Member Press Release

ABS Announces a Strategic Partnership with One of the Largest Telecommunications Operators in Southeast Asia on ABS-2

Bermuda and Hong Kong, 17th May 2017 – ABS announced a strategic partnership with one of the largest telecommunications operators in SE Asia for the delivery of 500Mbps of IP backbone services on ABS-2 at 75°E.

“ABS is proud to be awarded this contract with one of the largest telecom operators in Southeast Asia for expansion IP backbone capacity. At half a gigabit per second, it represents a significant milestone for ABS for the delivery of GEO-based connectivity services. We strive to guarantee both affordability and fiber-like reliability,” Tom Choi stated. “Our partner had previously been using a non-GEO Ka-Band solution. ABS had heard numerous complaints from end-users in the market who could no longer tolerate the frequent outages and downtimes associated with non-GEO Ka-band backbone networks. We have the experience and a proven track record of delivering reliable, multi-gigabits of capacity to customers in the Asia Pacific to Africa regions. Despite all the recent LEO/MEO & Ka/V-band buzz in the market, ABS continues to demonstrate that traditional GEO-based C & Ku-band services provide the necessary high capacity delivered at affordable pricing with simple and low-cost user terminals. We expect to win many more contracts for replacement and expansion capacity from dis-satisfied customers of the NGSO hype.”

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About ABS

ABS is one of the fastest growing global satellite operators in the world. ABS offers a complete range of tailored solutions including broadcasting, data and telecommunication services to broadcasters, service providers, enterprises and government organizations.

ABS operates a fleet of satellites; ABS-2, ABS-2A, ABS-3A, ABS-4/Mobisat-1, ABS-6, and ABS-7. The satellite fleet covers over 93% of the world’s population across the Americas, Africa, Asia Pacific, Europe, the Middle East, CIS and Russia.

Headquartered in Bermuda, ABS has offices in the United States, UAE, South Africa, and Asia. ABS is majority owned by funds managed by the European Private Equity firm Permira

For more information, visit: www.absatellite.com

Viu launches in Thailand Premium Asian content tailored to Hallyu which sweeps the market with overwhelming affinity to online video viewing

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PCCW (SEHK:0008) – HONG KONG, May 17, 2017 – Viu, a leading pan-regional OTT video service by PCCW Media, is officially launched in Thailand today, bringing the service now to 15 markets including Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, India, Indonesia, the Philippines and the Middle East namely Bahrain, Egypt, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and UAE.

Premium Asian content with Thai subtitles, comprising the latest dramas and variety shows from Korea and Japan, will be delivered quickly after local telecast and can be easily accessed via Viu mobile app and www.viu.com website.

Ms. Janice Lee, Managing Director of PCCW Media Group, said, “The Hallyu which is sweeping across Asia is notable in Thailand and we are pleased to see that Viu has already recorded over 820,000 fans on Viu Thailand Facebook page even months before our launch. Leading K-communities and die-hard Korean fans in Thailand all eagerly await Viu’s service launch to access our vast library of premium Korean and other Asian content.”

Ms. Lee said, “Our recent research^ shows that 93% of online population in Thailand have watched videos on the web. We are fully leveraging this surging trend with a two-pronged approach of our services: ad-supported free viewing of their favourite shows and subscription services with express content access and premium features such as unlimited downloads, 1080p HD video quality and ad-free video viewing. As Thailand is one of the most highly Internet penetrated markets with Millennials who are very receptive to online video viewing and digital advertisements, we expect Viu Thailand to mirror the success we have in other Asian markets with healthy growth in subscription and advertising revenue in due course.”

Advertisers will be able to leverage Viu’s video platform to reach out to their target consumers. 80% of Southeast Asian digital consumers have been motivated to search for an item seen within online video advertising, and 62% have made a purchase as a result of seeing an online video advertisement#.

Ms. Piyanuch Meemook, Chief Digital Officer of Mindshare Thailand, a leading global media agency, said, “Viu is a perfect channel for us to reach out to target consumers by delivering highly engaging premium Asian content at a flexible format befitting their lifestyle. The advertisers would be more interested in supporting platforms providing free authorized content for their consumers, especially Millennials, who are Internet users 24/7. They can be effectively engaged while they are watching their favourite shows on Viu anytime, anywhere.”

As part of its regional expansion strategy, Viu has forged alliances with multiple leading telecommunications companies to extend its premium service to more users. Viu’s premium service in Thailand will be launched in partnership with Advanced Info Service (AIS), the country’s largest telecommunications company. AIS users can enjoy exclusive offers of Viu’s premium service and more.

