RTM has reversed its decision to withdraw TV1, TV2, and TV Okey from Astro's platform, ensuring these channels will continue broadcasting beyond July 1. [1, 2] The broadcaster also plans to add RTM News, Sukan+ and its radio network to Astro’s lineup in the near future. [1, 3, 2]
The original announcement last month said RTM would cease carriage of its main TV channels on Astro starting July 1 after failing to reach agreement on carriage fees. [1, 2] However, the new agreement extends the partnership and includes plans to deepen cooperation on local content production and talent development. [1, 3, 2]
Astro’s free satellite TV service NJOI and its streaming platform Sooka will continue carrying TV1, TV2, and TV Okey as well. [1, 3, 2] Both parties said in a joint statement the media landscape "requires a more progressive, inclusive and future-oriented approach." [1]
Astro has been facing pressures from declining subscription revenue and stronger competition from free-to-air and streaming platforms. For the financial quarter ended April 30, 2026, Astro’s net profit dropped 88% to RM1.56 million while revenue fell 6.2% to RM659.62 million. [1] The television segment alone saw a 7.3% revenue dip to RM620.8 million. [1]
The expanded RTM-Astro partnership aims to ensure Malaysians retain affordable access to public-service content across multiple platforms. [1, 3, 2] The continued broadcast of RTM channels on Astro will remain effective starting July 1, preventing any disruption to viewers.
