Hubbry Logo
NTV7NTV7Main
Open search
NTV7
Community hub
NTV7
logo
8 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
NTV7
NTV7
NTV7
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia

Key Information

Evolution of Media Prima
1974The New Straits Times Press is founded
1984TV3 is launched
1985Renong Berhad acquired TV3 and NSTP from Fleet Group
1993Malaysian Resources Corporation Berhad acquires TV3 and NSTP from Renong Berhad
1995MetroVision is launched
Mega TV began operations
Akademi TV3 is founded
Grand Brilliance is founded
Ambang Klasik is founded
1998ntv7 is launched
1999MetroVision ceased operations
2000Profitune is founded
Akademi TV3 renamed as the Malaysia Institute of Integrative Media (MIIM)
NSTP divested Berita Publishing to Alaf Positif
2001Mega TV ceased operations
MRCB announces its intent to divested equity interest in TV3 and NSTP and transferred them to Profitune
2002Profitune renamed as Media Prima
Ambang Klasik ceased operations
2003Corporate restructuring of MRCB and divestiture of TV3 and NSTP by MRCB is completed
Media Prima began operations and acquires MetroVision
Channel 9 is launched
TV3 divested MIIM to SAL Group of Colleges
2004MetroVision is relaunched and renamed as 8TV
2005Channel 9 ceased operations
Media Prima acquires ntv7 and Channel 9
Fly FM is launched
2006Hot FM is launched
Channel 9 relaunched and renamed as TV9
2007Tonton is launched
Gua.com.my is launched
2008Primeworks Studios is founded
2009One FM is launched
2011Emas is launched
MIIM ceased operations
2012Media Prima Digital is founded
2014Emas ceased operations
2015Media Prima acquires Copyright Laureate which owns Ultra FM and Pi Mai FM
2016Kool FM is launched
CJ Wow Shop is launched
2017Media Prima acquires REV Asia Holdings
Drama Sangat is launched
2018Media Prima Radio Networks rebranded as Ripple Media
2020Media Prima Omnia is launched
CJ Wow Shop renamed as Wow Shop
2021Ripple Media rebranded as Media Prima Audio
Kool FM and One FM rebranded as Buletin FM and 8FM respectively
2022Molek FM is launched
2023Buletin FM rebranded as Kool 101
8FM renamed as Eight FM
2025Kool 101 reverted into Kool FM

Natseven TV Sdn Bhd, operating as NTV7 is a Malaysian free-to-air television channel owned by Media Prima Berhad.[1][2] The third private commercial TV station in Malaysia at the time of its launch,[3] the network focused on the urban area with various types of programmes, dramas and news. As of October 2021, NTV7 is now become the second most-watched television station in Malaysia with about 15% of its viewing share, together with TV9, despite the declining viewership of 2 free-to-air television channels.[4]

History

[edit]

Establishment and early history (1998–2005)

[edit]

The Sarawak company Nasional Televisyen (NTV), from Kuching, was given the green light from the Malaysian government on 5 June 1996. Under the conditions, the station would broadcast nationwide, 18 hours a day in various languages, with a minimum quota of 60% for national content.[5] The station was owned by Mohd Effendi Norwawi's company Kenyalang Jasa Sdn Bhd.[6][7][8] Encorp Group, another company that also owned by Effendi, holds 60% of equity interest in NTV.[9][10] It planned to launch on 31 August 1997,[11] but postponed to 25 December 1997.[12][13]

Prior to NTV7's launching,[14] the channel launches its official website in March 1998.[15]

The channel was launched on 7 April 1998 under the entity of Natseven TV Sdn Bhd by Effendi, broadcasting daily from 6 am to 1 am the next day.[16][17] Its launching ceremony was officiated by the then-fourth Prime Minister, Mahathir Mohamad on 22 May 1998.[18] At the time of its establishment, its headquarters was located at Hicom-Glenmarie Industrial Park in Shah Alam, Selangor. It also had a studio in Kuching, Sarawak.[19][20][21] Its first day started with the then-prime minister attending a prayer service for Eid ul-Adha prayers at a mosque in the state of Kedah.[22] NTV7 at launch employed a staff of 250 people, with broadcast centres at Shah Alam in Selangor and had a transmitting network of ten stations, reaching peninsular Malaysia and the cities of Kuching in Sarawak and Kota Kinabalu in Sabah. There were already plans outlined for the station to go national "within a year". The slogan "Feel Good with NTV7" had the aim of creating "a happy and more enlightened" Malaysia.[23] For years, the channel started and ended with the James Brown song I Feel Good, which became a part of NTV7's branding.

In 2001, NTV7 began using a variation of the Circle 7 logo used by the American broadcast network ABC for its several owned-and-operated and affiliated stations; the logo would stay in use until 2018.

On 19 January 2003, NTV7 aired a special tribute to the nation's longest-serving prime minister, Mahathir Mohamad at 8pm.[24]

In 2004, NTV7 was restructured to make the motorsports events as its key revenue generator.[25]

In 2005, NTV7 planned to be listed on the main market of Bursa Malaysia, but it would said that it "depends on the nation's media industry's current situation".[26]

In May 2005, NTV7 in collaboration with telecommunications company, Celcom to air 24 hour news and current affairs on internet under the My News Network banner.[27][28] NTV7 announced that it would begin the operations of the first Studio in the City in Galeri Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur by the year-end.[29]

In its early history, the channel offered a wide variety of programming which targets the Malaysian urban demographic including drama, comedy, entertainment, game shows, children's programmes, anime, documentaries and movies. There were also news bulletins in English, Mandarin and Malay through the 7 Edition,[30] Mandarin 7, and Edisi 7 brands, respectively.