Mr. Pratthana Leelapanang, Acting Chief Marketing Officer of Advanced Info Service or AIS, said, “We are committed to enhancing AIS digital infrastructure both mobile and fixed broadband for Thai viewers to enjoy advanced digital services and contents. One of AIS goals is to continue working with leading OTT platforms in global market to serve the need of every viewer segment, including those who are fond of Asian contents from South Korea and waiting for the original. Today marks another important step for AIS as Viu, a leading OTT service with a strong range of premium Asian content, trusts AIS in its quality mobile network and platform. Together, AIS and Viu are delivering popular digital entertainment from Korea to Thai viewers. AIS customers now can watch Korean series with Thai subtitle as fast as the following day after telecast in Korea. You can replay your favorite series and variety shows at your convenience.”

– # –

^ Acorn study commissioned by PCCW Media Group 2015
# Nielsen South Asia Cross-Platform Report 2015

About PCCW Media

The media group of PCCW is a leading, fully integrated multimedia and entertainment group in Hong Kong.

The media group operates the leading pay-TV service in Hong Kong under the Now TV brand delivering both self-produced and licensed content to its customers using advanced IPTV technology. Now TV offers more than 190 linear channels of local, Asian and international programming. Its premium content can also be accessed on-demand and on the go via Now Player app. It is also a leading producer of Chinese language news, financial news and sports programming in addition to Asian infotainment content which complements its wide portfolio of licensed movie and international television content.

The media group is also engaged in the provision of over-the-top (OTT) video service under the Viu brand in Hong Kong and other places in the region. In addition, MOOV is a hugely popular lossless music digital streaming service in Hong Kong.

Moreover, the media group operates one of Asia’s leading directories businesses under the Yellow Pages brand.

About PCCW Limited

PCCW Limited (SEHK: 0008) is a global company headquartered in Hong Kong which holds interests in telecommunications, media, IT solutions, property development and investment, and other businesses.

The Company holds a majority interest in the HKT Trust and HKT Limited, Hong Kong’s premier telecommunications service provider and leading operator in fixed-line, broadband and mobile communication services. HKT meets the needs of the Hong Kong public and local and international businesses with a wide range of services including local telephony, local data and broadband, international telecommunications, mobile, and other telecommunications businesses such as customer premises equipment sale, outsourcing, consulting, and contact centers.

PCCW also owns a fully integrated multimedia and entertainment group in Hong Kong, PCCW Media. PCCW Media operates the largest local pay-TV operation, Now TV, and is engaged in the provision of over-the-top (OTT) video service under the Viu brand in Hong Kong and other places in the region.

Through HK Television Entertainment Company Limited, PCCW also operates a domestic free television service in Hong Kong.

Also wholly-owned by the Group, PCCW Solutions is a leading information technology outsourcing and business process outsourcing provider in Hong Kong and mainland China.

In addition, PCCW holds a majority interest in Pacific Century Premium Developments Limited, and other overseas investments. To learn more about PCCW, please visit www.pccw.com.

For further information, please contact:

Ivan Ho
PCCW Limited
Tel: +852 2883-8747
Email: ivan.wy.ho@pccw.com

Marina Leung
Magnus Muses Limited
Tel: +852 3951 0222 / +852 9203 6203
Email: Marina.leung@magnusmuses.com

LEARN ACTING AND GIVE AUDITIONS FROM HOME WITH TATA SKY ACTING ADDA

First of its kind service on television launched by Ajay Devgn, Suniel Shetty and Mukesh Chhabra

Mumbai, May 16, 2017: Tata Sky, India’s innovative content distribution platform, announced the launch of its latest interactive service ‘Tata Sky Acting Adda’ powered by FTheCouch (FTC) today. This revolutionary service will not only offer acting lessons to all the Bollywood dreamers but also offer a platform where they can send auditions and try for their big break from the comfort of their homes. Tata Sky has partnered with FTheCouch (FTC), a Suniel Shetty and Mukesh Chhabra initiative, to create exclusive content with the best acting teachers and to source the best job opportunities across Movies, TV shows, Theatre, Advertising and more.

Tata Sky Acting Adda had a star-studded launch with National Award winner Ajay Devgn, Bollywood stalwart Suniel Shetty, the leading casting director of Bollywood, Mukesh Chhabra along with Tata Sky’s Chief Commercial Officer, Pallavi Puri, at a press conference in Mumbai. Its tagline ‘Bade Break Ka Bada Manch’ came to life with an engaging live performance depicting the journey of a Bollywood aspirant and culminating with the launch of an ad campaign featuring the legendary superstar Amitabh Bachchan.

Speaking at the launch, Pallavi Puri, Chief Commercial Officer, Tata Sky, said, “There is a hidden actor in many of us. But not everyone has the means to hone their talent or the access to find the right opportunities. With Tata Sky Acting Adda, we have tried to bridge this gap. This service will help acting aspirants get a little closer to their dreams of acting on any platform. That too without leaving their homes and landing in Mumbai, the way thousands do today.”

She further added, “For those not keen on facing the camera, there is a lot of exciting original content to keep them entertained like exclusive star interviews, behind the scenes & more.”

