHz cannot be accessed in Tumpat and Kelantan areas where nearby Thailand border due to MCOT Narathiwat FM 96.0MHz, meanwhile Kelantan areas where nearby Terengganu border cannot receive 988 FM 96.1MHz from Gunung Jerai due to Terengganu FM 96.2MHz Bukit Bintang.

I'm very appreciate to my friend from Kelantan for sending me 988 FM 96.1MHz reception in Kelantan through Whatsapp. The video shows that 988 FM 96.1MHz reception is taken at HUSM Kubang Kerian, nearby Kota Bharu. Gunung Jerai contributes much commercial driven in northern region, but it also serves some Kelantan areas.

Seriously, to get better reception of 988 in Kelantan, high quality (such as Tecsun, or Sony) radio receivers are recommended where have filtering devices to reduce interference noise. 

10 years ago, I was listening to 988 FM, I still remembered 988 FM DJ said that  the radio station was accessible in Kelantan.

Overall, 988 FM is available in Kota Bharu, Kubang Kerian, Pasir Mas and some flatted areas on 96.1MHz, meanwhile for south Kelantan such as Lojing and Gua Musang can receive 988 on either 98.8 or 99.8.

吉蘭丹可以聽到友聲有色的988?

馬來西亞歷史悠久的中文商業電台988的廣播頻率範圍都是專注在西馬半島的西海岸, 彭亨(關丹)只是唯一一個東海岸州屬有988頻率. 988在馬來西亞西馬半島只是沒有在瓜拉登嘉樓和哥打峇魯設有廣播頻率, 因為這兩個地區是毫無商業價值, 加上當地華人人口極少

目前登嘉樓南部的甘馬挽地區還可以通過988關丹頻道FM 90.4MHz收到友聲有色的988. 關丹頻道90.4是從Bukit Pelindung發射, 除了覆蓋彭亨東部, 988可以聽到登嘉樓的Kijal (琪佳).

吉蘭丹收到988? 網絡收聽, 我覺得不出奇, 但通過收音機收到988, 我個人感覺到很驚訝. 雖然988沒有來哥打峇魯開設頻率, 但是當地地區其實還可以通過收音機收聽988. 在吉蘭丹, 988可以收聽的頻率是FM 96.1MHz. 吉蘭丹收到的988 FM 96.1MHz訊號其實來自吉打州的Gunung Jerai. 988 FM 96.1MHz Gunung Jerai其實主要覆蓋吉打, 玻璃市, 檳城, 和蘭卡威 (Langkawi), 但是其發射可以來到吉蘭丹部分地區.

吉蘭丹是沒有商業價值的州屬, 也是因為當地州政府的神權政策導致變成西馬半島最貧窮的州屬, 投資者因為當地政府政策而不打算投資吉蘭丹, 導致其州屬發展比彭亨落後. 談到988在吉蘭丹的市場, 用人口角度來看, 吉蘭丹華人人口只是佔3%, 就算988在當地有頻道, 收聽率和商業價值方面也未必看到新的成績.

談回吉蘭丹可以收到988電台的事宜, 當地吉蘭丹華人需要用高品質的收音機收聽988. 其實不是所有的吉蘭丹地區可以收到988 FM 96.1MHz的訊號, 有些地區會遇到鄰國電台的干擾.

==頻率分析==

96.0MHz: MCOT Narathiwat

96.1MHz: 988 FM Gunung Jerai

<100kHz, OK>

96.1MHz: 988 FM Gunung Jerai

96.2MHz: Terengganu FM Bukit Bintang

<100kHz, OK>

頻率分析方面, 也沒有問題.
 
988 FM 96.1MHz在靠近泰國邊界的吉蘭丹東北部被泰國陶公府電台MCOT Narathiwat FM 96.0MHz干擾, 另外靠近登嘉樓邊界的地區則完全收不到988因為其訊號被RTM Terengganu FM登嘉樓分台勿述Besut頻道FM 96.2MHz (Bukit Bintang)蓋掉.

同時,剛好我有個住在吉蘭丹的馬來朋友通過Whatsapp傳送988 FM 96.1MHz在吉蘭丹訊號狀態的短片給我, 所以讓我到部落格分享這個短片. 首先, 我非常感謝他傳送這個短片給我. 據說, 他拍下的短片是在車內, 地區則是在靠近哥打峇魯的Kubang Kurian的HUSM醫院. 988吉打/玻璃市頻道96.1果然很強, 可以發射到吉蘭丹部分地區. 之前我提議廢除988檳城頻道FM 94.5MHz, 我認為988吉打頻道96.1會做出很巨大的商業貢獻, 不止服務北馬的吉打, 玻璃市, 檳城和泰國南部的沙敦, 勿洞和宋卡, 也同時無意中服務了吉蘭丹部分地區.

10年前, 我是一直聽988電台, 我還記得988當時的DJ也曾經說96.1可以在吉蘭丹聽得到. "988吉打, 玻璃市和吉蘭丹 FM 96.1MHz".

整體上, 988 FM 96.1MHz可以在吉蘭丹哥打峇魯, Kubang Kerian, 巴西馬和平地地區還可以收到. 南部方面, Lojing (靠近金馬倫高原)和話望生也可以收到988 98.8或99.8.

988檳城頻道94.5廢除建議

之前我提議廢除988檳城頻道94.5MHz, 以便讓BFM或City Plus FM能使用其頻率在檳城廣播.

988目前在檳城除了94.5可以聽到, 96.1也清楚. 988目前的吉打Gunung Jerai頻道96.1功率是10kW, 相信可以覆蓋全檳城.

另外988太平頻道FM 101.0MHz (Bukit Larut) 目前的發射功率是1kW. 在我的看法, 如果檳城頻道94.5停止廣播, 988除了10kW功率的96.1, 我認為988必須增加太平頻道101.0的發射功率至2kW, 以便可以覆蓋檳城地區(南部).

94.5一旦被廢除後, 988檳城聽眾可以調去96.1或101.0繼續收聽988.

988姐妹台Suria FM馬來語電台檳城頻道只有一個頻率, 是FM 106.9MHz Gunung Jerai (跟988的96.1一樣發射地點). Red FM還沒停播和被Astro收購前, 和Capital FM還沒在檳城廣播時, Red FM在檳城有兩個頻道, 98.1 (Gn Jerai)和107.6 (Bukit Penara). Capital FM在2014年3月進軍檳城市場後, Red FM在檳城只是廣播一個頻道98.1, 反而107.6就變成Capital FM. 以前Red FM在檳城有107.6就是解決Gn Jerai的吉打頻道98.1和Bukit Larut的太平頻道98.2干擾問題, 最後98.2在2009年被停止廣播.