Acquisition by Media Prima (2005–2018)

[edit]

In October the same year, Media Prima Berhad announced its acquisition of NTV7 under a price of RM90 million, effectively making the latter one of its subsidiaries. As a result, it operates from Sri Pentas, Petaling Jaya from that year onward along with three other private television channels in Malaysia: TV3, 8TV and TV9.[31][32][33]

In December 2005, NTV7 has completed the implementation of voluntary separation scheme (VSS) on its 338 staffs who receives the scheme.[34][35]

In 2006, NTV7 collaborated with Singapore media company Mediacorp to produce Chinese language programmes. It also said that it would produce local content as a preparation to exploring the export market in the future.[36][37] It also projected its financial performances and intended to be debt-free.[38][39][40]

The channel dominates 25% of television advertising market in March 2007.[41]

On 6 September 2007, NTV7 along with its sister channels, TV3, 8TV and TV9 made available for online viewing via Media Prima's newly-launched streaming service, Catch-Up TV, which later rebranded as Tonton.[42][43][44] At the same time, NTV7 announced that it would spend RM40 million to strengthening its operation and gaining a stronger viewership by 2008.[45]

In 2009, NTV7 recorded highest viewership rating from 800,000 up to 1 million viewers, mostly its Chinese viewers, per day.[46] It also collaborated with the Branding Association of Malaysia to held the branding workshop called "Be Branded, Be Seen' to help the Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) to strengthening their brands through media.[47]

In the third quarter of 2013, NTV7 recorded its viewership ratings through the two programmes aired – The Undercover and The Game 2.[48]

Introduction of home shopping block (2016–2021)

[edit]

On 1 April 2016, a teleshopping block bought by the Korean conglomerate CJ Group through subsidiary CJ E&M Co Ltd called CJ WOW Shop (now Wow Shop) was broadcasting across Media Prima channels. Several Media Prima channels (especially NTV7 and TV9) were more affected by the changes. It attracted public criticism on social media as a large part of the daytime schedule was replaced by the block, in which these slots had been previously dedicated to reruns, religious programming and kids programming.[49][50]

On 1 November 2020, CJ Wow Shop was rebranded into Wow Shop after Media Prima bought the remaining 49% stake in the teleshopping network previously held by CJ Group.[51]

Modern Malaysia era (2018)

[edit]

From 5 March 2018, Media Prima attempted a new brand positioning for NTV7. The channel tried to target "Modern Malaysia" as a contemporary station through its new content line-up, including new Turkish Telenovelas; as well as its new slogan Feel It.[52][53][54][55][56] The relaunch saw major changes as it became a dominated English-Malay language channel, with the channel name read as "n-t-v-tujuh" instead of "n-t-v-seven." Also, infomercial programming was reduced upon the channel's rebranding.

Chinese content reduction attempt

[edit]

Upon the March 2018 rebranding, Chinese content on this channel was reduced to selected Chinese dramas from Hong Kong and China along with Mandarin news bulletins, with much of the remainder transferred to sister channel 8TV (which also attempted to reposition as Media Prima's sole all-Chinese channel on the same day). Originally, Mandarin 7 was supposed to be cancelled in May 2018 to complete its plan of moving all Chinese content to a single dedicated channel. However, when the 2018 General Election occurred, the bulletin became Malaysia's second-most watched after TV3's Buletin Utama (the said spot was formerly held by Berita TV9). Due to the Chinese community's positive response, Media Prima decided to reshuffle NTV7's news programming in June instead of axing Chinese news. In this format, only one news bulletin per language was aired on the channel with a single Mandarin newshour, while retaining half-hour editions in Malay and English.

Reverting to Chinese content (2018–2020)

[edit]

The rebrand caused confusion among viewers, particularly Chinese communities who tuned in to NTV7 after finding out that most of its former programmes were moved to 8TV. Overall Chinese viewership was believed to be surprisingly lower.[citation needed]

As a result, on 31 December 2018, the former CEO of Media Prima Television Networks, Johan Ishak, said that the Mandarin variant of CJ Wow Shop would be broadcast on the channel and replace the Malay variant.[57] The move was part of the company's restructuring NTV7 by axed English and Malay-language shows, dropped the channel nomenclature, moved some (including those from TV9) to the main TV3. It also brought back the channel's perception as a Chinese channel; yet the channel's Mandarin, Malay and English news bulletins remained unchanged.

Reruns of axed NTV7 shows were then aired on TV9 after the former's retreat while slogan "Feel it" was removed.

Mandarin 7 discontinuation (2020)

[edit]

On 7 June 2020, Mandarin 7 aired its final edition and was merged into 8TV Mandarin News the following day. 8TV Mandarin News was also extended to one hour due to high ratings during the Movement Control Order (MCO) and COVID-19 pandemic in Malaysia.[58][59]

Programming change, Ministry of Education collaboration and takeover (2020–present)

[edit]

On 1 November 2020, CEO (now former) of Media Prima Television Networks, Dato' Khairul Anwar Salleh announced that NTV7 would be targeted for ages 15–28 by focusing on magazines, information and current affairs programs to meet the public needs, while Korean dramas would stop airing and all Chinese programmes have finally been integrated to 8TV. Korean variety show Running Man remains on this channel along with homeshopping block Wow Shop.[60][61]

On 18 November 2020, DidikTV@ntv7, an educational programming block was introduced by Ministry of Education from 23 November 2020 until 16 January 2021. It formerly ran from 9 am to 12 pm every Monday to Friday.[62] It was later split into two timeslots (9 am – 12 pm and 3 pm – 5 pm) on 27 January 2021, resulting the educational programming to be aired daily.[63]

DidikTV KPM

[edit]
Main article: TV Pendidikan
DidikTV KPM

On 12 February 2021, as the Ministry of Education will have a one-year term with Media Prima,[64] it was announced that NTV7 will be rebranded through a takeover as a fully educational TV channel known as DidikTV KPM starting 17 February; the new channel will focus on educational content based on SPM curriculum and co-curriculum. It would also provide news focused on education, edutainment programs, and content produced by the students. The channel will have 17 hours of airtime and will run daily from 7 am to 12 am.[65][66]

On 16 February 2021, Media Prima confirmed that ntv7 will not be defunct and its ownership remains unchanged, while the current team will be focusing on DidikTV KPM.[67][68][69] Following the closure, many of longtime NTV7 viewers bid farewell to the channel on their respective social media accounts.[70][71][72]

Since the DidikTV KPM launch, the main newscasts Edisi 7 was ceased entirely in replacement with Buletin Didik while 7 Edition moved to digital platforms; though it was later discontinued in May due to DidikTV KPM slot. Homeshopping block Wow Shop was ceased from airing on the channel. Soal Drama and Running Man were transferred to TV9 since 21 February 2021. Some of the original programming such as Trio On Point, Topik@7 (now Topik), Breakfast@9PM, Kail X and Jurnal Resipi will continue to air.

