World Cup matches on RTM’s TV1 and TV2

KUALA LUMPUR: RTM “kicked off” the much-awaited FIFA World Cup Germany 2006 in a big way – by announcing that TV1 and TV2 will be screening 47 of the 64 matches in the tournament. 

RTM deputy-general of broadcasting Datuk Aminah Din said: “Football is the most popular sport in the world and billions will be tuning in to watch the World Cup this June. We are happy to bring a tournament that many Malaysians are looking forward to.”  

At an event to launch RTM’s marketing campaign for the tournament here yesterday, Aminah noted that the France World Cup in 1998 registered a viewership of more than 37 billion.  

Information Minister Datuk Zainuddin Maidin, who was the guest of honour at the event, said: “This year’s motto for the tournament – A Time to Make Friends – is very interesting to me.  

GET THE BALL ROLLING: Zainudin kicking a football to launch the RTM marketing campaign inKuala Lumpur as Maxis Consumer Business head Thomas Schniker (centre) looks on.

“In my opinion, it reflects the true spirit of the game; that besides winning there are all these other important elements involved.” 

He said the tournament was a platform for the people to forget their differences and remember their common interest – football. 

Zainuddin also called on Malaysia to emulate the winning qualities of the teams at the tournament. 

“Every football team that qualifies for the World Cup deserves our admiration,” Zainuddin said. 

“It takes immense skill, passion, determination and an unquenchable thirst for achievement. Most of all, it takes teamwork for all teams to get to where they are.” 

The World Cup tournament begins June 9.