988太平頻道101.0建議功率: 2kW

==檳城覆蓋範圍==
**96.1MHz: 喬治市, 北海, Kepala Batas, 峇六拜, 巴都丁宜, 大山腳, Juru, 詩布朗再也, Tasek Gelugor, 日落洞, Air Hitam, 新邦安拔Simpang Ampat, 威省中北部
**101.0MHz: 威省中南部 (高淵, Jawi, Sungai Bakap)

在檳城, 988收聽頻道靠96.1其實很足夠, 我認為94.5已經不需要了. 一個頻道已經足夠, 太平頻道101.0也很重要, 除了覆蓋太平和霹靂西北部, 988 FM 101.0MHz也是檳城的後備頻道. 如果檳城有些地區收96.1不是很清楚, 聽眾還可以轉去101.0收聽988.

廢除988檳城頻道94.5除了把頻譜讓給新電台後, 988也可以同時省下開支, 988不需要付多一個發射站的傳輸費給馬電訊 (TM).

馬來西亞英語商業電台BFM在10年來不斷申請檳城頻道, 可惜申請被馬來西亞多媒體委員會拒絕. 我也參與部分的建議討論會, 我建議的頻率103.1未必受到MCMC批准, 或許頻率會導致對其他電台干擾. 我上個月提交我的檳城頻道建議報告給BFM, 但是103.1 Gunung Jerai的建議其實是50:50的. 在等著馬來西亞多媒體委員會的成績, 其實BFM可以跟星報集團和馬來西亞多媒體委員會討論接管988檳城頻道94.5. 如果他們批准BFM接管988檳城頻道94.5, 這也不會影響988檳城聽眾因為檳城有96.1和101.0, 所以94.5變成英語商業電台BFM.

  

RTM Nasional FM shall change its Bukit Fraser frequency

RTM Nasional FM Bukit Fraser gap filler transmitter was launched on 2017 for Raub and Lipis, its frequency is 106.2MHz. The 106.2 sounded for BN government propaganda before collapsed during GE-14. In my opinion, RTM wasted taxpayers money for 106.2MHz in Fraser Hill during BN era.

City Plus FM operates in Gunung Telapak Burok on FM 106.0MHz, but mainly attempt for Klang Valley. Reception is not really clear in Klang Valley

When City Plus FM is allowed to change frequency to 106.1MHz and transfer transmitter to Gunung Ulu Kali if space is available, RTM Nasional FM shall stop using 106.2MHz in Bukit Fraser. So, RTM shall change frequency for Nasional FM.

FM 93.5MHz is suggested frequency for Nasional FM in Fraser Hill because single frequency with Jerantut 93.5MHz from Bukit Istana. So it is easier to be managed by RTM itself.

It is not necessary also to have Bukit Fraser frequency for Nasional FM as Gunung Ulu Kali 95.3 can cover Raub, Pahang.

==RF analysis==

93.5MHz: Nasional FM Bukit Fraser
93.5MHz: Nasional FM Bukit Istana
<0kHz, single frequency network, OK>

93.5MHz: Nasional FM Bukit Fraser
93.6MHz: UiTM Shah Alam
<100kHz, OK>

For City Plus FM, if Nasional FM stops 106.2 Bukit Fraser and it is given way for City Plus FM on 106.1 in Gunung Ulu Kali, Klang Valley listeners can receive City Plus FM clearly on 106.1MHz.

Does THR Gegar need to expand to other Pahang areas after Kuantan? Yes or no?

THR Gegar is a Malay language east coast radio station under Astro Radio where I was used to suggest regarding the coverage expansion of inner location in Pahang, Kelantan and Terengganu. In Pahang, THR Gegar operates on FM 88.8MHz for Kuantan and East Pahang from Bukit Pelindung.

In the past, I suggested Astro to expand THR Gegar coverage in other Pahang areas such as Maran, Jerantut, Raub, Lipis and Bentong because these areas cannot receive on FM 88.8MHz. Here is my suggestion that I made in 2016 and 2017:

- FM 100.7MHz or FM 104.4MHz Bukit Senggora for Maran, Chenor and Jengka
- FM 100.7MHz Bukit Istana for Jerantut
- FM 90.7MHz Bukit Fraser for Raub, Lipis, Temerloh and Bentong

I was told by Astro that they have no plan to expand coverage there as no commercial value.

Now I'm thinking back what I did before, I don't think it is worth to expand Gegar coverage to other Pahang areas, even Kelantan Gua Musang, not only commercial value factor. The different timing between Pahang, Terengganu and Kelantan is another factor.

In Kelantan and Terengganu, the working days are from Sunday till Thursday, but Friday and Saturday are the weekend of these two states. Meanwhile Pahang is same as Kuala Lumpur and international, Monday till Friday is Pahang working days, then Saturday and Sunday are weekend for Pahang.

According to radio listenership of Gegar, Kelantan is the highest listenership, following by Terengganu and Pahang. The main market of Gegar is Kelantan and Terengganu, so the radio station weekdays schedule is from Sunday to Thursday, based on Kelantan and Terengganu day frame, meanwhile Gegar weekend show is on Friday and Saturday.

In my opinion, I think Gegar Kuantan frequency FM 88.8MHz is just "penumpang" (by-pass occupant) as 88.8MHz also targets South Terengganu areas such as Kemaman, Kijal, Chukai, Felda Cheneh, Jabor etc. Seriously, Bukit Pelindung FM 88.8MHz is very important also for Gegar, especially Southern Terengganu.

Imagine if Gegar has no Kuantan frequency, I think Southern Terengganu listeners cannot access the radio station via radio. I even don't think Astro can launch Kemaman frequency for Gegar in Bukit Kemuning as lower commercial value, compare to Bukit Pelindung. Bukit Kemuning coverage is not wide as Bukit Pelindung.

Bukit Pelindung does not only cover East Pahang (Kuantan, Pekan and Gambang), it also covers Southern Terengganu.

Pahang is the biggest state in Peninsular Malaysia. Generally Pahang is classified as east coast region, but some of areas are not classified as east coast areas where closed to west coast states border or very far away from Kuantan and Pekan. "Permata Pantai Timur" (Jewellery of East Coast) is the tagline of Gegar, technically "Pantai Timur" of Pahang is Kuantan and Pekan. Fraser Hill, Cameron Highlands, Bentong, Genting, Raub, and Bera are not considered as "Pahang Timur" in terms of geographical condition.

Even I don't think Gegar to expand coverage in South-east Pahang to cover Rompin and Tioman by launching transmitter in Kuala Rompin because Pahang working day and weekend are not same as Gegar schedule where are more on Terengganu and Kelantan.

In conclusion, I don't think it is a needed to expand coverage to other Pahang areas for Gegar due to local conditions. The behind reason is Pahang day frame is not match to Gegar broadcast schedule, even listener rating in Pahang is far behind Terengganu and Kelantan, but listeners can access Gegar via online, Astro DVR CH863 and mobile app.

