We are wary of the potential scarcity of the set-top box in the market because the government is focused on procuring the equipment only for eligible residentsJakarta (ANTARA) - The Ministry of Communication and Informatics has highlighted the importance of purchasing a set-top box at the earliest before the analog switch-off deadline and completing the transition to digital television broadcasting.
"It is important to encourage residents to purchase a set-top box or a new television unit at the earliest time before the analog switch-off date, particularly residents who are economically able," the ministry's Director General of Post and Informatics Resources and Equipment, Ismail, said in Jakarta on Wednesday.
He had earlier attended a hearing meeting with the working committee for broadcast digitization of Commission I of the House of Representatives at the Parliament Complex in Jakarta.
Residents must be encouraged to purchase set-top boxes at the earliest to avoid a sudden surge in demand close to the analog switch-off date that may cause scarcity of the equipment in the market, the director general explained.
"We are wary of the potential scarcity of the set-top box in the market because the government is focused on procuring the equipment only for eligible residents. Hence, encouraging residents to purchase a set-top box earlier is important," Ismail added.
Residents who purchase a set-top box can enjoy digital television broadcasts as some broadcasting companies are conducting simultaneous digital and analog broadcasting, he said.
As per the ministry's records, at least 291 institutions, equal to 41.75 percent of 697 broadcasting institutions nationwide, have commenced simultaneous broadcasting, the director general added.
"Simultaneous broadcasting allows residents to enjoy digital television in their home. Some regions even have more digital than analog broadcast," Ismail noted.
He confirmed that the ministry and broadcasting institutions have discussed broadcasting quality content only on digital televisions to boost the transition process.
"The plan is intended to encourage residents to purchase new digital television units or set-top boxes as, for instance, they can only watch football matches on digital television in the future. Hence, the plan to create killer content (television programs of high popularity) is also important," he said.
The ministry has projected that the final phase of the analog switch-off will conclude by November 2 this year, he added.
Related news: Gov't to distribute set-top boxes before analog switch-off
Related news: Digital TV will offer child-friendly features: government official
Related news: Ministry to bolster fast internet post-analog switch off
Translator: Fathur Rochman, Nabil Ihsan
Editor: Sri Haryati
Copyright © ANTARA 2022