An exclusive service for Tata Sky subscribers, Tata Sky Acting Adda is the first service on Indian television to offer acting lessons delivered by experts from FTII, NSD, Barry John School of Acting and more. A unique curriculum has been designed for this service where each day, one can learn different aspects of D.R.A.M.A. – Dialogue, Roleplay, Action & Dance, Makeover and Auditions. There’s even special content like acting workshops for kids and short films over the weekend.

Speaking about his vision, Suniel Shetty says, “The media industry largely depends on new talent, which is the key word to unlock all doors for its growth. Having spent a quarter of a century in front of the camera, I strongly felt the need to streamline the behind-the-scenes processes, to provide new talent, the platform it deserves. Hence Acting Adda, powered by FTC was conceived and curated. To deliver this service, I couldn’t have found a better associate than Tata Sky, with whom we have already successfully partnered, for our ongoing Fitness service. Henceforth those in search of stardom, can start off by just clicking 111, rather than dashing off to Mumbai. From Acting to Auditions, we teach it all.”

Also at the launch Mukesh Chhabra said, “In my professional capacity as a casting director, having given breaks to Sushant Singh Rajput, Richa Chaddha, Fatima Sheikh, Sanya Malhotra, child artiste Harshali Malhotra, amongst many others, it’s a privileged next stop, for me to be associated with AAA and FTC, two fully integrated digital platforms. They are both bound to expand the base of talent, at a click of a button.”

The interactive segment of Tata Sky Acting Adda will offer audition details, a fun Bollywood quiz and exciting video based challenges to test acting skills and reward winners with gratification that may just take them one step closer to achieving their dreams of acting.

This service priced at Rs 59/- month will be available exclusively to Tata Sky subs on #111 & on Tata Sky Mobile app.

About Tata Sky

Tata Sky Limited (‘Tata Sky’) is a joint venture between the Tata Sons and 21st Century Fox. Incorporated in 2001 and launched services in 2006, Tata Sky is India’s leading content distribution platform providing Pay TV and OTT services. With the objective of connecting to the best content in the world on any budget, any screen, anytime and anywhere, Tata Sky was the first to launch multiple products and services that redefined the subscribers viewing experience in the country.

Tata Sky has been a pioneer in the HD Set top box segment having significant market share in the category. It has been continuously adding new channels and platform services across various genres and languages to beef up its content offering to cater to all segments of the audience. Tata Sky currently has its footprints spread across 1.5 lakh towns with over 17 million connections in India.

For more information on Tata Sky, visit www.tatasky.com

About FTheCouch

FTC Talent Media & Entertainment Pvt. Ltd operating under the brand name FTheCouch(FTC) is an online global platform that aggregates and connects talent, recruiters and service providers in the Entertainment Industry. Founded by Bollywood actor, Suniel Shetty & cofounded by Casting Director, Mukesh Chhabra in October 2016, FTC currently has over 35,000 registered talents from 80+ countries and 500 recruiters offering jobs in films, television, advertisements, theatre, live events, and workshops. The platform simplifies the discovery and hiring process in the entertainment industry by allowing new and established talent in acting, music, scriptwriting, direction, dancing, etc. to connect directly to opportunities with verified recruiters and projects.

FTC also has a production division called Original Production Studio, which specializes in custom content development for various platforms such as digital, d2h, television and broadcasting. Since its inception last year it has produced over 2000+ hours of original content across genres like fitness, acting, beauty, lifestyle, etc.

For Further information contact:

Tata Sky:
Nida Paloba – 09821017561
Nida.paloba@tatasky.com
Aditya Ravi – 09821299550
Aditya.ravi@tatasky.com

Ad Factors:
Arun Thankappan – 09930860706
arun.thankappan@adfactorspr.com
Gaurav Bhat – 09833057592
gaurav.bhat@adfactorspr.com

mm2 Entertainment and Turner Ink Co-Production Deal

Turner and mm2 to invest in 5 films over 3 years

SINGAPORE (May 15, 2017) – mm2 Entertainment Pte. Ltd., a wholly-owned subsidiary of mm2 Asia Ltd, (“mm2 Asia”), has entered into an agreement with Turner Asia Pacific to co-produce five cinematic films over the next three years with a multi-million-dollar budget.

The collaboration marks Turner’s first foray by the global media conglomerate into film production in Southeast Asia, and is part of a wider strategic effort to invest and produce more Asian content. These projects are expected to bolster its content pipeline for its TV brands including for the pan-regional general entertainment channel, Warner TV.

“We are very happy and proud to embark on this journey with Turner. We look forward to co-producing an exciting slate of films through this landmark collaboration. As we build on our strong base in the Asia market through our movie and media investments, we will continue to forge more such win-win relationships in the future,” said Mr Chang Long Jong, CEO of mm2 Asia.

Under the collaboration, mm2 Asia and Turner will complement each other in the areas of production, distribution and marketing of the films to maximize commercial value and audience reach.

