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SINGAPORE : The two main Pay-TV operators here, SingTel and StarHub, are receptive to the new proposed measures by the Media Development Authority (MDA).
StarHub said it will work with relevant parties to discuss implementation details and work through potential issues that may arise.
SingTel believes that there will be better market outcomes in terms of promoting effective and sustainable competition in the Pay-TV market and delivering benefits to consumers.
The Consumers Association of Singapore (CASE) also supports the proposal. CASE executive director, Seah Seng Choon, said: "Today, various content in the Pay-TV industry is acquired on an exclusive basis. This restricts consumer choice.
"In addition, consumers are also disadvantaged by such exclusive arrangements as they have to incur additional costs to subscribe to content not available from their current providers. Should this continue, it will hurt consumers as is the case with the acquisition of rights to the Barclays Premier League programme.
"CASE would like content providers to look beyond their bottom line and to consider the consumer's point of view as they review their stand on the preliminary position issued today."
Analysts said if the new rules are implemented, the way to go forward for Pay-TV channels will be to offer unique packages and innovation.
Michael Kende, partner, Analysys Mason, said: "The innovation really takes place over the amount of hi-definition channels, bringing in foreign language channels to service immigrants, (and) putting new features into the network that allow people to start shows over from the beginning if they forgot to tape them."
Edward Ying, chief, Content & Media Services, SingTel, said: "We just launched the Barclays Premier League (BPL). If you notice carefully, we've introduced a new interactive (button) - you press a green button, you see this new interactive (page) that will come out and give you information and then you can respond.
"These are some of the things that we will do in this new regime to differentiate ourselves from the competition."
Offering programmes in 3D format is also another way for Pay-TV companies to differentiate themselves.
Mr Ying said: "If you recall, in the World Cup, we brought in 3D in a closed environment because today it's still very new. In fact, BPL - we intend to bring 3D as well, so slowly but surely I believe premium content - 3D - is one of the key drivers."
Cable & Satellite Broadcasting Association of Asia (CASBBA) said: "Today's MDA briefings have clarified a number of points that will seriously affect the Pay-TV business in Singapore and we need time to digest and consult our members before taking a formal position."
- CNA/al
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