RTM Minnal FM shall migrate Ipoh frequency to FM 99.0MHz

More than 2 decades, RTM Minnal FM always suffers interference issue in Perak state after launching of 988 FM since 1996. 

Minnal FM current Ipoh frequency is FM 98.9MHz, transmitted from Gunung Kledang. It is always clashed by 988 FM 98.8MHz from Gunung Ulu Kali in many Perak areas, critical locations are:

- Teluk Intan
- Langkap
- Air Mawang
- Kampung Gajah
- Sitiawan
- Lumut
- Pulau Pangkor
- Hutan Melintang

These areas above are under Gunung Kledang coverage actually. 988 has no problem with the interference issue because listeners there tune to FM 99.8MHz from Gunung Kledang, but Minnal FM is the problem because alternative frequency FM 96.3MHz Gn Ulu Kali and FM 107.9MHz Bukit Larut are less stable.

Ayer Tawar reception is ok as 988 FM 98.8MHz cannot be received there.

I had highlighted this many years ago, since 2011. I also wrote an email to RTM engineering department regarding this issue by revealing my suggestion, I was told that RTM radio stations are using 6+1 transmitter system, where 6 transmitters share with 1 standby antenna. So, they are difficult to change Minnal FM Ipoh frequency, despite FM 98.9MHz was used earlier than FM 98.8MHz. To change frequency, RTM needs to pay high cost because need to remove many transmission equipment. Under BN era, RTM is always loss making public media.

Now, Pakatan Harapan takes over Barisan Nasional as Malaysia government, and YB Gobind Singh Deo is appointed as Communications and Multimedia Minister, so RTM is going for full revolution within 6 months. Besides of its programming revolution, RTM shall look back of its interfered frequencies on its radio stations in order to serve better to public by solving interference issue.


Because Minnal FM Ipoh frequency 98.9MHz suffers interference with 988 FM 98.8MHz for 22 years, it is impossible to urge 988 to change frequency due to the branding. Therefore, to serve Perak Indians better in terms of reception issue, I think RTM Minnal FM shall change its Ipoh frequency to FM 99.0MHz. Current FM 98.9MHz is too closed to FM 98.8MHz, so Minnal FM shall move further 100kHz on Ipoh frequency. Minimum frequency separation between Gunung Kledang and Gunung Ulu Kali is 200kHz.
  
==Minnal FM Ipoh frequency suggestion== 
* Frequency: FM 99.0MHz
* Power: 2kW (same as current 98.9MHz)
* Transmitter site: Gunung Kledang (same as current 98.9MHz)

==RF analysis of Minnal FM 99.0MHz Ipoh frequency==

98.8MHz: 988 FM Gunung Ulu Kali
99.0MHz: Minnal FM Gunung Kledang
<200kHz, GOOD>

98.7MHz: Traxx FM Gunung Jerai
99.0MHz: Minnal FM Gunung Kledang
<300kHz, OK>

99.0MHz: Minnal FM Gunung Kledang
99.3MHz: Raaga FM Gunung Ulu Kali
<300kHz, OK>

98.9MHz: Minnal FM Bukit Penara/Bukit Genting
99.0MHz: Minnal FM Gunung Kledang
<100kHz, OK>

99.0MHz: Minnal FM Gunung Kledang
99.1MHz: Fly FM Alor Setar Tower
<100kHz, OK>

In conclusion, I hope RTM Minnal FM will migrate Ipoh frequency to FM 99.0MHz. Therefore, those affected Perak areas can receive Minnal FM from Gunung Kledang on 99.0MHz loudly and clearly, even South Perak areas like Sungkai and Terolak still can get it.     

Zayan is criticized for over-playing crappy teen pop?

Zayan FM is a Malay radio station to target modern Muslim listeners. Zayan means "beautifier" in Arabic language, I learn a new Arabic word again. Heheheh! XD

As I commented its programming last year for being too young and slapstick, which are conflicting the needs of Muslim listeners, previously I also said that Zayan FM sounded closer to Era which served younger listeners (Gen Y and Z). Now, I read this recently, I like this post ever.

In my opinion, what I want to say is "Best one ever". 

The post means that the Facebook users Hana Syed which is also Zayan listener asks Zayan to stop playing those teen pop. She is unsure what the song title is on the radio station, but with the lyrics "God, please help me to love him/her". Then she says that she hears that song again at 11pm after she already listened to this song on Zayan around 9pm, so she states that she cannot listen to this station anymore, forces to listen to other radio station. Next, she asks are other people ok with that crappy song, she feels confused.

What I like the most on her post is her sentence, "lagu budak tak habis sekolah". Hahahhaha! XD

Literally, "Lagu budak tak habis sekolah" means the songs for the boy/girl who never finish the school. Actually, it is teen pop.

"Budak tak habis sekolah" is the people who are still not ending the high school (not including university or college), aka teenagers or childhood. If a person still never finish his/her college/university studies, that one is not called as "budak tak habis sekolah" as he/she has completed school studies.

From my view, it is very shameful when a religion radio station play those crappy teen songs on air, which criticized by listeners.

I'm usually doing FM DXing (distance radio reception), so I also will tune to Zayan for a while to know about its programming. Yeah! I agree with Hana Syed's comment, because I feel that Zayan is playing more crappy songs than real song (lagu ketuhanan, lagu keindahan, Nasyid)  where close to religion one. From Aishah (Projector Band's song), Zalikha (Floor 88's song), then those teen pop love songs like Era, most of them are crappy much. 

When my friend who works in radio industry (not Astro) asks me how about this radio station, I heavily criticized it for playing crappy songs and slapstick. Hahahaha! XD

Era plays teen pop and new Malay songs, but Zayan plays too. This already creates internal competition between Zayan and Era. Seriously, Era already serves young listeners by playing hot contemporary songs and teen pop, so Zayan shall avoid from playing it.

Rather than playing "lagu budak tak habis sekolah", Zayan shall concentrate on Islamic value music. To become non-ordinary, Zayan needs to play Islamic songs (aka Nasyid) more, not those crappy teen pop. Islamic pop is also welcomed too to serve modern Muslim listeners better.

For Ramadan month, I partially satisfy with its programming as it provides more Islamic value by playing Nasyid, but I still hate Zayan for playing crappy teen song also. 

Weekend shows seems "nothing" other than Salam Bros/Zayan Valet repeats, so Zayan can add its Nasyid chart show on weekend. "Carta Nasyid 30 di Zayan" sounds nice.

Besides the music (Nasyid chart show), Zayan can air 2 hours Quran recite commentary (bacaan al-Quran) programs after Zohor prayer actually (weekend programme). So, this can make better competition with IKIM FM.