During the DidikTV@7 segment, the channel airs documentary, drama (weekends only), lifestyle, and cartoon programmes.[73] Only certain programmes broadcast in Chinese language such as Let's Cycle (season 1) hosted by Rickman Chia and Baki Zainal.

From 15 to 30 September 2021, according to the viewership statistics from Media Prima Omnia, the viewership share for NTV7 has increased from 2% to 15%, making the channel become the second most-watched television station in Malaysia after TV3 (which the viewership share for TV3 is about 17%), together with TV9, which has the same viewership share of 15%.[74][4]

Media Prima announced on 15 October 2024 that the news operations of all of its television networks, including NTV7 or DidikTV will began broadcast at the company's Balai Berita starting 21 October after more than two decades operated at Sri Pentas, Bandar Utama, Petaling Jaya, Selangor.[75][76][77] On 12 March 2025, 15 days after the Sri Pentas building were closed, all of the company's TV networks logo, including NTV7, were removed from its former building.[78]

Programming

[edit]
Main article: List of programmes broadcast by NTV7

Logo history

[edit]
  • Fourth logo of NTV7, although the Circle 7 logo remains, the 'ntv' caption is removed and blue is replaced by purple in the logo. It was also used as an on screen bug until 15 August 2017 before it was replaced by the 2012 logo when it started broadcasting in 16:9. (2006 – 15 August 2017)
    Fourth logo of NTV7, although the Circle 7 logo remains, the 'ntv' caption is removed and blue is replaced by purple in the logo. It was also used as an on screen bug until 15 August 2017 before it was replaced by the 2012 logo when it started broadcasting in 16:9. (2006 – 15 August 2017)
  • Fifth logo of NTV7. (16 August 2017 – 4 March 2018)
    Fifth logo of NTV7. (16 August 2017 – 4 March 2018)

Criticism and controversies

[edit]

"Bangsa Asing" Remark

[edit]

During the fourth episode of the "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?" Malay Edition Game Show Programme aired on 8 June 2000, Host Jalaluddin Hassan was seen as remarking that he was amazed that a "Bangsa Asing" (Foreigner) was able to answer a question about a Malay movie, when a Malaysian Chinese named Eugene from Malacca became the only person out of the 10 contestant to pass the preliminary round by arranging P. Ramlee's movie sequence in the correct order. This incident sparked anger among its viewers especially some New Straits Times readers, who in their letters delivered to the newspaper company, said felt upset about the host's remark and that both the Television Company and the programme host should apologise. It drew concern from NTV7's chief executive officer Shazalli Ramly, who in a statement faxed to the New Straits Times on 19 June 2000, apologised to the viewers about the incident.[79]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

NTV7

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia

NTV7, officially Natseven TV Sdn Bhd, is a Malaysian commercial television channel owned and operated by Berhad as part of its television network portfolio that includes TV3, 8TV, and TV9. Launched on 7 1998, it became Malaysia's third private broadcaster, founded by politician Tan Sri to deliver urban-oriented content including , , dramas, and international shows, positioning itself as the "feel-good channel." The channel initially broadcast daily from 6 a.m. to 1 a.m., specializing in content appealing to city dwellers and achieving notable success through programs like game shows, local series, and award-winning Chinese-language productions, including multiple Best Chinese TV Programs honors at the Malaysian Best Presenter Awards in 2003. Early financial challenges were resolved in 2005 when Media Prima acquired it, stabilizing operations and enabling logo evolutions alongside expanded programming. In 2021, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, its primary frequency was reassigned temporarily to the Ministry of Education's DidikTV KPM for educational broadcasting, sparking public tributes and misconceptions of closure, though Media Prima maintained ownership and affirmed ongoing operations, with the channel resuming full programming thereafter. As of 2025, NTV7 continues broadcasting, contributing to Media Prima's audience dominance through digital platforms like MYTV and maintaining active news and entertainment output.

History

Launch and Early Development (1998–2005)

NTV7 began broadcasting on 7 April 1998 as the third private in , operated by Natseven TV Sdn Bhd and founded by businessman and politician Tan Sri from . The channel targeted urban and younger audiences with a "feel good" branding, emphasizing entertainment programming that included international content and local shows designed to appeal to city dwellers, differentiating it from more traditional broadcasters. Initial operations featured daily transmissions from 6:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m., with at the Hicom-Glenmarie Industrial Park in , . In its formative years, NTV7 focused on building viewership through a mix of imported series, variety programs, and urban-centric local productions, establishing a reputation for lighter, accessible content amid growing competition in Malaysia's private TV market. The station's strategy prioritized international appeal and feel-good escapism, contributing to steady growth in urban centers, though specific from the period remains limited in public records. By the early , however, Natseven TV encountered financial pressures, accumulating net debts of RM145 million due to operational costs and market challenges. These difficulties culminated in a corporate restructuring, with Berhad agreeing on 28 October 2005 to acquire Natseven TV Sdn Bhd for RM90 million, including assistance in settling half of the outstanding debt. This transaction integrated NTV7 into 's portfolio, which already included TV3, signaling a new phase of consolidated media operations while preserving the channel's and infrastructure. The acquisition reflected broader trends in Malaysia's media sector toward mergers to address profitability amid rising competition from cable and satellite alternatives.

