RTHK to beef up public service, expand new media reach

Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development Algernon Yau informed lawmakers on Tuesday that RTHK would bolster its position as a government department and public broadcaster. He outlined the public broadcaster's increased utilization of new media platforms and artificial intelligence technologies to enhance the dissemination of government messages and policy promotion. Yau emphasized the importance of upgrading production quality and efficiency through the adoption of these emerging technologies.

In response to lawmakers' inquiries, Director of Broadcasting Angelina Kwan disclosed that RTHK is reorganizing its workforce and resources in accordance with the 15th Five-Year Plan. This strategic realignment aims to effectively communicate the narratives of both Hong Kong and the country to a global audience. Kwan confirmed the establishment of a dedicated task force responsible for overseeing and evaluating the progress of new media platforms, utilizing existing resources without the need for additional funding.

To improve its news and current affairs content, RTHK has expanded its offerings on the TV32 channel utilizing its current resources. Kwan explained that the majority of these adjustments were achieved through the reallocation of internal personnel and resources, in response to the evolving consumption habits of the public and viewers regarding news and current affairs information.

Kwan also announced that RTHK is set to establish a cooperation agreement with Shenzhen Media Group for content sharing and joint productions. This collaboration aims to bring RTHK programs to the Greater Bay Area while simultaneously distributing high-quality mainland productions to international viewers. When addressing concerns about overlapping roles with commercial broadcasters, Kwan emphasized that RTHK, being a government department and the sole public broadcaster, must strictly adhere to its charter.

This focus includes strengthening public understanding of "One Country, Two Systems," disseminating government information, promoting national identity, and fostering social inclusion. Kwan stressed that these distinct objectives differentiate RTHK from commercially operated television stations.