November 05, 2009 16:03 PM

RTM Trying To Increase Programmes For Ethnic Minorites

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 5 (Bernama) -- Shortage of programmes and limited channels have contributed to the lack of programmes for ethnic minorities on television, Dewan Rakyat was told Thursday.

Deputy Information Communication and Culture Minister Datuk Joseph Salang Gandum said the government had asked companies to produce more such programmes andc that digitalisation was still in progress.

"We are doing our best. When digitalisation is completed, only then we can provide better coverage to viewers," he said in reply to Datuk Seri Mojilip Bumburing @ Wilfred (BN-Tuaran) who wanted more programmes and airtime for ethnic minorities to strengthen national integration.

Salang said more programmes like dramas involving ethnic minorities were being increased via slots over Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM).

"We already have special programmes during festive occasions like Hari Gawai and others," he said.

Songs and programmes on ethnics in Sabah and Sarawak like Kadazan and Iban were also being broadcasted by radio stations.

-- BERNAMA

We provide (subscription-based) 
news coverage in our Newswire service.