Radio, TV Service Licence Available To All: Rais

Radio and television service licences can be applied for by all individuals, regardless of race and religion, but the issuance is subjected to the terms and conditions set by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC).

Information Communication and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Dr Rais Yatim said companies set up in Malaysia could also apply for these licences.

“The basic criteria in evaluating the applications are the applicant’s financial capability, target market, a strong business plan, wide coverage area, experienced and credible management, type of content offered and the ability to portray local content for a varied community,” he said in his written reply in the Dewan Rakyat Wednesday.

Liew Chin Tong (DAP-Bukit Bendera) had wanted to know the efforts taken to promote Malaysia’s plural society in terms of ownership and competition in the radio and television industry, as well as the criteria set by MCMC in issuing licences.

Rais said the operation of radio and television services was based on the needs of the Content Application Service Provider Individual Licence as provided for under the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.

The Malaysian Insider