As an another Muslim targeted radio station in Malaysia after IKIM FM and Salam FM, Zayan shall go for competition. First, this can make commercial driven. Second, this can provide another choice radio station to Muslim listeners.

My review regarding Mix FM (Malaysia)

Mix is English radio station in Malaysia, it was established since 1997 to target 25-34 years old listeners. In the past, Mix was playing the songs from 1970's till today. After it rebranded its logo in 2006, the 1970s and 1980s were transferred to Lite FM.

What I listened to Mix FM in the past was RnB, slow rock, hip hop and some contemporary music. I liked Mix FM because of 1990s, hip hop and RnB, recently Mix FM is playing more crappy "contemporary pop songs", even repeating over again, now 1990s songs are heavily reduced. Normally Mix FM is playing the songs from up to 20 years.

Despite the name, the name "Mix" is mixed of music. In 2000s, Mix FM kept its branding as "variety music radio station" with tagline Malaysia's Best Variety.

I don't care of Mix FM DJs presentations, but I strongly dislike Mix FM for playing those crappy songs. While its sister station Hitz plays the same songs over again until withdrawn because listeners feel sicked of those songs, so Mix FM becomes "recycle" radio station to play those songs where have been played on Hitz before.

I remember Mix played RnB and slow music from 1990s and 2000s at weekdays night, it is "Mix Slow Jams" from 8pm till 11pm, my favorite jams ever. Now, no more awesome RnB music from 1990s and 2000s from 8pm till 10pm, because Mix Slow Jams is minimized to 1 hour, but Mix FM plays crappy same songs from 8pm till 10pm, I dislike it actually.

On weekends, Mix also plays crappy songs from morning until night, what I hear always are Justin Bieber, Ed Sheeran, Charlie Puth, Camelia Cabello, Meghan Trainor etc, I feel like it is nothing different with Hitz where serve younger listeners perfectly. My favorite Mix Tape Sessions was supposedly begun from 9pm night, where I could enjoy the remix from the 1990s and 2000s, but unfortunately it just started only from 11pm.

"Mix FM, playing you the music from the 1990s, 2000s and now." That's the tagline that I listened before, but I felt that 1990s songs were lesser and not variety. There are different music genres in the 1990s, from hip-hop, RnB, rock, ballad, dance, house, upbeat to pop, but 1990s songs on Mix are only pop majority.

There are many Linkin Park songs in their discography, but MIX only play What I've Done and In The End. NOT ENOUGH LAH!

Taylor Swift has many songs actually, but Mix only plays Shake It Off most of the time, even Pitbull has many songs also, but Mix plays Give Me Everything. The rest of Pitbull songs like Hotel Room Service, Bon Bon, Fun, International Love etc seem never been on Mix at all.

That 90s Show was used to become my favorite weekend Mix FM's show in 2013, it played 2 hours 90s songs, including commercial break, but Mix That 90s Show slot was reduced to 1 hour only.

After rebranding of Astro radio stations by changing logo and withdrawing "FM" suffix on 2nd January 2018, Mix changes its tagline to "Today's Best Music" where was formerly used as awesomeness Red FM's tagline in 2009 till 2012.

Mix's Today's Best Music vs. Red's Today's Best Music. Seriously I prefer Red FM as it was more varitey, during that time Red FM plays from 1980s till today. Red FM playlists in 2009 till early 2012 were more variety.

To me, Mix new slogan Today's Best Music plays crappy songs more than the past. Hahahah! XD
My friend is listening to Mix in the car, but when comes to Despacito, he tunes to other radio station. It is fake if listeners don't feel tired with those crappy songs on Mix where play over again daily, this can torture listeners, cause mental problem, everyday Ed Sheeran, Charlie Puth, Bruno Mars etc, cause listeners to suffer "music depression syndrome" and need to go to mental health hospital to see doctor. Worst to worst! May be it can cause listeners are going to be sent to Tanjung Rambutan mental hospital because of "music depression syndrome" after listen to those crappy songs on Mix.

Sorry to all of you if you get offended of the paragraph above. I need to say it as Mix did not perform a good management of its music playlist!

Now, I need to talk about my opinion and further suggestion on Mix music playlist. About the decades, Mix FM are playing from 1990s till today, the decade range is not wider at all. I think Mix shall extend its music decade range from 1980s till today. To avoid clashing with Lite where plays classic and easy listening music, Mix shall not play 1980s sentimental and easy listening music like Chichago, Whitney Houston, Elton John etc. Due to there are no any synthpop, Eurodisco, Italo Disco where are popular in 1980s on Lite, Mix FM can play 1980s Italo Disco, synthpop, and upbeat music. For the 1990s, Mix FM shall extend its music genre to the hip-hop, gangsta rap, Eurodance, Italo House etc. Mainstream rock music is welcomed to be added.

Besides some new contemporary music, Mix shall add more 1980s, 1990s and 2000s songs where played on Hitz many years ago, even Hitz is no longer playing 2000s songs now where I listened in 2007-08.

Mix mah! Everything Mix, more variety lah!

Besides Mix FM has to improve its playlist, Mix needs to improve its weekend show. I feel the current weekend show sounds boring and nonsence (not including The Best of Mix Breakfast Show), only plays those crappy songs over again. In my opinion, Mix can add more weekend shows by putting variety range of English music from the 1980s till today. Besides Mix 30, That 90s Show and Mix Tape Session, here are my suggestions:

- The Mix Disco School (to plays 1980s Italo Disco and Euro Disco)
- Hip-Hop street on Mix (best of hip-hop)
- The Rock Show (mainstream rock such as Linkin Park, My Chemical Romance, Limp Bizkit etc)
- The Mix School (plays 1980s till 2000s, based on Red FM Skool Daze)

That 90 Show can be extended its programming hours actually. Even Mix FM Slow Jams shall be returned on air from 8pm, too short if set only 1 hour.

In conclusion, it will be better if Mix FM plays the role of Red FM because Red was super variety. To prevent self competition against Hitz, Mix FM shall not play more new music and teen pop. What I wish is Mix FM will be aware on this, music playlist management shall be overhauled to serve listeners better, and don't make listeners to suffer "music depression syndrome". Playing same songs over again will not help to serve listeners better, thus it will cause to make listeners to leave from listening to Mix!

Raaga shall become 24 hours full fledged Tamil radio station on FM frequencies in Malaysia

Raaga (formerly known as THR Raaga) is Tamil radio station in Malaysia, operated by Astro Radio. Initially THR Raaga is just Tamil programs of Time Highway Radio before acquired by Astro Radio, but due to higher demand of Indian listeners, Raaga broadcast hours were increased more than 50%. Until today, Raaga broadcasts 24 hours in Tamil languages, but available only mobile apps and Astro DVR, meanwhile Raaga only broadcasts 20 hours in Tamil language on FM radio frequencies (99.3, 99.7, 101.9, 101.5, 102.4, 102.1, 97.9, 103.7), the rest of 4 hours are relaying from Gegar (Malay east coast radio station).

