In pursuit of 1 Malaysia, Rais reviews Astro’s licence
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 2 — In what could be a major policy U-turn, Datuk Seri Rais Yatim is reviewing Astro’s exclusive 20 year operating licence as his ministry battles with the pay-TV company to include more government-friendly and 1 Malaysia programming.
The review carries grave implications on the government’s investment policies and guarantees at a time when foreign direct investment is falling in Malaysia apart from revenues for Astro, which is partly owned by state asset manager Khazanah Nasional Berhad.
It could also affect main shareholder T. Ananda Krishnan’s plans to re-list mobile operator Maxis Bhd, a RM2 billion exercise that would lead to liquidity in the local bourse after a request from prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak.
It is not known if the Cabinet is aware of the licence review. Astro began operations in 1996 after completing its state-of-the-art All-Asia Broadcast Centre in Bukit Jalil, Selangor and was listed on the Bursa Saham in 2003. Astro’s share price closed RM3.45, down 3 sen, yesterday. - + selanjutnya
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