Media Prima Acquisition and Expansion Phase (2005–2016)

On October 28, 2005, Berhad acquired 100% ownership of Natseven TV Sdn Bhd, the operator of NTV7, for RM90 million. This transaction followed 's assistance in addressing Natseven's RM145 million net debt, with half settled by the end of 2005 and the remainder over three years starting in 2006. The acquisition integrated NTV7 into 's television portfolio, which included TV3, 8TV, and TV9, enhancing the group's dominance in broadcasting. Under Media Prima's stewardship, NTV7 was repositioned to target urban, affluent audiences, differentiating it from competitors through a focus on contemporary and content. This strategic emphasis strengthened Media Prima's foothold in the lucrative urban market segment. Programming expansions included popular formats such as the women's magazine Bella and the Malaysian adaptation of the dating program Take Me Out, which bolstered viewer engagement among younger demographics. Branding evolutions during this era featured a logo update, shifting from to while preserving the iconic Circle 7 element, which remained in use as the on-screen until 2017. Synergies across Media Prima's assets facilitated resource sharing in content production and distribution, supporting NTV7's audience growth and contributions within the conglomerate's overall viewership expansion to around 48%. By 2016, these developments had solidified NTV7's role as a key urban-oriented channel in Malaysia's media landscape.

Home Shopping Integration and Initial Rebranding Efforts (2016–2018)

In April 2016, Berhad formed a 51:49 with South Korean firm CJ O Shopping Co., Ltd., establishing Media Prima CJ O Shopping Sdn Bhd to introduce television-based home shopping in . This partnership launched CJ WOW SHOP on March 31, 2016, as a multi-platform retail network integrating broadcast, online, and mobile sales, with NTV7 allocated significant airtime for product demonstrations and infomercials starting early April. By April 2, 2016, the channel's morning handover at 6:20 AM transitioned directly into extended shopping blocks, which progressively expanded to occupy up to 12-18 hours daily across 's free-to-air outlets, including NTV7, prioritizing revenue from consumer goods like and over scripted content. This commercialization drew criticism for diluting NTV7's entertainment focus, as regular programming slots for dramas and variety shows were curtailed, contributing to viewer attrition amid stagnant ad revenues for traditional broadcasters. Responding to these pressures and competitive shifts toward , Television Networks announced initiatives for NTV7 in 2018, aiming to restore its appeal to urban, younger demographics. On 21, 2018, the company outlined plans for a comprehensive refresh, including updated visuals and content strategies to reposition the channel as a hub for "Modern ." In collaboration with international agency Dragon Rouge, the rebrand debuted in March 2018 with a simplified incorporating the "NTV7" text in hues, a new slogan "Feel It," and an emphasis on imported series like Turkish dramas to differentiate from shopping dominance. These efforts sought to reclaim prime-time slots for original and acquired programming, though initial viewership recovery remained modest amid ongoing regulatory quotas and the entrenched home shopping blocks.

Chinese Content Reduction and Reversal Controversies (2018–2020)

In March 2018, NTV7 underwent a to position itself as "Modern ," targeting a younger urban audience aged 15–28, which included a sharp reduction in Chinese-language programming by shifting nearly all such content, including dramas, to sister channel 8TV. This repositioning aimed to consolidate Chinese-focused content on 8TV, which adopted a more Mandarin-oriented schedule, but it disrupted viewing habits among ethnic Chinese audiences accustomed to accessing such programs on NTV7's established platform. The reduction prompted backlash from viewers, who expressed frustration over the sudden relocation and perceived brand dilution of NTV7, leading to viewer confusion and complaints about loss of accessible content. Critics argued the move ignored NTV7's historical role in serving multicultural audiences, exacerbating concerns about 's strategy amid declining traditional TV viewership. In response to lower-than-expected ratings post-rebrand, partially reversed course by introducing a Chinese Mandarin segment via the CJ Wow Shop block on NTV7, effective December 31, 2018, to recapture some Chinese-speaking demographic loyalty. Further adjustments occurred in 2020 amid ongoing economic pressures on , including the cessation of NTV7's long-running Mandarin news bulletin, Mandarin 7, after 21 years of broadcasting; it merged with 8TV's Mandarin news to extend the latter's airtime from 35 minutes. This closure drew criticism from Chinese media observers, who highlighted it as emblematic of broader content rationalization favoring cost-cutting over ethnic representation, though attributed the decision to financial sustainability rather than deliberate exclusion. The episode underscored tensions between commercial imperatives and audience expectations in Malaysia's multi-ethnic media landscape, with no full restoration of pre-2018 Chinese programming levels on NTV7 by year's end.

Pandemic-Era Transition to Educational Focus and DidikTV KPM (2020–Present)

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic's disruption of in-person schooling in Malaysia, the Ministry of Education (KPM) expanded educational broadcasting on NTV7 starting in late 2020. From November 23, 2020, to January 16, 2021, a dedicated block called DidikTV@ntv7 aired daily, providing curriculum-aligned content to support students engaged in Program Pendidikan dan Pembelajaran Jarak Jauh (PdPR), or distance learning. This initiative complemented online platforms amid uneven access to digital resources, with broadcasts reaching households via free-to-air television. On February 12, 2021, KPM announced a full reorientation of NTV7's programming to become DidikTV KPM, effective February 17, 2021, following the cessation of general entertainment broadcasts on February 16. Launched by then-Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin, the channel delivered 17 hours of daily content from 7 a.m. to midnight, focusing on SPM-level curriculum, co-curricular activities, and supplementary educational programs for primary and secondary students. Accessible via MYTV channel 107, Astro channel 147, and Unifi TV's NTV7 slot, DidikTV KPM represented a strategic collaboration between KPM's Curriculum Development Division and Media Prima Berhad, NTV7's owner, rather than a complete channel shutdown or ownership transfer. Media Prima emphasized that its existing team would manage operations, structuring the shift as an initial one-year commitment with potential for permanence to address ongoing educational needs post-pandemic. DidikTV KPM has sustained its educational mandate into 2025, evolving with refreshed idents and program schedules to maintain engagement. Official schedules from KPM detail weekly programming across to secondary levels, integrating edutainment elements while prioritizing core subjects. As of August 2025, the channel positioned itself as Malaysia's leading educational broadcaster, with continuity announcements confirming uninterrupted service. This transition marked NTV7's pivot from entertainment to a hybrid model emphasizing , supported by government partnership amid criticisms of pandemic-era learning gaps but praised for broadening access without requiring connectivity.

