RTHK Radio 1 is a news and entertainment station of Radio Television Hong Kong targeted at over 40 year-olds.

The public broadcaster started in 1928 and operates as an independent department in the government.

Asia Radio Today spoke to Deputy Head of Radio 1, Teric Cheung, to learn more about the station.

 1.Start by telling us more about Radio 1’s target audience and music policy.

RTHK Radio 1 provides a mix of news, current affairs and infotainment programming. The channel carries a variety of programmes such as current affairs phone-ins, interviews, talk shows, magazine programmes and music shows. For music shows, although mainstream canto-pop hits would be played in different programmes, most of the shows also play English and Chinese golden oldies, hits of the 80s & 90s or ballads as the majority. 

 2. Would you describe the station as music-led or personality-led and who are the biggest name DJs on Radio 1?

I would say Radio 1 is content-led. But if I must have to choose between music-led or personality-led, it must be the latter which is more appropriate. Famous DJs of Radio 1 include Timothy Cheng, Candy Chea, Ivan Ho & Chiu-wing Lam.

 3. The competition among Cantonese stations is fierce. Is this something you are constantly aware of and how to counter the threat from the other players.

Yes, the competition from other Cantonese stations is fierce. We have to constantly pay attention to the news, public mood and social trends to keep abreast of the pulse of the city.

 4. How is RTHK Radio 1 countering the threat from digital radio and music streaming platforms?

The main target audience of Radio 1 is not young people but the more mature group (40+). But we have to constantly pay attention to our programming, the content and personality grooming.

 5. How much of a disappointment is the decision not to proceed with the studio move at this time?

I think you are talking about the rejection of the new building project by HK legislative councillors. For this point, of course, the radio team members are disappointed as development of the station needs space and better-equipped studios.  At the moment, all we can do and we should do is concentrate on doing our daily programmes better.

 6. As a radio programmer, what other station in the world would you personally like to run?

None.

 7. What has been your biggest achievement at Radio 1?

For 2 consecutive years, Radio 1 has the highest ‘Yesterday Listenership’ among all radio stations in Hong Kong according to the Radio Audience Survey conducted by University of Hong Kong Public Opinion Programme.