TV programs scrambled

TV programs scrambled

From Kompas

Last year I was compelled to purchase a satellite disc to prevent my children from watching satellite TV at our neighbors house. Although at the time RCTI scrambled some of its programs (they could not be received normally), especially direct relays of soccer matches and widescreen films, the disc was a help because of the greater choice of channels it offered, including foreign telecasts.

The problem is that of late nearly all the private TV stations have been doing the same thing. Close observation reveals that only fairly good programs that are popular with viewers are scrambled.

RCTI did not do it in the beginning, SCTV started doing it after its anniversary in 1997, ANteve mainly did it with Famili 100 (Family 100) when the quiz program began to gain popularity, instead of live soccer and other sports programs, but finally it too has joined the pack. TPI only scrambles its cartoons and Indosiar scrambles live relays of boxing matches.

Why are these programs scrambled?

Is it not an egotistical attitude? Is there a covert business interest at stake? If it is to protect their telecast rights, what about their other programs? Does it cost more to show Famili 100 than to screen English and Spanish league matches? Do not force us who live in areas that are remote from information and who are leading a frugal life, to subscribe to Indovision.

I hope my complaint will get a response from the information minister. The much proclaimed equal distribution is no use if even such TV programs are begrudged.

FAHMI RAIS

Simpong, Luwuk Banggai