Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM) needs to conduct a study to identify the changing taste and interest of the public so that the 71-year-old broadcasting station continues to be relevant.

Communications and Multimedia Minister Salleh Said Keruak said the study would ensure the implementation of transformation and get the public to follow its programmes.

“This is because the method of delivery or presentation which made the public go gaga this season may not be suitable with their taste and interest in in the following seasons,” he said at a special assembly in conjunction with the 71st RTM Day at Angkasapuri in Kuala Lumpur today.

RTM celebrates its birthday anniversary every April 1. It operates three television channels, eight national radio channels, 24 state radio channels and district radio channels.

RTM has been through transformation which include reforms made via radio, television and new media in terms of delivery techniques, set design, presentation skills and the quality of content.

Salleh said the momentum for change should not stop it because change is dynamic and RTM needs to continuously implement the transformation.

“Transformation in broadcasting is not easy because there are many obstacles and challenges during the journey.

“However, I am confident that the close cooperation between the ministry and RTM will succeed in achieving the objectives of the transformation.”

RTM would continue to develop human capital and talent via joint efforts with the Public Services Department to facilitate the promotion of staff.

Salleh said special schemes such as specialist producers and specialist engineers were also being studied.

At the event, RTM was named as Host Broadcaster of the 2017 Kuala Lumpur SEA Games from Aug 19 to 31.

Also present were Deputy Minister Jailani Johari, ministry secretary-general of Sharifah Zarah Syed Ahmad and RTM director-general Abu Bakar Abdul Rahim.

- Bernama