Astro must seek the approval of the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) before raising the price of its paid television channel services, Information Communication and Culture Minister Rais Yatim says.

"The payment for basic services charged by Astro to its subscribers will not be changed. For whatever addition, Astro must discuss first with the MCMC before deciding to increase its service charges," he said.

rais yatim pc 020709 01 Rais said the ministry would discuss with Astro on the issue and the notice issued by Astro to its subscribers was considered invalid as it did not get permission from MCMC beforehand.

He said this to reporters after attending the Film Industry Appreciation Night 2011 organised by the National Film Development Corporation (Finas), in Petaling Jaya last night.

Astro recently announced that it would carry out a price adjustment on the packages offered effective July 11, with the subscription based on the subscribers' package selection.

Some subscribers may be charged an increase of between RM1 and RM15 a month, while some would enjoy a reduction of between RM4 and RM14.95 a month.

On the development of the national film industry, Rais said the ministry, through Finas, had allocated about RM15 million to boost the production of creative and animated films.

The minister also said he would consider amending Section 6 of the Finas Act in a bid to "boost the industry", but refused to comment further.

- Bernama