RTM Asean Live
Television broadcasting in Southeast Asia is entering a new phase—one defined by regional collaboration, digital reach, and a growing demand for meaningful cross-border content. In this evolving media landscape, RTM ASEAN emerges as a strategic milestone, redefining how ASEAN countries connect through television.
Officially launched on August 1, 2024, RTM ASEAN is operated by Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM) and designed as a dedicated regional channel for Southeast Asia. Unlike conventional national broadcasters, RTM ASEAN focuses on promoting ASEAN as a unified region— economically, culturally, and socially—through a shared media platform.
RTM ASEAN Live focuses on regional news, culture, and events across ASEAN countries. For Malaysian news, visit Berita RTM.
As part of Malaysia’s public broadcasting expansion, RTM ASEAN brings together stories, perspectives, and developments from across the region under one umbrella.
The Strategic Importance of RTM ASEAN in Regional Media
Filling the Gap Left by Go ASEAN
RTM ASEAN effectively replaces Go ASEAN, a regional channel that ceased operations in 2017. While Go ASEAN laid early foundations, RTM ASEAN adopts a more structured and forward-looking approach, supported by modern production standards and a clearly defined regional mandate.
With stronger distribution and institutional backing, RTM ASEAN Malaysia positions itself as a long-term regional platform rather than a short-lived initiative.
Malaysia’s Role as a Regional Media Connector
By launching RTM ASEAN, Malaysia reinforces its position as a key media hub within Southeast Asia. The channel reflects Malaysia’s diplomatic role in ASEAN, its experience in public broadcasting, and its technical readiness to serve regional audiences.
RTM ASEAN is not merely a national export—it is a regional service designed for ASEAN citizens as a whole.
Broadcasting in English: A Strategic Choice
One of RTM ASEAN’s defining characteristics is its use of English as the primary broadcast language. This decision ensures accessibility across borders and aligns with ASEAN’s working language in diplomacy, education, and business.
By using English, RTM ASEAN is accessible to audiences in Malaysia, Singapore, Brunei, Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines, Vietnam, and beyond—without heavy localization barriers.
This choice also positions RTM ASEAN channel as a platform capable of representing Southeast Asia to global audiences.
The channel covers diplomacy, economy, and cultural festivals. For sports updates, see RTM Sukan.
Technology and Distribution Infrastructure
High-Definition Broadcasting as Standard
RTM ASEAN operates entirely in High Definition (HD), meeting modern viewing expectations. This enhances news clarity, visual storytelling, cultural features, tourism programs, and sports coverage.
Wide Multi-Platform Availability
RTM ASEAN is distributed via MYTV Broadcasting, Channel 101, Channel 123 (HD), Telkom-4 satellite, and digital platforms such as MYTV Mana Mana and RTMKlik.
This broad distribution ensures access for both urban and rural audiences across Southeast Asia.
Programming Philosophy: Inform, Connect, Represent
RTM ASEAN’s content strategy is built on three core pillars: information, regional identity, and cross-cultural understanding. Rather than prioritizing entertainment alone, the channel focuses on meaningful regional storytelling.
Flagship News and Current Affairs
Malaysia Tonight (MT), airing at 8:30 p.m., serves as RTM ASEAN’s flagship news program. It delivers Malaysian news, ASEAN developments, global affairs, business updates, sports, and cultural highlights with a balanced and professional tone.
Following this, On The Table (OTT) features policymakers, economists, academics, and industry leaders discussing ASEAN diplomacy, economic integration, sustainability, and social change.
World Around Us connects global developments with regional implications, helping viewers understand how international trends affect Southeast Asia.
Cultural Programming and Regional Identity
One of RTM ASEAN’s strongest contributions lies in showcasing ASEAN’s cultural diversity. Programs highlight traditional arts, regional music, culinary heritage, and cultural festivals.
Rather than emphasizing national borders, RTM ASEAN frames culture as a shared regional asset, strengthening a collective ASEAN identity.
Available online, RTM ASEAN Live connects Malaysians with regional developments. For entertainment channels, check Astro Go Shop.
Tourism, Economy, and Regional Growth
RTM ASEAN plays a direct role in promoting Southeast Asia as a global tourism destination. Content showcases Indonesia’s islands, Thailand’s heritage cities, Malaysia’s landscapes, Singapore’s urban innovation, and cultural destinations across the region.
Economic and business programs explore regional trade, investment opportunities, infrastructure development, and cross-border entrepreneurship—positioning ASEAN as a serious economic bloc.
RTM ASEAN and Regional Integration
Beyond television, RTM ASEAN functions as a tool of soft diplomacy. By encouraging dialogue, highlighting cooperation, and sharing regional success stories, the channel supports ASEAN integration and collaboration.
As the operator of RTM ASEAN, RTM news services and public broadcasting standards further strengthen Malaysia’s influence as a trusted regional communicator.
Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
Like all broadcasters, RTM ASEAN faces challenges from global digital platforms, shorter attention spans, and rapidly changing consumption habits.
However, with strong institutional backing and a clear regional focus, RTM ASEAN is well-positioned for future growth through interactive programming, digital engagement, and regional co-productions.
Conclusion
RTM ASEAN marks a defining moment in Southeast Asian broadcasting. It represents a shift from national-focused television to truly regional storytelling— where ASEAN is presented as a connected, dynamic, and globally relevant community.
Through thoughtful programming, wide accessibility, and a strong public service mission, RTM ASEAN stands as a cornerstone of regional media—informing, connecting, and representing Southeast Asia for years to come.