Ownership and Operations

Ownership Evolution and Corporate Control

NTV7 commenced operations under Natseven TV Sdn Bhd, which was established in 1994 by Tan Sri and granted a broadcasting license in 1996 prior to its launch on 7 April 1998. Initially operating as an independent entity targeting urban audiences, Natseven TV Sdn Bhd encountered significant financial challenges, accumulating net debts of RM145 million by 2005. On 27 October 2005, Berhad acquired 100% equity in Natseven TV Sdn Bhd for RM90 million, assuming responsibility for half of the outstanding debt to stabilize operations. This transaction integrated NTV7 into 's portfolio, enhancing the group's television to approximately 48% and positioning it under the Media Prima Television Networks division. Post-acquisition, NTV7 retained its operational structure as a wholly-owned of , with strategic decisions aligned to the parent's broader media objectives, including content diversification and digital expansion. Media Prima Berhad, a publicly listed entity on , exercises corporate control over NTV7 through direct 100% of Natseven TV Sdn Bhd, as confirmed in its latest annual reporting. The parent company's governance is influenced by its major , Aurora Mulia Sdn Bhd, holding about 32% of shares, alongside institutional and public investors, ensuring consolidated oversight of assets without subsequent divestitures or shifts for NTV7. Despite regulatory mandates like the temporary reorientation to educational programming under DidikTV KPM in , has consistently affirmed no alterations to NTV7's structure.

Operational Ties to Media Prima and Regulatory Influences

NTV7 operates as a under Berhad, Malaysia's largest integrated media conglomerate, which fully owns and manages the channel through its broadcasting division. acquired in Natseven TV Sdn Bhd, the entity operating NTV7, in 2005, integrating it into a portfolio that includes TV3, 8TV, and TV9, with shared production facilities, news operations, and content distribution platforms like tonton. This structure enables centralized resource allocation, such as the recent transition of news production to a unified hub at Balai Berita in on October 23, 2024, streamlining workflows across all channels using technologies like Imagine Communications' Nexio+ AMP for automation. Operationally, NTV7's programming and technical infrastructure are coordinated with 's broader ecosystem, including segments via Wow Shop and educational content partnerships, as evidenced by the 2021 collaboration to host DidikTV KPM without altering or ceasing general operations. maintains editorial and commercial control, but the shift toward educational broadcasting during the reflects adaptive strategies within the group's portfolio to meet market and policy demands. Regulatory influences on NTV7 stem primarily from the (MCMC), which issues broadcasting licenses under the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, enforcing content standards on decency, national harmony, and political impartiality. These include adherence to the MCMC's Guidelines on Content Code, prohibiting content that undermines racial or religious sensitivities in Malaysia's multi-ethnic society, with penalties for non-compliance such as fines or license revocation. The channel's transition to prioritize DidikTV KPM content from 2020 onward aligns with government directives from the Ministry of Education, facilitated through MCMC-approved spectrum allocation, highlighting how regulatory frameworks can direct private broadcasters toward obligations during national crises like the . Media Prima's operations, including NTV7, must also navigate periodic MCMC consultations on and guidelines, ensuring compliance with evolving digital and broadcast regulations.

Programming and Content Strategy

Pre-Educational Era Entertainment Programming

NTV7, launched on 7 April 1998 as Malaysia's second private , initially emphasized entertainment programming aimed at urban audiences, featuring a mix of locally produced sitcoms, game shows, talk shows, and imported dramas and cartoons. The channel's early lineup included multi-ethnic situational comedies like Kopitiam, which aired from 1998 to 2003 and depicted everyday life in a coffee shop with a diverse cast reflecting Malaysian society, marking one of the station's flagship local productions during its formative years. Local Malay-language sitcoms such as Spanar Jaya, which ran for 10 seasons starting in the early , focused on comedic portrayals of working-class family dynamics and became a staple for Malay viewers, contributing to NTV7's reputation for accessible, relatable content. Game shows like Roda Impian (the Malaysian adaptation of Wheel of Fortune) and Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? drew significant viewership through interactive formats and cash prizes, with Roda Impian airing regularly from the channel's inception and fostering audience engagement via phone-in participation. Talk and variety shows, including The Breakfast Show and Bella, provided morning and lifestyle segments with celebrity interviews, cooking tips, and light entertainment, airing daily to capture commuter and homemaker demographics from the late 1990s onward. Imported content supplemented local offerings, with dubbed anime such as Doraemon and Shin Chan, alongside Western cartoons like SpongeBob SquarePants, targeting children during after-school slots, while Hong Kong, Korean, and Turkish dramas filled prime-time hours, especially post-2005 under Media Prima ownership when Chinese-language series gained prominence. Reality and competition formats, such as Fear Factor Malaysia, introduced high-stakes challenges and stunts in the 2000s, appealing to younger viewers seeking adrenaline-fueled programming, though these were balanced against family-oriented fare to maintain broad appeal. By the mid-2010s, entertainment blocks faced encroachment from home shopping segments introduced in 2016, yet core shows like Korean variety Running Man persisted into 2019, sustaining NTV7's identity as a "feel-good" channel until the 2020 pivot.

Current Educational and Hybrid Content Under DidikTV KPM

DidikTV KPM, operational since February 17, 2021, functions as a dedicated channel under a collaboration between Berhad and Malaysia's Ministry of Education (KPM), utilizing the NTV7 broadcast slot and infrastructure. The channel airs curriculum-aligned content from through Form 6 levels, emphasizing subjects for national examinations like SPM, delivered by qualified teachers in an engaging format to supplement formal schooling, particularly for students lacking online access during and post-pandemic periods. Programming includes core academic lessons in Bahasa Melayu, English, , , and History, alongside co-curricular elements such as arts, , and moral studies, structured to align with KPM's national syllabus. Hybrid elements incorporate interactive and motivational segments, like and programs (), TVET skills training, and psychological well-being initiatives, blending didactic instruction with practical applications and entertainment to enhance retention. Broadcasts run from 7:00 a.m. to midnight daily, accessible via Astro channel 147, MYTV channel 107, and Unifi TV's NTV7 slot, with weekly schedules downloadable from KPM's portal detailing subject-specific episodes. As of 2025, DidikTV KPM maintains its position as Malaysia's leading educational broadcaster, reaching approximately 5 million students with content designed for accessibility across urban and rural areas, though critiques note limited integration of advanced digital tools compared to online platforms. The format prioritizes empirical curriculum fidelity over experimental pedagogies, ensuring alignment with standardized testing outcomes as verified by KPM evaluations.

