RTM has reversed its June 2026 decision to withdraw TV1, TV2, and TV Okey channels from the Astro platform starting July 1, ending nearly 30 years of partnership [1, 2, 3]. Instead, RTM will continue to broadcast these channels on Astro beyond the July 1 deadline [1, 4, 2, 3].
The broadcaster and Astro also announced an expanded collaboration that will include the addition of RTM News, Sukan+, and RTM's radio network on Astro’s platform in the near future [1, 4, 2, 3]. The TV1, TV2, and TV Okey channels will remain available not only on Astro’s satellite service but also on the NJOI free satellite platform and Astro’s streaming service, Sooka [1, 4, 2, 3].
RTM and Astro said the expanded partnership aims to broaden affordable access to public service content across multiple platforms. They said, "The media landscape today requires a more progressive, inclusive and future-oriented approach," reflecting the need to adapt to evolving technology and audience behavior [1, 4, 2].
The two will also deepen cooperation on local content production and talent development amid changing media technology and viewing habits [1, 4, 2, 3]. This comes amid pressure on Astro, which reported an 88% drop in net profit to RM1.56 million and a 6.2% revenue decline to RM659.62 million in Q1 FY2026 ending April 30, due to falling subscription income and competition from free-to-air TV and streaming services [1].
Astro will also not broadcast the 2026 FIFA Club World Cup for the first time in over 20 years, with RTM and Unifi TV holding Malaysian rights this year [1].
RTM’s reversal follows its May announcement to withdraw its channels, which would have ended nearly three decades of collaboration with Astro [1, 2]. Today’s announcement marks a renewed commitment to keep RTM content widely accessible on multiple Astro platforms.
Further details on the rollout timeline of new RTM channels and radio services on Astro are expected soon.
