Astro buys THR.fm station for RM30mil

ASTRO All Asia Networks plc (Astro) has acquired the entire shareholding of Radio Lebuhraya Sdn Bhd, the owner and operator of radio broadcaster THR.fm, from Anaza Sdn Bhd for RM30mil. 

Astro said in a statement yesterday the acquisition would enable the company to optimise its radio service offerings to advertisers through expanded radio channels as well as across various multimedia platforms. 

“Listeners of THR.fm will benefit as the mutual promotional support available across the group’s platforms will enhance event, talent and content development for the station,” said Airtime Management & Programming Sdn Bhd (AMP) executive director Borhanuddin Osman.  

In particular, he added, the company also saw opportunities to grow the product offerings for both the Malay and Indian market segments.  

AMP is the radio arm of Astro.  

It currently operates seven FM terrestrial stations, including the country’s top Malay, Chinese and English stations, with a total reach of some nine million listeners. 

According to the latest Nielsen Media Research sweep in October 2004, THR.fm has 3.1 million listeners, making it the second most listened to station in Malaysia with about 14% share of radio listeners, and about 5% of the radio advertising expenditure. – Bernama 

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