Notable Programs, Series, and Format Changes

NTV7 introduced blocks in 2016 as part of efforts to diversify revenue amid declining traditional advertising, allocating specific time slots to infomercials while retaining core programming. A major occurred on March 5, 2018, repositioning the channel to target "Modern " audiences with contemporary content, including imported Turkish dramas and original formats like the mystery music I Can See Your Voice , which debuted on August 4, 2018, at Sri Pentas Studios in . This shift emphasized urban, youth-oriented programming under the slogan "Feel It," reducing emphasis on older demographics and certain language-specific slots, such as the eventual merger of Mandarin news with 8TV in June 2020. The most transformative format change took place on February 17, 2021, when NTV7 was repurposed full-time as DidikTV KPM through a commercial collaboration between and the Ministry of Education, focusing exclusively on educational content to enhance student access during the . Broadcasting daily from 7 a.m. to midnight on platforms including Astro channel 147 and MYTV channel 107, DidikTV KPM replaced entertainment series with curriculum-aligned home learning programs, marking a temporary one-year refocus that extended beyond the initial term. This pivot prioritized empirical educational needs over commercial entertainment, though it drew critiques for sidelining NTV7's legacy as a general-interest channel.

Technical and Branding Elements

Broadcast Infrastructure and Distribution Platforms

NTV7 operates primarily as a (DTT) channel within Malaysia's MYTV platform, utilizing standards in the UHF frequency band for over-the-air transmission. The channel's signals are broadcast from key transmitter sites, including those in the , enabling reception via standard UHF antennas connected to MYTV set-top boxes or compatible televisions. On MYTV, NTV7 occupies channel 107 nationwide following the rollout of DTT services, which began transitioning from analog in phases starting around 2017, with full analog switch-off mandated by regulatory bodies like the (MCMC). For subscribers, NTV7 is distributed via and IPTV platforms, including Astro on channel 147, which relies on MEASAT satellites at 91.5°E for signal delivery. , an IPTV service from , carries NTV7 under its standard channel allocation, accessible through fiber-optic broadband infrastructure. These platforms integrate NTV7's feed into multichannel lineups, supporting high-definition resolution at 25 fps interlaced, aligned with Malaysian broadcast standards for compatibility across devices. Digital distribution extends to online streaming via Media Prima's Tonton platform, launched in 2010 as a video-on-demand and live TV service, offering NTV7 content for free with ads or via subscription tiers. Tonton supports mobile apps, web browsers, and smart TVs, enabling live broadcasts and catch-up episodes, with over 1 million downloads reported for its app by 2023. This over-the-top (OTT) infrastructure leverages delivery, complementing traditional broadcast while adapting to the channel's shift toward educational programming under DidikTV KPM since February 2021. The backend operations, including and , are managed from Media Prima's centralized broadcast center in , upgraded in 2025 with resilient systems for multi-channel handling.

Logo History and Visual Identity Shifts

NTV7's visual identity has undergone multiple iterations since its 1998 launch, reflecting shifts in branding strategy from entertainment-oriented designs to more contemporary and eventually educational emphases. The channel adopted a Circle 7 motif in 2001, drawing inspiration from the American broadcaster ABC's longstanding , which became a core element for over a . By 2006, the fourth variant emerged, retaining the Circle 7 but removing the "ntv" caption and shifting from to purple hues for a bolder aesthetic; this version functioned as the primary on-screen bug through the channel's transition to 16:9 widescreen format. A fifth logo variant, introduced on 16 August 2017, maintained the Circle 7 but incorporated minor updates for the era, lasting until 4 March 2018. On 5 March 2018, unveiled a significant rebrand with a refreshed reinstating the "" lettering alongside the Circle 7—marking the first such inclusion since 2006—paired with the "Feel It" positioning to target modern Malaysian audiences with vibrant, youth-focused content. The 2018 design persisted until the prompted operational changes, culminating in the 17 February 2021 handover to the Ministry of Education for DidikTV KPM operations. This transition integrated the dedicated DidikTV KPM logo—featuring educational motifs—over NTV7's frequency, creating a hybrid visual identity that prioritized learning content while retained underlying ownership and infrastructure, avoiding a full shutdown of the NTV7 . Overall, these shifts align with NTV7's seven logo changes since inception, the purple Circle 7 era enduring as the most iconic for its longevity and recognizability.

Reception, Impact, and Critiques

Viewership Metrics and Market Performance

Prior to its transition to an educational format in February 2021, NTV7 operated as an entertainment channel within Berhad's portfolio, contributing to the group's overall dominance in Malaysian television. 's networks, including NTV7 alongside TV3, 8TV, and TV9, commanded 35% of the national broadcast audience in 2020, according to internal performance metrics. This aggregate share reflected strong performance driven primarily by TV3, with NTV7 holding a more modest individual position; brokerage analysts estimated NTV7's standalone audience share at approximately 2% in early 2021, trailing channels like TV9 (1-3% range) and underscoring its secondary role in attracting urban and non-Malay demographics. The to DidikTV KPM, a collaboration with the Ministry of Education for curriculum-aligned programming, shifted NTV7's focus to daytime educational content for students, airing from 7 a.m. to midnight and emphasizing over general . This pivot correlated with a contraction in broader viewership appeal, as the channel's schedule aligned with hours rather than prime-time viewing, limiting its reach to non-student audiences. Post-transition data remains sparse for NTV7 specifically, but Media Prima's combined channels reported a slight dip to 33.6% audience share in 2021, with subsequent aggregates holding at 32.6% through mid-2022 amid rising digital competition. In market terms, NTV7's performance post-2021 reflects the challenges of niche educational in a fragmented media landscape, where TV penetration faces pressure from streaming platforms and pay-TV. Media Prima's overall television revenue stabilized but did not grow significantly, with reliant on high-performing siblings like TV3 (46.3% Malay 4+ share in early 2025). NTV7's metrics, while fulfilling its mandated educational role—reaching millions during peak school viewership periods—have not regained entertainment-era traction, positioning it as a specialized rather than mass-market player.