Ricky Ow, President of Turner Asia Pacific, added: “This partnership makes a bold statement about Turner’s desire to increase its investment in local content for audiences in Southeast Asia. Together with mm2 Asia, one of the region’s top movie production companies, we’ve identified some great projects with genuine entertainment potential – and we can’t wait for them to start rolling out.”

The first film to be released under this collaboration is Wonder Boy, a biopic about the legendary singer and songwriter Dick Lee. It stars Benjamin Kheng, from the Singaporean band The Sam Willows, and is directed by both Lee and Daniel Yam. The film is scheduled to be released theatrically on August 3, 2017. The agreement also includes two other family films and two films from Jack Neo, the well-known Singaporean actor, host and director.

– End of Press Release –

For more information, please contact:

Angelin Ong, General Manager, North Asia, mm2 Entertainment Pte. Ltd.
angelinong@mm2entertainment.com

Nelson Mok, Director of International Business, mm2 Entertainment Pte. Ltd.
nelsonmok@mm2entertainment.com

James Moore, Director of Communications, Turner Asia Pacific
James.Moore@turner.com / Tel: +852 3128-3720

 

About Turner Asia Pacific

Turner Asia Pacific creates and distributes award-winning brands throughout the region, running 61 channels in 14 languages in 42 countries. These include CNN International, CNNj, CNN, HLN, Cartoon Network, Adult Swim, Boomerang, POGO, Toonami, Warner TV, Oh!K, TNT, TCM Turner Classic Movies, truTV, MondoTV, TABI Channel, and HBO, HBO HD and WB in South Asia. Turner manages the business of Pay- and Free-TV-channels, as well as Internet-based services, and oversees commercial partnerships with various third-party media ventures; it teams with Warner Bros. and HBO to leverage Time Warner’s global reach. Turner Broadcasting System Asia Pacific, Inc. (“Turner Asia Pacific”) is a Time Warner company.

About mm2 Asia Ltd.

Headquartered in Singapore, mm2 Asia is a producer of films and TV/online content. As a producer, mm2 Asia provides services that cover the entire filmmaking process, including securing financing, producing and distributing as well as securing advertising and sponsorship.

mm2 Asia further strengthened its competitive advantage through acquiring a majority stake in local 3D animation company, Vividthree Productions and event and concert production company, UnUsUaL Limited (SGX stock code 1D1), The Group also established its own cinema chain, mmCineplexes, through the ownership of five cineplexes in Malaysia.

In addition to Singapore, mm2 Asia also has a presence in Malaysia, Hong Kong, Taiwan and China through its group companies and/or strategic working partnerships. mm2 Asia has co-produced and/or distributed over 100 films across Asia since 2008.

In 2014, mm2 Asia made its debut on the Singapore Exchange Securities Trading Limited (SGX stock code: 1B0), becoming the first Singapore film production company to achieve this.

For more information, please visit www.mm2asia.com

About Wonder Boy 音为爱

WonderBoy-2017

Director: Dick LEE, Daniel YAM

Cast: Benjamin KHENG, Julie TAN, Constance SONG

Language: English

Synopsis

Set in 1970s Singapore, when rock music was banned and long-haired men were considered gangsters, Wonder Boy follows the story of Richard (Benjamin Kheng), a teenaged aspiring musician and the school’s social outcast, as he forms a band – The Wonder Boys – and embarks on his coming-of-age journey through youthful ambition, friendships, first love, and the uncertainty of impending adulthood.

《音为爱》故事讲述新加坡70年初,那时摇滚音乐受禁,而长发男都被视为流氓。Richard,一个抱着音乐梦想的青年如何开始他的音乐旅程。Richard来自一个富有的家庭,也因此和家境一般的同学有很深的心结。性格孤僻的他也在学校里遭孤立。但他的音乐天贼帮助他交上了兴趣相同的朋友,并和他们一起组成一个叫《The Wonder Boys》的乐队。成长的未知数伴随着Richard,开始一段充满理想,友情,和爱情的旅程。

This news release has been prepared by the Company and its contents have been reviewed by the Company’s Sponsor, Hong Leong Finance Limited (the “Sponsor”), for compliance with the relevant rules of the SGX-ST. The Sponsor has not independently verified the contents of this document.

This document has not been examined or approved by the SGX-ST. The Sponsor and the SGX-ST assume no responsibility for the contents of this document, including the correctness of any of the statements or opinions made or reports contained in this document. The contact person for the Sponsor is Mr Tang Yeng Yuen, Vice President, Head of Corporate Finance of Hong Leong Finance Limited, who can be contacted at 16 Raffles Quay, #40-01A Hong Leong Building, Singapore 048581, Telephone: 6415 9886.

ABS APPOINTS PAOLO PUSTERLA AS THE MANAGING DIRECTOR OF EUROPE

Bermuda and Hong Kong, 15th May 2017 – ABS has appointed Paolo Pusterla as the Managing Director of Europe, a role created as part of its growth in the region. In this position, Paolo is responsible for leading sales and business development all across Europe. He is based in Geneva, Switzerland.