I noticed this issue since July 2013 after I got replied from Astro Radio regarding my suggestion to expand Raaga in Kuantan. Then, I highlighted again that why does Raaga FM frequencies broadcast Gegar programs from 2am till 6am daily. Astro replied to me that because of their broadcasting license content restriction. Previously, they stated that MCMC (Malaysia Communication Multimedia Commission) instructed THR FM license shall broadcast 60% Malay programs, otherwise license would be revoked.

During a phone call with Astro Radio PIC, I suggested to make THR Raaga as 24 hours Tamil radio station on FM frequencies by halting THR Gegar programs in west coast, Astro Radio said that my suggestion would not comply with MCMC broadcast license conditions, even MCMC can revoke the license of THR FM.

Now, it is May 2018, we have changed our government by voting during 14th general election. Pakatan Harapan becomes Malaysia government, Barisan Nasional and PAS became opposition parties in Malaysia, YB Gobind Singh Deo becomes Minister of Communications and Multimedia of Malaysia.

As we already get new Malaysia government, so media will be more freedom, no longer heavily restricted by former administration with racial controls. In my opinion, it is the time to make Raaga as 24 hours Tamil radio station on FM radio frequencies, tally with the same content on Astro DVR and mobile app. Raaga shall stop relaying Gegar programs from 2am till 6am on Raaga FM radio frequency as Gegar is for east coast only. It is ok if Astro Radio does not plan to expand Raaga to Kuantan due to commercial driven concerns of Tamil radio market in east coast.

My intention to highlight this is to dedicate to Indian community. What I see is I felt there was discrimination on Indian community for a commercial Tamil radio station in the past, especially I don's satisfy with Raaga only 20 hours programs on FM frequencies, plus Astro has Era, Sinar, Gegar, even newly Zayan in Malay language. In addition, since Astro carries CASP (Content Applications Service Provider) broadcast license, why didn't Astro make Raaga as 24 hours Tamil radio station?

Besides Minnal FM is Tamil radio station under RTM, Raaga is another choice for Indian community. Under new government, I think Minnal FM programmings shall be overhauled to serve Indian listeners better to make RTM relevant. I realized that RTM was irrelevant under former Prime Minister Najib Razak, it lost many listeners and viewers. So, Malaysia media was dominated by commercial companies such as Astro, Media Prima and Star Radio Group due to RTM became irrelevant public media. It is better if all RTM programmings are needed to be overhauled completely in order to serve public better.

Update: Kuantan can receive Raaga on FM frequencies via 99.3MHz from Ulu Kali or 99.7MHz Gunung Ledang partially. Seriously, FM 99.3MHz and FM 99.7MHz are the biggest contribution to Raaga listeners in Pahang.

Pekan can receive Raaga on 99.7MHz.

RTM Mutiara FM suspends 90.9MHz Bukit Genting transmitter?

RTM Penang state radio station Mutiara FM has 3 frequencies, FM 95.7MHz Bukit Penara is the main one, but FM 93.9MHz Gunung Jerai and FM 90.9MHz Bukit Genting are repeaters.

Last Sunday, I had published a blog post regarding my suggestion to add Hokkien and Mandarin programs on Mutiara FM by dividing two stations. Here is one of feedback from a user:

Thanks to Adrian Chan from Penang for the comment by giving the information. Appreciate on it.

Actually I already noticed the interference issue between Mutiara FM 90.9MHz (Bukit Genting) and Mix FM 91.0MHz (Gunung Jerai) since 2013, I was used to be in Penang during December 2013. From Teluk Bahang to Balik Pulau, while listening to Mix FM 91.0MHz from Gunung Jerai, I started to hear interference noise from Mutiara FM 90.9MHz Bukit Genting when entered Balik Pulau, then Mix FM 91.0MHz signal directly went down. When came to Balik Pulau, I had to switch to FM 91.3MHz from Bukit Larut to continue listening to Mix FM, but signal was not clear.

Between 90.9 and 91.0, Mix FM is using FM 91.0MHz in Gunung Jerai earlier than Mutiara FM 90.9MHz Bukit Genting. Mix FM was launched in 1997 by Astro Radio, FM 91.0MHz Gunung Jerai is already there from 1997 until today, but Mutiara FM 90.9MHz was launched only since September 2003. So, interference happened since 2003.

Here are the example of interference between FM 90.9MHz and FM 91.0MHz.


I had highlighted this issue since 2013 to RTM, but RTM claimed that Balik Pulau areas could not receive Gunung Jerai signal, I partially agreed with the statement after I did Gunung Jerai coverage analysis via Nautel RF toolkit. Then 2015, I had highlighted it to MCMC person when had private discussion, from the explanation, it was difficult that RTM to change Mutiara FM Bukit Genting frequency as RTM is using 6 + 1 transmission system, means 6 transmitters share with 1 standby antenna.

Now, according to Adrian Chan comment, Mutiara FM suspends Bukit Genting transmitter 90.9MHz, he claimed that Balik Pulau and Teluk Kumbar can receive Mix FM 91.0MHz clearly. I suspect that these areas people realized about interference issue. In my opinion, it is better that Mutiara FM permanently terminates from using FM 90.9MHz in Bukit Genting, so interference with Mix FM is solved, but if Mutiara FM wants to keep Bukit Genting coverage, Mutiara FM must change frequency.

==My suggestion of Mutiara FM Bukit Genting frequency migration==
Frequency: FM 100.7MHz
Power: 0.1kW

==RF analysis of Mutiara FM Bukit Genting 100.7MHz==

100.5MHz: Nasional FM Gunung Jerai
100.7MHz: Mutiara FM Bukit Genting
<200kHz, OK>

100.7MHz: Mutiara FM Bukit Genting
100.9MHz: Sinar FM Gunung Raya
<200kHz, OK>

100.7MHz: Mutiara FM Bukit Genting
101.0MHz: 988 FM Bukit Larut
<300kHz, OK>

100.6MHz: MY FM Gunung Kledang
100.7MHz: Mutiara FM Bukit Genting
<100kHz, OK>

After Mutiara FM changes Bukit Genting frequency to FM 100.7MHz, I strongly believe that listeners can receive Mutiara FM on 100.7MHz clearly in Balik Pulau and southwest Penang Island, even reception will be better than FM 90.9MHz as FM 100.7MHz has no more controversial interference.

Another RTM station, Nasional FM shall change its Bukit Genting frequency to 94.1MHz to solve interference issue with Mutiara FM.