Achievements, Awards, and Contributions to Broadcasting

NTV7 contributed to Malaysian by launching on April 7, 1998, as the country's third private , specializing in urban-targeted content with international programming in Malay, English, and Chinese languages, which broadened audience options for younger demographics and spurred industry expansion. The channel's focus on feel-good, youth-oriented formats differentiated it from state broadcasters, fostering competition and innovation in private media. A key contribution was organizing the Golden Awards, a biennial event from at least 2010 to 2017 that recognized excellence in television production, performance, and non-drama categories, thereby elevating industry standards and visibility for local Chinese-language content. NTV7's programs earned multiple international accolades, including eight nominations—the highest among Malaysian channels—at the 18th Asian Television Awards in 2013 for entries like In Laws and Summer Brothers. At the 17th Asian Television Awards in 2012, it secured one win and four highly commended titles. In 2019, NTV7 helped Media Prima claim nine trophies at China's 4th Asia Rainbow TV Awards, with the channel taking at least one. Domestically, the investigative program 7 Zoom In received the Best TV Program on Report from the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM) and the Best Broadcast on from , highlighting NTV7's role in . These honors underscore the channel's pre- impact on diverse, high-quality programming before its pivot to educational content under DidikTV KPM.

Criticisms, Controversies, and Public Backlash

In February 2021, public backlash erupted over reports that NTV7 would cease operations to be replaced by DidikTV KPM, an educational channel under the Ministry of Education, leading to widespread nostalgia and tributes on social media from viewers reminiscing about the channel's entertainment legacy since 1998. Media Prima clarified that NTV7 had not shut down, with its team tasked to produce DidikTV content while retaining the frequency, but critics viewed the shift as effectively ending general entertainment programming amid financial pressures on free-to-air TV. A 2010 controversy involved censorship of NTV7's talk show "The Agenda," where producer resigned after higher-ups edited out segments featuring Prime Minister Najib Razak's wife, , following complaints from her office and the 's Department, prompting accusations of political interference in media content. Opposition figures, including DAP leader , condemned the incident as a violation of press freedom pledges made by Najib upon assuming office, highlighting systemic pressures on broadcasters aligned with government interests. During its 2018 rebranding under , NTV7 faced criticism for plans to reduce Chinese-language programming by shifting it to sister channels like 8TV, which drew backlash from the community over perceived marginalization of minority-language content in favor of broader appeal strategies. Viewers also expressed dissatisfaction with the channel's reliance on reruns, teleshopping, and imported content in the late 2010s, attributing it to declining ad revenues and competition from streaming platforms, which eroded its reputation as a vibrant hub.

