Jamal Abdullah, Head of Creative Content, Sarawak Media Group Sdn Bhd (right), together with top local director Datuk Yusof Haslam, during the TVS event in KL.
Once known as a homeboy, fast-growing TV Sarawak (TVS) headquartered in Kuching, has now taken new and bold steps to spread its wings to the whole South-East Asia region with its soon-to-come creative programmes.
The young TV station has already made its entry into Singapore, Indonesia and Japan with some innovative tie-ups.
The move sets the stage for the unveiling of TVS’s bold vision for 2026, introducing an exciting slate of new content, which includes dramas, entertainment, documentaries, and sports coverage, while also presenting its all-encompassing 360° sponsorship packages designed for brands and strategic partners.
Since its inception in 2020, TVS has been steadfast in its mission to elevate Borneo’s identity onto the national stage. By weaving local heritage and culture into world-class storytelling and combining the strengths of traditional broadcasting with cutting-edge digital platforms, TVS has positioned itself as a dynamic media force reaching audiences across Malaysia and beyond.
As TVS expands its presence nationwide and in the region, the broadcaster has set its sights on strengthening brand visibility and providing comprehensive advertising and sponsorship solutions.
According to Datuk Norhyati Ismail, Chairman and President of TVS / Sarawak Media Group, “Our priority is to enhance TVS’s visibility in the national market while introducing fresh, innovative content for 2026. By rolling out new programming alongside integrated sponsorship opportunities, we aim to attract new partners and elevate TVS’s influence both regionally and nationally.”
Meanwhile, Jamal Abdullah, Head of Creative Content, Sarawak Media Group Sdn Bhd, added that domestic changes will take place in TVS and its coverage will include more national content.
"We want to move away from branding focused on Sarawak only. In terms of language, we ensure that it can be understood by all Malaysians, regardless of dialects.
"If there is a dialect, we must have a Malay translation. We are improving that effort to conquer viewers nationwide," he said at the TVS Spotlight 25/26 launching event on Wednesday (Oct 1).
According to him, in addition to maintaining the authenticity of the Borneo identity, the initiative to combine programme variations from the Peninsular and Sabah is also an important priority for TVS.
"We want programmes like this so that we can match the viewer's experience at home. Like the 1Malaysia concept, that is the mission we are determined to achieve," he said.
Jamal shared that TVS has also gone abroad to network for the purpose of exporting programmes or joint venture projects that can take its brand far.
"We have started it, but for now it is more about changing the programmes. The response has been quite encouraging, especially for documentary and magazine shows.
"Like ethnic and adventure series, that is the kind of content many are asking for. For example, Channel News Asia (CNA) stations in Singapore and also other top channels in Japan and Jakarta," he said.
There was also another major announcement during the event. TVS has announced that Malaysia's much-loved super cop series "Gerak Khas" has joined its ranks.
The announcement of the new cop series was also attended by legendary Malaysian director Datuk Yusof Haslam, who had helmed the show for more than two years and will be returning to the director's seat again.
TVS in its new 2026 plans, will introduce "Gerak Khas 2.0", alongside various local dramas, reality shows, documentaries and live coverage of international sporting events such as the Harimau Malaya matches and the Carabao Cup. They are also the host broadcaster for the 2025 SEA Games in Bangkok and the 2027 SEA Games, which will also be held in Kuching.
Some of the TVS presenters at the event.
At the heart of TVS’s identity also lies its commitment to celebrating Borneo’s rich culture and heritage. Signature programmes such as the Sarawak Regatta and Gawai Festival Celebration showcase traditions and stories that resonate not only with Sarawakian audiences but also with viewers throughout Malaysia and across Asean.
On the other hand, TVS also aims to play a pivotal role in strengthening Malaysia’s creative ecosystem by nurturing local talent and production houses. To date, the broadcaster has partnered with over 300 local vendors, generating more than 3,000 job opportunities for creative professionals and industry players.
“TVS is deeply committed to growing the local creative and advertising industries. By empowering homegrown talent and fostering collaborations, we aim to fuel the creative economy and build a sustainable media ecosystem for Malaysia,” said Norhyati.
With a rapidly growing audience base stretching from Perlis to Sabah and an expanding digital footprint, TVS aims to strengthen its position as one of Malaysia’s key broadcasting players.
