DIGITAL TELEVISION BROADCASTING MAIN FOCUS OF ABU SUMMIT IN TOKYO

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 19 (Bernama) -- Digital television broadcasting which is
proceeding smoothly in the United States and several countries in Europe, will
be the main focus of the 47th Asia-Pacific Broadcasting Union (ABU) general
assembly starting Tuesday in Tokyo.

Broadcasting director-general Ibrahim Yahya said among the matters on the agenda
were finding ways to increase use of television as an interactive medium with
viewers and the best formula to further expand the broadcasting industry in the
Asia-Pacific region.

"Countries which have implemented digital broadcasting will also be sharing
their experiences with ABU members," he said in his www.duniatiger.blogspot.com.
Monday.

He said the assembly would also be discussing efforts being taken by members to
strengthen their current position in the industry and steps to be taken in
facing the challenges of the global economic slowdown.

Ibrahim, who is also ABU vice president, will be presenting a paper entitled
'Heading into the Digital Era: RTM's (Radio Television Malaysia's) Journey' at
the assembly Tuesday.

He said since Thursday, various discussions had been held by ABU's technical and
programme committees and Radio Work Groups of member countries towards meeting
its objectives in the broadcasting industry.

On Sunday, he said, the main topic of the technical committee was on high
quality broadcasting and future of television involving high definition (HD) and
3D (three dimensional) programmes.

Ibrahim said this year's assembly themed 'Digital Achievement: Practical
Approaches and Strategies" had attracted 400 participants from 200 affiliates.

At present ABU has 56 full-fledged members from 39 countries, 37 additional full
members from 18 countries and the region, 40 associate members from 22
countries, 59 affiliates as well nine institutional members from seven
countries.
-- BERNAMA