References

  1. https://www.mediaprima.com.my/who-we-are.html
  2. https://www.mediaprima.com.my/annual-report-2024/pdf/Media%2520Prima%2520Berhad%2520Annual%2520Report%25202024.pdf
  3. https://vulcanpost.com/734496/ntv7-history-close-down-replaced-didiktv/
  4. https://rocketreach.co/ntv7-profile_b5ce8954f42e09a1
  5. https://malaysia.news.yahoo.com/malaysians-bid-ntv7-farewell-nostalgic-060928073.html
  6. https://logos.fandom.com/wiki/NTV7_%28Malaysia%29
  7. http://superbrands.s3.amazonaws.com/AAA%2520MASTER%25202%2520PAGE%2520PDF%2520Case%2520Studies/Malaysia/Malaysia%2520Edition%25203/Malaysia%2520Edition%25203%2520NTV7.pdf
  8. https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2021/02/16/we-wont-pull-ntv7-off-the-air-or-change-ownership-says-media-prima/1950320
  9. https://www.marketing-interactive.com/media-prima-denies-shutting-down-ntv7-to-launch-didiktv
  10. https://www.abu.org.my/2021/02/18/ntv7-not-shutting-down-to-make-way-for-didiktv-says-media-prima/
  11. https://www.mediaprima.com.my/mytv-announcement.html
  12. https://www.instagram.com/p/DIInmR7zl0t/
  13. https://www.mediaprima.com.my/annual-report-2024/pdf/MESSAGE%2520FROM%2520OUR%2520GROUP%2520MANAGING%2520DIRECTOR%2520%28MD&A%29.pdf
  14. https://themalaysianreserve.com/2021/02/17/ntv7-rebrands-into-moes-education-channel-for-a-year/
  15. https://www.thestar.com.my/business/business-news/2005/10/28/media-prima-buys-ntv7-for-rm90mil/
  16. https://lib.nus.edu.sg/nus_hl/media2017-1.pdf
  17. https://cdn1.i3investor.com/my/files/st88k/4502_MEDIA/annual/2011-12-31/4502_MEDIA_AnnualReport_2011-12-31_MEDIA-AnnualReport2011%2520%282.8MB%29_-1986725798.pdf
  18. https://youtube.fandom.com/wiki/Ntv7malaysia
  19. https://www.tianchad.com/2016/04/cj-wow-shop-tv-online-shopping-debuts-malaysia.html
  20. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=awuit30LDsI
  21. https://smartereveryday365.wordpress.com/2019/03/10/how-a-home-shopping-programme-hijacked-four-malaysian-tv-channels/
  22. https://www.nst.com.my/lifestyle/groove/2018/01/327543/rebranding-ntv7
  23. https://www.dragonrouge.com/news/dragon-rouge-to-rebrand-media-prima-tv/
  24. https://www.dragonrouge.com/work/ntv7/
  25. https://medium.com/asphere-official/is-media-prima-television-networks-making-a-comeback-to-ntv7s-second-era-of-modern-malaysia-52bd39e74c81
  26. https://philipdxinglog.blogspot.com/2018/03/NVT7-rebranding-impact-tv9.html
  27. https://philipdxinglog.blogspot.com/2018/12/ntv7-will-feature-chinese-content.html
  28. https://www.marketing-interactive.com/media-primas-ntv7-mandarin-news-ceases-broadcast-after-21-years
  29. https://mysinchew.sinchew.com.my/news/20200612/mysinchew/2973202
  30. https://medium.com/asphere-official/gma-news-tv-ntv7-malaysia-bids-farewell-both-channels-will-re-brand-to-gtv-didiktv-kpm-826254d0ada6
  31. https://www.bernama.com/en/news.php?id=1932182
  32. https://theedgemalaysia.com/article/media-prima-not-closing-down-ntv7-current-team-execute-didiktv
  33. https://www.moe.gov.my/rancangan-tvpendidikan-didiktv-kpm
  34. https://www.facebook.com/nstonline/posts/didiktv-kpm-continues-to-be-malaysias-no1-educational-tv-programme-making-learni/1202816038546633/
  35. https://didik.tv/
  36. https://www.thestar.com.my/business/business-news/2005/10/28/media-prima-buys-ntv7-for-rm90mil
  37. https://www.wikiwand.com/en/articles/Media_Prima
  38. https://finance.yahoo.com/news/media-prima-berhads-klse-media-024624024.html
  39. https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2021/02/666307/ntv7-has-not-ceased-operations-says-media-prima
  40. https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/10/1124148/new-era-begins-media-prima-transitions-bangsar-fresh-innovations
  41. https://www.advanced-television.com/2025/05/21/imagine-communications-streamlines-news-production-at-media-prima-berhad/
  42. https://malaysia.news.yahoo.com/won-t-pull-ntv7-off-132123003.html
  43. https://www.marketing-interactive.com/mcmc-reinforces-role-as-news-outlets-call-it-out-for-causing-media-curbs
  44. https://www.eurasiareview.com/11112024-how-the-mcmc-has-become-the-most-powerful-government-agency-in-malaysia-analysis/
  45. https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2025/07/1250378/mcmc-opens-public-consultation-communication-data-regulatory-framework
  46. https://waupost.com/these-iconic-shows-aired-on-msian-tv-from-the-1990s-2000s-will-take-you-on-a-nostalgia-trip-back-in-time/
  47. https://gempak.com/rojakdaily/news/misunderstanding-media-prima-says-ntv7-wont-be-shutting-down-make-way-didik-tv-57373
  48. https://www.famousfix.com/list/ntv7
  49. https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2021/02/666438/learning-made-fun-and-easy-didiktv-kpm-nsttv
  50. https://soyacincau.com/2021/02/13/ministry-education-didik-tv-ntv7-dedicated-channel/
  51. https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2021/02/17/pm-launches-education-tv-channel-didiktv-kpm/1950418
  52. https://www.instagram.com/p/DF30srEPMsy/
  53. https://www.facebook.com/KemPendidikan/posts/jadual-didiktv-kementerian-pendidikan-malaysia-kpm-pada-3-hingga-9-februari-2025/1036595301828911/
  54. https://www.facebook.com/KemPendidikan/posts/jadual-didiktv-kementerian-pendidikan-malaysia-kpm-pada-isnin-23-hingga-29-disem/1006342674854174/
  55. https://www.nst.com.my/news/government-public-policy/2021/02/666833/pm-didiktv-benefit-5-million-students
  56. https://international.astroawani.com/malaysia-news/didiktv-kpm-begin-wednesday-282692
  57. https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/entertainment/2020/06/03/ntv7-and-8tv-mandarin-news-slots-to-be-merged
  58. https://www.themoviedb.org/tv/92206-i-can-see-your-voice-malaysia
  59. https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2021/02/665365/didiktv-kpm-air-feb-17-be-launched-pm
  60. https://soyacincau.com/2019/08/06/malaysia-to-switch-over-to-digital-tv-transmissions-mcmc-langkawi/
  61. https://helpcenter.xr.global/hc/en-us/articles/26043879209492-Malaysia-Broadcast-Specifications-and-Requirements
  62. https://bb-media.com/platform-essentials/tonton/
  63. https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=my.com.tonton.screen&hl=en_US
  64. https://www.tonton.com.my/
  65. https://www.digitalmediaworld.tv/broadcast/media-prima-relies-on-pebble-resilient-automation-for-its-new-broadcast-centre
  66. ./assets/Logo_of_NTV7.svg.png
  67. ./assets/Favpng_ntv7-malaysia-golden-awards-television-show.png
  68. https://www.xtra.com.my/brand-new-ntv7-logo-comes-with-fresh-content-too/
  69. https://www.mediaprima.com.my/annual-report-2020/pdf/MPB-AR2020-TVN.pdf
  70. https://philipdxinglog.blogspot.com/2021/02/ntv7-goes-farewell-2021.html
  71. https://issuu.com/contentasia/docs/tbl-malaysia2025/1
  72. https://marketingmagazine.com.my/media-prima-posts-1qfy25-results/
  73. https://www.nst.com.my/lifestyle/groove/2017/05/241258/right-place-right-time-8tvs-315am-wins-big-ntv7-golden-awards-2017
  74. https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/liaisons/ntv-7-chinese-golden-awards-2012.html
  75. https://www.budiey.com/ntv7-receives-highest-nominations-18th-asian-tv-awards/
  76. https://hype.my/ntv7-wins-twice-at-human-rights-awards/
  77. https://www.nst.com.my/lifestyle/groove/2019/01/451615/showbiz-ntv7-and-8tv-bagged-9-trophies-chinas-awards-show
  78. https://www.budiey.com/7-zoom-won-2-anugerah-media-kementerian-kesihatan-2016/
  79. https://www.malaymail.com/news/showbiz/2021/02/16/malaysians-bid-ntv7-farewell-with-nostalgic-tributes-as-the-feel-good-chann/1950170
  80. https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2021/02/15/fears-over-end-of-ntv7-with-didiktv-launch
  81. https://m.aliran.com/web-specials/i-quit-after-complaints-from-rosmah-pms-dept
  82. https://dapmalaysia.org/english/2010/apr10/lks/lks5656.htm
  83. https://www.reddit.com/r/malaysia/comments/af5obe/seems_like_ntv7_is_so_broke_that_they_are_only/
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.