Jakarta chosen for 'Star TV' base
Jakarta chosen for 'Star TV' base
JAKARTA (JP): The Hong Kong-based television station Star TV announced yesterday it has selected Jakarta as its Southeast Asian headquarters.
Star TV officials said they chose Jakarta because of Indonesia's advanced satellite communications and its "open- skies" policy, which creates a business environment in which both local and foreign programmers can flourish.
"Jakarta is an obvious base for our Southeast Asia operations, especially considering Indonesia's pioneering role in Asian satellite communications," Star TV's chief executive Gary Davey said.
The television network has appointed David Dennis as its Regional Director for Southeast Asia, who will be based in Jakarta.
Indonesia's achievements in satellite communications has enabled Star TV to expand its operations in Southeast Asia using the Palapa B2P Satellite, starting from March 4. Previously, its programs were transmitted through the Asia Sat 1 only.
In the second half of 1995, Star TV will begin broadcasting from its new satellite, Asia Sat 2, distributing new, encrypted digital channels. A multi channel package designed specifically for audiences in Indonesia is envisaged, including movies, services, popular music video channels, sports, news and entertainment programs from Asia and around the world. Star TV and its Indonesian partner, the Indovision Group, will also collaborate to produce entertainment programs in Bahasa.
Indovision, which is operated by PT Matahari Lintas Cakrawala, is TV Star's sole pay-television licensee for Indonesia.
Indonesian viewers can see the Palapa-delivered Star TV service through a mix of Star TV's Prime Sports, Channel [V] and Star Movies programs. During the day the service is free, and anyone with a satellite dish capable of receiving signals from the Palapa B2P can see it. During the evening hours, when Star Movies is shown, the transmission is encrypted and viewers must have a Star TV-authorized receiver to watch the films. However, Indonesian direct-to-home customers will not have to pay subscription fees for the duration of the service.
David Dennis said yesterday that the purpose of opening the regional headquarters was to localize its activities on major regional audience groups to as close as possible to the viewers it serves.
He said Jakarta was chosen as the representative office for numerous good reasons, including Indonesia's communication developments and policies, business opportunities, and population.
"With its well-established Palapa satellite platform and open skies' policy, Indonesia has taken a long-term view of the broadcasting industry and has not imposed restrictions that might have inhibited its growth," he said.
He added that Bahasa also became a consideration because it is being increasingly used in some other countries.
According to him Star TV will provide real opportunities for Indonesians, especially artists and producers. "We will promote Indonesia to a large section of the world, by broadcasting its products."
Star's services can be enjoyed by setting up a receiver, which cost Rp.750,000 ($300) each. (yud/sim)