Tom Choi, Chief Executive Officer of ABS said, “We are pleased to welcome Paolo as the new head for this region. Paolo has a comprehensive understanding of the video industry and rich portfolio experience. As head of sales for Europe, he will further enhance the ABS business and contribute to our development of new business for this market. He will also be a member of the Executive Committee.”

Prior to joining ABS, Paolo has held various business development roles with EBU, where he was responsible for expanding the Eurovision network globally. He has also held various leading positions with Eutelsat and Inmarsat.

Paolo is a MBA graduate at INSEAD Fontainebleau France and holds a degree in Electronic Engineering with studies from UCLA, USA.

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About ABS

ABS is one of the fastest growing global satellite operators in the world. ABS offers a complete range of tailored solutions including broadcasting, data and telecommunication services to broadcasters, service providers, enterprises and government organizations.

ABS operates a fleet of satellites; ABS-2, ABS-2A, ABS-3A, ABS-4/Mobisat-1, ABS-6, and ABS-7. The satellite fleet covers over 93% of the world’s population across the Americas, Africa, Asia Pacific, Europe, the Middle East, CIS and Russia.

Headquartered in Bermuda, ABS has offices in the United States, UAE, South Africa, and Asia. ABS is majority owned by funds managed by the European Private Equity firm Permira.

For more information, visit: www.absatellite.com

Astro launches “NJOI Now” to offer free video streaming service

Digital start-up offers FREE entertainment, news and sports content live, on demand and on mobile

Kuala Lumpur, May 11, 2017 – Astro Malaysia Holdings Berhad (Astro) today launched a new video streaming service, NJOI Now, available on mobile and online to provide Malaysians free access to on demand entertainment including box sets, live sports and breaking news.

NJOI Now is designed to meet the digital lifestyles of consumers today, offering complete flexibility with no fuss. NJOI Now is the only mobile app in Malaysia to provide free on demand content, box sets and signature titles from Astro Prima, Astro Maya HD, Astro Oasis, Astro AEC, Astro Vaanavil; the best of live local sports on Astro Arena; latest news on Astro Awani as well as exam tutorials on Astro Tutor TV. Just download and start watching the best of local and international content on the mobile and online.

Prime Minister of Malaysia, Dato’ Seri Mohd Najib Tun Haji Abdul Razak launched NJOI Now today. His speech was read by Datuk Seri Dr. Salleh Said Keruak, Communications and Multimedia Minister, who was accompanied by Dato’ Rohana Rozhan, Group Chief Executive Officer of Astro.

Prime Minister of Malaysia, Dato’ Seri Mohd Najib Tun Haji Abdul Razak said he hoped for more digital content to be created on platforms available such as NJOI Now, that will encourage viewers to embrace and take advantage of the digital economy that is being promoted by the Government.

“It is no surprise youth are the largest group that utilise digital platform. They are always looking out for the latest information at an affordable cost. And it is them whom we encourage to be entrepreneurs, to take advantage of the digital economy that is being promoted by the Government such as the launch of the Digital Free Trade Zone recently.”

Dato’ Rohana Rozhan, Group Chief Executive Officer of Astro said, “Since its 2011 launch, NJOI has had an unprecedented take-up rate with the privilege of serving 1.8 million households today, and a near future potential reach of 12 million viewers. This is as we execute on our commitment to enable the increasingly digital, connected and on demand lifestyle of our customers.

With the launch of NJOI Now, all Malaysians can “NJOI” online and offline access to content on all screens, at home and on individual mobiles. This free service includes access to over 2,200 titles of movie and drama box sets, even tutorials which may be downloaded and stored on the devices and watched at convenience, in addition to live sports and news, ecommerce via Go Shop as well as the viewer’s favourite channels.

Our NJOI Now promise is to strive to always better serve our customers by providing control, choice content and connectivity.”

Live stream on demand content for free

NJOI Now offers its users live sports on Astro Arena including S.E.A Games 2017, free access to premier football leagues on Astro Supersport1 from 11 -31 May, latest breaking news on Astro Awani, high quality educational content on Astro Tutor TV, progressive Islamic programmes on Astro Oasis, popular variety shows, TV dramas and signature local shows on Astro Prima, Astro Maya, Astro AEC and Astro Vaanavil. At the same time, users can enjoy personalized shopping experience on Go Shop channels and catch-up on missed episodes of their favourite shows, or watch a selection of on demand movies for free.

NJOI Now users can also access entire box-sets of top Malay drama hits like Suri Hati Mr Pilot, Isteri Tuan Ihsan, Lara Aishah; popular variety programme, Meja Bulat Sepahtu; Chinese epic drama, The Legend of Mi Yue, and Tamil travelogue, KL To KaraKaidu, where the content list will be refreshed monthly.

Embedded inside NJOI Now is an intelligent recommendation engine that pushes relevant content to individual users. NJOI Now has a content download feature which allows users to download selected content to be viewed offline without requiring an internet connection or incurring additional data usage.