==RTM Bkt Genting frequency migration proposal==
* Mutiara FM: 90.9>>100.7
* Nasional FM: 93.9>>94.1
* Radio Klasik: 101.7>>97.7 (101.7 shall be proposed to be taken over by new radio station)

Radio Free Sarawak shall return broadcasting

Radio Free Sarawak is independent radio station who operated by founder Clare Rewcastle Brown and former Cats FM presenter Peter John Jaban. This station was launched since November 2010, but I started to listen to this radio station in 2011 for Sarawak information where were not available on mainstream media which were controlled by Barisan Nasional government.

In those past years, Radio Free Sarawak openly criticized Sarawak BN state government for corruption scandals and destruction of Sarawak rainforests. In addition, it also covered the news of Sarawak people, especially rural areas. Radio Free Sarawak also highlighted the discrimination of the state people, Baram Dam issue was the biggest one.

Initial transmission via SW 15325kHz from Romania.

Radio Free Sarawak programs are available of its podcast, download is available on its website. Moreover, people could listen to this radio station via shortwave SW 15420kHz, broadcasts in Malay, Iban and English.

==Transmission details==
Frequency: SW 15420kHz
Transmitter site: Palau Island.

Once upon a time, Radio Free Sarawak SW 15420kHz was jammed by BN government due to the radio station criticized Taib Mahmud (former Sarawak chief minister) and BN governement. From my experience, Radio Free Sarawak changed the shortwave frequency to prevent being jammed.

I still remembered that Radio Free Sarawak launched its sister radio station during 13rd Malaysia general election in April 2013, named as Radio Free Malaysia, broadcasted in Malay via mediumwave MW 1359kHz from Taiwan.

After Taib Mahmud was stepped down, then late Adenan Satem became Sarawak chief minister, although Radio Free Sarawak was still active, but sounded silence after that.

Came to 7th May 2016, Radio Free Sarawak went to final programs during state election voting day.

Then, BN still won the majority during 2016 Sarawak state election. Radio Free Sarawak went off air.


Malaysia 14th general election was held on 9th May 2018, it is the most thrilling election ever, Pakatan Harapan won simple majority seats, now Pakatan Harapan is all new Malaysia government, leaded by Tun Dr Mahathir. Talk about general election aftermath, Sarawak Report founder Clare Rewcastle Brown came to Malaysia, the immigration of Malaysia lifted the ban. She was recently interviewed on business radio station BFM 89.9 Breakfast Grille on last Monday.

After Radio Free Sarawak went hiatus for almost 2 years, I think Radio Free Sarawak can be relaunched as Sarawak independent news and talk radio station in Iban and Sarawakians languages to target Sarawakians community. Besides that, regarding its transmission, I think it is better to continue using shortwave transmission because shortwave can reach more rural areas in Sarawak.

Mediumwave transmission is not effective as its coverage is limited if broadcasts during daytime, but it can travel further during nighttime unless Radio Free Sarawak broadcasts only at night. Same as FM radio, MW needs also more transmitters to cover whole Sarawak, so the transmission costs will be higher.

Therefore, shortwave broadcast will be better. Formerly Radio Free Sarawak studio was broadcasted from London, United Kingdom, then its frequency was transmitted from Palau Island. Since Clare Rewcastle Brown is back to Malaysia, I think she can relaunch Radio Free Sarawak by locating studio in Malaysia, then putting shortwave transmitter in Mersing Johor if aiming to Sarawak state listeners.

My suggestion of Langkawi FM branding

Langkawi FM is a radio station operated by RTM, launching since 1993. Its frequencies are FM 104.8MHz Gunung Raya where cover Langkawi, Perlis, Satun Thailand and parts of Kedah; FM 87.5MHz in Kuah to target under the sea.

This radio station is mainly for Langkawi listeners and tourists, broadcast in Malay and English.

In my opinion, Langkawi FM shall be rebranded as tourism radio station in Malay and English to target local and international tourists with playing music from around the world.

What I dislike is Langkawi FM 104.8MHz simply relay the Kedah FM programs where 105.7MHz already exists from 7pm onwards. Kedah FM is Malay language radio station, but it already has Gunung Raya Langkawi frequency on FM 105.7MHz.

To target more listeners, Langkawi FM can play world music such as Latin (Spanish/Portuguese), Japanese, Chinese, Korean, Arabic, Thai, Vietnamese, French, German, Hindi etc.

Langkawi FM can rebranded as 24 hours tourism radio station in Malaysia in Malay and English with playing world music. What I suggest the program after 7pm is each hour plays international music, each languages per hour (depends on majority). Example:

7pm-8pm: Thai/Vietnamese
8pm-9pm: Japanese
9pm-10pm: Latin
10pm-11pm: French
11pm-12am: Korean
12am-6am: Various language of world music including English

At the same time, I think Langkawi FM shall stop airing ceramah agama as Kedah FM already did it. For those Langkawi listeners who want to listen to ceramah agama, they can switch to Kedah FM 105.7MHz.

988推出檳城本土分台, 並附上福建話和華語檳城廣播, 大家覺得如何?

 

自從馬來西亞政權交替, 希望聯盟執政馬來西亞, 結束國陣61年執政. 希望聯盟政府執政馬來西亞, 相信馬來西亞國營媒體RTM會改革. 昨天發表建議Mutiara FM檳城分台推出福建話和華語廣播電台 (95.7全面以華語/福建話廣播, 馬來語廣播保留在93.9), 現在我就談關於988.

988目前以粵語和華語廣播, 並覆蓋西馬半島 (除了吉蘭丹和登嘉樓). 在檳城, 988其實有兩個頻道, 94.5和96.1. 雖然988 96.1是鎖定吉打和玻璃市, 其頻道也可以在檳城收到很清楚. 在我看法, 我認為988在檳城靠兩個頻道帶來的商業效應不大, 其實988檳城頻道94.5可以本土化.

988可以推出檳城本土分台94.5, 鎖定檳城華人和口操福建話的聽眾, 並以檳城福建話和華語廣播, 節目以檳城內容為先, 以福建話報導新聞和播放福建歌曲.

如果988推出檳城本土分台94.5, 我相信988在檳城的廣告收入或許會增加, 反而也吸引檳城聽眾收聽988檳城本土電台. 除此之外, 988把檳城頻道94.5本土化不會影響在收聽988總台的節目. 那些在檳城要收聽988總台的節目 (吉隆坡98.8的節目)可以通過96.1或101.0收聽, 反而檳城華人要收聽988的福建話節目和檳城本土節目, 可以調去94.5.

從早上6點到凌晨12點, 18個小時的檳城福建話和華語本土廣播, 應該不是問題, 剩下的轉播總台.

