News

Myanmar launches int'l channel, targeting global audiences

YANGON, Mar 31, 2010 (Xinhua via COMTEX) -- Myanmar International TV (MITV), which is also MRTV-3 channel, started airing its regular program on Wednesday, targeting international audiences.

The MITV beams documentaries and current affairs on Myanmar in English language 24 hours daily through some satellites -- Thaicom- 5 (Asia), Hot Bird-8 (Europe), Galaxy-19 (North America), Apstar-V (Asia Beam) and Optus D2 (NANAZ Beam), said the State Myanmar Radio and Television (MRTV), which is a parent organization of the MITV.

Its round-the-clock programs also include local and international news in English and entertainment and popular Myanmar films and videos subtitled in English.

MITV beams reach North America, Europe, Australian, New Zealand, China, India and Indochina regions and arrangements have been made for its round-the-clock programs to cover the whole world.

The parent MRTV will also air the channel for domestic audiences from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. daily, the sources said.

MRTV-3 started trial run of MITV beginning Feb. 11 as a new channel transmitting daily 24-hour programs.

The MRTV, established 60 years ago, began with four channels including Myanmar and English languages to telecast news, education and entertainment programs since color television was introduced in the country in 1980.

Meanwhile, the military-run Myawaddy TV, which is next to MRTV, started telecasting in March 1995 and has morning and evening services at present.

In cooperation with China Central Television (CCTV), Cable Networks News (CNN) and the Japan Broadcasting Corporation (NHK), there are satellite news available with the MRTV.