Prepaid options available for users who want a wider variety of premium content

For individuals who want to access a wider variety of premium content, NJOI Now offers prepaid options for instant access to additional channels and titles, including Astro WARNA, Astro RIA, Astro Wah Lai Toi, Hua Hee Dai, latest movies on Astro First and Astro Best, and many more from the on demand section. Users can also create their own watch list, enjoy HD content and get more content via NJOI Now’s existing ‘pay as you use’ prepaid – allowing users to buy only the content they want via NJOI Prepaid from convenience stores or credit cards on the app.

NJOI Now is available to all Malaysians, and is supported on multiple devices, currently with up to two devices, per signed in user. Download the NJOI Now app from the Google Play Store or Apple Store on the tablet or smartphone or livestream via njoinow.com.

Please refer to the appendix for NJOI Now’s channel listing, select on demand titles and features details.

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For more information:
Tammy Toh | Head/VP, Communications, Astro
Email:tammy_toh@astro.com.my | Tel:+603-9543 6688 EXT:2046

Azaria Loh | AVP, Communications, Astro
Email:azaria_loh@astro.com.my | Tel:+6019-6682278

Big adventures. Memorable characters. ‘Tata Sky Kids Cinema’ brings children’s films from across the world

~First ever exclusive kid’s movie service in India curated by Monica Wahi

Mumbai, May 6, 2017: Tata Sky, India’s innovative content distribution platform, today announced the launch of ‘Tata Sky Kids Cinema’, an ad-free service dedicated exclusively to showcasing the best of children’s movies from around the world. Launched this May, Tata Sky Kids’ Cinema’ promises to thrill, entertain and enlighten not only children but adults too with a carefully-curated library of content by Children’s Film Specialist – Monica Wahi, featuring a range of Indian and International movies in multiple languages.

‘Tata Sky Kids Cinema’ is free of cost for all Tata Sky subscribers featuring a mix of delightful animated and live action features and short-films, most of which have never released in India. Over 150 award winning and highly acclaimed movies will run all year round ranging in language from Hindi, Gujarati, Kannada, to English, Japanese, French, German, Russian and many more. Subscribers will get to watch some hidden gems with movies featuring Irfan Khan, Anil Kapoor, Anupam Kher, Naseeruddin Shah apart from internationally acclaimed animation films such as Studio Ghibli’s Ponyo, My neighbor Totoro, Kiki’s delivery Service; Oscar nominated Secret of Kells and The Grufallo and the recently released adaptation of Roald Dahl’s Revolting Rhymes.

Being the first ever exclusive Kids based movie service in India, Tata Sky Kids Cinema aims to fill the gap of providing content that is fun and meaningful for both parents and kids. The service is a mix of the content that parent’s desire their kids to watch and engaging and fun that children at all age group want to watch.

Arun Unni, Chief Content Officer, Tata Sky, said, “Good children’s cinema often transcends language and age. Tata Sky Kids Cinema is a thoughtfully curated movie destination, where not only children but adults can indulge in a mystic and magical world of cinema, which entertains and enlightens at the same time. For parents today, who lack the time to watch meaningful and fun movies with children at home, this is a great bonding experience and helps to create some interesting conversations between kids and parents. We are confident that with ‘Tata Sky Kids Cinema’, children will indulge in thrilling experiences and create cherished memories.”

Monica Wahi, Founder-Director, South Asian Children’s Cinema Forum said, “Good Cinema helps children grow – creatively, intellectually and as good human beings. It opens their mind to new perspectives and enables them to experience the world with their hearts. I am proud to be associated with ‘Tata Sky’s Kids Cinema’. We have handpicked a wide variety of imaginative and compelling films. From artistically diverse animations to spellbinding adventures and magical fantasies, from hilarious comedies to more contemplative coming of age stories. There is something here to discover for all ages. I’m sure that adults will enjoy these films just as much as children.”

The service will be available 24×7 and can be watched across multiple platforms such as SD, HD+, Tata Sky On-Demand and the Tata Sky Mobile App. Every month new films will be added to the bouquet.

About Tata Sky
Tata Sky Limited (‘Tata Sky’) is a joint venture between the Tata Sons and 21st Century Fox. Incorporated in 2001 and launched services in 2006, Tata Sky is India’s leading content distribution platform providing Pay TV and OTT services. With the objective of connecting to the best content in the world on any budget, any screen, anytime and anywhere, Tata Sky was the first to launch multiple products and services that redefined the subscribers viewing experience in the country.

Tata Sky has been a pioneer in the HD Set top box segment having significant market share in the category. It has been continuously adding new channels and platform services across various genres and languages to beef up its content offering to cater to all segments of the audience. Tata Sky currently has its footprints spread across 1.5 lakh towns with over 17 million connections in India.

