Viacom International Media Networks (VIMN), the US media conglomerate, is bringing back its MTV channel for Thai audiences with support from AppleTool Co and MCOT Plc.
"Thailand is a key strategic market to help us distribute not only MTV but also other channels across Asia. The strong growth of the Thai media market is providing opportunities for content providers as well," said Indra Suharjono, the managing director of VIMN Asia.
AppleTool, a satellite TV arm of VR1 Media Group, will operate MTV Thailand with localised content for Thai viewers.
The company has hired a satellite transponder from MCOT, the broadcaster of Modernine TV.
The MTV channel will be officially launched next Wednesday on the C-band and Ku-band satellite platforms, which provide access to TrueVisions' free-view package.
Amarit Sukhawanit, the managing director of MTV Thailand, said the firm is spending 100 million baht to promote its channel among youth audiences, who are the main targets for advertisers.
The strong brand of MTV will attract more viewers. MTV Thailand plans to enhance its programmes for the youth market including MTV VJ Hunt. The veejays will become brand personalities.
MTV was broadcast on the TrueVisions platform until Smith Pienlert, who won the rights to operate the channel, decided to end it in 2011.
MCOT has also got a license from VIMN to broadcast Nickelodeon channel, a US children's and family channel.
Anek Permvongseni, president of MCOT, said Nickelodeon will strengthen its content to cover every segment including children, first jobbers and working people. The channel is different from other children's channels in its blend of localised and imported content.
"We are very confident in this strategic alliance that will strengthen our channel line-up including the upcoming digital TV," Mr Anek said.
The Nickelodeon channel will be distributed across major platforms including TrueVisions, PSI (C-band) and DTV satellite (Ku-band).