(November 13, 2002) Nokia Home Communications has signed an agreement with Malaysia's MEASAT Broadcast Network System's (MBNS) ASTRO Direct-to-U (DtU) service to extend their co-operation until 2004. Nokia will continue with the deliveries of advanced interactive multimedia terminals for reception of digital broadcasting via satellite, to MBNS's Astro service. New deliveries will begin in November 2002.
The high-end Nokia digital receivers are based on advanced technologies and provide the viewer with the highest quality digital television and access to a vast array of entertaining digital content, including a wide range of interactive services. It is a fusion that enhances the pure entertainment experience of digital TV.
Malaysia is one of the fastest growing markets in Asia where demand for new and innovative broadcasting services is steadily growing. MBNS's subscriber base has grown to close to one million in just a few years.
Mr. Chia Boon Lim, Executive Director MBNS, said, "we have been offering the Malaysian market a quality choice in both programming and reception for many years. The Nokia set-top boxes provide the gateway for Malaysians to access this quality content on the ASTRO service. We are pleased to continue this cooperation with Nokia ".
"Malaysia represents a very attractive market for digital broadcasting and we are pleased to be able to renew our cooperation with MBNS. We look forward to the next few years and our continued successful relationship," said Stefan Majurin, Vice President and General Manager, Nokia Home Communications.
About MBNS
MEASAT Broadcast Network Systems Sdn Bhd (MBNS) is the operator of ASTRO, a Malaysia-based multimedia group with established DTH satellite pay TV, radio broadcasting and magazine publishing operations. MBNS has formed joint ventures in other countries to launch new broadcasting, multimedia and Internet services. The group has strategic alliances with leading software developers and content producers to jointly develop both technology and content to provide satellite-delivered, broadband, IP enhanced multimedia and interactive services over multiple platforms across the Asia Pacific region.
About Nokia
Nokia is the world leader in mobile communications. Backed by its experience, innovation, user-friendliness and secure solutions, the company has become the leading supplier of mobile phones and a leading supplier of mobile, fixed broadband and IP networks. By adding mobility to the Internet Nokia creates new opportunities for companies and further enriches the daily lives of people. Nokia is a broadly held company with listings on six major exchanges.
For more information:
Denise Bruley
Communications Manager
Nokia Home Communications
Tel. +358 7180 36075
Email: denise.bruley@nokia.com