For more information on Tata Sky, visit www.tatasky.com

For Further information contact:

Tata Sky:
Nida Paloba – 09821017561
Nida.paloba@tatasky.com
Aditya Ravi – 09821299550
Aditya.ravi@tatasky.com
Ad Factors:
Arun Thankappan – 09930860706
arun.thankappan@adfactorspr.com
Gaurav Bhat – 09833057592
gaurav.bhat@adfactorspr.com

GEM to Simulcast ‘I Can Sing in Japanese!’ and ‘Your Home is My Business! Returns’ in Asia

SINGAPORE (May 11, 2017) – GEM hits a high note this month with the premiere of two popular series at the same time as Japan. Viewers across Southeast Asia can look forward to the highly anticipated singing contest ‘I Can Sing in Japanese!’, as well as the sequel to the original hit drama ‘Your Home is My Business! Returns’.

“GEM is the jewel of North Asian entertainment and our valued partnership with Nippon TV ensures that our viewers have unprecedented access to Japan’s top titles without having to wait,” said Virginia Lim, SVP and Head of Content, Production and Marketing, Sony Pictures Televisions Networks, Asia.

Hosted by multi-talented celebrity/artiste Nakai Masahiro and TV announcer Yukari Nishio, ‘I Can Sing in Japanese!’ spotlights aspiring non-native Japanese singers with a passion for singing Japanese songs. This season, contestants will be assessed by a panel of celebrity judges comprising R&B and pop singer May J; singer-songwriter Tatsuya Ishii; as well as famed musician Tetsuya Komuro, who is widely hailed as one of the most influential figures in the Japanese music industry. ‘I Can Sing in Japanese! Spring 2017’ premieres on GEM at the same time as Japan on May 13 at 6pm (5pm JKT/BKK).

As an added bonus to this season’s premiere of ‘I Can Sing in Japanese!’, GEM will also broadcast a TV special just one hour prior at 5pm (4pm JKT/BKK), which features the shortlisted finalists selected from GEM’s inaugural Southeast Asia auditions held in Singapore. Filipina singing sensation, Krissha Viaje, won the hearts of the judges on the day, and was chosen as a finalist to represent Southeast Asia in Tokyo. Don’t miss the action!

Switching gears to drama, Nippon TV’s original hit series ‘Your Home is My Business!,’ which stars Ms. Keiko Kitagawa, returns for a special episode on Friday, May 26 at 8pm (7pm JKT/BKK) on GEM at the same time as Japan.
Enjoying international acclaim, the series follows the adventures of genius real estate agent Machi Sangenya, who, more often than not, gets tangled up in the personal problems of her clients. The series is set two years after Machi left Teiko Real Estate, when she returns to work for two weeks as a temporary employee with the task of saving the struggling company. Machi closes one deal after another with uniquely colorful clients that include a Chinese man with a passion for hoarding Japanese properties, an elementary school child star who buys a home for his father, and a poverty-stricken single mother.

For more information on GEM channel and the latest broadcast details, visit http://www.gemtvasia.com/ or join the conversation on social media (@GEMtvasia).
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CARTOON NETWORK GREENLIGHTS ‘UNIKITTY!’ SERIES FROM WARNER BROS. ANIMATION

– Get Ready for an Endless Explosion of Creativity and Positivity –
– Starring Fan-Favourite Character from Global Blockbuster The LEGO® Movie –

CLICK HERE FOR HIRES ART & GIFS

CLICK HERE FOR HIRES ART & GIFS

HONG KONG – Cartoon Network is transporting viewers to a joyous kingdom full of sparkle matter, happy thoughts and the occasional rage-out in Unikitty!, an all-new animated series produced by Warner Bros. Animation. The series follows Unikitty, the beloved character from The LEGO® Movie, and a whole cast of friends into a world full of adventure, excitement and dance parties.

As ruler of the kingdom, Unikitty has busy days full of royal responsibilities. Unikitty is most interested in making sure everyone is happy and ridding the kingdom of negativity, but don’t misunderstand her optimism – she is one kitty not to be crossed. While she may be full of boundless energy and creativity, Unikitty is a force to be reckoned with if anyone gets in the way of spreading her positive vibes, especially if anyone makes her little brother and best friend, Puppycorn, sad. Also living in the castle are Dr. Fox, the resident scientist, and Unikitty’s trusty bodyguard, Hawkodile. Through it all, Unikitty and her friends make sure that every day is the happiest and most creative ever.

Turner’s Cartoon Network has long partnered with The LEGO Group to bring compelling entertainment to kids with series and specials like LEGO DC Comics: Batman Be-Leaguered, LEGO Star Wars™: The Empire Strikes Out, LEGO Star Wars: The Yoda Chronicles, Legends of Chima, NINJAGO: Masters of Spinjitzu and Mixels. Unikitty! is also the latest series from Warner Bros. Animation produced for Cartoon Network, joining Teen Titans Go! and Justice League Action.