現在的988台標是紅色. 如果988推出檳城本土分台, 那麼988 94.5的台標會是檳城州旗的顏色, 那是淺藍, 白色和黃色, 表示988淺藍, 白色和黃色台標會是鎖定檳城的電台.
除了檳城之外, 988檳城本土分台94.5可以在霹靂北部和吉打部分地區收聽得到.

==988檳城節目內容==
* FM 96.1MHz Gunung Jerai: 跟總台98.8同步廣播
* FM 94.5MHz Bukit Penara: 檳城本土內容, 以檳城福建話和華語廣播
* FM 101.0MHz Bukit Larut: 跟總台98.8同步廣播

我希望星報集團可以把988檳城頻道變成988分台.

My suggestion of 988 to launch Penang Hokkien programs by launching sub station

988 FM is a Chinese radio station in Malaysia where broadcasts in Cantonese and Mandarin for Peninsular Malaysia (except Kelantan and Terengganu).

Previously I had think about Hokkien programs on Chinese radio station by suggesting RTM Mutiara FM to split one more station by broadcasting in Hokkien and Mandarin for Penang Chinese together with current Malay service.

In Penang, 988FM has two frequencies where can be received loudly and clearly. FM 96.1MHz from Gunung Jerai mainly covers Kedah and Perlis, but Penang is still able to receive 96.1 clearly, meanwhile FM 94.5MHz from Bukit Penara is for Penang. In terms of commercial driven, it is not good if 988FM main station handle two frequencies in Penang, perhaps it is not so effectiveness of advertising in Penang by relying 94.5 and 96.1.

In my opinion, Star Radio Group can launch 988 FM sub radio station in Penang by launching localized programs in Penang Hokkien and Mandarin to target Penang Chinese. Since 988 FM 96.1MHz can cover Penang clearly, so I think 988 FM can launch sub station on FM 94.5MHz in Penang.

Without ceasing 988 FM main station in Penang, for Penang Chinese listeners who wants to listen to 988 main programs, they can tune to FM 96.1MHz, but for people who would like to listen to 988 Penang programs, they can tune to FM 94.5MHz. This mean 988 FM 96.1MHz and FM 94.5MHz has different programs.

If 988FM launches Hokkien programs and Mandarin local programs on FM 94.5MHz, actually this can attract Hokkien speaking listeners. In addition, I may think 988 FM 94.5MHz local programs will concentrate on Penang content. 18 hours of Penang local programs from 6am till 12am, then 12am-6am will relay from main programs. The 988 local studio can be launched in Star Media Group Penang branch subject available.

60% Hokkien, 40% Mandarin. I don't think 988 can make local sub station as 100% Hokkien station. In terms of music, 988 FM 94.5MHz can play more Hokkien songs from the past until today. Moreover, 988 FM 94.5MHz can airs state news, local news, and international headlines in Hokkien language, meanwhile Mandarin news can relay from main station without making localization, unless 988 launches Penang news in Mandarin and Hokkien.

988 current logo is in red colour, but for Penang sub station, 988 Penang logo can be in light blue, white and yellow colour to represent the sub station logo is for Penang.

"9" in light blue, second "8" in white, and third "8" in yellow.

For the coverage, 988 Penang local station FM 94.5MHz is not only available in Penang, it is available in North Perak and parts of Kedah.

==988 Penang program==
* FM 96.1MHz Gunung Jerai: Main program as Klang Valley 98.8
* FM 94.5MHz Bukit Penara: Penang local program in Hokkien and Mandarin
* FM 101.0MHz Bukit Larut: Main program as Klang Valley 98.8

After 988 FM 94.5MHz is localized in Penang, we can call 988 local sub station as "988 Pinang" or "988 Pearl" or "Hokkien 988".

I wish Star Radio Group can consider to launch 988 Penang local station on FM 94.5MHz.

My opinion if RTM Mutiara FM launches Hokkien and Mandarin services.

In Malaysia, most of Chinese radio stations are broadcasting in Mandarin and Cantonese such as 988, My FM, Melody FM and One FM, meanwhile City Plus FM, goXUAN, Tea FM and Ai FM are fully broadcasting in Mandarin.

My FM also launches Hakka programme in Sabah where Hakka is the majority Chinese ancient, the response is quite good.

988, MY FM, Melody FM and one FM have Cantonse programs, meanwhile MY FM Sabah has Hakka programs. How about Hokkien programs on Chinese radio station, perhaps Hokkien is majority Chinese ancient in Malaysia?

Actually One FM and Melody FM were used to launch Hokkien programs before. First, one FM launched Hokkien "Happy Dedication" on Sunday 4pm on December 2011, but axed on April 2012 due to termination of DJ Lim Ching Miau for taking part Bersih 3.0 Rally. Then, Melody FM also had Hokkien program on weekdays from 4pm till 8pm, but the program was heavily restricted for Northern Malaysia only via FM 106.5MHz. Although it received positive feedback from Penang people, but it also received criticism, especially from the listeners who were listening to Phoebe evening show all the time because Phoebe show was axed on FM 106.5MHz after launching Hokkien programs. So, this forced Phoebe's listeners in Penang/Kedah to continue listen to her show via online or Taiping frequency FM 104.9MHz. At last, Melody FM's Hokkien program was axed, may be caused by low commercial driven. Since November 2014, Melody FM Hokkien slot was switched back to normal slot as nationwide.

The most majority demography of Hokkien Chinese is in Penang and Kedah, following by west Selangor, Tampin Negeri Sembilan and Northern Johor. RTM has full-fledged Mandarin radio service Ai FM to cover nationwide.

Chinese is considered majority race in Penang, especially Penang Island (except Balik Pulau) and Seberang Perai (except North Sbg Perai). Penang Chinese is majority Hokkien, but Hakka and Cantonese are minority ancient.

Due to failure of Hokkien programs on existing Chinese radio station, in my opinion, it is better to launch Hokkien programs on state/regional radio station, rather than nationwide radio station because state/regional radio station has its own good direction to target their listeners.

Now, I talk about a RTM Penang radio station, that's Mutiara FM. This radio station currently broadcasts in Malay language, 18 hours broadcasting are from RTM Penang studio, rest of 6 hours relay Nasional FM. To me, due to Chinese (Hokkien) is majority race in Penang, I think Mutiara FM shall be repositioned by launching Hokkien language service, alongside with current Malay service, but there are two hypothesis:

- 1st suggestion. Mutiara FM can launch Hokkien and Mandarin service at 50% (45% Hokkien and 5% Mandarin), but Malay service remains from 12pm till 9pm. So, Mutiara FM becomes trilingual radio station in Penang
* To me, the suggestion above is not logic and effective as Malaysian listeners don't really like to listen multi-language radio station. Formerly Time Highway Radio launched Chinese programs with Tamil, Malay and English, but short lived ever and axed down, left only Malay and Tamil

- 2nd suggestion, currently Mutiara FM operates with 3 frequencies. FM 95.7MHz Bukit Penara for northeast Penang Island, Seberang Perai and North Perak areas, FM 93.9MHz Gunung Jerai for Batu Feringghi, Tanjung Bungah and Teluk Bahang, and FM 90.9MHz Bukit Genting for Balik Pulau.

