Hongkongers need an independent public broadcaster to vent their frustrations
Albert Cheng says the sorry state of our digital radio service offers a chance for an operator to step in and create a truly public service that can help ease social tensions
All three commercial digital audio broadcasters have, one after another, surrendered their licences. Some pundits suggest that this spells the end of digital radio in Hong Kong. They miss the point. This is actually a blessing in disguise.
Digital Broadcasting Corporation, Metro Broadcast and Phoenix URadio have returned to the authorities a total of 13 wavelength bands designated for digital radio. Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development Greg So Kam-leung is supposed to spend the next six months mulling over what to do with these resources.
As another Hong Kong broadcaster gives up on digital radio, when will the trigger finally be pulled on this idea?
This is a golden opportunity for Hong Kong to develop a genuine public broadcasting system that can allow civil society to flourish. Apart from the trio, the government broadcaster, RTHK, has also been given five digital audio bands. Taken together, these 18 digital channels can be used for alternative and innovative programming to make a difference.
Third Hong Kong digital radio station folds after struggling to make ends meet
Before Hong Kong returned to Chinese rule, the colonial authorities came up with a bold plan to transform RTHK from a government department into an independent public broadcaster. The proposal, which aimed to enhance editorial independence and improve the management structure, was recommended by the then Broadcasting Review Board in the 1980s. In 1990, the government commissioned a study to look into the legislative changes needed.
Sadly, the plan was flatly rejected by a core group of RTHK people eager to cling to their generous civil service terms. This was selfish. Opponents of the plan should be held responsible for RTHK’s current sorry state of affairs.