RI, Malaysia team up to boost news network

Fri, 06/13/2008 10:03 AM  |  Business

Indonesia and Malaysia on Thursday signed a Memorandum of Understanding to establish a joint television network which is expected to go to air in August.

Indonesian Information and Telecommunication Minister Mohammad Nuh (second right) said the agreement involved each country's state-owned television and radio stations -- TVRI and Antara of Indonesia and RTM and Bernama of Malaysia.

"We will use the month of August to launch the joint network because it's a good month for both countries, coinciding with the Independence days of Indonesia and Malaysia," he said.

Malaysian Information Minister Dato' Ahmad Shobery Cheek (second left) said the agreement prioritized an exchange of first-hand information from both countries which would alleviate biases.

The network will include news, features and documentary programs.

The agreement also paves the way for exchanges of journalists, staff and members of journalist organizations between the countries. -- JP

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