* Mutiara FM can split into two programs by dividing into their freqeuncies.

FM 95.7MHz Bukit Penara coverage are Chinese majority areas, Mutiara FM can launch Hokkien and Mandarin service on FM 95.7MHz to target Penang Chinese. So, the radio station can provide Penang information, local entertainment and news in Mandarin and Hokkien, even Teochew and Hakka can be considered.

Without reducing broadcasting hours of Mutiara FM original Malay service, FM 93.9MHz Gunung Jerai transmitter can remain 100% Malay program. I think if Mutiara FM Malay service wants to cover whole Penang (except Balik Pulau) by using Gunung Jerai transmitter FM 93.9MHz, RTM shall increase transmission power of FM 93.9MHz at least 1kW to cover Georgetown and Seberang Perai, BUT Nasional FM 93.9MHz which cause co-channel interference shall change its frequency to FM 94.1MHz. Meanwhile Balik Pulau 90.9 remains Malay programs, if want to avoid being clashed by Mix FM 91.0MHz from Gunung Jerai, Mutiara FM Malay service Balik Pulau frequency shall be changed to FM 100.7MHz.

With this suggestion, Mutiara FM has two radio station. First is Malay (93.9MHz, 90.9MHz), and second is Mandarin and Hokkien (95.7MHz).

For Hokkien and Mandarin service, I don't think it is necessary to launch another transmitter yet as Balik Pulau is Hakka Chinese area, FM 95.7MHz can be received there partially. For Batu Feringghi where cannot get FM 95.7MHz, I may think Mutiara FM Hokkien-Mandarin service can launch low power repeater in TM Batu Feringghi with same frequency.

When Mutiara FM launches Hokkien-Mandarin service, Penang Chinese has another choice, the radio station will be more localized. In addition, this may increase listenership of Mutiara FM if the programming is good enough. RTM Penang building needs to create another studio for Mutiara FM Mandarin-Hokkien service.

Penang Chinese can tune to FM 95.7MHz to listen Hokkien programs and Penang Mandarin service, can hear Hokkien songs on radio.

18 hours of Penang local programs in Hokkien (55%), Mandarin (45%) on FM 95.7MHz, rest of hours from 0000-0600 either automation from RTM Pulau Pinang Mutiara FM Hokkien studio, or relay from Ai FM.

That's the best suggested Hokkien radio program names.
- "Lu Ho? Penang"
- "Tsin Zhuu Shinn Bun"
- "Ho Kang Tau @ Mutiara FM 95.7"
- "Lu chiak bao beh" (food program)
- Hokkien Ho Gua @ Mutiara FM
- Jalan-jalan @ Tsin Zhuu 

I wish RTM Mutiara FM will be repositioned by launching Hokkien-Mandarin services (by splitting into two service with different frequency).

如果RTM檳城Mutiara FM重新定位並增設福建話廣播, 大家覺得如何?

上個部落格文章提及馬來西亞中文電台少了福建話節目, 這次我就想要發表我個人看法.

福建人是馬來西亞華人最多的籍貫, 談到地區方面, 福建人在檳城是占大多數. 其他福建華人多的地區包括雪蘭莪沿海地區, 霹靂太平, 吉蘭丹, 柔佛北部, 馬六甲, 森美蘭淡邊, 瓜拉登嘉樓和砂拉越古晉.

RTM除了有愛FM為華語電台之外, 沙巴東馬Sabah VFM也有華語節目, 然後砂拉越Red FM也有華語節目, 但是其他中文電台是以華語和廣東話為主, MY FM在沙巴都有客家語節目.

福建電台節目何時翻身?
 
RTM在檳城也有分台, 叫Mutiara FM, 這家電台目前是全天候以馬來語為廣播媒介語. 在我的看法, 由於檳城福建話華人占大多數, 然後華人是檳城人口占大多數的族群, 我認為Mutiara FM可以推出福建話和華語節目時段, 節目內容並專注在檳城. 這裡有兩個假設:

1. Mutiara FM並把福建節目增設在早上6點至中午12點, 然後晚上9點到12點繼續廣播, 反而馬來語節目保留, 從中午12點至9點, 變成雙語節目.

0600-1000: 福建節目
1000-1200: 福建/華語節目
1200-2100: 馬來節目
2100-0000: 福建節目

其實Mutiara FM雙語電台的作法未必是好事, 因為馬來西亞聽眾不是很喜歡收聽雙語或多語言性電台. 之前Time Highway Radio增設中文時段就是一個列子

2. 目前Mutiara FM在檳城廣播三個頻率. FM 95.7MHz Bukit Penara覆蓋全檳城 (除了Batu Feringghi), FM 93.9MHz Gunung Jerai覆蓋檳城北部和Batu Feringghi, FM 90.9MHz Bukit Genting覆蓋浮羅山背.

因為Bukit Penara和Gunung Jerai的覆蓋範圍相識, 所以Mutiara FM可以分成兩家電台. 第一是馬來語廣播, 第二是華語和福建話廣播.

FM 95.7MHz Bukit Penara可以改為華語和福建話廣播, 其餘的FM 93.9MHz和FM 90.9MHz保留為馬來語廣播, 但是如果Mutiara FM為了把FM 93.9MHz馬來語廣播覆蓋全檳城, 那跟這家電台有干擾的Nasional FM 93.9MHz必須立刻停止廣播並換頻率至FM 94.1MHz.

==Mutiara FM馬來語廣播==
* FM 93.9MHz: Gunung Jerai
* FM 90.9MHz: Bukit Genting

==Mutiara FM華語和福建話廣播==
* FM 95.7MHz Bukit Penara (華語和福建話, 各占50%)

FM 95.7MHz Bukit Penara的覆蓋範圍占大多數的族群是華人, 並口操福建話的.

談到Mutiara FM的華語和福建話廣播, 內容必須是專注在檳城. 如果一旦成立, RTM中文方言新聞部人員就開始忙碌, 以福建話報導新聞. Mutiara FM華語和福建話廣播也可能會有福建話地方新聞.

"珍珠福建新聞"... 聽起來名字好聽.... 18個小時的福建和華語廣播, 從半夜12點到6點就跑automation或轉播愛FM的時段.

檳城華人扭開FM 95.7MHz, 就聽到這些東西. "你正在收聽Mutiara FM 95.7 珍珠電台"

如果Mutiara FM分出中文電台, 那麼檳城人多出一個選擇.