MDA rolls out Digital TV Assistance Scheme

The Media Development Authority (MDA) has launched the Digital TV Assistance Scheme to help eligible low income households switch to digital TV.The Digital TV Assistance Scheme will be implemented alongside the progressive roll – out of MediaCorp’s Digital TV network.  The Assistance Scheme package includes a free digital TV set-top box, an indoor antenna and installation. Each eligible household is entitled to one Assistance Scheme package.Meanwhile, MDA also appointed M1 to manage the roll-out of its digital TV assistance scheme for low-income households earlier in July. M1 picked up the account following the conclusion of an open tender which was conducted from 20 March to 22 April this year. As the appointed contractor, M1 will progressively supply and install digital TV equipment for all eligible households and resolve any technical issues pertaining to the equipment and installation over the next two to three years.“The Digital TV Assistance Scheme helps low-income households switch to digital TV so that they can continue to enjoy MediaCorp free-to-air TV programmes when we eventually switch from analogue to digital terrestrial TV broadcast, with added benefits of better picture quality, a choice of subtitles in different languages, and an electronic programme guide for broadcast schedules,” said MDA Chief Executive Officer , Ms Koh Lin.“With the support of the People's Association, our grassroots volunteers will spread the word on the Digital TV assistance scheme and help eligible low income families who qualify. We hope that these efforts can help low-income households benefit from the Digital TV package and view free-to-air digital television programmes,” said Arthur Fong, Grassroots Adviser to Clementi Grassroots.Earlier this week, MDA launched a public consultation on ways to enhance consumer protection. This four-week long public consultation is part of MDA’s efforts to protect the interest of pay-TV consumers, it said in a press statement.The consultation will run until 22 October.