Unikitty! features veteran voice actors Tara Strong (Teen Titans Go!) and Grey Griffin (Be Cool Scooby-Doo!) along with Kate Micucci (Be Cool Scooby-Doo!), Roger Craig Smith (Regular Show), Eric Bauza (The Adventures of Puss in Boots) and H. Michael Croner (Review). Dan Lin (The LEGO® Batman Movie, The LEGO® Movie), Phil Lord (The LEGO® Batman Movie, The LEGO® Movie), Christopher Miller (The LEGO® Batman Movie, The LEGO® Movie), Roy Lee (The LEGO® Batman Movie, The LEGO® Movie), Jill Wilfert (The LEGO® Batman Movie, The LEGO® Movie) and Sam Register (Teen Titans Go!) serve as executive producers, with Aaron Horvath (Teen Titans Go!) as supervising producer. Edward Skudder (Dick Figures) and Lynn Wang (Star vs. Forces of Evil) serve as producers.

About Cartoon Network Asia Pacific

Turner’s Cartoon Network, the number one kids’ channel in Asia Pacific, offers the best in original animated content including the multi-award-winning global hits Ben 10, The Powerpuff Girls, Regular Show, The Amazing World of Gumball, Adventure Time and We Bare Bears.

Cartoon Network is available in 29 countries throughout Asia Pacific and is currently seen in more than 135 million pay-TV homes. Internationally, it is seen in 192 countries and over 370 million homes, and is an industry leader with a global offering of the best in award-winning animated entertainment for kids and families.

The brand is known for putting its fans at the center of everything by applying creative thinking and innovation across multiple platforms. Cartoon Network also reaches millions more through its websites, games and apps, including Cartoon Network Watch and Play and Cartoon Network Anything. Cartoon Network, sister company to Boomerang, POGO and Toonami, is a brand created and distributed by Turner, a Time Warner Company.

About Turner Asia Pacific

Turner Asia Pacific creates and distributes award-winning brands throughout the region, running 61 channels in 14 languages in 42 countries. These include CNN International, CNNj, CNN, HLN, Cartoon Network, Adult Swim, Boomerang, POGO, Toonami, Warner TV, Oh!K, TNT, TCM Turner Classic Movies, truTV, MondoTV, TABI Channel, and HBO, HBO HD and WB in South Asia. Turner manages the business of Pay- and Free-TV-channels, as well as Internet-based services, and oversees commercial partnerships with various third-party media ventures; it teams with Warner Bros. and HBO to leverage Time Warner’s global reach. Turner Broadcasting System Asia Pacific, Inc. (“Turner Asia Pacific”) is a Time Warner company.

About Warner Bros. Animation (WBA)

Warner Bros. Animation (WBA) is one of the leading producers of animation in the entertainment industry, producing and developing projects for multiple platforms, both domestically and internationally. WBA’s TV series include Justice League Action and Teen Titans Go! for Cartoon Network; Be Cool Scooby-Doo!, Bunnicula, Dorothy and the Wizard of Oz, The Tom and Jerry Show, New Looney Tunes and Wacky Races for Boomerang; Mike Tyson Mysteries for Adult Swim; Right Now Kapow for Disney XD; Green Eggs and Ham for Netflix; and Young Justice: Outsiders for the upcoming DC-branded digital service. As home to the iconic animated characters from the DC Comics, Hanna-Barbera, MGM and Looney Tunes libraries, WBA also produces highly successful animated films — including the DC Universe Animated Original Movies — for DVD, Blu-ray® and digital media. One of the most-honored animation studios in history, WBA has won six Academy Awards®, 35 Emmy® Awards, the George Foster Peabody Award, an Environmental Media Award, a Parents’ Choice Award, the HUMANITAS Prize, two Prism Awards and 20 Annie Awards (honoring excellence in animation).

LEGO, its logo, and the brick & knob configuration are trademarks of The LEGO Group. © 2017 The LEGO Group.

Publicity Contact
James Moore, Director of Communications, Turner Asia Pacific
James.Moore@turner.com
Tel: +852 3128-3720

ZEE Q4 FY2017 Financial Results and Earnings Release

The Board of Directors of Zee Entertainment Enterprises Limited (ZEE) (BSE Code: 505537, NSE Code: ZEEL.EQ, Reuters Code: ZEE.NS, Bloomberg Code: Z IN) in its meeting held on May 10, 2017, has taken on record the audited consolidated financial results of ZEE and its subsidiaries for the quarter and year ended March 31, 2017.

Please find attached the Financial Results & Earnings Release for your reference and necessary use. Please let us know in case you require additional information on the same.

The results are also available on the company’s website www.zeetelevision.com

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Media Contact:
Jayshree Kumar / Arantxa Gonsalves
Corporate Brand – Zee Entertainment Enterprises Limited (ZEEL)
Mobile: +91-9769286661 / +91 9820336890
Landline: +91-22-7106 1367 / 7108 5464
Email: jayshree.kumar@zee.esselgroup.com / arantxa.gonsalves@zee.esselgroup.com