The launch of visual radio by Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM) is the broadcaster’s new direction to move in tandem with transformation of the media, said Communications and Multimedia Minister Gobind Singh Deo.

He made the statement while officiating the mini launch of a programme to enhance RTM radio stations on Tuesday. Under the programme, radio broadcasts will be streamed live on TV via social media and broadband platforms.

He said the move was in line with the government’s aim to harness new technology in radio and television broadcasting to delivering important information quickly and effectively.

“This is a new thing, meaning recordings of special interviews can be done at state radio stations and thus there is no need to come to studios in Kuala Lumpur,” he said.

He stressed that journalistic ethics should be maintained and reporters must check the facts before broadcasts are done.

“Before, radio presenters were given a report to be read out but now they have to do ‘live’ broadcasts. This will be the difference between the old style and what’s to come in future,” he said.

Also present was the Director General of Broadcasting, Abdul Muis Shefii; Radio Program Director Norbai'yah Baharuddin and Strategic Broadcasting Deputy Director-General Nor Yahati Awang.

Deputy director of the Department of Broadcasting Malaysia's Current Affair Section, Saifuzzaman Yusop said the reforms implemented did not involve an increase in cost or staff as they leveraged digital broadcasting technology.